The Astonishing Rich Vein of Form Propels Aston Villa's Improbable Championship Bid

It was eight weeks prior that the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager admonished him for missing a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the source for Villa's more general malaise.

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?

That’s a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.

As per the data, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans look strangely fragile – but currently the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the force he showed during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.