Robinho nets winner in new Santos debut

Robinho marked his return to Santos with a brilliant back-heeled winner in their 2-1 away win over Sao Paulo in the Paulista championship on Sunday.

The Brazil striker, on loan for six months at his first club from Manchester City, came on as a substitute 13 minutes after halftime and with five minutes to go back-heeled Wesley's pass into the net past goalkeeper Rogerio Ceni.

Robinho, back home looking to cement a place in Brazil's World Cup side, had already served notice his skills were undimmed by a disappointing spell at City when his shot following a fine one-two with fellow striker Neymar was saved at full stretch by the keeper.

"I lacked a bit more physical condition and rapport with those kids who play so well but thank God I could score a wee goal," Robinho told reporters.

Neymar put Santos ahead with a penalty in the 38th minute and Sao Paulo equalised nine minutes after Robinho had come on with substitute Roger's first touch, a header, in the "classico" in the Sao Paulo state championship.