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Just eight weeks prior when the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers drilled in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six games, now sit a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

That’s a rather hard query to address. The historical record, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.

Per the data, in only two games have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and again against Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents had more shots and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the biggest rival they will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

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

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.