Las Palmas ensured safety from relegation with a goal by captain David García in time added on in the 93rd minute. The home side had to come back from an adverse scoreline against a team that could only hurt them from the penalty spot. Gaby Peñalba and Toni Robaina were in the starting line-up in a game that mean the club are mathematically safe. Las Palmas controlled the match from the first whistle against a Rayo Majadahonda side who were fighting their lowly league position. In the 11th minute Sergio Araujo scored from an onside position, but the linesman didn’t agree and the goal was disallowed. Then in the 17th minute Peñalba hit a shot wide following a free kick. Mel’s side looked far better when they were in possession, playing the ball around confidently, but were unable to finish off any of their attacks on the goal defended by Basilio. On occasions the Madrid team broke forward with some direct football, but were inaccurate in their counters.
Rayo Majadahonda went ahead following a penalty by Peñalba on Varela which Verza tucked away in the 44th minute. Josep Martínez dived the right way but couldn’t quite reach the ball. The sides went in at half time with the visitors leading (0-1).
The second half began with another penalty, this time to the yellows for handball in the area. Rubén Castro was on target to score his fifteenth goal of the season. Las Palmas looked to be getting back to normal, but another penalty was awarded for a soft fall in the area by Varela following a tussle with Eric Curbelo which put Rayo Majadahonda back in front. Again it was Verza who scored from the spot to make it 1-2 (min. 71).
Pepe Mel introduced Danny Blum and Cedrés to strengthen the wings. A fine cross by the second team player was met by Sergio Araujo who scored following a superb piece of control on his chest (min. 78).
At the last breath and from a free kick from the left, taken by David Timor, captain David García connected with his boot to score the comeback goal which means Las Palmas are mathematically assured of a place in the Second Division next season.
