Pakistan draw with China
Three-time former champions Pakistan pulled off a face-saving 1-1 draw with China with just 40 seconds remaining in their opening Asia Cup tie at the Kuantan Hockey Stadium here Saturday.
The Chinese, who had beaten Pakistan 3-2 in the last Asia Cup in 2007 in Chennai, took the lead in the 61st minute through Hu Hui Ren.
China were coasting to another upset when a last-minute goalmouth melee allowed the Pakistanis to secure a precious point.
The move in the 70th minute saw Akhtar Ali scoring from close range when the Chinese defenders failed to clear in their semi-circle.
The match proved to be an anti-climax as the Pakistanis, with the return of four highly experienced players, were expected to dominate and collect full points.
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