Madrid - Villarreal crashed to a 1-0 defeat away to Sporting Gijon on Saturday, despite an astonishing late show from goalkeeper Diego Lopez. Lopez, Spain's third-choice keeper, had looked sharp from the start and had done well to keep out the rapid Gijon forwards.
In the 73rd minute Gijon were given a clear penalty when Villarreal defender Gonzalo Rodriguez pulled down Miguel de las Cuevas - and was sent off.
Lopez did well to save Alberto Rivera's penalty - but Gijon substitute Mate Bilic followed up to put away the rebound and make it 1-0.
Three minutes from time Sebastian Eguren pulled down Bilic for a second penalty, which Lopez saved from the Croatian striker.
Even so, the hosts had few problems in holding out for an important win, which takes them up to seventh, level with Mallorca on 20 points.
"It was a difficult game," said Bilic, "but I think that both of the penalties were fair."
He added that "we are playing quite well now, and teams are finding it difficult against us."
Villarreal stay in 11th place, with just 12 points.
Later on Saturday, fourth-placed Valencia are at home to Mallorca, who are currently sixth.
Saturday's late game will see third-placed Sevilla at home to bottom team Malaga.
