The Astonishing Golden Spell Fuels Aston Villa's Unlikely Push for Glory

Just two months ago that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager berated him over missing a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source for the side's broader struggles.

This weekend, though, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. As Rogers drilled in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, Emery tore off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six matches, now sit only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding this season, while the wins have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their star man to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened versus United.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club will encounter in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

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

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.