Nuremberg have defeated Schalke 3-0 at home in the Bundesliga.

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Alexander Esswein drew the first save of the game after 10 minutes when he tested Timo Hildebrand from outside the Schalke box, before Jefferson Farfan and Julian Draxler went close for the away side in quick succession.

The Royal Blues continued to dominate proceedings at the Grundig-Stadion, but slipped behind just after the half-hour mark.

Tomas Pekhart released Markus Feulner inside the Schalke penalty area to shoot home with his left foot to give Nuremberg the lead.

Per Nilsson could have made it 2-0 to the hosts on the stroke of half time had Hildebrand not kept out his attempt from inside the box.

Schalke made a positive start to the second half and despite dominating proceedings once again failed to make their chances count.

That gave the initiative to Nuremberg, who doubled their advantage on 69 minutes when Alexander Esswein shot home from outside the Schalke box.

Mike Frantz wrapped up for the points for the hosts three minutes from full time with a left-footed shot from the left side of the area.