Real Madrid Dominican scores hat-trick to stake claim

Real Madrid Castilla striker Mariano scored all three goals in their 3-0 win over Gernika on Sunday, as he displayed the instinct which could see him promoted into Zinedine Zidane's squad.

The 22-year-old has netted eight goals in his last five matches and now has 22 goals this season.

It was his third treble of the campaign and means he's now leading goalscorer for all four Segunda B divisions.

He left the mixed zone with a signed ball containing a very special message: "First Cristiano and then you."

It's not known who wrote the dedication, but the comparison is certainly valid.

Luis Miguel Ramis' team are now top of the league with just four matches remaining, as they aim to avoid the play-offs.

The Catalan-born attacker will evidently be part of Real Madrid's first team squad next season after he renewed his contract in January till 2021.

This new agreement implies that that he will be a player for the senior side come August, although he will definitely be part of pre-season as a minimum.