The Uzbekistanis got off to an excellent start as they were up by two goals within the first ten minutes as the Lions struggled to find their feet.

But midfield enforcer Fahrudin Mustafic pulled a goal back in the 19th minute and Agu Casmir scored a well deserved equalizer in the 91st minute after a Indra Sahdan pass.

“I am generally happy with how the boys played today. We started off very slowly and we conceded two quick goals. But as the game wore on, the team played better and better,” said coach Radojko Avramovic after the game.

“The whole team played well except the first 15 minutes of the game. Our defence played well also. We took the chances that came our way. That was a very positive sign as we look forward to Iran next week,” added Avramovic.

The Lions are at Dubai’s Etisalat Sports Academy for a training camp before they head off to Tehran for their opening Group E encounter in the AFC Asian Cup 2011 qualifiers against Iran on 14 January.

All the players got a run out against the Uzbeks except for Muhd Ridhuan, who twisted his ankle in training on Wednesday and is doubtful for the game against the Iranians.

“This was a good game for us as Pakhtakor is a good team. They have some players who play for the Uzbekistan national team and they compete in the Asian Champions League regularly.

“Other than Ridhuan all the other players are doing well with no injuries. I heard the weather is very, very cold in Iran but the boys should are ready,” mentioned Avramovic as he looked forward to the game against Iran.