Uninspired Barcelona top after dull win in Granada

Barcelona went top of the Spanish Liga on Tuesday with a lacklustre 1-0 win away to lowly Granada, who had two players sent off.The European champions now have 21 points from nine games, which is one more than surprise package Levante and two more than Real Madrid.On Wednesday Levante are at home to Real Sociedad, while Real receive troubled Villarreal.Barca won in Granada thanks to a classy free-kick goal from veteran playmaker Xavi - and thanks to their keep-ball approach which hardly gave the hosts a touch.However, Pep Guardiola's side lacked the craft and speed to create many clear chances.As is his habit, Guardiola raised eyebows with his starting line-up, leaving Andres Iniesta and David Villa on the bench and fielding young winger Isaac Cuenca.The only goal came in the 34th minute, from a disputed free-kick which Xavi elegantly placed into the top corner. It was a rare moment of inspiration in a dull game.Granada were reduced to 10 in the 54th minute when midfielder Jaime Romero was sent off for a second clumsy foul, on Barca left-back Maxwell.The only bad news for Barca was the ankle injury suffered by winger Pedro, who nows joins Gerard Pique, Carlos Puyol, Alexis Sanchez and Ibrahim Affelay on the club's lengthy casualty list.The champions played out time comfortably, confident that Granada - who have scored only two goals - did not have the means to turn the game around. It was possibly the least inspired performance from Lionel Messi and company since Guardiola took over in 2008.The hosts finished the game with nine men, with striker Dani Benitez sent off in stoppage time for dissent.Barca have not conceded a goal for eight matches now, despite the absences of Pique and Puyol.The latest defeat leaves Granada, who have not been in in the top flight since 1976, third from bottom wsith just five points.Later on Tuesday, fourth-placed Sevilla were scheduled to receive bottom team Racing Santander.