UPDATE 2-Soccer-Espanyol sweep aside Valencia, Atletico win

(Adds Real Betis v Atletico Madrid)

* Espanyol surprise in-form Valencia to win 3-0

* Forlan brace puts Atletico up to fifth

* Lassad earns Deportivo 1-0 win over Valladolid

* New Getafe coach Michel makes losing start

By Mark Elkington

MADRID, May 3 (Reuters) - Superb strikes from Roman Martinez and Nico Pareja helped Espanyol beat in-form Valencia 3-0 to continue their steady climb away from the Primera Liga's relegation places on Sunday.

Substitute Martinez lashed a shot high into the net after 66 minutes and Argentine compatriot Pareja curled a free kick into the top corner before Nene put away a stoppage-time penalty.

Mauricio Pochettino's side were rooted to the foot of the standings at the beginning of April but five battling wins in six matches have pulled them up to 14th with 38 points, four clear of the drop zone with four left to play.