2. BL: Comeback kid Kownacki claims all three points for Hertha

Hertha left the Holstein-Stadion with a hard-fought 1-0 win on Saturday afternoon.

Dawid Kownacki’s strike 15 minutes from time proved decisive, securing another important three points for Die Alte Dame as they extended their winning run – and their clean-sheet streak – to five league matches.

The game burst into life inside the opening quarter of an hour. Hertha survived a scare when Kennet Eichhorn’s yellow card was checked by VAR for a possible red, before Kiel ramped up the pressure moments later. Alexander Bernhardsson went closest for the hosts with an ambitious effort from around 45 yards that drifted narrowly wide as Tjark Ernst scrambled back.

Hertha responded with a promising spell of their own, carving out a double chance. Fabian Reese whipped a dangerous ball into the box, Luca Schuler saw his effort blocked on the line, and Paul Seguin was twice denied by last-ditch defending. After that frantic start, the match settled down, and the sides went into the break level – not before Deyovaisio Zeefuik picked up a yellow for the visitors.

The second half developed into a physical battle, with yellow cards shown on both sides as neither team managed to take control. Chances were scarce, limited mostly to set pieces and hopeful efforts from distance.

The breakthrough finally arrived 15 minutes from time. Kownacki – making his first appearance in two months – ghosted in at the back post to nod home a pinpoint Reese cross, giving Hertha the lead with the first real opportunity of the half. Kiel threw on fresh legs in search of a response, but Hertha stood firm, defending their slender advantage to claim all three points.

Another excellent win for Hertha lifts them up to fifth place, while a toothless attacking display leaves Kiel with back-to-back defeats and sitting 12th in the table.