Mainz 1-1 Hertha
Goals: 0-1 Tousart 30' (assist: Ejuke), 1-1 Caci (90'+4)

Mainz went into the game knowing a win would lift them to third overnight, but a resurgent Hertha side refused to let them have things their own way. Having beaten Augsburg and drawn with Bayer Leverkusen in recent weeks, the Old Lady began on the front foot and frequently ventured into opposition territory. A tight game without any real chances sparked into life shortly before the half-hour mark when Chidera Ejuke arrowed a long-range strike just wide of the post. The 24-year-old was involved again moments later when he floated a cross from the left into the middle for Tousart to finish with a powerful header.

The home side showed greater attacking intent after the interval, with Suliman Mustapha replacing Angelo Fulgini, but they continued to feel the absence of injured star striker Jonathan Burkardt's nose for goal in the final third. Leandro Barreiro forced a save with a header from a corner with Mainz's first goal attempt of the game, while Karim Onisiwo delivered a teasing ball into the box that just needed a finishing touch. Mainz applied considerable pressure as they sought an equaliser in the closing stages and were rewarded for their perseverance in added time when Caci popped up at the back post to volley in a loose header and salvage a point for his side.

M05 Mainz 1. FSV Mainz 05 - BSC Hertha BSC Hertha BSC

Mainz snatch last-gasp draw against Hertha