Javi Guerra's brace helped Rayo Vallecano secure a comprehensive Primera Division victory against Espanyol.
Unaffected by a run of three straight defeats, los Franjirrojos dominated from the outset in Madrid.
Roberto Trashorras' penalty gave Rayo a deserved half-time lead, which Guerra added to with a pair to secure a 3-0 win against out-of-sorts Espanyol.
Sergio Gonzalez's side had started well enough at the Estadio de Vallecas, where Victor Alvarez saw an early header pushed onto the crossbar by the hosts' veteran goalkeeper Tono.
It was the best Espanyol could muster in a one-sided first-half, though, with Guerra claiming a penalty before flicking an effort down the goalkeeper's throat.
Patrick Ebert hit the post with a great header as Rayo pushed for an opener that arrived in the 35th minute as Trashorras slotted home a penalty, perhaps harshly awarded against Enzo Roco.
Felipe Caicedo attempted to draw parity early in the second half, but Rayo were still on top and substitute Bebe tried his luck with two stinging efforts.
The former Manchester United winger turned provider when the hosts doubled their lead, capitalising on poor Espanyol play and sending in a low cross for Guerra to tap home at the back post.
The 76th minute strike was followed up by Guerra's second of the night within two minutes, collecting the ball on the edge of the box and impressively firing home off-balance.
Espanyol had a chance to net a stoppage-time consolation when Tito's handball led to a penalty. He was sent off for collecting a second yellow, but Tono saved Burgui's spot-kick.
ends