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A mere eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. As the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six matches, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

This is a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, while the victories have piled up.

As per the data, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team which has strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with two precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.

Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge Villa have to face in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, nobody thought Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.