Real Holds on for Draw at Barcelona, Figo Pelted

Under-strength Real Madrid held on for a goalless draw at Barcelona Saturday in a fast and furious Spanish league match that was held up in the second half after Luis Figo was pelted with objects from the crowd.

Real, missing Ronaldo because of a bout of flu and Zinedine Zidane with a bad back, was on the rack for long periods after the break as Barcelona began to create chances.

But the Catalans lost their rhythm when the game was halted as Figo, playing his second match at the Nou Camp since his bitterly felt $56 million transfer to Real two years ago, was bombarded with plastic bottles and other items.

Barca took time to get going again after the restart and although it came close to a winner several times Real held firm.

Real was thus unable to claim its first league win at Barcelona since 1983, but the damage in terms of its league position was limited thanks to results elsewhere.

Leader Real Sociedad was also held to a goalless draw at Rayo Vallecano, while Deportivo Coruna could only draw 1-1 at Sevilla.

After 11 games, Sociedad leads the standings on 23 points, two clear of Real Mallorca in second. Valencia is third on 18 points, ahead of Real Madrid and Deportivo on goal difference.

Barcelona is in eighth place, two points further back.