Plus three more

Real Sociedad claimed another league victory this afternoon, beating Levante at Anoeta. The txuri-urdin produced a strong performance and could have scored more goals, but first-half strikes from Óskarsson and Turrientes proved enough to secure all three points.

It was another fast-paced start. Just six minutes in, La Real took the lead through Óskarsson, who made the most of a delivery from Fort to open the scoring. With the txuri-urdin in control, however, a counterattack from the visitors resulted in an equaliser. Thiago rose to head home at the far post, beating Remiro. The hosts responded quickly, though. Turrientes latched onto a pass from Guedes and fired home with his left foot, his effort finding the net just inside the post. Having regained the lead, Matarazzo’s side created several chances to extend their advantage, but Óskarsson was unable to convert two good opportunities against Ryan. At the other end, Remiro also produced an excellent save to deny a dangerous effort from Ratkov.

The second half began with another clear chance for the hosts, as Guedes sent his effort narrowly wide. La Real had done enough to deserve a more comfortable lead, but they lacked a clinical edge in front of goal. Guedes also came close after another promising move, but his finish failed to find the net, leaving the outcome in doubt until the final whistle.

Another victory keeps La Real firmly among the league’s top sides. The margin could have been more comfortable, but the most important thing is that all three points are in the bag. Now, attention turns to the derby.

Match details:

Real Sociedad: Remiro, Fort (Aramburu, 62'), Martín, Sarr, Sergio Gómez, Gorrotxa, Turrientes (Herrera, 71'), Sučić (Barrene, 62'), Guedes (Ochieng, 84'), Oyarzabal (capt.) and Óskarsson (Zakharyan, 84').

Levante UD: Ryan, Nacho Pérez, Mandy, Ndukwe, Manu Sánchez, Requena (Musuayi, 79'), Olasagasti, Brugué (capt.) (Víctor), Thiago (Cortés, 79'), Ratkov (Etta Eyong, 62') and Romero.

Goals: 1-0: Óskarsson, 6'. 1-1: Thiago, 23'. 2-1: Turrientes, 27'.

Referee: Javier Alberola. He booked Martín for the hosts and Manu Sánchez, Musuayi and Víctor for the visitors.

Attendance: 30,035.