Agüero and Salvio join forces as Atletico defeat stubborn Tenerife (Highlights)

Atletico Madrid 3 - 1 Tenerife
(1-0) 11' Salvio, (2-0) 30' Salvio, (2-1) 61' Román, (3-1) 77' Agüero

Sergio Agüero has found himself a new friend. The two Argentinians Agüero and Salvio ripped Tenerife apart in a sazzling first half display that boded well for their midweek trip to Liverpool. Within half an hour Salvio had already chalked up two goals as Tenerife were torn apart by a rampant Atletico Madrid. With Forlán, Reyes and Simao also finding their form just at the right time, Quique has an embarrassment of riches at the top end of the field. Credit to Tenerife they stuck at it, and having pulled back a goal through Roman Martinez, they even had chances to level the match as Nino threatened briefly. Atletico weathered the storm with Sergio Agüero making sure of the win with little over ten minutes remaining. Forlan provided the pass and Agüero showed strength and composure to hold off the defender and sidefoot past Aragoneses. Not a bad way to prepare for Anfield. For Tenerife, another week stuck in the bottom three, as chances to pull themselves out of the abyss become fewer by the week.

Getafe 4 - 3 Sevilla
(1-0) 16' Adrian, (1-1) 33' Luis Fabiano, (1-2) 38' Kanoute, (2-2) 58' Pedro Leon, (2-3) 61' Luis Fabiano, (3-3) 75' Manu, (4-3) 93' Parejo

One of those matches that had absolutely everything, helped by some electric attacking football, clinical finishing and shocking defending. 31 shots on goal, 4 struck the woodwork, 7 flew in and one was an absolutely world class effort from Luis Fabiano. In short: Getafe take early lead, Sevilla fight back to take the lead having been severely under the cosh. Getafe equalise only for Luis Fabiano to score his second and put Sevilla infront once more. Getafe fight back a second time and after Frederic Kanoute was sent off went on to win thanks to a last gasp, re-taken penalty from Dani Parejo after Negredo had given the ball away in a truely unforgiveable manner. Thriller. The match also had implications for both races for Europe as Mallorca now hold the advantage for the race for fourth whilst Getafe are hot on the heels of Villarreal for the last Europa League position. And check out that dudes cigar and sombrero combo in the video. Classic. Who said Spanish Football was boring?

Sporting Gijon 0 - 2 Real Valladolid
(0-1) 80' Manucho, (0-2) 93' Baraja

Can Real Valladolid pull off yet another miraculous escape? Since Javier Clemente took over they've drawn two and won two, but more importantly havn't conceded a goal. A remarkable turnaround, especially when you take into account the farcical situation Clemente found the club in when he took over. With the former Spain coach employing five at the back, it was a solid defensive performance that provided the platform for Manucho and Baraja to score late goals and bag the all-important three points. Valladolid are not going down without a fight.

Racing Santander 1 - 2 Villarreal
(1-0) 38' Canales, (1-1) 70' Godin, (1-2) 82' Nilmar

Almeria 0 - 1 Espanyol
(0-1) 54' Luis Garcia

Mallorca 1 - 1 Malaga
(0-1) 86' Obinna, (1-1) 91' Aduriz

Athletic Bilbao 0 - 0 Osasuna

Real Madrid blow the title race wide open with win over Valencia (Highlights)

Real Madrid 2 - 0 Valencia
(1-0) 25' Higuain, (2-0) 78' Cristiano Ronaldo

On a weekend in which races for the title were blown wide open across Europe, La Liga followed suit as Real Madrid dispatched a disappointing Valencia with ease at the Santiago Bernabeu. Were it not for yet another spectacular performance from Cesar Sanchez in the Valencia goal it could well have been a rout, as Madrid dominated. Guti and Xabi Alonso were sensational throughout, with Guti setting up the first and providing plenty more incisive passes that could have lead to several more were it not for some wasteful finishing and acrobatic goalkeeping. The veteran midfielder turned back the years in the 25th minute; winning the ball off Bruno out wide and threading an inch-perfect pass through to Higuain who spun beautifully from his marker and finished clinically past Cesar. Apart from when Juan Mata struck the post, Valencia hardly created a chance of note, with Villa, Silva, Mata and Pablo Hernandez all enduring a frustrating evening. How a team with such an array of attacking talent can fail to trouble Casillas will surely be playing on Unai Emerys mind as he begins to plot his teams assault on next seasons Champions League.

If the first goal was all about Guti, the second had Marcelo written all over it. He may be derided in some quarters for his defensive failings, but as an attacking force the Brazilian is lethal. He skipped past Bruno as if the defender didnt exist and squared for Cristiano Ronaldo to complete the formalities from close to the penalty spot. Those who thought La Liga was done and dusted as the Barca players rejoiced in the Bernabeu centre circle 7 days ago, can think again. One point in it.

 

Xerez 2 - 2 Racing Santander

(1-0) 6' Orellana, (1-1) 43' Tchite, (1-2) 57' Tchite (p), (2-2) 72' Victor Sanchez

If Xerez do finally get relegated to La Segunda, they can look back to the second half of this season with pride. They way they have performed since Nestor Gorosito took over has been nothing short of inspirational, with Momo, Victor Sanchez, Fabian Orellana and Sidi Ketia the stars of the show. But for the second week running, they failed to get the three points their flowing football and improved concentration at the back deserved. The Xerez goals were a joy to behold, but both Racing Santander goals were avoidable. Two slips opening the path for Tchites first, whilst the second was a horrendous error from the ref as he penalised Victor Sanchez for a non-existant trip. When you are a club the size of Xerez, favours from the refs are few and far between. Even so, the striker from Burundi must be commended for his haul of four goals in two matches after a barren spell that had lasted just under a year. So the trapdoor creeps ever closer for La Ligas bottom side, but as long as it is still mathematically possible for them to stay up, you can be sure Gorosito and his men won't throw in the towel. Next week Barca at the Camp Nou.

