Mainz momentum proves enough

By Mark Bennett

Goals from Benjamin Auer and Christof Babatz earned 1. FSV Mainz 05 a fine 2-0 win, although an outstanding display from Keflavík goalkeeper Ómar Jóhannsson prevented the German side effectively settling their UEFA Cup second qualifying round tie this evening.

Safe hands
The Bundesliga side dominated throughout and took an early lead when Auer struck on ten minutes. But Ómar Jóhannsson subsequently produced an exceptional performance to frustrate the hosts with countless brilliant saves until Michael Jóhannsson brought down Petr Ruman in the area 19 minutes from time and Babatz doubled the lead from the spot.

Auer strikes early
The home side immediately took charge of the match and their constant pressure was rewarded on ten minutes when Benjamin Weigelt sent in an excellent cross from the left and Auer notched his third goal of this season's competition with a powerful header. However, despite creating further chances Mainz failed to extend their advantage mainly because of Ómar Jóhannsson, who made one save after another, denying Auer, Fabian Gerber and Antonio da Silva in turn.

Wache save
With 22 minutes remaining the Icelandic visitors almost made the Bundesliga side pay for their failure to add to their advantage. Gudmundur Steinarsson's shot from 21 metres took a deflection off Nikolce Noveski, but Mainz goalkeeper Dimo Wache managed to push the ball on to the post before calmly gathering the rebound.

Babatz conversion
Only three minutes later the visitors left themselves with it all to do in the return leg on 25 August. Michael Jóhannsson brought Ruman down in the area, which earned the defender a booking and midfield player Babatz made no mistake from the penalty spot. The hosts had further chances, but Ómar Jóhannsson refused to give away another goal – but Mainz will none the less feel confident of progressing to the first round.