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Just eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of the side's broader struggles.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. When the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, find themselves only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a club who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they seem curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents managed more efforts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival the club must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers faced the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.