Tenerife 3 - 2 Getafe

(0-1) 10' Pedro Leon, (1-1) 30' Nino, (2-1) 69' Nino, (2-2) 75' Casquero, (3-2) 76' Nino

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 0 Almeria

Athletic Bilbao 0 - 0 Real Zaragoza

Malaga 0 - 0 Real Valladolid

Real Madrid bounce back to see off Almeria (Highlights)

Almeria 1 - 2 Real Madrid
(1-0) 14' Crusat (1-1) 27' Cristiano Ronaldo (1-2) 69' Van der Vaart

It was by no means easy, but Real Madrid will be pleased with a job well done against a feisty Almeria as they left the Estadio Mediterraneo with three vital points that keeps the pressure on Barca. Juanma Lillo set up his side to frustrate Madrid and use the pace and trickery of Crusat and Piatti to hurt the visitors on the flanks, and it was all going to plan when Crusat put his side one up after 14 minutes following Kala Uches run and cross from the byline. At that point, Real Madrid were against the ropes and their season was threatening to implode, when that man Cristiano Ronaldo scored a beauty out of the blue to put his side back in the contest.

The celebration, a 'hand-to-ear' gesture, wasn't well received by his superiors who reprimanded the Portuguese star for his actions after the match. The winger from Madeira has clearly failed to learn his lesson after last weekends humbling from Barcelona. From then on it was a battle between Pellegrinis men and Almerias brilliant Brazilian Diego Alves, who must have produced at least five world class saves during the 90 minutes. Just as it looked like the keeper would wreck any lingering hopes Madrid have of clawing back Barca, Rafael Van der Vaart popped up to whip in a viscious strike and secure the win. Six matches left and they need Barca to falter in two. Not impossible. Just unlikely.

Valencia 2 - 0 Athletic Bilbao

(1-0) 34' Silva, (2-0) 62' Silva

Valencia all but confirmed their place in next seasons Champions League with a comfortable victory against Athletic Bilbao. Joaquin Caparros' men were never at the races and struggled to conjure up more than a few half chances that were all repelled by Cesar who is enjoying a fine twilight to his long career. They had been looking to secure their own European spot, but defeat leaves them only a point ahead of Getafe as they fight it out for the last Europa League position. For Valencia, David Silva was in fine form and notched both goals in either half. His first was a relatively simple chance from only a metre out, but the second was pure Silva magic. Collecting Joaquins pass inside the area, he controlled and turned inside his defender in one movement, before shifting the ball onto his wand of a left foot and curling it out of Iraizozs reach and into the far corner. His partner in crime, David Villa, had one of his quieter nights and Spain fans will be hoping he recaptures his killer instinct soon as South Africa approaches.

On a further note, it will come as little surprise who has emerged as Real Madrids new summer target. I'll give you all a clue....Valencia are in town this weekend. Only a matter of months after Jesus Navas was target numero uno, coincidentally just before they were set to play Sevilla, David Silva has now replaced him at the top of Florentinos infamous wishlist. Subtlety has never been their finest quality. Next week it will be Jermaine Pennant!

Barcelona brush Depor aside to jump six points clear (Highlights)

Barcelona 3 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña
(1-0) 15' Bojan, (2-0) 68' Pedro, (3-0) 72' Toure Yaya

Barcelona brushed aside a weak Depor side to leap six points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Barca dominated the match with embarrassing ease, but it wasn't until late on in the second half before they made sure of the win. Bojan, who has looked razor sharp in this seasons home straight, put Barca infront early on after yet another defence splitting pass from Xavi Hernandez. Messi may well be the best player in world football right now, but the importance of Xavi to this side can never be underestimated. Deportivo didn't get a touch of the ball  in the first half, but the Galicians fought their way back into the match after halftime, and gave the host a couple of scares before Pedro got the all important second goal with twenty minutes remaining.

And what a goal it was. Victor Valdes pumped the ball forward and when Depor keeper Aranzubia failed to properly clear his lines, Pedro curled the ball first-time into the empty net from close to the halfway line. The young man from Tenerife displaying once more his exquisite quality, and after his match-settling goal in the Clasico, the stage is set for Pedro to emerge as a vital cog in the Barca machine next season, if he isn't already. Toure Yaya smashed in the third shortly after, allowing the Camp Nou crowd to break into Mexican waves as the match drew to a close. If Real Madrid fail to get anything other than a win tomorrow at Almeria, its game over.

Atletico Madrid 1 - 2 Xerez
(0-1) 9' Bermejo, (1-1) 11' Forlan, (1-2) 72' Armenteros

Who saw this one coming? Just when it seemed Xerez were out for the count, they pull off an incredible away victory at the Vicente Calderon. Atletico Madrid may well have given up on the league, but the small team from Andalucia certainly havn't. They are now only six points behind Málaga and with a vital home match against Racing Santander coming up this weekend, they could well be only three points off salvation as we enter the final five matches. Mario Bermejo and Emilio Armenteros headed in both the goals, with De Gea left glaringly exposed on both occasions. Meanwhile, for Atletico, La Liga appears to be an inconvenient distraction as they prepare to fight it out with Liverpool and Sevilla in their search for silverware. Tonight they were woeful, with only Forlans bullet of a goal worth cheering about. Jurado has replaced Diego Forlan as the crowds public enemy number one, as the fans make their dismay at their teams league form abundantly clear.

