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It was eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him for not reading a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were a symptom or the source for the team's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six matches, find themselves a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough proposition to answer. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, while the positive results have piled up.

According to Opta, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side that have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

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

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the player he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.