The Chinese women's football team drew 1-1 with North Korea in a friendly warm up match held in the lead up to the Asian Cup.

North Korea had their Chinese hosts on the back foot for most of the match, drawing first blood with a goal 37 minutes into the second half.

Inflamed by the score, the Chinese attacker doubled their efforts but failed to level the field until star striker Ma Xiaoxu saved the day in injury time.

In an impressive display of skill, Ma Xiaoxu passed through three North Korean defenders and the goalie before shooting the ball into the net.

Head coach Ma Liangxing was obviously unhappy with his players show on Tuesday night. Afterwards he said that China's only goal reflected the personal strength of striker Ma Xiaoxu, rather than the strength of the team as a whole. The team still has a long way to go before they work together effectively.
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(CRI English May 31, 2006)