Barcelona have comfortably seen off the challenge of Celta Vigo to extend their lead at the top of La Liga to four points.

The hosts started brightly and were able to keep the ball from their more illustrious opponents in the opening five minutes.

However, Barcelona got in behind following some poor defending, with Pedro's effort saved and Alexis Sanchez turning in the rebound.

Celta refused to let the goal affect their play and Nolito had an effort from the edge of the box deflected over the bar.

They were almost level just after the half-hour mark but Rafinha's skidding effort from just outside the box went narrowly wide.

The flow of the game was halted at the end of the half with a number of fouls from either side, but Barca were able to hold their lead into the break.

Barca scored the crucial third goal just four minutes into the second half as Cesc Fabregas's effort struck the bar then the back of Yoel and in.

Five minutes later the game was over as a contest and it was Fabregas again, who drove into the box and rifled a shot into the bottom corner.

Former Barca striker Nolito almost got the goal he deserved but saw a free kick come back off the bar.

Lionel Messi squandered two late chances and there were no further goals with Barca taking the points comfortably.