01.04.2007 00:30

Staying on top (2-1)

FC Barcelona ensured that they will remain on top of the league for another week as goals from Lionel Messi and Samuel Eto'o gave them a victory Deportivo in Camp Nou on Saturday evening.

The victory was hard fought as Deportivo proved that their run of bad form is firmly behind them with a confident display that caused Frank Rijkaard's team several problems. Barça, however, were close to the scintilating level that saw them sweep to the league title last season. Ronaldinho produced some magic to entertain the crowd, while both of the home team's goals were well taken. The victory ensured that the chasing pack must maintain their form if they are to keep up with the leaders.

Depor pressure

After Xavi registered the first shot at goal in the second minute, Deportivo proved that they were not there to make up the numbers and had done their homework. The Galicians applied pressure to Xavi and Andrés Iniesta every time Barça looked to move out from defence and that ensured that the Blaugrana back four had to be on their toes. At the other end, The home team's attack was out in force as they produced slick passing at a fast pace as well as a range of tricks and turns that made the game absorbing.
Psychological blow

Ronaldinho received a rare yellow card for blocking a free-kick and Fabián Estoyanoff put on the theatrics after being tapped by Samuel Eto'o. But the Barça nerves were not showing and moments before the break the opening goal came as Ronaldihno produced a moment of pure class as he flicked the ball clear of Fabricio Coloccini before side-footing the ball over the Deportivo back line. The Brazilian had spotted the run of Messi and picked him out perfectly, while the Argentinian completed the move with one touch for control and the next to drive the ball past Dudu Aouate. Eto'o had the last chance of the half, but he was unable to find a finish.

Number two

If a goal just before the break is difficult for the opposition, then another goal just after the restart can be just as devastating. In the 50th minute Barça added to their tally as Eto'o registered his eighth goal of the season. Ronaldinho combined with Xavi and Messi to send the Cameroonian striker through on goal and he coolly rolled the ball under the approaching goalkeeper. The game may have appeared to be over as a contest, but Depor had other ideas and they reduced teh deficit when Adrian raced through to score with 69 minutes on the clock.

Last chances

In the closing minutes tiredness became a factor as the recent internatonal games showed in the legs of some of the FC Barcelona stars. Depor, who looked fresher, almost took advantage as they had several chances to draw level. Eto'o was not about to settle for a one-goal advantage though and he could have netted his second of the evening after combining with Ronaldinho, as the Brazilian produced a superb backheel, but this time Aouate repelled his effort.