Robbie Joseph took three wickets in four balls for no runs as Kent closed in on victory over visiting Lancashire.

Kent had declared on 317-4, setting Lancashire a target of 476 thanks to a century stand between Joe Denly and Martin van Jaarsveld.

Lancashire then crashed to 17-3, with Joseph taking the wickets of Mal Loye, Paul Horton and Francois du Plessis.

A fourth wicket stand of 125 between Mark Chilton and Steven Croft settled Lancashire as they ended the day 161-4.

But the visitors will face an uphill battle to see out the fourth and final day at Canterbury.

Denly was in inspired form with the bat and Kent can be thankful to their opener for helping set up victory.

He secured his second championship century of the season, off 192, balls after resuming the day on 53.

At lunch he was on 118 with 12 fours but was caught at backward point without adding to his score. His innings had spanned four and a quarter hours.