Javier Camunas scored the opener in the 47th minute while David Villa leveled for the hosts on 63 minutes.

After gaining one precious point, the leaders maintained their supremacy with 20 points, while El Decano remained seventeenth with half a dozen points.

Meanwhile, Sporting Gijon and Real Mallorca both enjoyed well-earned 3-0 victories over Deportivo La Coruna and Espanyol respectively.

Bottom club Numancia secured a dramatic home 2-1 win over Racing Santander, and Villarreal wasted a chance to take the lead when they drew 4-4 with Atletico Madrid.