13.12.2009 13:09
Best start in club’s history
Edgar Fornós
With the victory against Espanyol in La Liga, Barça have now equalled the record established by Terry Venables’ side in the 1984-85 season.
Saturday’s victory against Espanyol not only places Barça as firm league leaders, but they
are also on the verge of beating a club record (unbeaten for 15 games) established by Terry
Venables’ Barça in the 1984-85 season. At the start of that season, Barça won 10 and drew 5,
whereas so far this season they have won 12 and drawn 3.
More records
The defeat of Espanyol also means that Barça have won their last six
games, after last drawing against Athletic Club Bilbao in San Mamés. Since then in the league,
Barça have beaten Real Madrid, Deportivo Coruña, Jerez and recently Espanyol. In the Champions
League, they have defeated Inter Milan and Dinamo Kiev.
"Ibra" back on form
Zlatan Ibrahimović reaffirmed his skill from the penalty spot.
Just as with Real Madrid two weeks ago, his goal was worth three points. He is now Barça’s
top league scorer with 11, just one behind Valencia’s top-scorer David Villa.
End of an unlucky spell
Barça also finally put an end to three seasons without beating Espanyol. The last time was
when Frank Rijkaard’s side beat the blue-and-whites 2-0 in the 2005-06 season. Since then
there have been two draws (2-2 & 0-0), and one defeat (1-2).
Individual award shared with everybody
Just before the match, Leo Messi received a standing ovation for the Ballon d’Or
awarded to him in Paris, which he dedicated to the players and fans. Unfortunately, Messi had to
watch the game from the stands after the injury he received in Kiev.