Real Zaragoza 1 - 1 Mallorca
(0-1) 13' Ruben, (1-1) 21' Suazo

Real Zaragoza really aren't making it easy for themselves. Anyone who follows 'Los Maños' knows that they struggle badly to score points away from home, which makes those matches at La Romareda doubly important. Just as well the referee wrongly ruled out a late Aduriz goal that would have placed Zaragoza in serious trouble. Ruben headed Mallorca into the lead but Zaragoza were quick to level matters as 'Chupete' Suazo chipped a delightful goal over Aouate. The Chilean has been an inspired signing and could well be the difference between relegation and survival. Borja Valero gave yet another Xavi-esque performance as his team leapfrog Sevilla in the fight for the fourth Champions League position.

Racing Santander 3 - 1 Espanyol
(0-1) 32' Alonso (1-1) 36' Tchite (p), (2-1) 50' Tchite (p), (3-1) 91' Arana

Osasuna 2 - 2 Malaga
(1-0) 10' Pandiani, (1-1) 32' Caicedo, (2-1) 48' Pandiani, (2-2) 76' Baha

La Liga relegation dogfight hots up as Real Valladolid and Tenerife win

Real Valladolid and Tenerife secured three vital points apiece as they revived their hopes of survival. Having shared the points this weekend in the Canaries, any less than a midweek win could have proved decisive as both look to avoid the dreaded drop into what the Spanish delightfully term 'Hell'. Real Valladolid welcomed Sevilla to the Jose Zorilla, with the Andalucians scrapping with Mallorca and Athletic Bilbao for that final Champions League slot. Yet not for the first time recently, Sevilla looked devoid of any threat, and succumbed to strikes from Diego Costa and Manucho, as Javier Clemente continues to stamp his authority upon a situation that only days ago had looked out of control.

Tenerife were also in last-chance saloon and they didn't disappoint as they recorded a noteworthy win away at Sporting Gijon. Infact it was incredibly their first away win of the season and it came at just the right time. With Sporting keeper Juan Pablo in fine form they had to wait until late on before making sure of the three points as Román and Alfaro found the net in the last twenty minutes at El Molinon. The pressure is really on Málaga, Real Zaragoza and Racing Santander, as any dropped points tomorrow would signal their return into the relegation dogfight. As for Xerez, any less than a win at the Vicente Calderon would mean almost certain relegation back to La Segunda. But with five teams still fighting it out tooth and nail, its really hotting up at the bottom of La Liga.

Real Valladolid 2 - 1 Sevilla

(1-0) 41' Diego Costa, (2-0) 53' Manucho, (2-1) 83' Cala

Sporting Gijon 0 - 2 Tenerife

(0-1) 70' Roman, (0-2) 87' Alfaro

Getafe 3 - 0 Villarreal
(1-0) 56' Miku (2-0) 72' Manu (3-0) 86' Miku

Xerez stun Sevilla in the Sanchez Pizjuan: Time up for Manolo Jimenez?

Sevilla 1 - 1 Xerez
(1-0) 63' Kanoute (p), (1-1) 92' Gioda

Xerez sprung one of the surprises of the season as they scored a last minute goal to cancel out Frederic Kanoutes earlier penalty. They may well be suffering from a chronic bout of injuries, but there's no hiding the fact that Sevilla fell desparately short tonight. Without Luis Fabiano, Jesus Navas and Diego Capel they were already lacking creativity upfront, but when Diego Perotti pulled up with a muscle strain, the situacion was critical. He was closely followed by midfield warrior Dider Zokora and suddenly it looked decidely bleak for a team striving to make the final Champions League place.

Right now that looks like a big ask for a side that is completely bereft of confidence. Alvaro Negredo is struggling badly, a slight worry for Del Bosque as the World Cup looms. The back four is uncharacteristically porous. Errors are even creeping into the previously impenetrable Andrés Palop. At the other end of the spectrum, Xerez showed tremendous fighting spirit to grab a point from a ground where no-one gave them a chance. Leandro Gioda got them the equaliser at the death after a scramble in the area, but truth be told, they gave Palop a fright on more than one occasion during the match, and their continuing fight for survival is really beginning to gather pace. Carlos Calvo revolutionised his team when he came on, and don't be surprised if this nippy lad from Madrid is whisked off if and when Xerez drop down a level. Another man on the move in the near future could well be Manolo Jimenez. The fans gave him a hard time after the defeat to CSKA Moscow, so the pressure must now be at boiling point. A paltry draw at home against the leagues whipping boys will not go down well. And president Jose Maria Del Nido is not a man to pussyfoot around a tough decision.

Sporting Gijon 2 - 1 Deportivo La Coruña

(1-0) 30' Bilic, (1-1) 65' Adrian, (2-1) 94' Diego Castro (p)

Real Madrid fight back to go three points clear

Real Madrid 3 - 1 Sporting Gijon

(1-0) 53' Barral, (1-1) 54' Van der Vaart, (2-1) 57' Alonso, (3-1) 68' Higuain

Real Madrid rattled off their 14th consecutive league victory in the Santiago Bernabeu this season, as they came from behind to beat a plucky Sporting Gijon. The home fans certainly won't have relished a drab first half, and things got even worse after the break when an exquisite pass over the top from Camacho sent David Barral through on goal with the striker composing himself before firing an unstoppable shot past Iker Casillas. But back came Madrid only a minute later with a goal that had more than a hint of controversy about it, as Rafael Van der Vaart appeared to handle the ball in the box before shooting in after Juan Pablo could only parry Cristianos rocket of a free-kick. Then Real Madrid went straight into the lead, after a prodigious leap from Cristiano Ronaldo flicked on a corner towards an unmarked Xavi Alonso who made no mistake with his header from close range. Gonzalo Higuain rounded things off and made the points safe with a dashing run and shot, which takes his league total for the season to 20. They might not be setting the world alight, but they sure know how to grind out those league points, with Barcelona now obliged to get a win away to Real Zaragoza tomorrow. Advantage Real Madrid in the race for La Liga.

