Australian tour starts well for Italy

Australia 2-2 Italy
UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2009™ finals contenders Italy twice came from behind to earn a friendly draw in Parramatta with goals from Pamela Conti and Alessia Tuttino.

Superb finish
After an even first half, with defences dominating, Australia edged ahead eight minutes after the restart through Lisa De Vanna, but the Azzurre were back on terms within four minutes as Conti dribbled round the Australia goalkeeper to score. Cheryl Salisbury converted a 65th-minute penalty to restore the home side's lead, but a great Tuttino shot from outside the area restored parity again. Italy coach Pietro Ghedin said: "We played a good game against a physically strong side. We always tried to respond to their attacks. Despite the heat and the jet-leg, we showed great maturity." Italy will play an all-star side from the Australian league in an unofficial friendly game on 4 February.