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A mere 60 days ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for the side's broader struggles.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the boss discarded his coat, opened his arms and roared. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard question to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, even as the positive results have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team which has put together 10 in a row, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more when facing United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, arced just inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

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

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition managed 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 games.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the player he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.