Barcelona's blistering run of form continued with a 2-1 victory over Getafe in the Primera Liga on Saturday despite having two players sent off. World Player of the Year Lionel Messi maintained his impressive goalscoring run when he put Barca ahead as early as the seventh minute. He met Yaya Toure's lay-off with a superb curling effort that left Getafe keeper with no chance for his 16th goal of the season. Barcelona defender Pique received a straight red card in the 25th minute for a crude challenge on Rafa Lopez. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Barcelona doubled their lead in the 67th minute via a goal from skipper Xavi, who was set up by Messi. Getafe were awarded a penalty in stoppage time when Rafael Marquez tripped Kepa. The Mexican defender was consequently sent off for the last-man foul. Former Real Madrid striker Roberto Soldado converted the penalty but Barcelona held on for their fourth consecutive win. The league holders remain on top with 55 points, eight ahead of Real Madrid who can cut the gap back to five points if they beat Espanyol later in the day.
