Simón shines as Williams earns Athletic a point at Rayo | OneFootball

Unai Simón was outstanding as Athletic salvaged a point at Rayo, Iñaki Williams equalising with a superb volley after the break. A wretched first half left the visitors trailing.

According to El Correo, the Murgia goalkeeper was man of the match, saving on three minutes from Pacha Espino and tipping a Florian Lejeune header on nine minutes. He also held an Álvaro effort, then in stoppage time denied Óscar Valentín.

Rayo struck first, a move that exposed Areso, and Athletic reshaped at the interval as Unai Gómez made way for Berenguer, who promptly won an aerial ball to tee up Williams. Vivian struggled before improving and was booked late for a foul that yielded a dangerous free-kick, while Yuri toiled but contained Ilias Akhomach at times.

Areso departed midway through the second half for Gorosabel, who offered little in a fraught finish. Laporte led the back line and his long passing was often the only outlet, his form looks vital for a pivotal Copa tie at Anoeta.

Galarreta endured a poor outing, then went down with a shoulder problem on 56 minutes. Tests will determine the extent and it would be a surprise if he were available on Wednesday, Rego impressed as his replacement and could start in the cup.

Jauregizar returned but was overrun and booked, leaving him, Galarreta and Rego one caution from a ban. Sancet faded after an early surge and was replaced late by Selton, while Vesga came on, won the ball, then gave it straight back. Guruzeta was isolated, often dropping deep and losing possession, and Athletic will need his goals to turn the tie in Donostia.

Source: El Correo