Getafe have climbed up to ninth in the Primera Division after they cruised to a 2-1 win over Deportivo la Coruna at the Estadio Riazor.
Cosmin Contra's side came through tough conditions in the first half to nip ahead of their hosts courtesy of an own goal from Deportivo goalkeeper Ramirez Fabricio. Angel Lafita doubled their lead 20 seconds into the second half and from there it was fairly comfortable for the Azulones to hold out for the win, despite Helder Postiga grabbing a late consolation for Deportivo.
Chances were at a premium early on, with Deportivo patiently probing while Getafe tried to counter-attack, but neither side could find the required quality to fashion clear-cut opportunities. But Getafe grew in stature as the half drew on and the rain lashed down, with Lafita and Fredy Hinestroza both going close from range.
Deportivo started to look increasingly ponderous in possession, despite seeing plenty of the ball - and they were only staying in the game by virtue of Getafe's own inability to make several dangerous-looking breaks count. When they were finally able to do something with one of those forays forward in the 35th minute it had more to do with good fortune than anything else.
Abdoul Yoda was given far too much room on the right flank and the Getafe man duly cut inside and showed good composure before firing a powerful shot low towards Fabricio's near post. The greasy conditions may have deceived the keeper as the ball skimmed under his diving frame to hit a post, bounce out and hit his back before rolling into an empty net.
Deportivo coach Victor Fernandez tried to spark his side into life at the interval with the introduction of former Tottenham striker Postiga, but he barely had time to take his seat in the dugout before they went 2-0 down. Deportivo's ragged defense was ruthlessly exposed just 20 seconds into the second half as Hinestroza surged down the left and picked out Lavita - who was left in acres of space as two Deportivo defenders were sucked in - in the box to tap home.
The hosts toiled for long periods after that as they tried to find a way back into the game but Postiga did give the fans something to shout about with a pin-point side-footed finish in the 80th minute after good work from Ivan Cavaleiro. Deportivo remain in 16th place in the table, but they could finish the weekend in the drop zone if other results go against them.
