It was all very easy, a lot easier than even the most optimistic supporter could expect. Espanyol 100% home record was mercilessly ended as Barcelona took the Cornellà-El Prat stadium by storm and destroyed their city rivals with an empathic 5-1 rout.
And Lionel Messi didn't even get into the scoresheet. The Argentine genius proved once again that he is the most complete player in the world, by providing three assists and being involved in four of Barcelona's five goals.
Pedro also had an MVP performance by destroying Espanyol's defense time and again and scoring a brace. David Villa scored Barcelona's last two goals and had a great performance overall. Xavi also scored, while pulling the strings in midfield.
Iniesta was applauded by Espanyol's fans, in recognition for his famous salute to Jarque in South Africa. However, the Ballon d'Or finalist showed no mercy and helped destroying Barcelona's city rivals.
It was a very one-sided affair throughout. Barcelona were leading 2-0 at half-time (Pedro and Xavi) and scored the 3-0 soon in the second half. Espanyol got one back (first goal conceeded by Barcelona in six matches), but David Villa scored two more. It was 5-1 but it could have been even worse for Espanyol, since Barcelona wasted too many chances.
Still, five more goals, which mean that Barcelona will end the year in first place, with 51 goals scored and only nine conceeded. Tuesday, Barcelona will host Athletico Bilbao in a Copa del Rey first leg match and they hope to end the year in a high note.
One can only hope that 2011 is an even more successful year for FC Barcelona, as the blaugrana try to repeat their 2008/2009 achievements.