Created on 01-10-2011 at 00:00 AM
Manuel Neuer passed the 1,000 minute mark without conceding, but Bayern’s run of ten wins on the trot came to an end in a goalless draw away to a strong Hoffenheim side on Saturday. It was in truth a good point for Munich, who were pushed all the way by the home side but still survived a stern test of their credentials in the wake of an energy-sapping Champions League win in midweek.
The 30,150 full house at the Rhein-Neckar-Arena saw the league leaders create the opening chance of the match, but FCB spent the rest of the first half keeping their lively opponents at bay, as Jupp Heynckes’ men were forced onto the back foot for almost the first time this season. There were opportunities for both sides in an evenly-matched second half, although the visitors tightened up considerably compared to the first period and were ultimately well worth their eleventh clean sheet on the bounce, even if the forward line looked a shade blunt on the day.
The result means FCB move onto 19 points from eight games and retain the lead in the Bundesliga standings, although Bremen can move level at the top if they beat Hannover on Sunday. In the absence of domestic football for the next two weeks, the Bavarians are not in action again until Saturday 15 October, when they entertain promoted Hertha Berlin in the Bundesliga.