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Match Report: First win of the campaign

RCD Espanyol score late to beat Rayo Vallecano 2-1

Espanyol wanted to confirm the improvement shown in recent matches, in front of the supporters at the RCDE Stadium. After two defeats and a draw from their first three fixtures in LaLiga, Manolo González's team hoped to give their loyal fans something to cheer about.

The start of the match was a hectic one. Rayo Vallecano, who in their first two away games had taken four points fro a possible six, showed their dangerous nature. A pass behind the defence was used by Álvaro García to score the first goal of the match.

Espanyol were not behind for long, and finally managed to score their first goal of the season. A skilful recovery by Omar and a good through ball from Puado allowed Jofre and Carlos Romero to conjure up the equaliser, as the latter finished off from his teammate's assist.

At 1-1, they continued to suffer when Rayo Vallecano went on the counterattack. The visitors were able to continue finding space and Brian Oliván kept out a clear chance for their second in a very clear chance.

The clearest response from RCD Espanyol was a header from Veliz, after a cross from Romero, and the game went into halftime all square.

Manolo González brought on Aguado and Cardona after the interval to try to balance his team. RCD Espanyol started well, with an attack down the left flank that Aguado finished off with a shot wide.

The visitors' response was immediate. Romero prevented the equaliser off a shot from Camello, whilst later it was the crossbar that was decisive in stopping Lejeune from scoring.

Just when it seemed that Espanyol were somewhat shaken, once again they had a very positive reaction. Cardona could not quite find a finish after a good move down the right flank and Král failed to see Puado alone in the middle from another opportunity to score.

Incredibly, Espanyol missed the opportunity to score their second, off a set piece which neither Kumbulla, Král or Cheddira could turn in.

In a wild final few minutes, Rayo threatened to find the net, but it was RCD Espanyol who dealt the killer blow, off a counterattack led by Cardona and finished by Veliz. It earned RCD Espanyol a first victory of the season, and a big boost going into the international break.