体坛英语新闻：Maria keeps Real in chase of Barcelona

Espanyol had won all seven games in their Cornella-El Prat Stadium, but had few answers to another magnificent performance from Barcelona.

Pedro and David Villa both scored twice, while Xavi Hernandez scored his side's second goal in another incredible display in what coach Pep Guardiola had described as his sides "most difficult away match of the season".

Barcelona have now scored an incredible 26 goals in their last five league matches.

Elsewhere, Villarreal beat Mallorca 3-1 to remain third in Spain. Santi Cazorla, Giuseppe Rossi and Nilmar all scored in another excellent performance from the side that remained third in Spain.

Saturday's other games saw goals from Igor Gabilondo and Javi Martinez give Athletic Club Bilbao a 2-1 win away to Levante.

The goals gave the Basque's their second away win of the season and move them into the battle for a place in Europe next season.

Diego Castro scored a last minute equalizer for Sporting Gijon away to Deportivo la Coruna after Aythami had opened the scoring for the home side after just 11 minutes of the match.