Hertha Berlin claimed a 1-0 victory over Bochum in the opening round of the Second Bundesliga on Friday evening. S. Gronning's 39th-minute goal proved sufficient as the leaders held firm against the hosts. The result keeps Hertha top of the table with a perfect record from four games.
Match events
Hertha took the lead just before half-time when Gronning got over the line from close range. Bochum responded with changes at the break, bringing on J. Mbom for the second half. The hosts created two big chances but failed to convert, while Hertha's goalkeeper made three saves to keep his side ahead.
Discipline became an issue as the match progressed. P. Seguin and J. Brekalo picked up bookings for Hertha, while M. Wittek, P. Hofmann and D. Zeefuik went into the referee's book for the hosts. Bochum made four substitutions, with K. Miyoshi and A. Crimaldi among those introduced, but could not find an equaliser.
Bochum dominated possession with 56 per cent of the ball and registered 81 attacks compared to Hertha's 68. The home side took 14 shots, three on target, and recorded an expected goals figure of 1.16. Hertha managed only two shots on target from 11 attempts, with expected goals sitting at 0.74.
The statistics tell a story of misplaced opportunities. Bochum created more chances but their 23 per cent shot accuracy meant several attempts went astray. Hertha, with fewer attacks, were more clinical in their approach and took the single chance they needed.
The result extends Hertha's winning run to four matches, putting them 12 points from the bottom of the table. Bochum remain sixth after two wins and two defeats, and will look to improve their record away from home next time out.