Prasss spectacular goal propels Hoffenheim to third spot while Leipzig draws with Pauli

A stunning strike from Alexander Prass enabled Hoffenheim to secure a solid 2-0 victory over Werder Bremen on Thursday, strengthening their hold on third position, as RB Leipzig managed only a 1-1 draw late on against St Pauli.

Last seasons strugglers against relegation, Hoffenheim triumphed courtesy of Prasss effort from distance and a finish by Grischa Proemel, even after spending much of the second half reduced to ten men.

The team has now suffered defeat in just one of their last 13 Bundesliga outings and occupies a Champions League qualifying place, trailing Borussia Dortmund by three points.

The figures are not accidental, Proemel commented to DAZN. We maintain high intensity and cover plenty of ground.

Its simple to call it being in good shape, yet theres far more involved.

We discuss the Champions League but recognise its still distant. Consistency is key.

Leipzig appeared headed for success after Yan Diomandes second half strike, yet captain David Raum lost his footing and conceded a penalty in added time, which Martijn Kaars slotted home to earn a share of the spoils.

Its terribly unfortunate for us, though it was indeed a spot kick, said Leipzigs Christoph Baumgartner to DAZN.

He was focused, just a touch of misfortune.

After barely avoiding the drop in the previous term, Hoffenheim dominated Bremen right from the start.

Prass shattered Bremens defence shortly before halftime with a magnificent shot from afar.

The dismissal of Hoffenheims Wouter Burger for a reckless challenge soon after the interval failed to halt their drive.

Merely two minutes post the VAR confirmed red card, Proemel netted from a rebound off a close range Vladimir Coufal delivery.

Bremens faint chances of recovery ended when Romano Schmods intelligent back pass was ruled out for a marginal offside decision.

In Hamburg, Leipzig went ahead at the 66 minute mark as Diomandes ambitious attempt deflected awkwardly into the goal.

This marked Leipzigs initial score at St Paulis Millerntor Stadium across four encounters.

With Leipzig in command and poised to trail Hoffenheim by a single point, Raum stumbled awkwardly, fouling Kaars inside the area.

Though unintentional, the referee awarded the penalty without hesitation. Kaars dispatched it perfectly, securing a crucial point for bottom feeding Pauli and lifting them one above basement dwellers Heidenheim.

Both fixtures were postponed from early January owing to severe winter conditions.

The remaining postponed game, pitting Hamburg against Bayer Leverkusen, is set for early March.