BUENOS AIRES - Sebastian Palacios, Jonathan Menendez and Silvio Romero scored two goals each as Group B leaders Independiente thrashed Sarmiento 6-0 in Argentina's Primera Division on Monday.

The hosts surged to a four-goal lead at halftime before finding the net twice in the first 15 minutes of the second half to secure their fourth win from five matches.

Julio Cesar Falcioni's men remain equal on points with second-placed Velez Sarsfield but with a superior goal difference.

Sarmiento are 11th in the 13-team Group B standings, having yet to win in five matches this season.

Elsewhere on Monday, Atletico Tucuman prevailed 4-2 at home to Patronato and Rosario Central secured a 2-1 home victory over Arsenal Sarandi.?