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UEFA Cup Still Possible

Barca notched up their fourth away league win of the season on Sunday evening and are still in the running for a UEFA Cup spot with only three games to go.

Early chances for Recre

The home team had the first real chance of the match in the 7th minute, when Reiziger, back in defence today to cover for the absent Sorín and Gabri, cleared an effort from Raúl Molina off his own goal line. Four minutes later, Recre set up a great counterattack after a Barca corner and Valdés did well to save from Raúl Molina. In the 19th the locals had their third chance when former Barca player Arpón tested Valdés from the edge of the box.

Saviola dangerous

The match was hotly contested but lacking in skill. Javier Saviola had a fabulous chance to open the scoring but, after doing the hard bit and going past local keeper Luque, the Argentine striker took a dive. Referee Iturralde González didn't hesitate to show him a yellow card.

In the 35th minute, Víctor Valdés made a brave save after Frank de Boer hesitated with ball in the goal area. Barca was starting to get forward but without showing real signs of danger. Two minutes later a well-worked counterattack between Saviola and Kluivert ended with Luis Enrique firing at the keeper. Barca's efforts were finally rewarded in the 44th minute when Saviola scored his 18th of the season from a good pass from Rochemback.

Superb goal from Kluivert

A great solo effort by Kluivert in the 53rd put the second goal on the scoreboard. Cocu won the ball in his own half, Kluivert picked up the rebound, and powered his way past various opponents to beat Luque in the home goal with a low drive.

Just eight minutes later, the Dutch striker came close again with a powerful shot that just skimmed wide. Recreativo refused to lie down and die, however, and Valdés was on impeccable form to deny them a way back.

Riquelme and Joaozinho score

Barca contined to dominate the game in the closing minutes and Juan Román Riquelme put the result beyond doubt with a fine goal in the 84th minute. Joaozinho scored a consolation goal for the home side but Barca deservedly took home the three points.