The Astonishing Golden Spell Propels The Villans' Surprising Championship Bid

Just 60 days ago when the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him for not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or a cause of the side's broader struggles.

On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to answer. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, while the wins have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – but right now the margins are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with the opposition before hoping their talisman to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opposition had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

Regression to the mean might be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.