Xerez 2 - 1 Tenerife

(1-0) 7' Bermejo, (2-0) 15' Aythami, (2-1) 49' Nino

In terms of quality it was like watching a third division match, but Xerez won't care one bit as they grabbed three points that allows them to continue believing in the impossible. In all reality, Xerez staying up is impossible, especially when you think that they still have to travel to Sevilla, Valencia, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid before the season comes to a close. Even so, what Nestor Gorosito has achieved since he walked into the madhouse has been more than noteworthy, and Xerez fans will surely be thinking what could have been if we had started the season with the Argentine manager in charge. Mario Bermejo got the first early doors, but from where I was sitting it looked like the keeper Aragoneses took his header comfortably on the chest; the linesman must have seen him fall back behind the line. Aythami quickly made it two after some chaos in the Tenerife box, and it finally looked as if were about to witness a rout. The rout never materialised, and once midfield enforcer Sidi Keita was forced off injured, it all got very untidy in the middle of the park. Tenerife were awarded a dodgy looking penalty towards the end of the first half, but in the midst of pandamonium-like noise, newly restored keeper/hero Chema came to rescue, pushing away Ninos tame effort. Nino wasnt to be completely denied though, as the tiny striker somehow beat two huge centre halves to a header early in the second half, which cut the defecit. Tenerife probed for much of the second half, but the equaliser never came. So, can Xerez do the unthinkable and stay up? It would be the stuff of legend, but those away matches will surely put pay to any small hopes that still linger.

Espanyol 2 - 0 Sevilla
(1-0) 8' Osvaldo, (2-0) 60' Osvaldo

Is this the end of Manolo Jimenez as Sevilla boss? A tame defeat for the Andalucians as Espanyol ran the show in the Estadio Cornella. Espanyol unbeaten at home since losing 0-4 to Racing in December, a run that will surely secure their survival in La Liga.

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 2 Real Valladolid
(0-1) 39' Nauzet (0-2) 91' Medjunanin

Real Valladolid kept a clean sheet for the first time in 17 matches as they overcame a disappointing Deportivo la Coruña in the Riazor. The win keeps Valladolid very much alive in their fight for top flight survival as Depor take a step back in their hunt for the Europa League positions.

Athletic Bilbao 2 - 2 Getafe
(1-0) 13' Orbaiz, (1-1) 32' Manu, (2-1) 81' Llorente, (2-2) 86' Pedro Leon

Crazy match at the San Mames, as Getafe dominated but saw themselves obliged to fight back to earn a draw in the dying minutes. Orbaiz and Miguel Torres were sent off for either side as a feisty encounter ended in a draw that does little for either teams European ambitions.

Messi and Higuain bag hattricks as Madrid and Barca triumph (Highlights)

Barcelona 3 - 0 Valencia

(1-0) 56' Messi, (2-0) 81' Messi, (3-0) 82' Messi

Truly great players show up when their team most needs them. Not my words, the words of Marcas Pablo Egea. But how right he is. Lionel Messi proved to the world why he was named World Player of the Year last season, with a hat-trick that oozed class and saved his sides blushes against a battling Valencia. Barcelona had struggled badly in the first half, with David Silva and Pablo Hernandez causing them all sort of problems on the break, and Dealbert majestic in defence. But Barca came out in the second half a different side, lead by that little magician Lionel Messi. His first was unmistakably Messi; waltzing effortlessly past four defenders and stroking the ball nonchantly past Cesar. His second, was equally as pleasing on the eye; cutting in from the right to unleash a devilish left foot curler which crept inside the post. His coupe-de-grace arrived only seconds later as the lively Thierry Henry  released the Argentinian who produced a gorgeous dinked shot, with Cesar beaten all ends up. You won't see a finer hattrick all year. Valencia werent helped by an injury to David Albelda early in the second half, who had reduced Xavi and Iniesta to meer bystanders in the first 45 minutes, or by a stuttering Zigic who spurned a glorious chances to level the scores at 1-0. The sending off of Maduro simply sealed their fate. Barca are back in business.

 

Real Valladolid 1 - 4 Real Madrid

(0-1) 28' Cristiano Ronaldo, (0-2) 45' Higuain, (0-3) 52' Higuain, (1-3) 58' Albiol (o.g), (1-4) 65' Higuain

Real Madrid put their European misery to one side in La Zorilla as they overcame some rough treatment from Real Valladolid to record a win which keeps them at the summit of La Liga. Cristiano fired in a trademark missile of a freekick to put Madrid in the driving seat, although trademark would do the Portuguese winger a huge injustice. What you come to expect from him, few can replicate. Then it was underfire striker Gonzalo Higuain who took over with a sharp hattrick of his own, which has served to banish those dark memories of last week. There will still be those who question his ability on the biggest stage, but there is no doubting his class infront of goal, whoever the opponent. Mejuto Gonzalez added his name to a worryingly growing list of abject refereeing performances of late, missing a blatant stamp on Cristiano Ronaldo by Nivaldo which deserved two reds, and a handball from Sergio Ramos early in the second half that could have signalled his dismissal and a penalty for Valladolid. Raul Albiol scored an unfortunate own goal after the hour mark, but any doubts were lifted by Higuains third and final strike. Top of the league and in no mood to let the only competition they're left in slip.

