FCBARCELONA.CAT

09.09.2008 22:35

Second win of the season (3-1)

Cristina Collado

FC Barcelona their second victory of the new season with a hard-fought victory over Carnicer Torrejón thanks to a brace from Javi Rodríguez and a goal Saad.

The Blaugrana chalked up the triumph to move into fifth place in the table after putting on a strong performance both up front and at the back to defeat the visitors in the Palau.

Youngsters honoured

Before the game, the Barça junior and youth teams were honoured for their achievements last season. The Alevines, infantiles, cadetes, juveniles and Senior B all picked up silverware and received an ovation from the crowd before having their photos taken with their cups and the first team players.

Opening effort

The crowd did not have to wait long for the opening goal to arrive and when it came it opened the way for a powerful Barça performance. Chico made his way down the left only to be fouled by Cuco, earning the hosts a penalty. Javi stepped forward and confidently netted to give the Catalan outfit the lead after just four minutes.

In the eighth minute, the second goal of the game was scored and again came from a set piece, but this time if was Carnicer that scored it. Cristian fouled Zamo and Jaison levelled matters at the second attempt as he stroked in the rebound after the keeper had saved his spot-kick.

Blaugrana pressure

Chico and Fernandao raised their game and saw a couple of chances cause the visitors to have regroup before Saad attempted to put the home team back into the lead with another effort. The visitors had their opportunities too, but a well-organised defence ensured that the Blaugrana remained level. PC went close just before the break, but was unable to find a way through.

Two goals in a minute

Carnicer's hard work was completely undone after the break when Barça scored two goals in as many minutes to put the game beyond doubt, moments after Víctor and Jaison had missed chances at the other end.

In the 32nd minute Javi Rodríguez set off on a solo run that ended with him scoring from the left and soon after Saad beat Molina and that ended the resistance of the visitors and ensured that Barça would go on and register their first win of the new campaign.