Spanish leaders Real Madrid held to 1-1 draw by Rayo Vallecano

By Can Erozden

Spanish La Liga leaders Real Madrid were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Rayo Vallecano in a Sunday match to go six points clear of this season's surprise package Girona.

Visitors Real Madrid took an early lead against their city rivals as Spanish forward Joselu scored on a quick counter attack.

Rayo Vallecano were awarded a penalty kick after Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga’s handball.

In the 27th minute, Rayo Vallecano's Raul de Tomas scored the equalizer from the penalty spot.

Real Madrid were close to a winner in the 80th minute. Rayo Vallecano goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski plunged to save German midfielder Toni Kroos' superb free-kick.

Near the end of the match, Dani Carvajal, a Real Madrid right-back, was sent off after elbowing his opponent.

Real Madrid have 62 points on top. The Whites are now six points ahead of second-place Girona, who will visit Athletic Bilbao on Monday.

Barcelona have 54 points to be in third spot over a 2-1 win at Celta Vigo on Saturday. Barcelona's Polish star Robert Lewandowski scored double, including a very late winner from a penalty.