Spanish Primera Division: Quiet game in Espanyol

Espanyol and Deportivo La Coruna played out a dour 0-0 draw on Sunday that did little to help either side.

With both in mid-table and looking to get moving this campaign, this sort of game was the last thing they needed.

Chances were few and far between, but the best of those which did come fell to Espanyol, meaning the visitors are likely to be the happier side.

After disappointing reversals last time out the two started cautiously and, as such, the first 20 minutes passed with no action of note.

In the 21st minute the first chance fell to Espanyol. Lucas' free-kick found Diego Colotto, but he was off-target from close to the penalty spot.

It remained a tight affair, with Paco Montanes taking aim from range and forcing Fabrico into a flying save.

That players were forced to shoot from distance illustrated the lack of space and Deportivo's first attempt came from far out as Juanfran's 35-yard effort was fielded by Francisco Casilla.

Jose Rodriguez was then off-target for Depor and the quality hardly lifted before half-time as Lucas hit away from the goal.

Things improved little after the break, but Espanyol should have been in front with 55 minutes gone when Christian Stuani hooked over from six yards.

Stuani also headed over when well set and Lucas missed again from close in as the home side started to take control, but they could not get the goal to go with it as Alvaro Gonzalez drew a fine save from Fabricio with a 12-yard header.

That would be as good as it got for either side and the game petered out.