At Nou Camp, Barcelona needed an own goal by their former defender Fernando Navarro one minute from time to seal the precious victory.

Argentinean striker Javier Saviola's close-range shot struck the post before hitting Navarro's body and going into the back of the net.

Mallorca's Jonas Gutierrez had a penalty in the 30th minute blocked by Barcelona keeper Victor Valdes, who should have been sent-off for bringing down the Argentinean midfielder while he was on one-on-one situation.

Instead, the referee handed the Spanish guardian a yellow card.

The Catalan giants squandered a host of chances to break the deadlock through Samuel Eto'o, Lionel Messi and Saviola.

Elsewhere, Sevilla lost ground to Barcelona after they were handed a 2-0 away defeat to Valencia, thanks to David Villa's brace.

The in-form striker put the hosts ahead in the 27th minute with a fine chip after exchanging passes with Carlos Marchena before sealing the victory in the 49th minute from the spot.

Barca are in charge of the league table with 59 points, four ahead of second-placed Sevilla while Real Madrid lie third 54 points.