Schalke shines with opening win over Hertha
Schalke got off to a winning start as its new 2. Bundesliga season began with a 2-1 win over Hertha Berlin at a packed out Veltins Arena.
It was a competitive debut for new Schalke head coach Miron Muslic, having arrived from Plymouth Argyle, and he made an immediate impression with the home fans.
Schalke started with serious intensity and went ahead in the 16th minute when 20-year-old Peter Remmert found Moussa Sylla, who confidently slotted home.
Loris Karius produced an excellent save at the other end to preserve the lead after Deyovaisio Zeefuik headed on target from a corner, but Schalke doubled its lead soon after.
Nikola Katic, a summer signing from FC Zürich, used his head to score on the 23rd minute, showing Hertha how to convert a corner with pure power.
Schalke should have made it three before half-time, but Remmert spooned over from close range after Hertha goalkeeper Tjark Ernst had parried a cross.
Hertha showed more purpose in the second half without reward until the 89th minute, when Marten Winkler delivered a sharp cross for Sebastian Gronning to convert from close range.
There was late drama when Nikola Katic received a second yellow card for handball deep into stoppage-time and sent off, but Schalke's 10 men held on to secure all three points and start the new season on a high note.
