Newman leads Middlesex response at Northants

Scott Newman's 95, his highest total of the season, gave Middlesex the momentum on day two of their Division Two clash with promotion rivals Northants.

Earlier, resuming on 145-3, Northants were bowled out for 276 as young opener Robert Newton hit a career-best 113, his first century of the season.

Corey Collymore claimed 3-55 as they made just 50 runs for the loss of four wickets after lunch.

Middlesex closed on 149-2, with Newman's innings including 18 fours.

He fell five runs short of a century when he was caught behind by Northants wicketkeeper David Murphy off James Middlebrook.

Newton's previous best total was 102, his only other first-class century, against Leicestershire in the final game of last season.

CLOSE OF PLAY SUMMARY

BBC London 94.9's Kevin Hand:

"Middlesex bowled with discipline to restrict the hosts to 276. There were signs of some inconsistent bounce once again but that has yet to play a major part in the match.

"The wickets were shared amongst the Middlesex seamers, who had to work hard, and Northants will be frustrated that they couldn't get a serious partnership going to boost the first innings.

"Rob Newton batted positively for his century and without his runs it would have been a disastrous innings for his side.

"The Middlesex openers looked to have put their team in a very strong position but both fell with the score on 143 just before the close to open up the chance of a fight-back from the hosts on the third day."