Atletico Madrid have been unable to find a way through Espanyol's defence, despite the visitors having several chances to score at the Estadi Cornella-El Prat.

Diego Simeone's men were looking to make up a seven-point gap on leaders Barcelona at the start of play, but Espanyol's feisty opening made life difficult for the defending champions as they looked to impose themselves on proceedings.

However, Atleti got into their stride when Koke's set piece was met by Fernando Torres, but the forward's header was tipped over the bar by Francisco Casilla.

Within moments, the Rojiblancos were again threatening a breakthrough after Koke's shot from the edge of the box bounced just wide of Casilla's post.

On 20 minutes, Atleti was presented with another half-chance after a well-placed cross from Jesus Gamez picked out Raul Garcia, but the midfielder was unable to guide his header on target.

Midway through the half, Antoine Griezmann was given the opportunity to run at the Espanyol defence and the Frenchman's low drive from the edge of the box was inches away from giving the visitors the lead.

However, after the away team's period of bluster, Espanyol looked less troubled as Simeone's side were restricted to half-chances.

Their fortunes worsened when Miranda was given a straight red card in first-half stoppage time for a high challenge on Abraham Gonzalez.

Follow the second half of the game at the Estadi Cornella-El Prat with Sports Mole's live text commentary.