This Remarkable Golden Spell Drives The Villans' Surprising Title Charge

Just 60 days ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the source for Villa's broader struggles.

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team continued to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

This is a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has put together a ten-match winning streak, they appear strangely fragile – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with some clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The winger might become the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.