This Remarkable Scoring Streak Fuels Aston Villa's Surprising Championship Bid

Just eight weeks ago when the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or a cause for the team's more general malaise.

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. When the in-form star curled home his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a rather hard question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.

As per Opta, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side that have just won 10 in a row, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against Manchester United.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club have to face in the near future. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.

• Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
• The winger might become the force he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a crucial player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero faced the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.