Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin have been knocked out in the second round of the DFB-Pokal, losing 4-2 on penalties to third-tier side Arminia Bielefeld at the SchucoArena this evening.
Thomas Kraft came under pressure early on in the Hertha goal as Fabian Klos and Tom Schutz both got forward for the hosts, but the keeper made a double save to keep the sides level.
The hosts, who currently sit at the top of the third tier, continued their bright spell as a cross in from the left flank fell to Julian Borner, but the defender's header was blocked on the line.
Salomon Kalou had the best of the chances in the first half for the visitors, but his header was deflected behind for a corner.
As the match progressed, Hertha tried to force a goal from distance with Jens Hegeler's effort from 30 yards out, but the drive failed to trouble Alexander Schwolow.
Chances remained scarce in extra time, with Ronny coming closest to finally breaking the deadlock when he sliced the ball wide from distance.
With the match going to penalties, it was the Bundesliga side who got the early advantage when Stephan Salger saw his spot kick saved.
However, they were unable to keep themselves in front as Julian Schieber failed to find the back of the net with the third penalty, leaving the sides level at 2-2.
Sandro Wagner stepped up to try to keep the visitors in contention, but his effort was kept out, leaving Marc Lorenz to smash home the winner for Bielefeld.
Sian Cowper
