Hertha BSC Berlin 2 - 1 FC Ingolstadt 04: Salomon Kalou helps Hertha Berlin step up push for Champions League place

Posted Sunday, March 20, 2016 by PA

Hertha Berlin kept up their push for a place in next season's Champions League with a 2-1 win at home to Ingolstadt.

Genki Haraguchi and Salomon Kalou scored the goals for Pal Dardai's men, who moved four points clear of fourth-placed Schalke in the Bundesliga.

Lukas Hinterseer scored Ingolstadt's consolation as they remained in mid-table, six points above the drop zone.

The home fans had been on their feet in the fifth minute, but their joy was short-lived as Vedad Ibisevic's header was ruled out for offside.

There was not much else to tear the fans from their seats in a tight first half, although Kalou went close as the half drew to a close, his header hitting the top of the crossbar on its way over.

Hertha took the lead 10 minutes into the second half when Haraguchi volleyed in Marvin Plattenhardt's cross from close range.

Kalou made it 2-0 midway through the second half with Haraguchi this time the provider for the Ivory Coast forward's 13th goal of the season.

Hinterseer nearly brought Ingolstadt back in the game in the 73rd minute, but his shot was blocked. Only two minutes passed before he did score, though, with a header from Almog Cohen's cross.

The guests pushed for an equaliser, but Hertha held firm to cement their third place and move a step closer to a return to Europe next season.