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Just eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager scolded him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. As the in-form star drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, while the victories have stacked up.

As per the data, on just two occasions have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side that have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, curled precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

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

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge the club have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital England player.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.