That earned Girona a second successive away victory, after stunning Real Madrid 2-1 on their last trip to the capital a fortnight ago to end a 13-match winless run in all competitions.

Victory was no more than the Catalan outfit deserved, with Granell and Pere Pons Riera both hitting the woodwork, while Cristian Portu and Pedro Alcala  also went close.

Rayo were not without their chances, with visiting goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz doing well to deny Adrian Embarba and Raul De Tomas.

But the home side lost Abdoulaye Ba to a straight red card for a professional foul on the hour and could find no way back.

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