RCD Espanyol's search for a first win of the LaLiga season continues after a 2-1 defeat to Rayo Vallecano on matchday six. Defensive errors in the first half and a late rally left Manolo González's side empty-handed in Vallecas, deepening their early-season concerns.
The match started disastrously for Espanyol. After just three minutes, a mistake by midfielder Moscardo allowed Álvaro García to open the scoring for the hosts. Rayo's pressure continued and, in the 26th minute, Adrià Pedrosa finished from a García pass to double the lead. Espanyol, disjointed, created little threat in the first half.
Halftime shake-up
Manolo González reacted at the break with two key changes. Captain Edu Expósito and Bryan Zaragoza came on, with Javi Hernández moving into an attacking midfield role. The dynamic of the game shifted completely. The link-up between Zaragoza, Hernández and Expósito created several clear chances. The reward came in the 54th minute, when Roberto Fernández Jaén met a Javi Hernández cross to pull a goal back.
Roberto Fernández, with five goals in five appearances, is the team's attacking example. His form has even put him in contention for the Spanish national team coached by Luis de la Fuente. Despite the late push, Espanyol could not find an equaliser.
This result leaves the blanquiazul side on seven points and in eighth place, eight points behind leaders Barcelona. Their next fixture is one of utmost urgency: hosting bottom side Elche this Friday at the RCDE Stadium. A win is essential to halt a negative run of one win, one draw and three defeats in their last five outings. Fans can check the full schedule on our fixtures page and the squad status, where Jofre Carreras remains sidelined, on squad.
The original report is at Marca - Primera
