Sociedad move closer to Champs League spot

MADRID: Real Sociedad moved closer to a Champions League spot by defeating Las Palmas 1-0 after a blunder by the home side’s goalkeeper in the Spanish League.

Veteran midfielder Xabi Prieto scored the 74th-minute winner from just outside the area after Las Palmas goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli made a mistake and passed the ball right to Prieto’s feet when under pressure from another Real Sociedad player inside the box.

Prieto fired a low shot into the open net as Rulli desperately tried to scramble back.

At the other end, Real Sociedad goalkeeper Javi Varas made key saves to secure the victory and move his team to within a point of fourth-placed Atletico Madrid, who host Barcelona today.

The top three teams automatically qualify for the Champions League next season, while the fourth-place team have to go through a playoff.

Las Palmas, 12th in the standings, have lost four league games in a row. — AP

Eyes on the ball: Las Palmas forward Jese (right) in action against Real Sociedad forward Igor Zubeldia in the La Liga match at the Gran Canaria Stadium on Friday. Sociedad won 1- 0. — AFP