Lucas, Christian Stuani guide Espanyol past Real Sociedad

Espanyol have climbed into the top half of La Liga after recording a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad on Sunday evening.

It took the hosts just seven minutes to claim the lead, with the breakthrough arriving thanks to an inviting cross from Sergio Garcia, whose vision allowed Lucas to convert from close range.

Diego Colotto should have come closer to doubling Espanyol's lead later in the first half, but the defender could only head over the crossbar after finding himself in space inside the box.

Francisco Casilla enjoyed long spells of barely being troubled in his goal, and made his one save before the break look simple as he kept out Agirretxe's effort.

Agirretxe threatened again as Sociedad made a promising start to the second half, but Casilla stood in his way again to get a strong hand on his tame strike.

Sociedad's lack of a cutting edge was a big concern for Jagoba Arrasate as the visitors found it difficult to create clear chances, despite dominating possession after the interval.

However, there was a brief scare for the hosts late on when Jon Gaztanaga watched a speculative long-range volley fly just over the crossbar as Sociedad attempted unsuccessfully to snatch a point.

Espanyol took advantage to wrap the win up in stoppage time through Christian Stuani, who broke free of his marker to turn in a Paco Montanes cross.