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Just 60 days ago when the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or the source for the team's more general malaise.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. As Rogers swept in his second to restore the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

According to the data, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side who have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their talisman to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.

His opener originated from a superb shot, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.