FCBARCELONA.CAT

07.12.2008 15:48

Red card and defeat (4-2)

Cristina Collado

Barça Movistar saw a two-goal lead disappear as they were beaten 4-2 by the reigning league champions Inter Movistar on Sunday after seeing goalkeeper Paco Sedano sent off in a action-packed encounter in Madrid.

The red card for the visitors' custodian had a huge influence on the eventual outcome as it came just before the break with the Blaugrana enjoying a lead thanks to goals from Saad and PC. Sedano had already shown how important he was in the opening minutes when keeping out a shot from Schumacher and within five minutes that had proved crucial as Barça took the lead when Saad sent a powerful shot past Luis Armado.

It was proving to be a strong start from the away team and they added a second eight minutes later when PC slotted in after Fernandao had left the ball for him. That lead was reduced moments later then as Juanra scored for Inter Movistar to lift the hosts.

Sedano sees red

In the closing minutes of the first half the game was turned on its head as Sedano touched the ball outside his area and was sent off. Julio Gracía took his place between the sticks but he could not stop Juanra from drawing Inter level in the 18th minute. At the other end Amado was the hero as he stopped a double penalty and then Barça fell behind for the first time.

Within five minutes of the restart the Barça keeper was called into action to keep out a drive from Schumacher but he could not repeat the trick soon after when Torras scored.

No luck for Chico

Saad continued to try and open things up for Mobicat FC Barcelona as he twice went close, but they were caught out when Borgia won possession and found Schumacher who made it 4-2 to the home side. With five minutes remaining Chico came on as a goalkeeper and outfield player and tried to help the visitors to reduce the lead again, but Inter held out and earn the points.