Madrid, Nov 10 (IANS): Real Madrid enjoyed a comfortable 5-1 win at home over Real Sociedad in La Liga.

The game was over as a contest by halftime as Real Madrid raced into a 4-0 lead Saturday thanks to goals from Cristiano Ronaldo, who opened the score after 12 minutes and netted a 26th minute penalty, Karim Benzema and Sami Khedira, reports Xinhua.

The visitors helped the Madrid cause with disastrous tactics and poor defending which left them open on the break, something the home side exploited ruthlessly.

Real Sociedad coach Jagoba Arrasate tightened things up after the break and was rewarded when Antoine Griezmann scored a clever chip after an hour, although Ronaldo then completed his hat-trick with a majestic free kick with 15 minutes remaining.

Elsewhere, Athletic Club Bilbao reinforced their position in fifth place after yet another fightback earned them a 2-1 win at home to Levante in San Mames.

Levante had been the last side to win in the Basque club's old stadium and looked on course to be the first to take all three points in the new one when David Barral poked home at the second attempt in the 32nd minute.

However, Athletic refused to accept defeat in front of their home fans. Led by substitute Mikel Rico, they produced the sort of brave football their supporters enjoy. Rico volleyed home after 71 minutes and Aritz Aduriz's header seven minutes from time ensured the home win.

Getafe again struggled at home with a 1-1 draw against Elche. Pedro Leon's goal put Getafe ahead but in front of another disappointing turnout in the Alfonso Perez Coliseum, Yiadom Boakye headed home the equalising goal.

Finally Rayo Vallecano won 2-0 away to Celta Vigo. Celta have not won at home throughout the campaign. The win lifts Rayo off the bottom and leaves Betis, who entertain Barcelona Sunday, in last place. Jonathan Viera and Joaquin Larrivey scored Rayo's goals to award an another attacking display from Paco Jemez's side.