Andreas Wolf's first-half equaliser salvaged a draw for Nurnberg against Wolfsburg and moved them into the UEFA Cup zone.

Aussie Michael Beauchamp came off in the 57th minute, while Matthew Spiranovic enjoyed his first full game for Nuremberg.

With 25 minutes gone, Ivan Saenko's corner evaded everyone and found defender Wolf unmarked in the box to head home from close range.

The goal came as quick relief for the Nurnberg fans, who had been stunned into silence after midfielder Jacek Krzynowek had given Wolfsburg the lead after 17 minutes.

Nurnberg midfielder Marco Engelhardt's poor pass was intercepted by Brazilian Marcelinho and he crossed for Krzynowek, who produced a fine finish.

In truth the draw was a fair result in a fairly poor game with few chances.

With Nurnberg gunning for a UEFA Cup place and Wolfsburg still not mathematically safe from relegation, neither side seemed prepared to commit men after the game got to 1-1.

However, Wolfsburg began to dominate after the break and with Krzynowek a constant threat to his former employers.

In the 73rd minute, Wolfsburg substitute Kamani Hill had a good chance to put the visitors back in front, but he shot wide after finding space on the right side of the box.

That chance seemed to wake up the hosts and former PSV Eindhoven striker Gerald Sibon could have snatched it with five minutes left.

After making space for a shot on his left foot, he dwelled on the ball too long and allowed Dutch defender Kevin Hofland to intercept.

Both sides welcomed the draw at the final whistle and Nurnberg moved a point ahead of Bayer Leverkusen into the UEFA Cup places in fifth.

However, Leverkusen will be able to move back above Nurnberg should they beat Energie Cottbus on Sunday.

Wolfsburg are still in danger of relegation and are only three points above the relegation zone, with three games left to play.