Villarreal 2 - 0 Xerez

(1-0) 32' Llorente, (2-0) 90' Escudero

Mindnumbing match that saw Villarreal keep themselves in the European hunt and which sees Xerez even closer to La Segunda. The Yellow Submarine controlled the match from start to finish, with the 2-0 scoreline hardly doing justice to their total domination over a resigned Xerez. An eleven point gap has now opened up between Xerez and the team just above the relegation zone, Real Zaragoza, and every defeat is an extra nail in their first division coffin. It seems to have got to the stage where their better players, Momo being a prime example, take it for granted that they'll be snapped up by some Liga club next year, so with their personal topflight survival guaranteed, motivation to save that of their club dwindles. A sad state of affairs. Nestor Gorosito needs to stick with those who put their heart and soul into every minute of every match; the Sidi Keitas and Mario Bermejos of this world. So Villarreal continue their upward march, with Juan Carlos Garrido proving a shrewd managerial signing. Joseba Llorentes first was pure predator, whilst Escuderos last gasp second, rewarded those who had stayed it out.

Tenerife 4 - 1 Espanyol

(1-0) 20' Richi, (2-0) 49' Nino, (2-1) 70' Verdu, (3-1) 82' Alfaro, (4-1) 90' Nino

Racing Santander 0 - 0 Real Zaragoza

Almeria 1 - 0 Malaga

(1-0) 59' Soriano

La Liga Saturday: Sevilla and Depor share the points in race for Europe (Highlights)

Sevilla 1 - 1 Deportivo La Coruña

(1-0) 21' Fazio, (1-1) 24' Adrian

Energetic match played out at the Sanchez Pizjuan which saw the points shared between Sevilla and Depor. Plenty of attacking verve displayed from both sides, but scoring chances were at a premium as both sets of defences showed commendable organisation. Fazio headed Sevilla into a 21st minute lead from Perottis free-kick, with Aranzubia unable to keep it out with his outstretched glove. But Depor got back into the match immediately as lively striker Adrian nipped infront of his marker to convert Guardados cross from close range. A moment of controversy marked the end of the first half as Aranzubia diverted Jesus Navas' shot wide from outside the area, with the ball appearing to striker the keepers arm. Difficult decision for the ref, but Depor could have had no complaints had he shown red to the keeper. Luis Fabiano came on in the second half and struck the crossbar with a header, but with Depors defence in resolute mood there were to be no more goals, and both sides stay in the hunt for that final Champions League spot.

Getafe 3 - 0 Mallorca
(1-0) Parejo, (2-0) Miku, (3-0) Miku (p)

As good as they are at home, Mallorca are absolutely hopeless when it comes to playing away from the Ono Estadi. The latest defeat on the Spanish mainland came at the hands of a lively Getafe team, lead by a virtuoso performance from Dani Parejo. It was the ex-Real Madrid man who headed Getafe infront, with on loan striker Miku grabbing the other two. Mikus second came from the spot after Nunes had handled the ball as it was on its way across the line, with the defender seeing red for his troubles. The Champions League dream is fading for Mallorca, and they could even see themselves drop out of the UEFA Europa League spots with Athletic Bilbao and todays opponents Getafe giving chase.

Sporting Gijon 0 - 0 Athletic Bilbao

The best thing about this match? The fact that the starting elevens (and all six subs used) of both sides were composed only of Spanish footballers. Great to see. On the field, Athletic Bilbao had the better of the play, with Fernando Llorente a constant threat in the air, but Sporting keeper Juan Pablo was equal to everything the Spain striker threw at him. Javi Martinez also had a couple of chances, the best being a venomous volley from inside the area which flew over the bar. Igor Gabilondo had the perfect opportunity to bag all three points for Athletic from the spot after Jose Angel had felled Toquero, but there was nothing getting past Juan Pablo, as the keeper repelled his effort. Two points dropped for Bilbao in their push for Europe.

La Liga Matchday 24: Real Madrid and Atletico go Goal Crazy (Highlights)

Its as you were a the top of La Liga as Real Madrid and Barcelona got the better of Tenerife and Malaga respectively. Real Madrid were by far the more convincing of the two, as they produced yet another display of blistering attacking football, which blew away the relegation candidates from the Canaries. Gonzalo Higuain got his fifth double of the season so far, whilst Raul's last gasp fifth made him the third highest scorer in La Liga history. The other scorers were Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka as their partnership goes from strength to strength. Barcelona had to work hard for their three points, as they enjoyed a total monopoly of the ball, but found a Malaga defence in resolute mood. Pedro opened the scoring, but once Valdo equalised with only ten minutes remaining it looked as if Barcelona were going to finish the weekend joint top with their eternal rivals. but up stepped the world finest, Lionel Messi, to finish off a scintillating team move to ensure Barca maintained their two point advantage at the top. Many, including myself, had written off Real Madrid not too long ago. How wrong we were.

Tenerife 1 - 5 Real Madrid
(0-1) 29' Higuain, (0-2) 41' Higuain, (1-2) 46' Ayoze, (1-3) 48' Kaka, (1-4)  79' Cristiano Ronaldo (p), (1-5) 91' Raul

Barcelona 2 - 1 Malaga
(1-0) 68' Pedro, (1-1) 80' Valdo, (2-1) 83' Messi

Atletico Madrid 4 - 1 Valencia
(0-1) 20' Silva, (1-1) 29' Forlan (p), (2-1) 77' Aguero, (3-1) 85' Forlan, (4-1) 92' Jurado

Villarreal 1 - 0 Deportivo La Coruna

(1-0) 35' Llorente

Sevilla 0 - 0 Athletic Bilbao

Xerez 1 - 1 Espanyol

(0-1) 18' Osvaldo, (1-1) 76' Bermejo

Getafe 0 - 2 Real Zaragoza

(0-1) 3' Suazo, (0-2) 19' Suazo

Real Valladolid 1 - 2 Mallorca

(1-0) 49' Bueno, (1-1) 69' Ruben, (1-2) 83' Julio Alvarez

Sporting Gijon 3 - 2 Osasuna

(1-0) 17' De La Cuevas, (1-1) Nekounam 38' (p), (1-2) 49' Vadocz, (2-2) 70' Barral, (3-2) 80' Diego Castro (p)

