Paris, May 19: Real Madrid, who were knocked out of the Champions League last week, returned to winning ways in style yesterday when they crushed Malaga 5-1 to keep their campaign for a 29th Spanish League title firmly on track. The win lifted Madrid into second place behind Real Sociedad who defeated Recreativo Huelva 1-0 taking full advantage of previous leaders Deportivo la Coruna's 2-1 defeat to Valencia.

Sociedad earned their three points when Turkish international Nihat Kahveci scored his 20th goal of the season in the ninth minute. However, the avalanche of goals expected by Sociedad fans never materialised and they maintained their lead mainly due to some fine saves by their Dutch goalkeeper Sander Westerveld.

"We will suffer a lot until the end of the season but it will be worth it," said Sociedad's French coach Raynald Denouix as he reflected on his team's failure to score more goals. Sociedad now have 69 points, Madrid are on 68 with Deportivo on 66 with four matches remaining.

Real Madrid's goals came courtesy of a brace each from Fernando Morientes and Raul with Roberto Carlos adding the other.

Deportivo's title push suffered a setback when they were beaten 2-1 at home by reigning champions Valencia.

Brazilian defender Fabio Aurelio grabbed both goals for Valencia in the 13th and 63rd minutes with Donato, fast approaching his 41st birthday, replying for Deportivo.

Bureau Report