Ronaldo scored twice in Corinthians' draw

SAO PAULO, Brazil (AP) -- Ronaldo scored twice to lead Corinthians to 2-2 draw with Ponte Preta on Wednesday in the Sao Paulo state championship.

Playing the full 90 minutes for the first time since joining Corinthians, Ronaldo has chalked up a total of four goals from five matches with the team.

The almost 20,000 fans that packed Sao Paulo's Pacaembu stadium cheered and applauded the striker's two goals and the several scoring opportunities he created.

Ponte Preta midfielder Leandrinho opened the scoring in the 32nd minute after receiving a pass from defender Edilson.

Four minutes later Ronaldo made it 1-1 with a penalty shot awarded after he was knocked to the ground by Ponte Preta defender Gum.

In the 57th minute Ronaldo gained possession of the ball, beat at least two defenders and with a powerful left foot strike sent the ball into the right hand corner of the Ponte Preta goal.

It seemed as if Corinthians was headed for yet another victory until Gum headed the ball into Corinthians' net following a free kick by midfielder Guilherme for the equalizer in the 76th minute.

Corinthians remains in second place on the standings with 34 points - six points behind Palmeiras, which beat Bragantino 2-1 on Tuesday.

Also on Wednesday, Guaratingueta downed Ituano 1-0; Santos defeated Santo Andre 3-0; Botafogo beat Paulista 3-2; Portuguesa and Mirassol drew 2-2; and Sao Paulo defeated Noroeste 2-1.

In Rio de Janeiro, Bangu bat Cabofriense 1-0; Flamengo downed Madureria 4-2; Resende defeated Boavista 3-1; Macae beat Duque de Caxias 3-1; Botafogo and Americano tied 2-2; Tigres and Volta Redonda drew 2-2; and Vasco beat Mesquita 2-1.

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