Cahill saves Australia's blushes against Oman

BANGKOK, July 8 (Reuters) Tim Cahill scored in stoppage time to earn Australia a 1-1 draw against Oman in their opening Asian Cup match today.

Cahill saved Australia's blushes when he slammed the ball into the back of the net after Oman had threatened to pull off a major upset against the tournament favourites.

Oman, who are 26 places below Australia in the world rankings, led for almost an hour after Badar Mubarak had capitalised on some sloppy Australian defending to score in the first half.

Oman missed another three clear scoring chances in the second half before Australia's late equaliser left all four teams level in Group A following Thailand's 1-1 draw with Iraq yesterday.

REUTERS BJR PM1812