Ronaldo's hunger for success may save Real's season

MADRID - Cristiano Ronaldo's appetite for success is keeping Real Madrid's La Liga title hopes alive this season.

The Portuguese forward led Real's fightback from a goal down at Real Mallorca on Wednesday, rattling in his first La Liga hat-trick to take his season tally to 25 as his side won 4-1.

He has scored seven goals in the five games since Real lost 2-0 at home to Barcelona last month and helped his side stay hot on the heels of the champions. Red lie one point behind Pep Guardiola's team with two matches remaining.