Real Madrid gain some ground
(sportsnetwork.com)
Updated: 2005-04-04 08:55

Real Madrid pulled with nine points of leaders Barcelona after Sunday's action in La Liga concluded.

Real Madrid's English player Michael Owen celebrates after scoring against Albacete during a Spanish league soccer match Sunday April 3, 2005. [AP]

Real Madrid took advantage of a Barca draw earlier in the day to reduce the deficit. Michael Owen's goal just before halftime proved to be the game-winner for the Merengues, who held on for a 2-1 win at Albacete. Barca scored twice late in its game to salvage a 3-3 draw with Real Betis Sunday afternoon.

The two Spanish powers will now meet in Madrid next weekend. A win for Barca would basically secure the title.

Real Madrid would have closed within seven points if not for the heroics of Barca's Giovane van Bronckhorst. Despite playing with a man advantage for most of the game, the league leaders fould themselves down 3-1 after Joaquin scored his second goal of the contest in the 63rd minute. But there was still plenty of time left for a comeback.

Samuel Eto'o converted a penalty for the second time in the contest on a questionable call to make it a one-goal game just seven minutes from time. Van Bronckhorst then chipped past a charging Antonio Doblas in extra time to tie the match. The final whistle was blown just moments after van Bronckhorst's effort.

Real Madrid also needed to rally in its win. Albacete scored first when Pablo Martinez Redondo found the back of the net in the 10th minute. But the 'galacticos' only trailed temporarily, as Ivan Helguera answered moments later for the visitors.

Owen, receiving a rare start after Raul was injured during warmup, caught up with a pass from Guti and finished nicely for his 10th goal of the season. The strike just before halftime proved to be decisive, as Real Madrid kept Albacete at bay in the final 45 minute to earn three points.

Espanyol and Sevilla both moved even on points with Real Betis for fourth place with victories on Sunday. Sevilla was able to pull out a 1-0 home win over last-place Numancia behind a goal from Adriano Correira midway through the second half. Espanyol cruised to a 3-1 triumph on the road against Racing Santander. Raul Tamudo, Maxi and Daniel Jarque scored for Espanyol.

Deportivo La Coruna and Atletico Madrid both stayed within striking distance of spots in Europe next season with wins. Deportivo posted a 1-0 victory at Levante thanks to a goal by Diego Tristan. Atletico Madrid bombarded Mallorca, 4-0, at home.

Malaga and Getafe played to a 1-1 draw in La Liga's other contest as both team's attempt to avoid relegation.