Valencia's David Villa celebrates after scoring against Osasuna in Pamplona, northern Spain, on Sunday. (Alvaro Barrientos/Associated Press)Valencia beat Osasuna 3-1 with goals from David Villa, David Albelda and Carlos Marchena on Sunday to stay within reach of the Spanish league leaders.
With 24 points, Valencia is fourth in the standings, four points behind leader Real Madrid, three behind Barcelona and one behind Sevilla.
Villa scored his ninth league goal in the 12th minute from a Marchena assist. In the 20th Albelda spotted goalkeeper Ricardo Lopez slightly off his line and judged his lob to perfection.
Marchena's 25-yard volley early in the second half made it 3-0.
A well-organized Valencia always looked a threat when going forward, while Osasuna was subdued for most of the game. It was only after striker Walter Pandiani was sent off on the hour for his second yellow card that the hosts struck.
Iran striker Masoud Soleimani took advantage of a rare attack by his team and headed the ball in from close range.
Miguel Flano was sent off in injury time for a reckless challenge to leave Osasuna with nine men.
Earlier Sunday, Nilmar scored twice as Villarreal beat Valladolid.
The Brazil striker headed both goals, in the seventh minute from Damian Escudero's cross and in the 47th, when he latched on to a long pass out of defence and lobbed onrushing goalkeeper Justo Villar.
