Real Madrid fullback Fran Garcia was delighted being part of victory at Alaves.
Lucas Vazquez struck for the 1-0 win, with Nacho Fernandez seeing red for the visitors.
Fran Garcia later said: "We wanted to end the year on a high and we're pleased because we've taken three important points. The sending-off helped showcase the hard work and commitment of this squad. You always know you'll have someone next to you who is going to run for you.
We knew we had to stick together following the sending-off and everyone showed incredible commitment. We head away feeling very positive and now it's time to recharge our batteries because the most important bits are yet to come."
On Vzquez's goal, he added: "I was closing down at the back and I saw it very clearly. I saw how he had made the run and left his man. It was incredible because of the minute it in which it was scored. Madrid is different and always fights right to the end. I'm happy for Lucas."
