Soccer-Zaragoza keep pace with leaders by beating Gimnastic

MADRID, Nov 19 (Reuters) Real Zaragoza thumped struggling Gimnastic 3-0 at home to stay in touch with the leaders in the Primera Liga today.

They were set on their way by a fine long-range effort from Argentine playmaker Pablo Aimar early in the second half, and further goals from midfielders Oscar and Gerard Pique wrapped up the points.

Zaragoza are fourth with 22 points. Sevilla top the table with 25 after beating 10-man Valencia 3-0 yesterday.

Later today second-placed Barcelona, who have 23 points, can return to the top if they beat Real Mallorca away.

Real Madrid are third, level on points with Barca, after securing a 3-1 victory over Racing Santander in the Bernabeu yesterday.

Today, two goals from Portugal midfielder Maniche helped Atletico Madrid to a 3-0 win away at Levante and put them fifth with 20.

A point behind them are promoted Recreativo Huelva, who beat Osasuna 2-0 at home, and Getafe who lost 1-0 away to Villarreal.

REUTERS SP PM0001