# Hertha BSC Draw with Mainz Jovetić Scores, Then Mainz Equalizes
A thrilling encounter between Hertha BSC and Mainz ended in a draw on Sunday, with both teams sharing the spoils after a dramatic match at the Olympiastadion. The game saw a late equalizer from Mainz, cancelling out Jovetić’s early goal for Hertha.
The match started with both teams looking to impose their style, but it was Hertha who took the lead first. Jovetić, the Serbian striker, capitalized on a defensive error by Mainz in the 15th minute, slotting the ball into the bottom corner. Hertha dominated possession in the first half, but their pressure didn’t translate into a second goal. Mainz, despite their defensive struggles, stayed in the game and refused to back down.
The second half saw Mainz grow into the contest. Their persistence paid off in the 77th minute when young striker Dejan Ljubičić, who had been a constant threat, fired a low shot past Hertha’s goalkeeper. The goal sent the away fans into raptures and brought the game level. Despite Hertha’s late efforts to find a winner, Mainz held firm and secured a crucial point.
# Key Moments of the Match
- **Jovetić’s Early Goal (15th minute):** Hertha’s star striker opened the scoring with a well-taken goal, but Mainz responded well.
- **Mainz’s Equalizer (77th minute):** Dejan Ljubičić’s clinical finish brought the game back to 1-1, much to the delight of the visiting fans.
# Player Performance
- **Jovetić (Hertha BSC):** The Serbian forward was instrumental in the first half, creating chances and scoring the opening goal. His pace and composure were key to Hertha’s early dominance.
- **Dejan Ljubičić (Mainz):** The 19-year-old striker showed maturity beyond his years, capitalizing on Mainz’s counter-attacks to level the score. His goal was a highlight moment of the match.
Both teams will take pride in their performances, but Mainz will be particularly pleased with their resilience after falling behind early. Hertha, meanwhile, will be frustrated not to convert their pressure into a win.
# Conclusion
The draw was a fair result for both sides, with neither team doing enough to secure all three points. Hertha will need to improve defensively if they are to challenge for a top-four finish this season, while Mainz will take confidence from their late equalizer as they aim to climb the standings. Fans of both clubs will look forward to the next encounter between these two historically competitive teams.