Schwarzer saves point for Socceroos
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Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer has cleaned up a mess that he created by saving a penalty in the 89th minute to ensure a 0-0 draw against China in Kunming.
Coming in on disastrous preparation and facing difficult high-altitude conditions, the Socceroos proved their world pedigree by more than matching it with the Chinese. Just moments after Schwarzer’s save, David Carney missed a golden opportunity from inside the box to ram a stake into the hearts of the already deflated hosts.
As if Australia’s lead up - which included the late withdrawl of Harry Kewell - hadn’t been troubled enough, striker Archie Thompson left the game after eight minutes after Shuai Zhang illegally brought him down. Despite the setback, the Socceroos created the best chance of the first half, when Marco Bresciano was open in the box, however his shot was rushed.
The visitors were expected to wilt in the second half, and while Schwarzer was kept busy, Australia more than held their own.
The moment of the match came with two minutes left in regulation, when Schwarzer brought down substitute Bo Qu, when attempting to fall on the ball. Schwarzer did claim possession, but Bo fell awkwardly. Jiayi Shao went down the middle with his penalty, however the ball struck Schwarzer’s legs, leading to the miraculous save.
The result leaves Australia on top of the group, with four points from two matches. Qatar plays Iraq tomorrow morning.
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