Topics: La Liga, Real Madrid, Espanyol, Gareth Bale
Despite a section of the crowd was not happy with him for not passing the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo, the Welsh wingman was the key for Los Blancos' first win this year.

Real Madrid will face Atletico Madrid with a better attitude after defeating Espanyol in their first game at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in 2015. Los Blancos needed just 45 minutes to set the record straight about their current shape, and will remain leading the Spanish League regardless of what happens between Atletico and Barcelona tomorrow.

James Rodriguez scored the first goal for Ancelotti's team, taking advantage of an excellent action started by Gareth Bale, who crossed the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese striker tapped the ball back to the Colombian who put the ball away with a left-foot strike.

Following Rodriguez's sixth goal this season, the stage was set for Gareth Bale, who lifted the crowd to their feet with a beautiful free kick off Kiko Casilla's post. This was the Welshman's 12th goal so far this year.

After the break, Carlo Ancelotti had to improvise due to Fabio Coentrao's sending off. Coentrao could not be available for their mid-week match against Atletico, since La Liga's bans can be carried on to the Copa del Rey tournament. Coentrao started today since Marcelo injured himself during the warmup exercises. When the game was nearing its final stretch, Nacho scored after a good cross by Arbeloa, ending the team's negative streak.

Now, Los Blancos will have to focus on defeating Atletico Madrid on Thursday, but right now fans are having a blast talking about their team's first win of 2015. Scroll down and read some of their comments below.