Was it the date? Following an unbeaten streak that lasted for ages, Hertha BSC lost their first home match in more than one year on Friday, the 13th. The team from Stuttgart, runners-up in the DFB Cup claimed victory and three points at the Olympiastadion Berlin. 

However, Hertha BSC was the better team. Dominating the first half, almost rolling over the opposition. Football can be cruel though. Too often, not scoring a goal leads to conceeding one on the other end. The guests from Stuttgart were able to adjust and find Hertha’s weakness in defense.

Hertha’s goalkeeper Thomas Kraft showed one great save after another, but did not stand a chance on a header by Christian Gentner shortly after the break.

Berlin did not let up however, and kept the pressure on Stuttgart’s goal. Their keeper Ulreich turned in a world class performance, holding on for Stuttgart’s first win under new coach Schneider. Hertha BSC now hope to rebound in their next home match in 14 days, when FSV Mainz 05, currently in fifth place, visit the Olympiastadion Berlin.