Real Betis vs Rayo Vallecano preview - Jemez seeks Betis boost

Rayo Vallecano coach Paco Jemez has stressed that Sunday's meeting with Primera Division whipping boys Real Betis will not make or break either side's season.

Rayo are three points above Betis in the table and head into the match after suffering their 10th defeat of the season last weekend, losing 4-1 at home to Espanyol.

Betis' plight is certainly not any better - Pepe Mel's side were recently thrashed 4-0 by local rivals Sevilla - although they have qualified for the last 32 of the Europa League despite losing 1-0 to Lyon.

Jemez told a press conference: "If we win we'll be out of the relegation zone and although it won't be definitive because there are still many months left of the season, it would be a huge step for us.

"It would put them in a difficult situation but for us it's a game of hope, a real source of motivation.

"I don't think it's a crunch game for Betis. There are still five months left of the season and anything could happen.

"Of course the sooner you start picking up points the better, but it's not a game of life or death.

"We have pinned a lot of hope on winning and it's the same for them, but whatever happens, there are still many points to play for."

Rayo will be without first-choice goalkeeper Ruben Martinez, who is suspended after getting sent off against Espanyol for conceding a penalty.

Anaitz Arbilla gave away the second spot-kick in that game, for which he received his fifth yellow card of the season to rule him out of action for the Betis game, too.

The Andalusians have three players suspended for the game: Paulao, who was sent off against Sevilla, plus Xavi Torres and Javier Matilla, who have each picked up five yellow cards.

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