The contest saw both teams in need of points at opposing ends of the standings, with Valencia looking to build on their two-point lead over the relegation places and rivals Villarreal under increased urgency for points to close in on a possible Champions League spot.
The visitors quickly set the tone, crafting three clear-cut chances inside the opening eight minutes. Quick-footed makeshift striker Nicolas Jackson drilled a low shot that smacked against the Valencia post in the third minute before menacing midfielder Alex Baena threatened twice as Villarreal quickly established control.
All that was lacking from their patient and measured performance was the opening goal, with former Mestalla-favourite Dani Parejo curling a well-placed free-kick over for Villarreal as the first half finished goalless.
A lively start to the second period saw Ramon Terrats’ effort palmed away before half-time substitute Diego Lopez almost immediately made his mark to give Valencia an unlikely lead. Making just his fifth senior appearance for Los Che, the 20-year-old did well to accelerate through the Villareal backline and fend off pressure, but his chipped finish over Pepe Reina rolled narrowly wide.
And just as the hosts were enjoying their best spell of the contest, Villarreal snatched the lead to silence the Mestalla as Jackson rifled in a thumping near-post finish for his fourth goal in his last three appearances.
Valencia were rewarded for their improving intensity and moments after Diego Lopez arrived unmarked at the back post to stab the ball wide, Samuel Lino was able to slot in when Hugo Duro was taken out by Pepe Reina to draw level.
Youngster Alberto Mari briefly thought he had snatched a last-gasp derby winner for Valencia deep into added time, but it was quickly flagged for offside.
With the points shared, Valencia’s three-point advantage over the teams immediately below could be shortlived, with their relegation rivals yet to play in this midweek round.
Meanwhile, Villarreal moved within seven points of Real Sociedad in the last Champions League place.
Flashscore Player of the Match: Nicolas Jackson (Villarreal)
