Villarreal lost on their visit to the Vallecas stadium in a game where they had their chances to take away, at least, a point. In the end Rayo went away with the win thanks to goals from Javi Guerra and Miku, which meant Adrián López’s brilliant goal didn’t count for anything (2-1).

 

Marcelino made five changes to the starting eleven that qualified magnificently for the Semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League after thrashing Sparta Prague. The new additions were Reserve team players Adrián Marín and Alfonso Pedraza, as well as Jonathan dos Santos, Leo Baptistao and Adrián López.

 

The Madrid side went ahead after only six minutes of play. Javi Guerra took advantage of a rebound from an Areola save, who had kept out Miku’s close range shot from inside the box.

 

The Yellows, by no means down and out, reacted strongly. It was Reserve team player Alfonso Pedraza who came close to equalising after a great individual play that ended with his poor shot saved by Juan Carlos.

 

It was a warm up for the equaliser that came shortly after. Villarreal tied the score line in the 19^th minute after Adrián made Jonathan dos Santos’ great assist into a work of art, sending a fine volley crashing into the net just inside the post.

 

 

The match was wide open and both teams had chances to score. Rayo’s chance fell to the feet of Llorente, but his shot was deflected wide by Bailly. For the Submarine Denis Suárez came close but his shot sailed over the bar after a great counter attack by the Yellows.

 

At the start of the second half both teams chose not to risk too much. Consequently, chances on goal were scarce. Marcelino changed things up, putting on the fresh legs of Nahuel, Bakambu and Rodri. The last of whom made his debut in LaLiga’s First Division, even though he’s already played in three Copa del Rey matches with the First Team this season.    

 

The match seemed to be all under control by the Submarine, but it was Rayo who took the lead. Miku headed home Tito’s cross from the left wing putting the Madrid side in front and getting them the three points.

Referee: Iglesias Villanueva (Galicia, Spain). Cautioned: Javi Guerra and Amaya for the locals; Adrián Marín, Mario and Nahuel for the visitors.

 

Stadium: Vallecas.