This Remarkable Rich Vein of Form Propels Villa's Surprising Championship Bid

A mere eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was whether his performances were a sign or a cause for the team's wider issues.

In the latest match, however, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow only three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?

That’s a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, while the wins have piled up.

As per the data, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened versus United.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge Villa must confront in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.