Real Madrid Show Form

            As most would know, today Real Madrid were coming off of a loss against Barcelona, a questionable form of Ronaldo, and an ever-slimming chance at the league title. Today against Granada, the team seemed to prove quite the opposite. A 9-1 absolute mockery of Granada should be enough to put Real back into gear, especially with 5 goals coming from Ronaldo. Coming into the game under top form and being scrutinized over, Ronaldo seemed to shake it all off and disprove any claims that he was on the downhill. There can be no doubt of his unrivaled finishing ability.

            As for Real Madrid’s updated standing, this game shouldn’t bring any false hope to fans, even though it definitely will. Real struggled to get started early in the game and weren’t really doing much to separate themselves from their opponents. Granada, on the other hand, have much more important games approaching, ones they know they have a chance at winning, and obviously came into the game not really expecting much. Fans will undoubtedly allow this to fuel their desire for a Real comeback to beat Barcelona out for the title, but it was a game that they should have easily won, and they didn’t really prove much besides that they are playing at a fair level and still have a chance. Again, this by no means gives much support for a major comeback by Real Madrid, just that they are still in it.

            Something that should be exciting for all Real Madrid fans is that Gareth Bale seems to be returning to his top level. Lacking in confidence and goal-scoring potential earlier this season, Bale seems to be getting his act together recently. He has been able to score 5 goals in his last 4 games despite struggling to score at all in just a few weeks earlier. Bale looked to be beyond any criticism that has been coming his way, taking shots when he needed to and supporting other players also at the right time. Hopefully he is able to continue this trend, as it would be helpful to Real Madrid when they need it most.

iven. Rogers stated his reasons for Sterling’s place at the club, saying that it is good playing time for him in the Premier League. Also, he felt that the team’s improvement over the season has been good, saying "This summer was very difficult. Losing Luis Suarez, Daniel Sturridge being injured, the integration of so many new players. It was like starting again. It was like my first six months. The reaction after losing 3-1 at Crystal Palace was positive. The reaction and commitment of the players has been first class since then." (ESPN). Providing no answers for going forward, the placement of some players (including Sterling) may be questioned soon.