Slomka thanks luck

Hannover has drawn more than any other side in the Bundesliga this season with half of the results prior to ending all square.

Nurnberg came close to levelling in the second half, but Slomka was delighted to get three points rather than just one for a change.

"It was a game in which we can be pleased to have kept the three points in the end," he said on his club's website.

"We are the lucky winners, but we are also happy with the victory.

"With this win, we have managed to remain in the top half of the table and keep up the pressure on those above us."

Hannover had drawn its previous five Bundesliga matches and have not won in 96 days prior to the win at the Niedersachsenstadion.

"After so many games without a win and the many draws, it was important to get three points again," added Slomka.

"It was a battle on a knife edge for 90 minutes and beyond."

Nurnberg coach Dieter Hecking admitted his side had thrown away its chance by boycotting the first half of the game.

"We needed a full half to get going," he said.

"Hannover dictated the game in the first half and we were chasing shadows, and we were punished for it.

"It is a frustrating defeat, but bearing in mind the first half, it is fair."