Birthday boy Ronaldo shines again

Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed a brace as Real Madrid returned to within seven points of Primera Division leaders Barcelona with a 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad at the Bernabeu.

Ronaldo, who turned 26 yesterday, had not scored in four matches coming into today’s game but celebrated his birthday in style, grabbing two goals before the interval.

Kaka opened the scoring for the hosts while Emmanuel Adebayor wrapped up the rout with his second goal in three games since joining on loan from Manchester City.

Sociedad replied through a Alvaro Arbeloa own goal.

Valencia’s fine league form continued as they dispatched Hercules 2-0 at the Mestalla.

Los Che were denied a club record-equalling sixth successive victory by Racing Santander on Monday, but goals from Aritz Aduriz and Tino Costa ensured they made it six from seven today.

The result left Hercules nursing a run of four league defeats in a row.

In the day’s other game, Sevilla were held to a 0-0 draw at home to bottom side Malaga.