30 Yard Thunderbolt

David Beckham scored with a 30 yard thunderbolt today as Real Madrid thrashed newly-promoted Levante 5-0.

Real bounced back after a pair of poor performances to stay second in the Spanish first division. The Valencia-based visitors held their own for most the first-half, going behind to a goal from Ronaldo two minutes before halftime, but the floodgates opened after the break.

Goals in the first 10 minutes of the second-half from Luis Figo, Ronaldo and Beckham meant that there were not going to be any upsets on this occasion.

Beckham’s goal broke a two-month barren spell and the England captain produced his best performance after his six-week absence due to two broken ribs, sustained in last month’s World Cup qualifier with Wales.

Michael Owen, a substitute yet again despite his impressive statistics of seven goals in 10 appearences, completed the scoring spree three minutes from time.

“This team showed a lot of character. There have been many critics but they showed what they are capable of in this game,” said Real coach Mariano Garcia Remon

Coach Mariano Garcia Remon said: “It was a good performance by Beckham, I want to congratulate all the players.”"

Becks, under pressure for his place, had been reprieved because of a back injury to Zinedine Zidane.

The former Manchester United star also produced the long-range pass just before half time that set up Brazilian star Ronaldo to score Real’s opener.

Figo scored in the 50th after left-wing run, sparking a five-minute, three-goal burst that clinched the victory.

Ronaldo beat the offside trap to net, before Beckham struck.

Former Liverpool hero Owen came on as a substitute to snatch his fifth goal of the season. He found the net with a sweet right-foot finish after fine work by Guti.

Remon added: “He’s a vital part of this team. He’s a phenomenal player.” Owen said: “You’ve got to take your chances and show the right attitude. I’m happy with my form and my goals and I have to carry on like this.”

Real’s victory means they stay seven points behind leaders Barcelona in La Liga.