Athletic Bilbao have thrashed Almeria 6-1 to remain fourth in La Liga this afternoon.

The home side got off to a fast start, as Aritz Aduriz played in Moreno Mikel Rico, who coolly slotted in for a sixth-minute goal.

Bilbao doubled their lead five minutes later with Ander Herrera turning the ball in from inside the six-yard box, leaving the visitors stunned.

Almeria struggled for possession, and soon found themselves three goals down when Aymeric Laporte headed in from a Markel Susaeta corner.

However, the visitors found some hope before half time after Sebastian Dubarbier won a free kick around 30 yards out.

Verza crossed the ball in from the set piece, allowing Helder Barbosa to head in and reduce Bilbao's lead to two goals at half time.

Aduriz restored the hosts' three-goal cushion early in the second half with a tap-in from point-blank range following an Iker Muniain delivery.

Bilbao continued to press, despite their commanding lead, and added a fifth when Ibai Gomez played his way into the box before unleashing a powerful finish.

Gomez was able to complete his brace late on after Kike Sola was brought down by Angel Trujillo in the box, allowing the striker to drill his second in from the spot.

Barbosa had a chance to add a late consolation for the visitors, but struck his finish just wide from a Dubarbier cross.