Bundesliga: Werder Bremen claim 2-1 victory over Hoffenheim

Werder Bremen made it two wins from two at the start of 2015 by inflicting a second straight Bundesliga defeat on Hoffenheim on Wednesday night.

Franco Di Santo and Philipp Bargfrede scored the goals in a 2-1 win for Viktor Skripnik's side, who pull away from the relegation zone as a result.

Ermin Bicakcic scored what proved to be only a consolation for Hoffenheim, whose hopes of playing in Europe next season suffered a further setback, particularly with the teams above them all picking up points this midweek.

Di Santo, who netted twice at the weekend on his return to action after an injury lay-off, needed only eight minutes to find the back of the net for the third time in 2015.

Strike partner Davie Selke was the provider, showing a good eye for his team-mate - who did not hesitate as he beat Oliver Baumann from 25 yards.

Kevin Volland tested Bremen goalkeeper Raphael Wolf in the 17th minute as the hosts responded well to falling behind, improving by the minute and getting a deserved equaliser 10 minutes before half-time.

Pirmin Schwegler's corner was headed on by Adam Szalai and Bicakcic was on hand to nod the ball over the line from close range.

Hoffenheim had chances to go in front before half-time, but Wolf pulled off two good saves to keep his side on terms.

The interval came at a good time for the northern Germany side as they were able to free themselves from a spell of Hoffenheim pressure before regaining the lead early in the second half.

Di Santo was involved again, this time as the provider for Bargfrede, whose shot from just inside the area was deflected on its way past Baumann.

Hoffenheim responded as they had done after the opening goal but Bremen were this time better organised in defence and also more dangerous on the counter-attack, Di Santo flashing a shot wide when he could and probably should have delivered an assist for Selke.

It was not to be a costly miss, though, as Bremen held on to move five points clear of the bottom three.