Real Sociedad capitalise against Rayo after Betis stumble

BARCELONA - Real Sociedad took an important step towards securing Champions League football next season, coming from behind to beat Rayo Vallecano 2-1 on Saturday in La Liga.

After fifth-placed Real Betis lost 3-2 at Osasuna earlier on, Imanol Alguacil's side moved six points clear of the Andalucians, tightening their grip on fourth.

Isi Palazon sent Rayo ahead early in the second half after robbing Jon Pacheco in the centre circle, driving into space and firing home.

However Alexander Sorloth headed home two minutes later to level from Aihen Munoz's cross, and Real Sociedad found the winner in similar fashion.

Munoz whipped a ball into the box, which substitute Carlos Fernandez got his head to, with his effort bouncing off Rayo defender Florian Lejeune into his own net.

Real Sociedad's Carlos Fernandez (C) celebrates scoring the 2-1 goal during the Spanish LaLiga soccer match between Real Sociedad and Rayo Vallecano in San Sebastian, April 22. - Pic: EPA

Ante Budimir hit two goals inside the first 11 minutes to give Osasuna a head-start on Betis, who pulled one back through defender Juan Miranda.

Jon Moncayola restored the hosts' two goal advantage as the Copa del Rey finalists showed their quality.

Guido Rodriguez netted with 20 minutes to go to give Betis a chance of a point but they could not find an equaliser.

"There are 24 points to play for, we'll keep playing," said Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini.

"We still hope to reach the Champions League." Athletic Bilbao, seventh, beat Almeria 2-1, leaving their opponents 17th, just two points above the relegation zone.

Real Valladolid took a step away from danger with a 1-0 win over Girona, to move 14th and seven points clear of the drop. - AFP