Primera Liga clubs had better give Sevilla more respect after they showed the Spanish league is not a two-horse race.

Sevilla defeated big-spending Real Madrid 2-1 last weekend to dismiss speculation that the title is only about Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The victory has cemented Manolo Jimenez's side as a clear title contenders says defender Sergio Sanchez.

"For us, the game [against Real Madrid] was a continuation although the press saw it as a turning point," Sanchez told Marca.

"Sevilla have shown that they can fight for the league title. We knew that we could win the game and, with the crowd's help, we achieved it."

The 23-year-old left Espanyol to join Sevilla before the start of this season and he has been encouraged by the camaraderie shown by his new teammates. He also thinks Sevilla have the strength in depth to challenge for the title.

"The boss has a lot of options. We know that he decides the team and we respect him. It's vital to keep working in order to stay in the team or to try and get in it."