Berlin, Sep 14 (IANS): Christian Gentner's match-winning header smoothed the way for Stuttgart's second straight win against the hosts to open the fifth round of Bundesliga.

Berlin caught the better start on home soil while Stuttgart were incapable to stage any offensive actions.

The hosts dictated the pace as they were in possession most of the time but for all that, they were unable to overcome Stuttgart's bulwark here Friday, reports Xinhua.

Berlin's helplessness initiated Stuttgart's offence as they recorded the first chance when goalkeeper Thomas Kraft denied Gentner's header five minutes before the break.

Gentner cut a better figure in the second half with Stuttgart's second chance when he utilised a corner by Alexandru Maxim to nod home from the near post in the 49th minute.

Berlin remained unimpressed by Stuttgart's opener as Per Skjelbred and Hajime Hosogai tested goalkeeper Sven Ulreich from close range.

It was a one sided affair as the hosts started a run on Stuttgart's goal to press the Swabians into defence.

However, goalkeeper Sven Ulreich seemed invincible as he saved another dangerous effort on target by John Anthony Brooks.

As a consequence, Berlin suffered their second loss of the season owing to their poor chance conversion. Meanwhile, Stuttgart wrapped the second win in row after three winless matches.