Leaders Barcelona held in derby stalemate by Espanyol

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez both hit the woodwork as Barcelona were held 0-0 by Espanyol in a hard fought derby that could see Atletico Madrid go top of La Liga.

Barca set a Spanish record of 180 goals in 2015 but their normally prolific attack drew a blank against local rivals who were strong in the challenge, especially in the first half, and succeeded in disrupting their play.

Messi hit the crossbar with a 30 yard free kick in the first half while Suarez, who has 26 goals this season, was surprisingly wasteful in front of an open goal in the second half with his shot hitting the post.

Barca have 39 points, a point more than Atletico, with both having played 17 games.

Third-placed Real Madrid are on 36 points and play away to Valencia on Sunday.