This Remarkable Scoring Streak Drives Aston Villa's Surprising Championship Bid

A mere eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as his coach scolded him for not reading a through-ball. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the source for the team's more general malaise.

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. As Rogers swept in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six games, are somehow only three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

That’s a rather hard proposition to address. Past precedent, a general sense of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, while the positive results have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – but currently the margins are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge the club have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

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

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would be third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential England player.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.