Racing Santander 0 - 2 Almeria

(0-1) 29' Soriano, (0-2) 67' Cruzat

Tenerife victory in first La Liga Monday match

Tenerife 1 - 0 Mallorca

(1-0) 13' Nino

Tenerife secured three points at home against Mallorca, in La Ligas first ever monday match. The move to arrange monday night fixtures has been met with a little bemusement among fans in Spain, with saturday and sunday league football so ingrained within spanish society, but 18,000 Tenerife fans responded by almost filling the Heliodoro, and there was extra colour and vibrancy within the stands with the island celebrating the Carnival this week. They had even more to celebrate when Nino put them ahead after 13 minutes, although his positioning for the goal had more than a whiff of offside about it. Apart from another solid performance from Borja Valero, Mallorca were never at the races, and they missed out on a glorious opportunity to stick themselves in the top four. Tenerife, meanwhile, edge closer to the pack in their fights against relegation.

La Liga Saturday: Cristiano Ronaldo scores double in Xerez

Xerez 0 - 3 Real Madrid
(0-1) 64' Arbeloa, (0-2) 70' Cristiano Ronaldo, (0-3) 71' Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid didn't falter as they successfully added extra pressure on Barcelona at the top of La Liga. It wasn't pretty and it took them until the 64th minute to make the breakthrough, but once they did they devastated a worn-out Xerez side that had given as good as they had got. The atmosphere inside Chapin was predictably hostile and they got right behind their side as they got stuck into Real Madrids new galacticos. Xerez even had the better of the chances in the first 45 minutes as Momo and Carlos Calvo could easily have out their side infront. But in the second half, they tired badly and after Arbeloa had put Madrid infront with his first goal in Spanish football, finishing off a slick move with a wonderfully calm finish, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaká took over. For Cristianos first, Kaká whipped over a lovely ball that Ronaldo bullet-headered into the net. One minute later the Brazilian repeated the trick with a squared pass in the area that Ronaldo tucked away with minimal fuss. Thats what €150 million gets you. The biggest disappointment of the match was Gonzalo Higuaín, who went completely missing and was subbed after 66 minutes. But today was all about Cristiano as a ruthless Madrid leave Jerez with three points in the bag, with an injury-hit Barca under pressure to maintain their five point advantage at Atlético tomorrow.

Villarreal 2 - 1 Athletic Bilbao

(1-0) 5' Capdevila, (1-1) 24' Gabilondo, (2-1) 45' Nilmar

A fantastic game of football that was soured by an absolutely disgraceful last 5 minutes that saw 4 red cards and a missed penalty. Joan Capdevila put the Yellow Submarine infront, slotting past Iraizoz after a delicious dummy from Robert Pires put him through one on one. The full-back is deadly infront of goal. Then Gabilondo responded for Athletic with a stunning goal from outside the area the gave Diego Lopez no chance. Villarreal looked more like there former self as they set about Bilboa with the verve and tenacity of old. Brazilian striker then put the home side back ahead as he raced onto Canis inch perfect pass to slot in. He could have had a couple more in the second half, but whilst the scoreline didnt budge, plenty of players gave themselves an early shower as the game turned into a brawl in the final few minutes. Iker Munian won his side a penalty with one minute left, with what looked like a dive, but Iraola was unable to covert the penalty; he fifth missed penalty in his fledgling career. Then the match turned nasty. First to go were Godin and Javi Martinez. The Bilbao midfielder was shown a red for a raised elbow, whilst Godins red looked less clear, but must have been for something he did in the aftermath. Joaquin Caparros went sent off for protesting, and Orbaiz quickly followed for a disgraceful tug of Marco Rubens hair.

Sporting Gijon 1 - 1 Valencia

(1-0) 5' Diego Castro, (1-1) 76' Mata

Sunday Liga Results: Atletico Madrid and Valencia on a roll

Atletico Madrid 3 - 2 Sporting Gijon

(1-0) 12' Forlán, (1-1) 32' Castro (p), (2-1) 54' Assuncao, (3-1) 66' Ibrahima, (3-2) 90' Luis Moran

Wherever they go, goals aren't far behind. After a six goal thriller in the cup, and four goals in their last league encounter, today saw five as Atlético Madrid completed a fruitful week with another league victory. Sporting had looked threatening up until Assuncao put Atletico 2-1, and from that point on it was a one-way traffic as Sergio Agüero ran the show; his run in injury time as good as anything you'll see this season. The only downer for Atletico was the injury to Diego Forlan who was forced off with a ankle problem.

READ ON FOR REPORTS AND HIGHLIGHTS OF ALL TODAYS LIGA MATCHES

Valencia 4 - 1 Villarreal
(1-0) 6' Banega, (2-0) 28' Villa (p), (3-0) 56' Silva, (3-1) 61' Nilmar, (4-1) 90' Villa

Valencia creep ominously three points behind Real Madrid with a resounding victory against a disorganised Villarreal. Joaquin and David Silva put in fantastic shifts, whilst Ever Banega continued his stunning form with a cracking early goal which set Valencia on their way. Silva was rewarded for an electric second-half performance with their third following an uncharacteristic howler from Capdevila, whilst David Villa scored two goals which put him alongside Lionel Messi in the fight for the Pichichi trophy. In fairness it could have been 6 or 7 for Unai Emerys team, who are looking in good shape to mount a serious challenge for second place.

Mallorca 2 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña

(1-0) 46' Mario Suarez, (2-0) 55' Castro

Mallorca registered another fantastic home win with a storming performance that had Depor running ragged throughout the whole 90 minutes. It was only Mallorcas profligacy in attack and a solid performance from Aranzubia in goal that saw the teams go in level at the break, but in the second half Mario Suarez took advantage of a mistake from Colotto to put the home side one up, before another mistake, this time from Manuel Pablo, allowed Castro to finish the game as a contest. Mallorca continue their remarkable 100% home record and place themselves inside the top four, whilst Depor will want to forget this match quickly as they prepare for their Copa del Rey quarter-final against Sevilla.

