VIDEO: Rayo Vallecano's Adrian Embarba scores after howler from Diego Alves

Valencia dropped crucial points in devastating fashion Thursday, as an error from 'keeper Diego Alves paved the way for a 1-1 draw at Rayo Vallecano.

After midfielder Adrian Embarba fired a 25-yard shot directly at Alves in the 19th minute, the Spanish shot-stopper failed to properly get behind the ball and allowed it to trickle across the goal line.

The result left Valencia sitting fourth in the La Liga table on goal difference, hovering above fifth-placed Sevilla, who have also accumulated 69 points through 34 fixtures.

Only the top four clubs in La Liga qualify for the Champions League.