Bayern overpower resilient Mainz 2-1 to extend lead in Bundesliga

Front runners Bayern Munich turned the tides against Mainz and benefitted on Borussia Dortmund's stalemate to increase their advantage in Germany's top-flight to six points following the 15th round on Saturday, reported Xinhua.

The visitors staged a courageous performance as they pressed aggressively and defended very well against Bavarians who could only work out half chances through Alphonso Davies in the opening stages.

Mainz grew into the clash as the game clock ticked and stunned the German giants in the 22nd minute when Jonathan Burkhardt's cross allowed Karim Onisiwo to nod home the opener at the far post.

The "Nullfunfer" were able to keep Bayern at arm length but still Thomas Muller and Kingsley Coman came close in the closing period of the first half.

Bayern eventually restored parity in the 53rd minute after Corentin Tolisso's defence-splitting pass fed Coman, who kept his cool and and finished the job after nutmegging Mainz goalkeeper Robin Zentner from inside the box.

The German record champions gained momentum and pressed Bo Svensson's men into their territory.

Bayern's dominance paid off with 74 minutes gone as Benjamin Pavard squared to Jamal Musiala, who danced through Mainz' defence before drilling the ball into the bottom left corner to complete the comeback.

Mainz responded well but couldn't do more damage as Bayern's defence stood firm to secure the third straight win in the league.

"We couldn't keep up the pace throughout the game. In the second half ceased attacks and Bayern can of course take advantage of that," Mainz striker Onisiwo said.

With the result, front runners Bayern Munich establish out a six-point gap while Mainz slump to the 8th spot.

Elsewhere, runner up Borussia Dortmund suffered a setback in the title race after sharing the spoils with newly promoted Bochum as Julian Brandt's 1-1 equalizer came too late.

Hoffenheim clinched its fourth win in row and climbed on the 4th spot as Chris Richard's last-gasp 2-1 winner flabbergasted Freiburg.

Leipzig returned to winning ways and ensured new coach Domenico Tedesco a successful debut after easing 4-1 past Borussia Monchengladbach and Hertha beat bottom side Arminia Bielefeld 2-0.