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Just 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the reason of the side's broader struggles.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. As the England international drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard query to answer. History, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

Per Opta, twice all season has the side registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it happened in London, and again versus Manchester United.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital England player.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.