Rayo Vallecano and Malaga both gave their survival hopes a huge shot in the arm with crucial Primera Liga wins on Monday night.
Vallecano twice came from behind to conjure up a superb 3-2 away win at Real Sociedad to move level on points with Valladolid and Almeria - in 17th and 18th places respectively.
Inigo Martinez headed the hosts ahead early on from a Ruben Pardo free-kick, but Joaquin Larrivey (4) equalised from the spot just two minutes later after he was brought down in the box.
Pardo restored Sociedad's lead on the stroke of half-time, only for Alberto Bueno to restore parity two minutes after the break, but Ruben Rochina (67) fired in the winner into the corner with his left foot to earn Vallecano a crucial three points.
Malaga gave their own survival hopes a major boost with a 2-0 win away at fellow strugglers Osasuna.
Samu fired the visitors ahead in the first half but Osasuna were handed some hope when Jesus Gamez was dismissed for a second booking just after the break.
However, Javi Gracia's men failed to take the initiative and Nordin Amrabat doubled the lead to move Malaga above their opponents on goal difference, three points above the drop zone.
