Mainz, Union Berlin draw 1-1 in Bundesliga lowlands

Mainz failed to get a lifeline in their fight against Bundesliga relegation when they were held 1-1 by fellow strugglers Union Berlin on Wednesday, reported dpa.

Jonathan Burkardt gave Mainz the lead into the far corner but Union levelled five minutes later from Germany defender Robin Gosens on a rainy night.

Both goals came deep into almost 15 minutes of first half stoppage time, caused by a lengthy interruption after fans had thrown tennis balls onto the pitch in ongoing protests against German Football League plans to bring in a strategic partner.

Union's Kevin Volland hit the crossbar and post in the first half. Mainz failed to get the ball over the line in two big goalmouth scrambles, and Karim Onisiwo incredibly headed wide from point blank range in the second half.

Mainz missed a second season win and remain second last, three points behind Cologne who occupy the play-off spot in 16th. Union in 15th are three points ahead of Cologne.

The game was originally scheduled for January 19 but fell victim to winter weather and was re-arranged.