Madrid, Feb 23 (DPA) Spain striker David Villa led Valencia to a tight 2-1 home win over Getafe, a victory that keeps 'Los Ches' third in La Liga.

Villa's two goals Monday put him at the top of the scorers' chart with 17 goals, one more than FIFA World Player Lionel Messi of Barcelona.

'It was important for us to win tonight,' said Villa. 'The three points are really more important than me being top scorer.'

He added: 'We have to continue with this good home form right until the end of the season.'

Valencia now have 46 points from 23 games, four more than fourth-placed Sevilla but 10 less than second-placed Real Madrid.

Villa put Valencia ahead five minutes before half-time, after a good run and layback by Argentine Alejandro Dominguez.

Eight minutes after the restart Villa made it 2-0 with a delightful cheeky lob, after being set up David Silva.

Things started to go pear-shaped for the hosts when left-back Alexis was harshly sent off half an hour from time.

Fourteen minutes from time Manu del Moral pulled a goal back for Getafe after Juan Albin had barged his way through the Valencia penalty area. Kepa came close to equalising for the visitors at the death, while Silva missed a good chance to make it 3-1 at the other end.

On Thursday Valencia have another home match, against FC Brugge in the Europa League. They will be without Silva, who was sent off in the first leg in Bruges, which the Belgians won 1-0.