River Plate moved to the top of the table following another impressive victory as Marcelo Gallardo’s stylish brand of football has seen Los Millonarios emerge as serious title contenders. Two goals from midfielder, Carlos Sánchez and another from in-form striker, Teófilo Gutiérrez saw River comfortably defeat Defensa y Justicia in El Monumental. Boca Juniors‘ woes continued after suffering a damaging 3-1 loss to Estudiantes in La Plata. A fine Joaquin Correa goal gave the home side an early lead and Diego Vera’s superb brace made it three before the break. Boca managed to reduce any further embarressment and Jonathan Calleri pulled a goal back in stoppage time but the pressure continues to build in La Bombonera. Earlier, Newell’s Old Boys survived a late Atlético Rafaela fight back to win 3-2. Early goals from Maxi Rodríguez, Leandro Fernández and a Adrián Bastía own goal gave Newell’s what looked to be an unassailable lead but second half goals from Joel Sacks and Sergio Vittor ensured a nervy finish. Finally, Godoy Cruz managed to defeat Rosario Central thanks to a Rubén Ramírez header after both sides had been reduced to ten men.
