Brazil Serie A wrap: Neymar on song for Santos

Neymar struck twice as Santos downed Palmeiras 3-1 in Brazil’s Serie A on Saturday after both sides were reduced to 10 men.

Victor Andrade cancelled out Maikon Leite’s fifth-minute strike to restore parity for Santos before the Brazil international bagged a quick first-half double.

Adalberto Roman was given his marching orders for a challenge in the box and Neymar stepped up to slot home the penalty on 23 minutes.

He struck again before half-time to help his side to a 3-1 lead before Alan Santos was given a second yellow in the second half to even the keel at 10 men for both sides.

Santos moved up to eighth with the win while Palmeiras remain in the relegation zone, 10 points from safety.

In the other clash on Saturday, Flamengo levelled through Vagner Love on 56 minutes to earn a 2-2 home draw with Botafogo.

Flamengo came from behind in both halves to score a third straight draw.