BERLIN (Reuters):

LEADERS SCHALKE 04 won 3-0 at relegation candidates Mainz yesterday to take another confident step towards a first Bundesliga title.

Kevin Kuranyi headed Schalke in front in the 10th minute and Gerald Asamoah added the second 11 minutes before the break.

Brazilian Lincoln, returning from a five-match suspension, chipped the keeper from outside the area in the 71st minute to seal victory.

It took them four points clear at the top Werder Bremen can cut the deficit by winning at Borussia Dortmund today.

Schalke, one of Germany's best supported clubs, have never won the title since the Bundesliga began in 1963. The last time they won the German league championship was in the old amateur days in 1958 when the crown was decided by a playoff.

Mirko Slomka's side have 59 points from 29 games. VfB Stuttgart moved up to second on 55 by winning 2-1 at home to Hanover 96.

Werder are third with 54 from 28 games, with Bayern Munich fourth on 50.

Bayern, champions for the past two seasons but in danger of missing out on a Champions League place next term, host Bayer Leverkusen today.

Schalke were given a great start against Mainz when Kuranyi took advantage of a slice of luck to get their first goal.

Kuranyi, recently recalled by Germany and brimming with confidence, attempted to control a long ball forward from Marcelo Bordon on his chest.

He partly succeeded, with the ball bouncing off a defender a couple of times before dropping to the striker's feet to sweep home.

Kuranyi also played a big part in the second, heading the ball back across goal for Asamoah to tap in from a few metres.

Schalke were happy to take things easy for the rest of a game played on a blisteringly hot day.

The third goal arrived after a swift break. As Mainz pressed forward, Kuranyi set Lincoln on a run forward and the Brazilian beat the keeper with a deft chip from well outside the box.