Malaga move clear in fourth
Malaga moved clear in fourth place in La Liga on Saturday with a 2-0 win over 10-man Sevilla who were left to rue a first half of wasted chances.
It was Malaga's first win on their travels since the beginning of September and it appeared far from likely as Sevilla dominated the first 45 minutes but failed to make the most of a hatful of opportunities with Alvaro Negredo the most guilty.
Martin Demichelis headed Malaga into the lead after 49 minutes and then Eliseu Pereira sealed the win with a penalty which had also seen the dismissal of defender Federico Fazio for a foul on Joaquin Sanchez.
Malaga are now three points ahead of fifth-placed Betis who face Celta Vigo on Monday.
Sevilla may be languishing in mid-table but they are a tough side to play at home due to their pressing in midfield, while they have pace on the wings especially through Jesus Navas.
They were without Hedwiges Maduro as well as long-term injury victim Piotr Trochowski in midfield but still took the game to Malaga and Negredo should have given them the lead within three minutes.
He rounded the keeper but hit the post with his weaker right foot with the goal gaping.
Ivan Rakitic was dictating play from the middle and the Malaga defence was stretched as another chance went begging with Diego Perotti hitting the side netting.
Sevilla were forcing a high tempo but they were nearly caught out at the other end when Roque Santa Cruz, surprisingly playing ahead of Javier Saviola, headed just past the post with still less than quarter of an hour played.
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