Real Madrid battled out their seventh straight win on Saturday, 1-0 at home to willing but harmless Racing Santander, dpa reported.
It was the fourth 1-0 home win since Juande Ramos took over two months ago, and imposed an unattractive but effective counter- attacking style.
The only three players to warm up the Estadio Bernabeu on a chilly night were Gonzalo Higuain, who scored the only goal; Arjen Robben with his handsome wingplay; and keeper Iker Casillas, who had to work hard towards the end.
"The important thing is that we carry on winning," said Casillas.
"It wasn't our best game of the season, but we are not conceding goals, and we are winning games," he said.
The goal came five minutes into the second half. Veteran Raul headed on a long ball, Higuain skipped past defender Cesar Navas and scored his 13th goal of the season with a powerful drive.
Santander struggled gamely for an equalizer, but lacked the necessary penetration up front.
The latest win consolidates Real in second place, nine points above Sevilla, who are at home to local rivals Betis later on Saturday.
Real are now nine points behind record-breaking leaders Barcelona, who are at home to Sporting Gijon on Sunday.