Lionel Messi's 28th Primera Division goal of the season gave Barcelona a valuable victory over third-placed Valencia at Mestalla and saw the Catalans stretch their lead at the top to 10 points. Messi had seen three shots kept out in one incredible move early on and missed two other good opportunities after that, but the Argentina forward was not to be denied and popped up to settle matters with 14 minutes remaining. Barca had arguably the better chances but Valencia matched the leaders for long periods and could perhaps feel aggrieved that Jordi Alba's first-half effort was ruled out for offside.
