Two quick goals put Valencia clear at top of La Liga

Madrid: Early goals from Mehmet Topal and Roberto Soldado gave Valencia a 2-0 win at Sporting Gijon in La Liga on Saturday as they moved three points clear at the top.

Valencia, who have 13 points from five games, were not unduly troubled ahead of Wednesday`s mouthwatering Champions League clash with Manchester United at the Mestalla.Turkish midfielder Topal headed in from a corner after only seven minutes and the impressive Juan Mata crossed for Soldado to stroke home from close range three minutes later. Mata and Manuel Fernandes bossed the midfield for the visitors and it was not until the second half that Sporting had a meaningful chance on goal when David Barral struck the post. Later on Saturday, Real Madrid can rejoin Valencia on points at the top of the table with a win at promoted Levante.Champions Barcelona face a sterner test without the injured Lionel Messi in the late game at Athletic Bilbao`s San Mames. Bureau Report