Sergio Garcia helps gives Espanyol 3-1 win away at Rayo Vallecano

Lucas Vasquez's second-half header and a Sergio Garcia brace has given 10-man Espanyol a 3-1 win away at Rayo Vallecano in La Liga.

Espanyol took the lead after just nine minutes when striker Sergio Garcia lashed the ball home from outside the box.

The hosts almost responded in similar fashion, but Alberto Bueno's effort was saved by Kiko Casilla, while Alex Moreno squandered a good opportunity from the middle of the penalty area.

Espanyol wasted a glorious chance to double their lead shortly before half time when Eric Bailly miscued his shot wide from close range after a set piece, before Diego Colotto's header forced the keeper into a save.

Rayo equalised on the brink of half time when Leo Bapistao found the corner from the centre of the box, after he was neatly picked out by Salva Sevilla.

Moreno went close again for Rayo after the break, but his long-range effort flew marginally wide before Alberto Bueno had a shot saved down low.

However, Espnayol remained patient and struck with 14 minutes to go as Garica crossed for Lucas Vasquez to head in from close range.

Manucho came close to scoring a second equaliser for the hosts, but his header from the centre of the box fell inches wide, moments after Christian Stuani was sent off for a second yellow card.

Garcia wrapped the points for Espanyol up with a cool left-footed finish with the lack kick of the game.