Ten-man Villarreal move back into second with narrow win

Villarreal moved back into the final automatic promotion spot courtesy of a 3-1 win over already-relegated Xerez this evening, despite having to play most of the match with 10 men.

The hosts made a fine start when they took the lead after just eight minutes, Bruno Soriano rising highest to nod a corner into the top-left corner.

Their chances took a blow shortly before half time, however, when Hector Canteros was shown a straight red card for a foul.

Xerez made their numerical advantage pay in the 64th minute when a cross found Rodolfo Bodipo in the box, and the 35-year-old striker made no mistake with his header.

Villarreal regained the lead just eight minutes from time, when Olof Mellberg got on the end of a free kick to nod in the game's third headed goal.

The hosts all but secured all three points by adding a third in the 89th minute courtesy of a Ikechukwu Uche strike following a quick counter-attack.

Xerez refused to give in, however, and hit straight back with a goal one minute later, Bodipo grabbing his second of the match with a fine header into the top corner.

They couldn't find a dramatic late equaliser, as Villarreal held out for a valuable three points.

The win sends Villarreal second in the Segunda Division, level on points with third-placed Almeria with two games left to play.