Unfancied Levante had been top of the table before suffering their first league defeat away to Osasuna last weekend, a reverse which ended a seven-game winning run that included victory over Real Madrid.

As a result Juan Ignacio Martinez's side headed into the Valencia derby ahead of their city rivals for the first time since 1964 and with a record of four wins from four games at Ciutat de Valencia.

But Valencia were determined to reassert their authority and did so thanks to an own goal from Javi Venta and Tino Costa's free-kick, which also benefited from some assistance from the home side.

Real Betis ended their six-game losing streak with a creditable 0-0 draw at home to big-spending Malaga.

Pepe Mel's side had their goalkeeper Casto the thank for the point though as he expertly kept out the best chance of the game on 55 minutes when Salomon Rondon headed on target from close range.

It was also goalless between Mallorca and Sevilla, where visiting goalkeeper Javi Varas was the hero, making a string of fine saves.