Paul Horton century gives Lancashire handy lead

LV COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION ONE, Chelmsford:
CLOSE OF PLAY, DAY TWO: Essex 176 & 46-2, Lancashire 312
Lancs 6pts Essex 3pts
Match scorecard

Horton hits out at Chelmsford on his way to 123

Paul Horton compiled a watchful 123 as Lancashire built a handy first-innings lead on day two of their clash with Essex at Chelmsford.

Horton shared 130 for the sixth wicket with Steven Croft (56) before becoming the last man out as Lancashire, 83-3 overnight, were bowled out for 312.

David Masters finished with 4-81 and Chris Wright 3-76 as Essex began their second innings 136 behind.

England bowler James Anderson then struck twice as Essex closed on 46-2.

Billy Godleman and John Maunders were the paceman's victims, both trapped leg before, while Anderson's international team-mate Alastair Cook ended the day unbeaten on 29.

Anderson thought he had also claimed the wicket of Jaik Mickleburgh when he was given out caught and bowled by umpire Peter Willey.

But the young batsmen was called back after Willey and fellow umpire Nigel Llong conferred, ruling the ball had hit Mickleburgh's helmet.

Much of Essex's hopes, though, now rest with Cook after Horton resisted for just over six hours to bat his side into a powerful position.

His patient innings contained 14 boundaries, while his stand with Croft spanned 38 overs.