The Astonishing Scoring Streak Propels The Villans' Unlikely Push for Glory

Just eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was much more joyous. After the England international curled home his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six games, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have piled up.

Per Opta, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side which has put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear strangely fragile – however currently the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, arced just 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 seized on a setup by his strike partner.

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival the club will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario where, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.