Morgan Rogers' Scoring Streak Fuels Aston Villa's Unlikely Championship Bid

It was eight weeks prior when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager berated him for not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of the side's broader struggles.

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, now sit a mere three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult query to answer. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

According to the data, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have just won 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – however currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again against Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival they must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the player he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.

This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.