Real Sociedad secured a 2-1 victory over Espanyol at the Reale Arena on Saturday, maintaining their strong start to the La Liga season.
Ander Barrenetxea gave the hosts an early lead before Roberto Fernández equalised for Espanyol shortly before half-time.
Orri Óskarsson restored Real Sociedad’s advantage after the break to seal all three points.
Real Sociedad needed only four minutes to break the deadlock.
Mikel Oyarzabal picked out Barrenetxea in space on the right, and the winger fired a low right-footed effort beyond goalkeeper Marko Dmitrović.
Espanyol gradually settled into the contest and found their equaliser on the stroke of half-time.
Javier Hernández carried the ball forward before setting up Roberto Fernández, who calmly finished to make it 1-1.
The home side regained the lead in the 61st minute.
Oyarzabal again played a key role, supplying Óskarsson, who made no mistake with his finish to put Real Sociedad back in front.
Real Sociedad dominated the attacking numbers, registering 17 shots compared with Espanyol’s 11 and forcing the visitors’ goalkeeper into seven saves.
The hosts also recorded 10 efforts on target, while Espanyol managed just three.
Despite creating several opportunities to extend their advantage, Real Sociedad were unable to add a third goal.
Espanyol’s Roger Hinojo and Omar El Hilali were also required to make crucial defensive interventions, including goal-line clearances, as the visitors remained within touching distance.
Dmitrović was particularly impressive in goal for Espanyol, producing several important saves to prevent a heavier defeat.
His performance kept the visitors competitive until the final whistle.
Real Sociedad held on through a tense closing period, with Espanyol pushing for another equaliser. However, the hosts’ defence stood firm to secure a deserved victory.
The result gives Real Sociedad another important win early in the campaign, while Espanyol will have to regroup after suffering their first defeat of the season.
