Valencia miss out on top spot

Valencia missed an opportunity to go top of La Liga tonight as they were given a home defeat against Espanyol, Los Che's second 2-1 loss in four days at the Mestalla.

Valencia had a great start as Ruben Baraja put Los Che in front after only five minutes to cast away all memories of their midweek defeat at the Mestella against Chelsea.

However, the body blow came early as David Villa was taken off with an injury for Valencia.

Espanyol responded to this set back in the 21st minute as they levelled through Albert Riera who showed good chest control before lashing a first-time volley past Timo Hildebrand. The build up to the goal was sensational, with three players involved in a one touch passing move.

Valencia paid the penalty for an abject attacking display when Luis Garcia struck Espanyol's winner 10 minutes from time.

He scored the late goal after picking up Valmiro Valdo's through-ball and then coolly finished past Hildebrand in the Valencia goal.