UPDATE 2-Soccer-Villa double helps leaders Valencia pull clear

(Updates after Almeria v Sevilla, adds quote)

By Mark Elkington

MADRID, Oct 19 (Reuters) - David Villa made it eight goals from seven games with a brace in Valencia's 4-0 hammering of promoted Numancia, that put them clear at the top of the Primera Liga on Sunday.

The Spain striker, who has also bagged five for the European champions in World Cup qualifying, netted after only five minutes at the Mestalla.

He then helped set up the second for Juan Mata midway through the second half, and after substitute Vicente had made it 3-0, Villa stole a fourth at the end.

"At 1-0 Numancia had their chances and the difference between the sides was simply effectiveness in front of goal," said Valencia coach Unai Emery.

"In footballing terms the difference wasn't that great. There is room for improvement." The side stretched their unbeaten start to seven and they lead the standings with 19 points, two ahead of Sevilla and Villarreal.

Local rivals Villarreal were held to a 0-0 draw at Espanyol on Saturday, while Sevilla climbed above them on goal difference thanks to a 1-0 victory at Almeria in Sunday's late game.

Brazilian midfielder Adriano Correia volleyed the only goal, though it took a hefty deflection off Almeria's Chico on its way into the net. Sevilla have gone five league games without conceding.