Almeria 3-1 Espanyol: UD Almeria won their sixth home game of the 2022–23 La Liga season, beating fellow relegation rivals RCD Espanyol de Barcelona 3-1 at the Power Horse Stadium.
Following a notable 1-0 victory over European qualification candidates Real Betis, Espanyol started the game positively, with Fernando Martinez alert to any impending danger in the Almeria goal. The hosts were not without chances after three draws in four games, as Adrian Embarba's spontaneous effort flew fractions wide.
However, the Rojiblancos' relentless pressure paid off in the 21st minute when Embarba crossed for Luis Suarez to sweep home from inside the area.
Almeria, who were on track for a much-needed three points, were grateful for the use of VAR when referee Javier Iglesias Villanueva declined to give Espanyol a penalty because of a slight offside in the buildup.
Leo Baptistao scored from a tight angle to double Almeria's lead in the match shortly after the hour mark, leaving Espanyol with a mountain to climb. Almeria, though, did not stop there; in the 77th minute, substitute Francisco Portillo scored Almeria's third goal, beating a frustrated Fernandez.
Almeria will be happy with their performance on the night in front of the Power Horse Stadium's lights, even though Joselu added a late consolation. A much-needed three points moved Rubi's team five points ahead of the crowded La Liga relegation zone.
The Spanish La Liga Table: