Somerset fight back on second day against Middlesex

Somerset moved into a strong position after a fascinating second day in their Division One clash against Middlesex.

After a rain-hit first day, Middlesex began on 118-4 with Joe Denly unbeaten on 64, although he could only add nine more before falling to Steve Kirby.

Tim Murtagh's 45 off 44 balls helped the visitors to 246, Somerset's Vernon Philander ending with 5-43.

Nick Compton (58no), Craig Kieswetter (50no) and Marcus Trescothick (47) saw the hosts end well placed on 202-3.

VIEW FROM THE COMMENTARY BOX:

BBC London 94.9's Kevin Hand:

"Somerset have the clear advantage at the end of the second day but it could have been a lot worse for Middlesex who bailed themselves out of a sticky position in the morning session.

"At 150-7, they were a long way short of a respectable score, even in the early season conditions. However, Somerset are well placed to make the visitors' eventual total of 246 look small.

"Middlesex were far from convincing with the ball, fighting back from a poor start to have their hosts three down at tea, but a patient partnership between Compton and Kieswetter has paid off and Somerset are poised to claim a sizeable first-innings advantage.

"The new ball will be available an hour into the third morning but Middlesex must make at least a couple of early breakthroughs prior to that to keep Somerset in sight."