Real Madrid title hopes suffered another setback after they were held to a goalless home draw by Real Betis in the Primera Liga on Saturday. David Beckham's first return to action at Santiago Bernabeu was marred when he was sent-off in the dying seconds for a reckless challenge on Betis' Jose Isidoro. The former England skipper's dismissal reflected the ill-tempered manners which existed late in the game. Los Meringues did not deserve to have the lead as they rarely threatened Betis keeper Antonio Doblas. Four minutes past the hour mark, Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy connected with Beckham's low cross to send a half-volley that cannoned off the bar. It was Betis turn to hit the woodwork three minutes later when defender Nano Rivas's effort from a corner-kick struck the post. The result put Real in third place of the league table with 42 points, four shy of leaders Barcelona who face Valencia on Sunday.
