Celta Vigo came from behind to secure a point in a pulsating 2-2 draw with Barcelona in La Liga on Saturday.
Both sides had chances in a lively first period, but it was the home team who took the lead courtesy of a tidy finish from Natxo Insa after 38 minutes.
Celta's lead did not last long, however, with Cristian Tello whipping a powerful effort into the bottom corner in the latter stages of the half.
Barcelona continued to push for their second in the latter stages and it eventually arrived courtesy of Lionel Messi after 73 minutes.
However, there was to be late drama with Borja Oubina securing a point for the home side with a powerful header.
Here, Sports Mole dissects the 90 minutes of action between the two sides.
Match statistics:
Celta Vigo:
Shots: 6
On target: 3
Possession: 30%
Corners: 5
Fouls: 15
Barcelona:
Shots: 5
On target: 3
Possession: 70%
Corners: 9
Fouls: 12
Was the result fair?
Based on the performances of both teams this evening, a point apiece was just about the right result. Celta were the better side for large periods of the first half, but their inability to hold onto their lead before the break caused them problems. However, they showed character to secure a point in the final moments.
Celta Vigo's performance
Industrious, hardworking and willing would be words to describe the home side this evening, but unfortunately they just did not have the quality in the final third to really worry Barcelona for large spells. However, they must be praised for their ability to capitalise on poor defending in the final stages. At the end of the season, it could be seen as a vital point.
Barcelona's performance
In truth, the Catalan outfit played the majority of this match in first gear, let alone second or third. The club made changes with the Champions League looming large next week but were still able to name a strong side. It was not the most vintage of performances, but it is another point as they continue their surge towards the title.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Cristian Tello: It was hardly a match full of star performers, but the Spanish winger was the pick of the bunch this evening. He scored a wonderful equaliser for Barcelona before setting up Messi for their second. He is developing into a really top player.
Biggest gaffe of the match
Barcelona's defending in the lead-up to Celta's opening goal was untidy at best. Fabian Orellana was allowed to dart into the box before finding Insa, who turned home from close range. One suspects that it would not have happened had Carlos Puyol been available.
Referee performance
Antonio Mateu had a fairly successful 90 minutes of work this evening. There were a couple of controversial moments in the first period with each side having penalty appeals turned down. However, neither manager would have had too many complaints about his performance.
What next?
Celta Vigo: Celta will attempt to return to winning ways when they welcome Rayo Vallecano next Sunday in the league.
Barcelona: Barcelona are in Champions League action next week as they travel to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their last-eight clash.
Matt Law