Real Zaragoza 0 - 0 Xerez

Real Zaragoza produced another dismal display that failed to see off a Xerez side that was forced to play with ten men from the 54th minute. Zaragoza gave debuts to their three winter signings; Jiri Jarosik, Eliseu and striker 'Chupete' Suazo, but it made no difference as they wasted a number of opportunities to open the scoring, and were emphatically booed off by their supporters at the final whistle. The only highlight for 'Los Maños' was the man-of-the-match performance from second-half sub Jermaine Pennant, who put two delicious crosses in that really should have lead to goals. Xerez fans can be proud of the way their team fought for the point after Victor Sanchez was subject to a shocking decision from the ref when he was sent off for an innocuous challenge on Eliseu. The draw is no use to either team, with both en route to second division football unless things change around rapidly. Their fans deserve more.

Almería 1 - 1 Tenerife
(0-1) 2' Juanlu, (1-1) 60' Goitom

Tenerife fall into the relegation zone to make it all three promoted clubs from last year in the bottom three. Juanlu had given them a cracking start inside two minutes when he fired in after Diego Alves had parried a Kome shot. But from then on Almería set about the visitors in search of an equaliser that came about after an hour when they broke out from a Tenerife corner and Soriano set Goitom free with an exquisite pass for the striker to fire in neatly past Aragoneses. Juanma Lillo has steadied the ship since replacing Hugo Sanchez, whilst Oltra could well find himself out of a job if their poor form continues. Another frustrating draw between two sides stuck in a relegation struggle and in desparate need of points.

Racing Santander 1 - 1 Real Valladolid
(0-1) 19' Pinillos (o.g), 59' Canales

The young star from Santander, Sergio Canales, ensured his name would be splashed all over the back pages once again as he scored a stunning goal to earn his team a draw against Real Valladolid. The 18 year old has alerted interest from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla and teams from the Premiership with his all-action performances and goals. Today he netted another beautiful effort when he took down a Munitis ball into the area and lifted it delicately over the advancing keeper, Villar, to cancel out Pinillos unlucky own goal. A superb strike, his first in El Sardinero, and his stock rises even higher.

Malaga 1 - 0 Getafe
(1-0) 85' Baha

A feisty match that lacked any serious quality and was settled by second half substitute Baha, when he timed his run to perfection with five minutes left to nod in Jesus Gamezs cross. Getafe had to play with ten from the 30th minute onwards as their Ghanian midfielder Boateng was sent off for a second yellow, and the players were absolutely livid with the referee at the final whistle as they felt they were subject to some shocking decisions from the man in black. Málaga lift themselves out of the relegation zone for the first time since matchday 6, although their performance was far from convincing, whilst Getafe see their march towards the UEFA spots halted.

La Liga Results - Matchday 16: Real Madrid stay second

Osasuna 0 - 0 Real Madrid

This was Real Madrids chance to put a marker down for 2010 and take advantage of Barcelonas 'shock' draw against Villarreal. The press had placed much emphasis on Madrids chance to go top, as if it could be a pivotal moment in the season. As it was, they found a stubborn Osasuna outfit who had as many chances to win the match as their illustrious visitors. The Reyno Navarro has been a happy hunting ground for the Bernabeu side in recent years, and was the scene of Real Madrids league triumph three years ago, but with Higuaín and Cristiano Ronaldo not enjoying their finest hour and the Osasuna defence utterly resolute, a 0-0 draw was probably a fair result. So it's as you were at the top of La Liga, with two points separating the leaders from Real. Will Madrid live to regret their failure to put Barca under a bit of early pressure?

READ ON FOR MATCH REVIEWS AND HIGHLIGHTS OF ALL SUNDAYS LA LIGA MATCHES

Zaragoza 0 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña

Neither team will be happy with a point which leaves Real Zaragoza in the relegation zone and Deportivo La Coruña unable to take advantage of Sevillas slip yesterday night. Both teams created numerous goalscoring opportunities, but neither managed to turn any of them into goals as both attacks left much to be desired infront of goal. Jermaine Pennant was given a vote of confidence from new manager Jose Aurelio Gay as he started and finished the match and Lafita impressed against his former club with both players missing gilt-edged chances, whilst defender Lopo got as close as anyone to opening the scoring for Depor.

Almería 1 - 0 Xerez

(1-0) 89' Ortiz

Nothing changes for La Ligas bottom club as they lost away and failed to score yet again. Xerez were unlucky not to snatch a point away at a nervy Almería side who saw their new manager Juanma Lillo take charge of his first match. And Xerez could even have gone infront with ten minutes remaining when Momo was felled in the area, but nine minutes later supersub Jose Ortiz latched onto a clearance to drive in from outside of the box and give Almería a much needed win and three valuable points. At this rate Xerez are on a one-way road to the second division.

Sporting Gijón 2 - 2 Málaga

(0-1) 9' Duda, (1-1) 47' Gregory, (1-2) 60' Weligton, (2-2) 69' Canella

In the highest scoring match so far in this weekends La Liga programme, Sporting and Málaga shared the spoils as both goalkeepers provided a couple of festive bloopers with Munúas gaff for Sportings second, a true shocker. Portuguese striker Duda had a cracking match, with a well-taken goal and an assist for Weligtons opportunist strike. Sporting scored twice but their lack of firepower was evident as David Barral continues to disappoint as he fills in for the injured Bilic. Málaga remain in the bottom three whereas Sporting will be happy to float around mid-table as they await the return of their Croatian hitman.

