Real Madrid have pulled to within three points of La Liga leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid with a comfortable 4-0 win over Real Valladolid.
Gareth Bale scored a 'perfect hat-trick' and set up the other for Karim Benzema as Los Blancos ran riot at the Bernabeu.
Meanwhile, defeat leaves the visitors level on 12 points with Rayo Vallecano and Almeria, although they are still one place above the relegation zone by virtue of a superior goal difference.
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It took the hosts 34 minutes to break the resistance of Juan Ignacio Martinez's men, who had been living on borrowed time.
Bale nodded home after Diego Marino had beaten away Angel di Maria's cross, before putting the ball on a plate for Benzema three minutes later.
The French international gave Marino no chance with a powerful header, which saw him team 2-0 in front at the break.
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Carlo Ancelotti's men surged further clear in the second half when Bale tucked home from close range with his right foot after good work down the left from Marcelo.
The Brazilian full-back had a wonderful opportunity to get on the scoresheet with just over five minutes remaining, but miscued his shot after being set up by Isco.
However, he made up for it with more dazzling wing play to supply Bale for his first hat-trick in Real colours in the 89th minute.
The 24-year-old has now played a part in 14 goals in his last five games, scoring eight and assisting six.
Michael Penkman
