Ronaldo rescues Madrid with back-heel flick

MADRID, Spain (AP):

Cristiano Ronaldo scored with a late back-heel flick to help Real Madrid salvage a 1-1 home draw against Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish league yesterday.

Ronaldo netted the 87th-minute equaliser with a subtle touch of the ball with his back to the goal, redirecting a low shot by Luka Modric from outside the area and keeping Madrid in the fight for second place.

Madrid moved within three points of Atletico Madrid, who visit Real Sociedad today.

Barcelona, who drew 2-2 at Celta Vigo on Tuesday, hold a 12-point lead at the top of the standings.

Ronaldo has scored at least one goal in his last 12 matches, with 22 in total during that streak. He has 26 goals in his last 15 matches.