Panathinaikos beats Xanthi to rise to second

 Mitroglou returns to action scoring a goal

By George Georgakopoulos

Panathinaikos jumped back up to the second spot of the Super League after its home win over Xanthi on Saturday, as PAOK slumped to third due to its draw at home with PAS Giannina on Sunday. Champion Olympiakos also drew, but away from home, with Fulham loan Costas Mitroglou returning to action with a goal.

The Reds came from 2-0 down at Panionios to draw 2-2 thanks to two goals in as many minutes by Mitroglou and Chori Dominguez. They have scored 14 league goals each, but the Argentine?s personal effort for the equalizer was a masterpiece. Olympiakos loan Dimitris Kolovos and Olivier Boumal were on target for Panionios.

Panathinaikos defeated Xanthi for the first time in four games this season, winning 2-0 in Athens courtesy of strikes by Nikos Karelis and Danijel Pranjic (penalty).

The Greens are now one point above PAOK that could not beat fifth-placed PAS Giannina at home. Cristian Chavez gave PAS an early lead and two minutes later Facundo Pereyra formed the final score (1-1).

Levadiakos and Platanias scored precious home wins as they battle to avoid the drop. Levadiakos saw off in-form Atromitos 2-1 and Platanias beat Panetolikos 2-0. Panthrakikos is in bigger trouble after going down 2-1 at Asteras Tripolis.

On Monday Ergotelis hosts Kerkyra.