Gimnastic’s performance at Bilbao’s San Mames stadium can be fairly summed up as: a hit and run. They had two shots and scored two goals.

Bilbao started the game as the stronger side, their captain Yeste instumental in every attack, supplying the forward combination of Aduriz and Urzaiz. Bilbao continued on the attack until the 36th minute when former Real Madrid forward Portillo scored past Aranzubía for the visitors.

After the break Bilbao continued to apply pressure as Gimnastic sat back to defend their precious lead. In the 54th minute Gimnastic’s Mingo was sent off for a second bookable offence. With numerical advantage, Athletic went in search of an equaliser but luck was not on their side.

Luck favoured the visitors. In the 71st minute, and in their only chance of the second half Pinilla headed home for Gimnastic’s second. The win leaves the Catalans nine points from safety, but still dreaming of salvation.