No looking back now, says Real's Schuster

BEIJING, April -- Real Madrid dispelled any doubts that it can go all the way to claim a second consecutive Primera Liga title with its convincing 3-1 victory over Sevilla, coach Bernd Schuster said.

The champion had lost five of its last eight league games before Sevilla visited the Bernabeu on Sunday, and had been well beaten by the Andalucians in three previous meetings this season.

"It was a complete performance from the team. It was one of our most consistent displays," Schuster said after the game.

Sevilla, which beat Real in both legs of the King's Cup at the start of the season and won 2-0 in the league at the Sanchez Pizjuan, was considered one of the leader's sternest tests in the title run in.

Real's players indulged in some exuberant celebrations after the final whistle but Schuster sought to play down the significance of the result despite it opening up a six-point lead over Villarreal, with eight games left.

"It isn't a definitive result. We are in control as we have been for some time and we have to maintain this momentum to win the title.

"I don't care who our nearest rivals are. We are first and we don't need to look back."

Villarreal replaced Barcelona as Real's nearest challengers with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over fourth-placed Atletico Madrid on Saturday, its fourth consecutive win, putting it second with 59 points.

Barca slipped back to third with 58 after throwing away a two-goal lead to lose 2-3 at Real Betis on Saturday.

Disgruntled fans shouted abuse at the team during training on Sunday and Barca sports director Txiki Begiristain had a meeting with coach Frank Rijkaard.

"I have asked for an immediate reaction and that we are on top of the players to ensure the side are fully committed for the Champions League quarter-finals," Begiristain told television station TV3.

Also, Racing Santander beat Espanyol 3-0 away to go fifth, while Real Mallorca topped Valencia 3-0 away and Getafe fell 0-2 at home to Osasuna.

(Source: Shanghai Daily/Agencies)