Schalke 04 and Mainz 05 have played out a goalless draw in their Bundesliga match at the Veltins-Arena.
After an even start, it was Mainz who almost broke the deadlock with just over 10 minutes played. Stefan Bell connected with a corner in front of the near post, but his effort went wide.
Jefferson Farfan then hit a shot wide from a tight angle following Maximilian Meyer's assist.
The first half ended with both sides going close. Shinji Okazaki got in behind for the visitors, but was unable to make the most of the chance. Meyer then cut the ball back from the byline to Farfan, who took a touch before seeing his shot deflected narrowly wide.
The start of the second half was similar to the first, with neither side able to take control of the match.
However, Schalke should have broken the deadlock with 52 minutes on the clock. Loris Karius's clearance went straight to Meyer, but the goalkeeper recovered well to block the shot.
Mainz defender Bell also blasted high over the bar when unmarked in the box. Kevin-Prince Boateng then headed wide for the hosts in the closing stages.
Gary Peters
