Gareth Bale was an unused substituted as Real Madrid came up with a hard fought win over Espanyol at the Bernabeu. Julien Lopetegui’s side edged the fixture thanks to Marco Asensio’s 41st minute strike.

Bale was one of several first team regulars rested by Lopetegui with one eye on their upcoming away clash at Sevilla. The likes of Marcelo and Toni Kroos didn’t participate in the game either.

The win however sees Real draw level on points with arch rivals Barcelona, who drew 2-2 at home against Girona. Both teams now have 13 points from 5 games.