Rayo continue their good form against Eibar

SD Eibar were beaten 1-2 by Rayo Vallecano on matchday 29 of the Liga BBVA, a scoreline that confirms the positive form being enjoyed by the Madrid outfit, who have claimed 12 of the last 15 points available. The defeat leaves Gaizka Garitano’s men in 14th place as they await the results of the chasing pack, while Paco Jémez’s side move provisionally into ninth on 38 points.

Both teams came out in the first half looking to press high up the pitch, with the Basques taking the initiative and enjoying the first opportunity after five minutes. Ander Capa was close to beating Cristian Álvarez one on one, but his attempt was cleared by Abdoulaye Ba. After several chances, los armeros got their reward when a well-struck penalty from Mikel Arruabarrena made it 1-0 in the 35th minute. However, Eibar’s lead did not last long, Rayo equalising courtesy of an Alberto Bueno header from Tito’s fine cross and, two minutes later, Manucho nodding in a corner at the near post to put the visitors ahead.

With the score in their favour, Rayo played with greater comfort after the break. As Eibar struggled to maintain the same forward thrust in the second period, the guests kept possession and could have extended their advantage on a number of counter-attacks ending in efforts from players such as Adrián Embarba, who enjoyed the space afforded to him, and Manucho, who was unable to apply a clinical finishing touch. In the final moments Eibar sought an equaliser with balls hung into the box, but it remained 1-2 until the final whistle.