Aussies held to 1-1 draw with China | Australian Olympic Committee

Australia have been held to a 1-1 draw against China on Sunday night in the first game of their short tour.

FOOTBALL: Australia have been held to a 1-1 draw against China on Sunday night in the first game of their short tour.

In her 50th match for the national team, midfielder Tameka Butt put Alen Stajcic’s side ahead early on before they were pegged back by Li Dongna’s strike just before the break.

The Matildas, quarter-finalists at the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup, also have a clash against England to come as the side ramps up preparations for their Olympic qualifiers in February next year.

It was a bright start by the Matildas and they were rewarded with a goal on 12 minutes by the impressive Butt.

Michelle Heyman did well down the right, getting to the by-line before cutting it back to an on-rushing Butt to slot it home from about eight yards out.

The Aussies continued to dominate most of the play without being able to increase their advantage.

And they paid the price four minutes before half-time as Li Dongna drew the hosts level with a smart finish.

Stajcic made a host of changes as the second half went on, including handing a debut to Tara Andrews who came on for the last 16 minutes of the match.

Football Federation Australia