Valencia (Spain), Mar 1 (IANS): Valencia dominated Leganes 1-0 in a match that was far more lopsided than the score would indicate.

Only a fine performance by visiting goalkeeper Herrerin on Tuesday prevented a rout in the mid-week La Liga clash, reports Efe.

While the hosts dominated possession from the start, their first chance didn't come until the 20th minute. Herrerin's quick reaction forced Bakkali to shoot well wide of the net.

Valencia, though not very impressive, were persistent on the attack and nearly got the payoff in the 28th minute on a direct free kick by Parejo.

The hosts finally converted on the ensuing corner.

Herrerin made the initial save on a header from Mangala, but couldn't stop the Valencia defender on his second try to make it 1-0 just before the half-hour mark.

The home side grew more confident and Leganes barely ventured across midfield for the rest of the first half.

Nothing changed after the break, with Valencia in control and Leganes relying on Herrerin to save them from embarrassment.

The situation got worse for Leganes in the 80th minute when Alberto Martin was sent off after picking up his second yellow card of the contest, though Valencia was unable to turn the man advantage into another goal.

Valencia climb to 12th place, with 29 points from 25 matches. Leganes, with 21 points, are in the 16th spot.