Sevilla closed on top spot with a win over Villarreal whilst Valencia kept up the chase against Real Zaragoza.
Luis Fabiano netted a brace and Frederic Kanoute found the scoresheet for Sevilla who saw off a determined Villarreal side 3-2 at the Sanchez Pizjuan.
Robert Pires and Torrijos netted for the visitors who were gallant in defeat.
Prior to that game, Valencia had moved into third place, albeit temporarily, in the Liga table after a convincing 3-1 win over Real Zaragoza at the Mestalla Stadium.
Juan Manuel Mata, David Villa and Pablo Hernandez all found the scoresheet in an impressive display by the home side which extended their unbeaten run to nine games in all competitions.
Abel Aguilar netted a minor consolation for the visitors who are yet to win on the road this term.
Strugglers Racing Santander crashed to their third successive defeat against Athletic Bilbao at El Sardinero.
Carlos Curpegi gave the visitors the lead with his conversion on the half-hour mark before Andoni Iraola slotted home from the penalty spot late in the game to make sure of all three points.
StrugglingXerez continue to linger at the wrong end of the table having been held to a goalless draw against Valladolid.
Xerecistas have not won a single game on the road this term and are without a win in their last four games.
Sporting Gijon continue to reign supreme at home having notched a narrow win over Espanyol.
Mate Bilic scored after just three minutes for Rojiblancos who have enjoyed a decent start in the top tier.
Almeria, meanwhile, ended a disappointing losing run with a 2-0 win over in-form Osasuna.
The latter, who were unbeaten in four games heading into Saturday's tie, got off to the worst possible start when Josetxo scored past his own goalkeeper.
French forward Kalu Uche made sure of the win in the final minutes bringing the two sides level on 12 points.
Possession key for Revs against FirePrimera Liga round-up
