News
SAT 09.04.2016
Electric opening five from La Real
Right from the first whistle, Real Sociedad stamped their authority on proceedings during what was a dream opening five minutes for Eusebio's charges. The hosts came out all guns blazing in a start which left Luis Enrique's troops looking around at each other in sheer amazement. With the game barely five minutes old, the Basques' fine early work reaped its rewards as the San Sebastian outfit got their noses in front.
Oyarzabal
Riding the crest of the La Real wave, Xabi Prieto sent in a cross from the right flank which Mikel Oyarzabal rose highest to meet. The Basques' starlet steered his header beyond Claudio Bravo's reach to put Eusebio's men in the driving seat. Anoeta was bouncing as the home side's game plan was working a treat and Real Sociedad had Luis Enrique's men right where they wanted them.
Barcelona press but Rulli saves the day
Following Oyarzabal's opener, the rip-roaring start from the hosts gave way to a period of Barcelona domination. The visitors began to boss possession as they probed for an equaliser. On 33 minutes, Arda Turan had the best chance to have drawn Barcelona level. Some patient build-up play ended with the Turkish international hitting a half-volley which deflected off the knee of a home defender, only for Geronimo Rulli to somehow pull out a hand and parry the shot to safety. After the interval, Barcelona once again enjoyed the lion's share of possession, but, as in the first half, the Catalan giants weren't at their best in the final third.
Excellent La Real rearguard action
Neymar, Messi and Andres Iniesta all tried their luck, but time and time again they were repelled by the hosts' backline. Eusebio's charges delivered a performance which was full of discipline and defensively solidity.
The Anoeta curse goes on
This certainly wasn't Barcelona's finest hour. On the back of defeat last time out to Real Madrid, the Azulgranas once again came unstuck at a ground which has been far from a happy hunting ground in recent times. Indeed, Barça haven't managed to come away from Anoeta with all three points since 2007. To make matters worse for the Catalans, wins for Atletico and Madrid have seen them close the gap on the leaders to three and four points respectively.
© LALIGA - 2016