Celta Vigo vs Rayo Vallecano preview - Jemez hoping for repeat performance

Rayo Vallecano coach Paco Jemez has urged his side to try and repeat their valiant performance against Real Madrid in mid-week when they travel to Celta Vigo on Saturday.

The Vallecas club were beaten 2-0 by the European champions on Wednesday due to second-half goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and James Rodriguez, but won the plaudits for their bold, attacking display, particularly in the first 45 minutes.

"If we are capable of playing at that level again we will have an opportunity to beat Celta," Jemez told a press conference.

"Even though our performances aren't good enough to beat Real Madrid or Barcelona, those performances will see us beat other teams. I personally took very many positive conclusions from the match."

However, the coach warned his players against the dangers of listening to everyone singing their praises.

"I hope that all this praise doesn't end up costing us and all these pats on the back, as deserved as they are, don't make us believe that we'll be able to achieve anything by doing any less than what we did on Wednesday."

Rayo goalkeeper Cristian Alvarez injured a calf muscle in the warm up for the game against Madrid and is ruled out for four weeks, but experienced custodian Tono has recovered from a muscle problem and will take the Argentinian's place in goal.

Leo Baptistao and Raul Baena also miss out due to injury.

Celta midfielders Nemanja Radoja and Pablo Hernandez meanwhile are suspended, and Borja Oubina remains injured.

Rayo lie 10th in the Primera Division on 38 points, two places and two points above Celta, who have won just once in their last six matches.

Nevertheless, Jemez was effusive in his praise for Eduardo Berrizo's side.

He added: "Celta will demand a lot of us in every facet: bringing the ball out, in transitions and pressing.

"You have to play well in every department if you want to beat them, because they test you in every aspect of play. We can't allow ourselves to underestimate Celta, we have to show them a lot of respect."