Molina was sent off in only the fifth minute for a deliberate handball outside the area and Osasuna made their hosts pay.

Raul Garcia added to the three strikes from Soldado - the third an outstanding effort from his own half - while Inaki Descarga managed to get on the scoresheet for Levante.

Both teams began the afternoon sat just above the relegation zone and eyeing this game as the perfect opportunity to put some space between themselves and the drop.

Molina's dismissal changed the complexion of the game almost as quickly as it had begun.

Ze Maria was sacrificed as goalkeeper Pablo Cavallero came on from the bench for Levante.

Osasuna were able to take control of possession, although it would take them until the 17th minute to find the net.

After Rahamat Mustapha Riga fouled Javad Nekounam, David Lopez Moreno whipped in a free-kick which Soldado met to head high into the net and past the helpless Cavallero.

Levante sought a response as Riga shot at goal from close range in the 25th minute, only to see Ricardo make the save.

Moments later, Riga tried his luck from long-range but missed the target.

While he was still contemplating that, Osasuna doubled their lead as Soldado again found the net, this time with a right-footed shot from the edge of the area.

Levante were not ready to roll over just yet though.

Although Descarga was guilty of blazing over with a presentable opportunity in the 41st minute, the hosts did get a goal back just before half-time as Descarga made amends, heading in from close range after Riga crossed.

However, Osasuna almost instantly scored to restore their two-goal advantage before the break.

Francisco Punal crossed for Raul Garcia to strike home from close range.

Levante knew they were battling uphill but they did at least try to get back into the game after the break.

Damiano Tommasi had a shooting chance in the 58th minute but couldn't get enough power behind his shot and it went over the crossbar.

Gustavo Reggi then shot from the centre of the penalty area but saw his effort blocked by Cesar Cruchaga.

Moments later, Reggi tried again but this time it was straight at Ricardo.

That would be their last chance to get back into the game as Osasuna almost immediately added a fourth.

Soldado completed his hat-trick in dramatic style as he smashed in a shot from five yards inside his own half to stun Cavallero

The game seemed to be as good as over, but just as the clock was ticking down Osasuna found some forward momentum once again.

Juanfran Torres sent a shot just over from close range and moments later forced a save from Cavallero from similar range.

Then, in the 89th minute he had one more go but Cavallero punched the ball to safety.

Riga responded for Levante but fired over from the edge of the area.

The Levante striker had one further chance in injury time, but the game was already long since over.