This Remarkable Rich Vein of Form Fuels Villa's Surprising Title Charge

A mere 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager berated him over missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the reason for the team's wider issues.

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six games, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, even as the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side which has put together ten consecutive victories, they look strangely fragile – however right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with some precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from a wide position. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists another reality whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.