An early goal by Hockeyroos captain Madonna Blyth and another by Jodie Kenny seconds before the halftime siren helped the Australian women secure a 2-2 draw with China in their second pool match of the Hawke's Bay Cup.
The Hockeyroos opened up the scoring after just four minutes when Emily Smith picked up the ball at the top of the circle, shooting on goal before Blyth got the last touch.
Yang Peng scored the equaliser for China at the 26th minute mark after netting her drag flick off the back of a penalty corner.
Just before the break the Hockeyroos worked themselves a critical penalty corner opportunity to break away from China.
Jodie Kenny pulled off a classy drag flick to the top left of the net, pushing the Hockeyroos to a 2-1 advantage.
After a quick turnaround, Xiayun Xi took advantage of an opportunity in a one-on-one situation with the Australian goalkeeper Ashlee Wells after the Hockeyroos were caught off guard in the 35th minute.
XI netted China's second goal to again deadlock the scores at 2-2.
In the final 10 minutes of play, the Hockeyroos looked to convert their attacking opportunities to break the deadlock with China, however they were unsuccessful in penetrating their robust defence.
Hockeyroos coach Adam Commens conceded that his side had failed to improve after an opening match draw with the US.
"I thought it was a really disappointing performance today and I think we didn't take a step forward, we took a step back. Our ball handling through the middle and the front was poor. We definitely need to be a lot better as we progress through the tournament if we want to be successful," he said.
Australia play India on Tuesday.
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