Messi's run continues after scoring twice

Messi scored twice in Barcelona's 3-1 win over Rayo Vallecano as they restored their 13-point lead at the top of La Liga with 10 games left.

He set up David Villa for the opener and the Spain striker returned the favour twice, helping the World Player of the Year take his season La Liga tally to 42 goals.

Champions Real Madrid were second after twice coming from behind to beat Real Mallorca 5-2 at home on Saturday. Three goals in six minutes at the start of the second half did the damage and Gonzalo Higuain scored twice.

Atletico Madrid were a point further back in third after Diego Costa helped them return to winning ways by scoring both goals in a 2-0 win at Osasuna.