Tom Westley brings Essex back in the game against Leics

Tom Westley's highest Championship score of the season brought Essex back into contention against Leicestershire.

The hosts looked in control when they resumed on 323-5 but they could only add 49 before being bowled out for 372, with Essex's David Masters taking 6-82.

Matthew Hoggard dismissed openers Billy Godleman and Alviro Petersen, but Westley (81) and Mark Pettini (57) took the visitors past the follow-on total.

Adam Wheater was out caught behind from the final ball with Essex on 239-5.

They still trail by 133 runs, but the match is a great deal closer than it appeared it would be at the start of Thursday's play.

Masters, who left Leicestershire to join Essex five years ago, claimed his fifth five-wicket haul against his former club since departing Grace Road.