Schalke 04 and Werder Bremen both missed good chances in an entertaining opening 45 minutes which ended goalless at the Veltins Arena.

A fast break from Schalke almost handed them the opening goal inside four minutes, but Max Meyer wasted a good opportunity in the box by hitting a tame effort straight at Raphael Wolf.

Werder looked threatening when they did commit men forward, and only a fine low save from Timon Wellenreuther prevented Franco Di Santo from breaking the deadlock.

Wellenreuther was in action again a few moments later to deny Fin Bartels, who earned space in the box with a clever turn before unleashing a powerful strike.

Tranquillo Barnetta was a regular threat for Schalke on the wing, and an inviting delivery from the Switzerland international almost brought the first goal as Christian Fuchs just missed out on adding the finishing touch at the back post.

Fuchs came close again when he tested Wolf after Meyer and Felix Platte combined to create the opening.