Barcelona had to deal with an early second half sending off, but Mallorca didn't have any more of an answer for 10-man Barcelona as they had for 11-man Barcelona. The shorthanded nature of their side prevented the Blaugranas from pouring it on their opponents, but they were very good in a comfortable 2-0 victory.
Mallorca Vs. Barcelona, 2012 La Liga: Blaugranas Keep Pressure On Madrid
Alexis Sanchez scored the opening goal in the 25th minute, though his final touch was ever so slight. With Xavi sitting out, Lionel Messi took a free kick that appeared destined for the net on its own, but Sanchez got a touch on the ball to make sure and give Barcelona the lead. They weren't terribly aggressive in the remainder of the second half and cruised into halftime with a 1-0 lead.
In the 56th minute, Thiago Alcantara picked up a second yellow card to handicap the Blaugranas, but Mallorca would never capitalize. Messi would provide another assist after a corner kick for Barcelona's second goal. He hit the post with a shot and Gerard Pique was there to finish off the move.
The pressure is now on Real Madrid, who have drawn their last two games in La Liga, allowing Barcelona to get back into the title race.
For more on the Blaugranas, head over to The Offside Barcelona and Barca Blaugranes.
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