FC Barcelona's Liga lead stands at seven points after Real Madrid CF failed to follow up their title rivals' 3-0 triumph at RCD Mallorca with a victory of their own.

Madrid, who hit the post through Cristiano Ronaldo in one of many late efforts, were unable to find a way through a stout RC Deportivo La Coruña rearguard in Galicia despite dominating possession and territory for large swathes.

Earlier, Lionel Messi (38) set Barcelona en route to their 22nd Liga win of the campaign with a header over goalkeeper Dudu Aouate, latching on to Seydou Keita's delicate chip in behind the Mallorca defence.

Mallorca, who drew 1-1 with Barcelona in October, conceded further goals to David Villa (57) and Pedro Rodríguez, whose first goal in six games for club and country was a wonderful dipping effort from the edge of the area.

RCD Espanyol climbed to fifth by virtue of a 4-1 win against visitors Real Sociedad de Fútbol and José Antonio Reyes's equaliser (76) salvaged Club Atlético de Madrid a 2-2 draw from their home encounter Sevilla FC. The other game, between Real Sporting de Gijón and Real Zaragoza, finished goalless.

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