This Remarkable Rich Vein of Form Propels Villa's Improbable Push for Glory

It was 60 days ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or the source of Villa's wider issues.

On Sunday, however, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. As the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, find themselves a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the wins have stacked up.

As per the data, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, Villa look strangely fragile – yet at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their talisman to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again against United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.