Bundesliga: Hannover 1 Hertha Berlin 1

Ronny’s stunning late free-kick helped Hertha Berlin claim a 1-1 Bundesliga draw with Hannover on Friday.

Defender Christian Schulz fired Hannover into an early lead but Ronny’s effort with nine minutes to play earned the visitors a share of the spoils.

The Brazilian midfielder had only been introduced one minute earlier, but made his mark with a fierce 20-yard effort that swerved into the top corner.

Hannover, who had lost three of their last four matches but still sat fourth in the table, took the lead in the 23rd minute thanks to Schulz’s smart strike.

Hertha failed to clear the ball on several occasions and they were made to pay as Hajime Hosogai’s header fell straight to Schulz.

The 30-year-old took a touch before lashing an effort beyond Thomas Kraft to delight the home crowd.

Hertha were much better in the second half, though, and could have levelled proceedings in the 58th minute, only for Anis Ben-Hatira to hit the post from close range.

Marcelo put a cross behind at the other end but it was the visitors who were more threatening, with Gustavo Ramos missing a glorious chance following good build-up work from Per Skjelbred.

Hertha got their deserved equaliser in the 81st minute as Ronny’s immediate impact left goalkeeper Rene Zieler with no chance.

Hannover almost salvaged all three points when Artur Sobiech directed his late header on goal, but Kraft was up to the task, turning the effort over the bar.