MADRID: Just two points separate the top four teams in the Spanish first division after Valencia defeated ten-man Getafe 3-0 on Sunday night to move third above champions Real Madrid on goal difference.

Barcelona lead the way with a point advantage over Villarreal and a two-point cushion over Valencia, now third, and Real who had a brief spell at the summit on Saturday.

A Manuel Fernandes strike, a terrific volley from Joaquin and a late Vicente Rodriguez effort helped Valencia overcome Getafe, who had been handicapped by the sending off of Roberto Soldado close to half-time, as Unai Emery's team closed to within two points of pacesetters Barca.

"It is a good win for us because Getafe are strong at home," explained goal hero Joaquin. "It was quite comfortable as we controlled possession and they got tired towards the end. "I was really happy with my goal. I made good contact and it just flew in."

It was the first meeting between the two sides since last season's Kings Cup final, which Valencia won 3-1, and there was no chance of revenge for Getafe.

Earlier on Sunday, Villarreal continued their impressive unbeaten start to the season, moving a point behind league leaders Barcelona with a 2-1 victory over Almeria.

Villarreal took an early strangehold on the match scoring twice in the opening quarter of an hour with Giuseppe Rossi scoring in the first minute before Jose Llorente registered his fifth of the season after 15 minutes.

Almeria pulled a goal back but Villarreal held on for their seventh win of the campaign.

Chilean coach Manuel Pellegrini has worked wonders at El Madrigal with Villarreal now considered serious title contenders and the club are keen to tie him down to a longer contract.