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Just two months ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were a sign or the reason for the team's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win any of their first six games, are somehow only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club that have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents registered more shots and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be leading a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. As the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.