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It was two months prior when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the source for Villa's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, though, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. As the England international swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six games, now sit just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, even as the wins have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team posted an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, they look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents registered more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent they have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like an essential player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.