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It was two months ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or a cause for the side's wider issues.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. As Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, Emery discarded his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six games, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a rather hard proposition to answer. History, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side who have just won 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their talisman to rescue them with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against United.

The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

How Long Can This Continue?

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

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge Villa have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine Rogers now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.