Campeonato Paulista wrap: Santos go top, Corinthians win again

Santos have taken over top spot in the Campeonato Paulista after a 2-1 triumph over Guarani, while Corinthians maintained their unbeaten run.

Walter Montillo and Andre scored the goals for Santos in their victory on Saturday, while Corinthians defeated Uniao Barbarense 3-0 to make it 10 games without a loss in the Paulista state championship.

A rapid counterattack gave Santos the lead in the 35th minute as Arouca collected a clearing header before releasing Montillo down the left channel.

The Argentine midfielder produced a step over to create some space and then sent a cracking shot inside the far post.

Neymar set up Santos’ second goal four minutes after half-time, stealing possession off a Guarani opponent in the centre circle and then beating two defenders to reach the byline, before cutting the ball back to Andre for a simple tap-in.

Guarani got back in the game through Tiago Pagnussat’s header from a corner in the 59th minute but the visitors were unable to threaten Santos again.

Santos moved to 24 points at the top of the Campeonato Paulista standings but have played two more games than second-placed Sao Paulo.

Corinthians overcame Uniao Barbarense with three goals in the second half, including two after 87 minutes.

Douglas put the hosts in front eight minutes after half-time but Corinthians did not end Uniao Barbarense’s resistance until the 88th minute when Jorge Henrique made it 2-0.

Renato Augusto added a third goal in the first minute of stoppage time.

In other results in the Campeonato Paulista, Sao Bernardo came from behind twice to win 4-3 away to Mirassol, while Bragantino defeated Penapolense 3-2.