Australia beat China 5-3 on penalties to win gold medal at 2007 International Hockey Tournament in Beijing on Monday.

Australia's goalkeeper Toni Cronk proved to be a hero when she palmed away China's three attempts.

"The match is a tough one. It could be somewhat similar to the games to take place next year at the Olympics," said Australian coach Frank Murray.

Murray added that winning the match could be of a little bit "matter of luck," and Australia's young players showed their competitiveness and got to know Beijing's weather conditions so they could be better prepared for next year's Olympics.

The match ended in a 2-2 draw after regular time and extra time failed to break the deadlock.

Australia grabbed the lead when Madonna Blyth slotted a penalty corner in the 18th minute, ending China's giant-killing feats from the beginning of the match.

China jumped ahead quickly, scoring a penalty corner by Chen Zhaoxia to break the disciplined Australia's defense in the 28th minute.

The second half came alive when China's Song Qingling hammered in a goal in 57th minute, while Australia's Hope Munro equalized the score only two minutes later.

China's coach Kim Chang Back told the post-match press conference that his players played high standard hockey in the game and the experience of playing with strong teams like Australia would be beneficial to preparations for the 2008 Games.

The four-nation tournament, which runs on Aug. 8-13, was being played at the Olympic Green Hockey Field, the same pitch for the hockey event in 2008 Beijing Olympics.

(Xinhua News Agency August 14, 2007)