KUNMING, China (AFP) - Shao Jiayi had a late penalty saved as China drew 0-0 with Australia despite a furious second-half onslaught in Asian World Cup qualifying here on Wednesday,

Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer dived low and to his left in the 87th minute to block Shao's shot as Australia escaped with a point to remain top of Group 1, the region's so-called "Group of Death."

The tie had loomed as a difficult one for the visitors after China's decision to play at 1,900 metres (6,233 feet) and in the afternoon heat.

Australia were also missing key personnel Tim Cahill, Josh Kennedy, Mile Sterjovski and Brett Emerton, who were sidelined through injury.

After a quiet opening period, China came out firing for the second half and tested Schwarzer with striker Zhu Ting's header.

Shandong Luneng Han Peng fluffed a clear scoring chance soon after, disappointing 32,500 fans at Tuodong Stadium.

In the dying minutes, Schwarzer brought down Qu Bo in the box as his heroics appeared to have come to nought.

But Energie Cottbus midfielder Shao, under intense pressure to earn China's first win, shot tamely.

Australia's best chance had been a Mark Bresciano volley which was saved at full stretch by China's Zong Lei in the first half. Zhu could have had two in the first half but missed left and was then smothered by the busy Schwarzer.

Australia stay provisionally top of Group 1 after beating Qatar 3-0 in their opening match, while China earn their first point following their draw with Iraq. Qatar and Iraq play later.