LIONEL MESSI AND Luis Suarez were on target as leaders Barcelona beat Almeria 4-0 to chalk up a sixth straight La Liga win.
Messi went into the contest nursing an injury to his right foot but illuminated a largely forgettable first half with a sumptuous strike – his 44th goal in 43rd Barca appearances this term.
Suarez redeemed what had been a frustrating match individually with a similarly impressive second 10 minutes after half-time.
Defender Marc Bartra headed home in the 75th minute before Suarez tapped home in stoppage time to ensure former Barca full-back Sergi suffered defeat in his first match as Almeria coach.
The Andalusian side dispensed of Juan Ignacio Martinez after a run of seven winless games, though Sergi may well target Saturday’s fixture against fellow strugglers Granada as a chance to turn their fortunes around.
Barca appear to be hitting their straps at just the right time, however, with an ever-improving defence keeping a clean sheet for the fourth time in five outings.
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