Barca win easy as Villa returns with goal

MADRID, Aug 19, 2012 (AFP) - Barcelona thrashed Real Sociedad 5-1 on Sunday with two goals from Lionel Messi and one each for Carles Puyol, Pedro Rodriguez and David Villa, in his first game back after eight months out with injury.

The La Liga opener under new coach Tito Vilanova saw Barca 4-1 ahead by half-time with Messi, who has completed his first full pre-season at the club in eight years, in sparkling form.

Real Sociedad did draw level early on with a goal from Chori Castro on nine minutes but Barcelona were too strong and ran out easy winners.

str/dj