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It was two months in the past that the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a sign or the source of Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When the England international swept in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to address. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, even as the victories have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the margins are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival they will encounter in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital England player.

This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.