David Timor’s goal gave Girona their first competitive victory over Catalan rivals Espanyol in 80 years at Cornella-El Prat on Monday.
Timor fired home from close range during added time in the first half to settle a match devoid of many clear-cut chances.
The visitors were fully deserving of their win against a timid and conservative Espanyol side, with home fans whistling at Coach Quique Sanchez Flores at full time.
Portu struck the crossbar from a difficult angle in the second half, in the only other major opportunity of the game.
Girona climb to ninth – only one point from sixth-placed Villarreal and European football – while the hosts drop to 16th and face a trip to basement boys Las Palmas next.