Cristiano Ronaldo scored a fantastic individual goal that kick-started Real Madrid's recovery to a well-deserved away victory against Almeria in La Liga.

Following Barcelona's victory yesterday, Real Madrid knew that anything less than three points would effectively ruin their hopes of claiming the La Liga title this season.

It looked bleak when Almeria, playing very well at home, took an early lead on the 14th minute. A pull back across the face of goal eluded all Real's defenders, and Crusat made no mistake at the far post, turning the ball past a helpless Iker Casillas.

Ronaldo was in no mood to lose again after last weekend's defeat to Barcelona. He scored a wonder goal on the 27th minute, beating two defenders with skill and pace. He then drilled an angled shot into the corner of the goal, putting Real Madrid level.

A frantic second half saw Real Madrid eventually snatch the points. It was van der Vaart who made the difference on the 69th minute, scoring a 20-yard bullet into the bottom corner.

It was a crucial three points for Real Madrid and a tremendous performance once again from star man Cristiano Ronaldo.