Villarreal dropped points in their bid for Europa League qualification by playing out a goalless draw with Real Sociedad.

A solid start from Sociedad was almost ruined by an early Villarreal goal, but Jaume Costa could only slice a volley off target after meeting Victor Ruiz's cross.

Villarreal continued to look threatening, and they wasted an even clearer chance when Jonathan dos Santos picked out Tomas Pina, who somehow managed to head over from close range.

David Moyes was left breathing a huge sigh of relief as Sociedad continued to struggle, with Costa dragging a shot wide of the post following some poor defending.

Geronimo Rulli then came to the rescue to deny both Manuel Trigueros and Pina just before the break as the visitors piled the pressure on.

The early stages of the second half were far more encouraging for the home side, who were close to breaking the deadlock when Esteban Granero curled a free kick just wide.

Sergio Canales caused more problems for the visitors after coming on, and he was only denied a goal by a crucial block from Ruiz, following a poor punch from Sergio Asenjo.

An uneventful second half failed to bring out the best in either side, and they were both left disappointed in the closing stages as Trigueras sent a shot over before Sociedad substitute Chory Castro struck a late chance straight at Asenjo.