The Sport Matrix: Thursday 19 February 2015

Ronaldo ends drought in victory

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first goal in four matches as defending champions Real Madrid eased to a 2-0 victory at Schalke in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie last night. The Portuguese headed in a cross from Dani Carvajal before Marcelo thrashed in a second with 11 minutes left. The night’s other tie ended all square, Porto coming from behind to draw 1-1 at Basel. The second legs are on 10 March.

Van Gaal is let off with warning by FA

The Football Association have warned Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal following his comments after last month’s draw at Cambridge. The Dutchman avoided further punishment after claiming that “every aspect” of the game had gone against his side.

Morgan preaches need for team effort

England captain Eoin Morgan has called for a unified performance as his side take on New Zealand tomorrow morning in their second World Cup match. “Playing together as a unit is huge,” he said. “It’s an area where we’ve struggled. Everyone is aware and we’re trying to improve.”

Carroll happy to share the state of his knee with the world

West Ham striker Andy Carroll has revealed the battle-scared state of his knee after major surgery on the injury that will keep him sidelined for the rest of the season.

The 26-year-old suffered torn ligaments in his left knee during West Ham’s 0-0 draw with Southampton last week and had surgery on Tuesday.

Carroll took to Instagram to share with the world photos of the surgeon’s handiwork but at least he appeared in good spirits following the surgery.

Along with the photos he posted the caption: “That’s knee modelling out the window!! Great job by Mr Andy Williams.”

Scotland appeal as Russell banned

Already reeling from two opening defeats, Scotland’s Six Nations campaign suffered further damage when Finn Russell was suspended for two weeks. The No 10 will miss the meeting with Italy after pulling out of a challenge to cause Wales’ Dan Biggar to fall. Scotland are to appeal.