Superb Shojaei plays full game as Deportivo stall Osasuna

Depor were holding their own in an entertaining encounter until the 54th-minute dismissal of Canada midfielder Julian De Guzman.

From there on in, it was one-way traffic but a resolute defensive display from the visitors ensured they secured a deserved draw.

Depor started the season with an impressive 2-1 victory over champions Real Madrid, but Alberto Lopo's 52nd-minute strike in that game was the last time Miguel Angel Lotina's side have found the back of the net.

Since then Depor have lost 1-0 at Villarreal, 2-0 to UEFA Cup opponents Brann, and at the weekend were held goalless at home by Real Mallorca.

They displayed flashes of attacking intent at El Sadar and with a bit of luck could have ended their drought but the dismissal of De Guzman diminished their ambition.

Osasuna started well and only a brave block by defender Adrian Lopez prevented Jaroslav Plasil's left-footed effort finding the target after five minutes.

Midfielder Juanfran was particularly prominent in the early stages. Having set up Plasil's early opportunity, he then crossed for Massoud Shojaei to fire a shot wide of the left-hand upright.

Depor keeper Dani Aranzubia made his first contribution after 29 minutes, saving Shojaei's header from a Juanfran cross.

Depor finally came into the game after the half-hour mark.

Juan Rodriguez headed wide from 12 yards while Lopo saw a shot blocked by home defender Rodrigues Roversio.

Despite seeing less of the ball, Osasuna created their best chance of the opening period in the 33rd minute when Plasil found space inside the six-yard box but could only place his shot against the bar.

Depor responded with Rodolfo Bodipo shooting wide from close range, Rodriguez hitting an effort over the bar and Bodipo again coming close.

Osasuna started the second half on the front foot, Aranzubia saving well to deny former Real Madrid striker Javier Portillo.

And their hand was strengthened further when De Guzman was sent-off after picking up a second yellow card for a foul on Juanfran.

Lotina shuffled his pack, bringing on Pablo Alvarez and Joan Verdu for Cristian Hidalgo and Sergio Gonzalez, but the momentum remained with the home side.

The lively Shojaei twice shot wide when well placed and Ludovic Delporte also failed to hit the target following a corner routine.

Juanfran set up the final clear-cut chance of the evening with his cross headed wide by Javad Nekounam.

The final 10 minutes saw a flurry of crosses fired into the Depor penalty area but the visitors stood firm.