Mallorca 2 - 0 Athletic Bilbao

(1-0) 49' Julio Álvarez, (2-0)  67' Aduriz

Mallorcas season just gets better and better as this win puts them in the Champions League positions. Todays victims in Fortress Ono Estadi were the unfortunate souls of Athletic Bilbao, who were desparately unlucky as two deflections contributed to both of Mallorcas goals. As ever, the home defence was as solid as a rock, and Borja Valero controlled proceedings from the centre of the park, and provided the defence splitting pass which led to Aduriz chipping over Iraizoz. Even the introduction of Iker Muniain and De Marcos failed to spark Bilbao into action. Everyone is waiting for Gregorio Manzanos men to trip up, but their golden run continues.

Racing Santander 2 - 0 Tenerife

(1-0) 71' Colsa, (2-0) 74' Xisco

The first half of this match was possibly the most boring ever in La Liga history, but things livened up in the second half for the Sardinero crowd as Racing Santander took a massive step towards survival with a win against a direct rival for relegation, Tenerife. A lot of credit must go to manager Miguel Angel Portugal as he spiced things up with three second-half substitutes, with one of them, Xisco, killing the game as a contest with the second strike. Tenerife lost the match in a matter of three minutes, and add another away defeat to a run of results that will surely see them ending up relegated unless they invest in a proven goalscorer.

Getafe 1 - 0 Real Valladolid

(1-0) 83' Casquero

In much the same manner as Mallorca, Getafe maintain their unexpected push for the European positions with a late victory against Real Valladolid. Míchels reputation is on the rise (I'd place a little wager on him being the next Real Madrid manager) as his midfield Maestro Casquero side-footed in a spectacular goal with minutes remaining. Valladolid can feel sorry for themselves as they didnt deserve to lose, but without Manucho and Diego Costa they were always going to find it difficult to find a way past Codina who is fast adding himself to the long list of outstanding Spanish goalkeepers. Perhaps another one Real Madrid let go of too easily.

La Liga Results/Highlights: Atlético Madrid hobble into Christmas

Tenerife 1 - 1 Atlético Madrid

(1-0) 3' Nino, (1-1) 21' Jurado

• A poor match between two teams that are really struggling to escape the attentions of the relegation zone. Atlético Madrid would have wanted to sign off before Christmas with a much needed three points, but fell behind to an early Nino strike and only managed to salvage a draw. They pushed for a winner in the last ten minutes after Asenjo had saved a Nino penalty but it wasn't to be.
  
• Tenerife can be glad with their position up to now, especially when you take into account the performances of Real Zaragoza who got promoted alongside the islanders, but have a far greater budget. Retaining winger Omar and Ninos goalscoring form will be important to their push for survival.
  

Real Valladolid 2 - 1 Sporting Gijón

(0-1) 13' Luis Moran, (1-1) 29' Nivaldo, (2-1) 90' Medunjanin

• Quality match that flowed from end to end and provided a grandstand finish with Medunjanins brilliant late winner. The Bosnian along with Diego Costa and Cannobio are vital to Real Valladolids hopes in the new year after helping to push their team to relative mid-table safety before the xmas break. A real hit or miss side that will want to find some consistency in 2010.
  
• Sporting took an early lead and contributed to an entertaining match played in freezing conditions. They´ve seen their storming start to the season fade away in recent weeks but they can be happy with the fact that they're closer to the UEFA spots than the relegation zone. They'll be hoping Bilic is back and raring to go in the new year.
  

Villarreal 2 - 0 Racing Santander

(1-0) 49' Llorente, (2-0) 72' Rossi

• The scale of Villarreals revival since hitting rock bottom after 6 matches has meant everyone has forgotten that Ernesto Valverde was one game away from losing his job. The truth is there was always far too much quality in their side to be in that end of the table.
  
• Santi Cazorla came off the bench at half-time to give the home side some added impetus, and together with Cani helped the yellow submarine to the three points through strikes from Joseba Llorente and Rossi. Racing managed to withstand the pressure during the first 45 mins, but with little being offered by Tchite and Xisco upfront the defence folded under the pressure in the second half.
  

Espanyol 2 - 0 Almería

(1-0) 45' Marquez, (2-0) 81' Coro

• Almería fell to yet another defeat which proved to be the straw that broke the boards back and saw Hugo Sanchez sacked as manager. His team lacked fight from the start and Sanchez did little to improve the situation with substitutions that arrived far too late to change the situation.
  
• The three points were vital for Espanyol as they enter the xmas break on a high and four points off the drop zone. Joan Verdú was inspirational in the middle of the park, assisted admirably by Javi Marquez who set his side on the road to victory with a sublime finish on the stroke of half-time.
  

Málaga 2 - 1 Mallorca

(1-0) 23' Fernando, (1-1) 56' Julio Alvarez, (2-1) 76' Forestieri

• If anyone needed three points today it was Málaga. Leaving Xerez firmly rooted to the bottom, the team from La Rosaleda. Young striker Fernando Forestieri came on after 65 mins and ten minutes later scored the goal that keeps his side in touch with the group of teams above.
  
• Mallorca have been the surprise package of the season so far, but suffered from the loss of Borja Valero through injury and two shocking errors from Israeli keeper Arouate which led to both Málaga goals. It will interesting to see if they can continue to challenge for the UEFA spots in 2010.
  

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 0 Valencia

• The battle for the Champions League spots promised much beforehand but delivered little on the night. Valencia will be the happier of the two as they go into the break occupying that lucrative fourth place while Depor lie below Mallorca in sixth.
  
• Both teams signed off what has been a fantastic start to the 2009/2010 season with a drab encounter. Juan Carlos Valeron was the games best player and he nearly got Depor the goal which would probably have been enough for the points with a header which smacked against Cesars crossbar.