Rukavytsya, who played a key role in Hertha's promotion from 2.Bundesliga last term but has struggled for opportunities this season, netted on 86 minutes after entering the fray five minutes earlier.

With Hertha leading 2-0, Rukavytsya broke in behind the Essen defence to receive Adrian Ramos' clever pass, with the Australian taking a touch before poking the ball past Dennis Lamczyk and into the back of the net.

The goal should be a boost for Rukavytsya's first-team hopes having made only six substitute's appearances this term.

Elsewhere, Tim Cahill put in a full shift in midfield as Everton bowed out of the Carling Cup after an extra-time 2-1 loss to Chelsea.

Cahill had done brilliantly to win a flick which put Louis Saha in before Chelsea keeper Ross Turnbull hauled him down, earning the Toffees a second-half penalty which was missed by Leighton Baines.

The Australian, who had a poor first-half along with many of his team-mates as they trailed 1-0 at the break, also put a header wide minutes later.

Saha levelled the match on 83 minutes, before Daniel Sturridge hit the winner in extra-time.