Chinese Super League wrap: Defending champions held

Chengdu Blades came from behind to draw 3-3 against defending champions Shandong Luneng as the Chinese Super League season began on Friday.

The Blades had their Australian contingent to thank as they fought back three times throughout the course of the match.

Hosts Shandong led from the first minute through Han Peng, before Chengdu levelled through former Sydney forward Brendan Santalab in the 11th minute.

Midfielder Wang Yongpo restored Shandong’s shortly before the break, but Santalab was again on hand to level on 65 minutes.

Just three minutes later, Brazilian striker Obina made it 3-2 to Shandong and the champions looked to set to hold on for an opening-round victory.

But Adam Kwasnik – on-loan from A-League grand finalists Central Coast Mariners – notched a 79th-minute equaliser to grab a point for Chengdu in their first outing under new coach Lawrie McKinna.

In other matches, Qingdao Jonoon also came from behind three times to draw 3-3 at Shanghai Shenhua.

Argentine Luis Salmeron struck a brace for Shanghai, but his goals were cancelled out by efforts from Brazilians Eber and Leo San.

Colombian Duvier Riascos put Shanghai back in front on 70 minutes and they held the lead until the 90th minute, when Zou Zheng levelled to snatch a draw for the visitors.

Serbian defender Marko Zoric was on target for Tianjin Teda in a 1-0 win at home to Shenzhen Ruby.

Goals from Uruguayan Paulo Pezzolano and Honduran Luis Ramirez helped Hangzhou Lucheng defeat visitors Nanchang Bayi 2-0.