Villarreal rallied for a 2-2 draw at Hercules but missed a chance to go top of the Spanish league for the first time in club history. Nelson Valdez and Joan Capdevila exchanged goals before David Trezeguet put Hercules ahead 2-1 in the 41st minute.

The French striker was sent off just three minutes later for protesting yesterday. Villarreal took advantage in the 63rd to equalize through Borja Valero, who was then sent off with nine minutes to play following a reckless challenge on Royston Drenthe.