Atlético begin second half of season with win

The Madrid derby between Atlético Madrid and Rayo Vallecano ended in a 3-1 victory for Diego Simeone's men on matchday 20 of the Liga BBVA. The goalscoring instinct of Antoine Griezmann proved decisive in a clash in which the men from Vallecas looked to impose their style but were found wanting in defence.

Ten minutes, two attacking runs and two Rayo errors brought a double for Griezmann in the opening period of the encounter. With a lead on the scoreboard, the rojiblancos dominated the game until a terrific Roberto Trashorras goal from the edge of the area brought the visitors right back into it, and saw both sides go in for the break with the feeling that matters were yet to be decided.

And so it proved. In the second half, a short spell saw the teams take turns to enjoy control of the play before a corner and Manucho's poor attempted clearance resulted in the forward turning into his own net. Rayo sought to cut the deficit, but neither the introduction of Alberto Bueno nor the creative efforts of an inspired Trashorras served to galvanise the guests. The points stayed at the Vicente Calderón.