Real Valladolid pulled out a shock 1-0 victory over Villareal today to move out of the La Liga relegation zone.
It was a welcome victory for Vallodolid, who were in the bottom three going into this game at the Zorrilla. Villareal, on the other hand, have been enjoying a fine campaign, and are locked in a battle with Athletic Bilbao for the fourth champion’s league spot after three consecutive wins.
It was a tight start to the game, Bilbao seemed nervoud and without their fluency. There were few chances on either side until the breakthrough came in the 39th minute. A Fausto Rossi free kick was met by Jesus Rueda, his powerful header flashed into the net.
Villareal continued to enjoy more possession after the break, but did little with it. It was Real Valladolid who created the better chances and looked more likely to extend their lead than squander it.
Villareal had their best chance in the dying minutes of the game. Valladolid goalkeeper Diego Marina had to be at his best to keep out a header from Trigueros. The win was fully deserved by Valladolid, who climb above Almeria, but Marcelino must be hoping that his Villareal side can put insipid displays like this behind them in their quest for Europe.
