Valencia coach Ruben Baraja was delighted with their 1-0 win at Rayo Vallecano.
Sergi Canos struck the winner for the visitors.
Baraja said: "We have done a great job and we are rewarded with the three points.
"That's why these three points taste very rich to us, in a scenario like this against a rival that we know is very difficult, that puts a lot of pressure on you, now we have achieved it, let's rest and continue on the way back.
"We have to be aware that we have to score points to achieve the goal we have set. We know how difficult it is to draw and win in Vallecas, we're very happy for the three points added."
On Canos, he added: "When he was at his best, he got injured then it was difficult for him to get back into shape, today we thought it was a good opportunity for him. We had planned for it after the game against Barcelona and the truth is that we are all very happy for it."