GIRONA, Spain (Reuters) -Spain's surprise packages Girona were held to a goalless home draw by Real Sociedad on Saturday, leaving them a point adrift of LaLiga leaders Real Madrid.
The Catalans are second in the standings on 56 points behind Real who host city rivals Atletico on Sunday.
Girona thought they had taken the lead after 24 minutes but VAR intervened to overturn Yangel Herrera's header for offside and Sociedad had Mikel Oyarzabal's effort overruled, also for offside.
The visitors looked more dangerous after the break as Brais Mendez drew a great save from Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga in the 72nd minute.
The home side, whose manager Michel was sent off in the second half, almost sealed a late victory through a great effort from Herrera which keeper Alex Remiro saved with his feet.
Girona visit Real Madrid on Saturday in a key clash in the title race.
"We gave everything until the end, we had a goal disallowed but I think we played a great game, we deserved the win but it's an important point," Girona forward Savio said.
"Now it's time to rest, we have a long week while (Real) play Atletico. We have to get the mentality to play a great game and get the three points in Madrid."
Sociedad, sixth on 37 points in the last European qualifying spot, face Mallorca on Tuesday in the Spanish Cup semi-finals.
(Reporting by Janina Nuno Rios in Mexico City, editing by Ed Osmond)
