Agencies
Mainz
Mainz returned to their winning ways by beating Augsburg 2-0 via goals from Levin Oeztunali and Jairo Samperio Bustara in the 20th round opener of the German football league here.
Augsburg's two-game winning streak came to an end on Friday while Mainz recorded their first victory in 2017, reports Xinhua.
Mainz took the reins from the kick-off and worked out the first opportunity of the encounter through Jhon Cordoba, who tested Augsburg goalkeeper Marwin Hitz in the 16th minute.
Augsburg needed some time to grab a foothold into the game when Daniel Baier created the first note worthy chance for the visitors with 24 minutes into the game.
However, Mainz remained in control of the proceedings and were rewarded 31 minutes into the game as Oeztunali completed a fast break, which started from the other end of the pitch, to break the deadlock by a header from close range.
After the restart, both teams neutralised most offensive actions within the midfield. Hence, goal-scoring opportunities remained a rare occurrence in the second half.
Mainz sealed the deal in the 62nd minute as Augsburg goalkeeper Marwin Hitz brought down Cordoba inside the box to cause a foul play penalty. Jairo Samperio Bustara stepped up and converted from the spot into the centre of the goal to make it 2-0.
The "Nullfuenfer" retracted with their two-goal advantage while the "Fuggerstaedter" lacked in penetration and ideas to make any chance.
With the seventh win of the season, Mainz jumped to the ninth place, while Augsburg slumped to the 11th in the standings after suffering their eighth loss of the campaign.
