Raul celebrates
Record-breaking Real Madrid striker Raul helped Los
Blancos return to winning ways with a brace in a
hard-fought
4-2 victory over Real Valladolid in the
Estadio Santiago Bernabéu.
Raul had been presented with a trophy by Madrid president
Florentino Perez just prior to kick-off for breaking Manuel
Sanchis' club record of official appearances for the Spanish
giants, and he marked the occasion with two more goals.
The veteran forward, who is also Madrid's all-time leading
goalscorer, struck twice in the opening 18 minutes and Marcelo
added a third before the break after Nauzet Aleman had scored a
great freekick for the visitors.
Marquitos put Valladolid back in the game again early in the
second half and they grew in confidence until Argentine substitute
Gonzalo Higuain lobbed Valladolid goalkeeper Jacobo in a one-on-one
11 minutes from time.
Manuel Pellegrini's side, who were without injured forward
Cristiano Ronaldo, had suffered their first defeat of the campaign
away to Sevilla last time out and never really impressed against
their 17th-placed opponents.
Barcelona saw their Primera Liga lead cut to a
solitary point by Madrid as they were held to
a goalless draw by Valencia at
the Mestalla - and they will be relieved to have escaped with that
result.
Pablo Hernandez went close from his own half and strike partner
Juan Mata missed a host of chances, while David Silva was denied by
Victor Valdes from the best opportunity of the match.
"Valencia have very good players and a very good coach and
caused us a lot of problems," Barca coach Pep Guardiola told
reporters. "We have to be happy with the point."
Rodriguez Pedrito and Yaya Toure threatened for Barca, but they
will be happy to take a share of the spoils and remain a point
ahead of arch-rivals Madrid,