Udal's late wickets put Middlesex within sight of victory

Middlesex are within sight of their first championship victory of the season after reducing Essex to 123-5 chasing 299 to win at Chelmsford.

Alastair Cook (31) and Jason Gallian (40) gave Essex a good start, but three late wickets from Shaun Udal ensured Middlesex were in charge at stumps.

Earlier, Middlesex were dismissed for 203 in their second innings thanks to David Nash (50) and Tim Murtagh (42).

Tony Palladino (4-29) was the pick of the Essex bowlers.

However, it was Udal's late wicket haul which shifted the advantage in Middlesex's favour.

The former England off-spinner removed Mark Pettini - who bagged a pair in the match - and Tom Westley in quick succession.

And when Ryan ten Doeschate guided Udal to Steven Finn at cover point for 18, Essex were left struggling at 118-5 with Varun Chopra and night-watchman Palladino at the crease.