Only one topic of conversation this week on the goalkeepers' front, the illness of Mono Burgos. The flamboyant Atlético keeper had been complaining of stomach pains, and after undergoing tests it was found that he was suffering from a malignant tumour in one of his kidneys. He was immediately rushed into hospital, and all reports are that the operation was a success and he could even be back before the end of the season. Coming soon after the news of Molina's cancer (who incidentally is back in training), this is not a good season for our "porteros". We wish him a speedy recovery.

Back on the field of play, Notario moved to within a goal of our leader Cañizares with his second clean sheet in a row, this time against city rivals Betis. Only two other keepers managed to keep their goals against column to zero for the full match, Espanyol's Toni and Valladolid's Bizzarri, although Bonano had also not let in a goal when he clashed with Iván Rosado's elbow and had to be carried off semi-conscious. His replacement Enke made his league debut, although it could have been better as he let in two goals in the twenty minutes or so he was on the park.

A change of keepers too at Rayo, where a desperate Gustavo Benítez brought back Segura in place of Etxeberría, although it made little difference as his side lost again. Finally, spare a thought for poor old Dutruel. His Alavés side have now let in eleven goals in their last two games, which may be something of a negative record. And to think that a couple of seasons ago they were hailed as the 1-0 specialists! (04.03.03)