Real Beti 0 - 2 Rayo Vallecano - RAYO SEE OFF BETIS

Posted Sunday, October 23, 2011 by PA

Rayo Vallecano earned their second league win of the season - a 2-0 success - thanks to two late goals in a hard-fought Primera Division clash against fellow promoted side Real Betis.

Rayo midfielder Lass opened the scoring in the 80th minute before Sergio Koke doubled the lead from the penalty spot a minute before the final whistle to help Rayo climb away from the relegation zone.

The result consigned Betis to their fourth straight defeat in La Liga after the Segunda Division champions started the season with four consecutive wins, but they still remain in seventh place, level on points with Andalusian neighbours Malaga but behind them on goal difference.

Martin Castro almost put the home side ahead in the 14th minute from close range but his shot was blocked by Rayo goalkeeper David Cobeno.

Betis midfielder Jefferson Montero was then caught offside as the hosts searched for an opening to put an end to their losing streak.

Miguel Cuesta soon tested Espinosa Casto at the other end with a left-footed shot from right of the area but the Betis goalkeeper was up to the challenge and punched the ball to safety.

Casto saved the home side again seconds later when Medina Piti's corner found Alejandro Arribas, who sent in a header that Casto did well to tip over over the bar.

Betis striker Castro missed another good chance to open the scoring in the 36th minute when he blasted a shot over the bar as both sides struggled to break the deadlock.

Another Piti corner was the last action of the first half but Betis defender Francisco Chica cleared the ball to safety to end a goalless 45 minutes.

Salva Sevilla went close two minutes after the break for Betis when he fired in an 18-yard shot from the left of the area but David Cobeno took the catch.

Montero's speculative effort then flew over the bar before Castro's shot from six yards hit the woodwork as Betis began to dominate.

However, it was Rayo who took the lead 10 minutes from time when Lass lobbed the ball over Casto from close range.

Koke then added the second from the penalty spot nine minutes later to seal the win after he was brought down by Pedro Mario in the area.

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