Real couldn't erase the doubts concerning their performances far from the Bernabéu. The spanish league is a very hard issue, and no one wins easily any more. The team started well, with several brilliant actions that, however, lacked a bit of accuracy in the last pass.

This lasted for around 15 minutes, but little by little Valladolid, well coached, controlled the midfield. Both teams playing at a good level, the key moment arrived when Guti felt into the penalty box. It was not a clear penalty, but Real players' complaints to the referee earned Salgado a yellow card that turned into red one minute later when a late tackle sent him off.

Most probably the spanish league is the strongest one in the world, but indeed it has the worst referees among the greatest championships. These so-called judges tolerate extremely dangerous actions like the one Figo suffered a few minutes later (not even a fault allowed). Deportivo's Valerón suffered also an almost criminal action from Valladolid defender Peña that only deserved a yellow card. In return, you'd batter keep aside from complaining, even talking to these arrogant characters, the worst cancer of La Liga.

Things seemed very hard for Real then, but the team reacted well, with rage, and Zidane finally connected with Raúl to let the striker score the opener with a brilliant lob over Bizzarri one minute before half time.

All along the second half Madrid suffered more and more. Maybe Del Bosque was wrong delaying the entry of Miñambres, and Makelele really couldn't cover the right side. However, it had to be a dive from a home attacker that levelled the game. Of course, the referee didn't hesitate with the whistle ending a "complete" showtime. Although Casillas was extremely close to save the ball, the shot became the equalliser.

The draw couldn't be changed. Madrid had no reaction, with Zidane probably not recovered from his injury, and Guti more concerned about defensive tasks after Real lost Salgado. Casillas had to sustain the team with several good saves and finally Real left their first point this year.

NEXT MATCH: Champions League: AEK - Real Madrid. Tuesday 1st