The Astonishing Golden Spell Drives Aston Villa's Surprising Championship Bid

It was 60 days prior when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach admonished him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of the team's more general malaise.

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After Rogers swept in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough proposition to resolve. History, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, even as the positive results have accumulated.

As per the data, in only two games has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club who have just won 10 in a row, Villa seem curiously susceptible – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more against United.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opposition registered more efforts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as an essential England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.