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Just two months in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him for missing a pass in behind. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of the team's wider issues.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. As Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six games, find themselves a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have piled up.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team who have strung together 10 in a row, Villa look strangely fragile – however at the moment the margins are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their star man to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

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

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition managed more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists another reality where, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.