Espanyol vs Rayo Vallecano: prediction for the La Liga fixture

In the previous season Espanyol managed to avoid relegation, despite being pretty close to a drop zone. Team picked up 42 points, getting 10 victories and 12 draws, and ended up at 14th place. The Budgerigars also failed to achieve success in Copa del Rey, team suffered a defeat to Mallorca in the second round and got eliminated from the tournament. Hosts put up a weak offensive performance, scoring only 30 goals. 

Diego Martinez took over the team as a new head coach - 41-year old specialist started his reign in the club with an away draw against Celta (2:2). Lozano, Pedrosa, Puado and de Tomas will miss the upcoming match. 

In the previous season Rayo Vallecano returned to La Liga, putting up a brilliant performance and achieving a solid result. Capital club earned respect all around the league after their great start. 

In 38 rounds of the previous season Andoni Iraola's men have recorded 11 victories and nine draws, delivering 42 points and a 12th spot in the standings. Capital team was not so good at converting chances and scored only 39 goals. Club put up a respectable performance in Copa del Rey, reaching the semifinals, where they were beaten by Betis.