Javier Hernandez struck in the second half to end Bayer Leverkusen's winless run and secure a 1-0 victory over Mainz 05 in the Bundesliga clash at Bay Arena this evening.
Leverkusen had lost their last three in the league without scoring in that time, but Hernandez fired wide in the opening stages as the hosts immediately took the initiative.
Top scorer Hakan Calhanoglu came close to an opener when he was denied by Loris Karius, before Wendell had the best chance of the first half after 24 minutes when he drilled just wide from the edge of the penalty area.
Yunus Malli, who hit a hat-trick for Mainz in their 3-1 win over Hoffenheim on Friday, came close to a fourth goal when Leverkusen goalkeeper Bernd Leno saved well from the winger's drive shortly after the hour mark.
However, within seven minutes the hosts found the decisive blow when Hernandez picked up Giulio Donati's headed pass to drive home from 20 yards.
The striker was replaced by Stefan Kiessling shortly after scoring, and the substitute almost made an immediate impact when he hit the post from close range with 15 minutes to play.
However, Hernandez's second goal since arriving in Germany proved to be enough to secure three points for Leverkusen.
Tom Nightingale
