The Ashes

England in control in Melbourne

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter

Published: December 27 2013 | 07:01

Last updated: December 27 2013 | 20:34

England enjoy a superb second day in the fourth Ashes Test match in Melbourne after reducing Australia to 164-9 at the close of play in Melbourne.

England have ended day two of the fourth Ashes Test match with Australia with a lead of 91 runs over their hosts after an excellent day in Melbourne.

England's James Anderson leaping into the air after bowling the Australian captain Michael Clarke for 10 runs on the second day of the fourth Ashes cricket Test match against Australia in Melbourne on December 27, 2013 © Getty Images

The tourists were quickly dismissed for 255, but Alastair Cook's side fought back to reduce Australia to 164-9 at the close of play.

Kevin Pietersen added just four to his overnight total of 67 as England showed little resistance during the start of Friday's play, losing their last four wickets for 29 runs with Mitchell Johnson finishing with figures of 5-63.

Mitchell Johnson of Australia bowls out Kevin Pietersen of England during day two of the Fourth Ashes Test Match between Australia and England at Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 27, 2013 © Getty Images

Australia had the momentum, but James Anderson bowled Michael Clarke for 10 as England's pace attack took wickets at regular intervals to reduce Australia to 122-6.

Brad Haddin dug in to make an unbeaten 43, but Stuart Broad returned to take two late wickets to leave England on the brink of a significant first-innings lead as they look to salvage some pride in Australia.

Stuart Broad of England celebrates with team mates after taking the wicket of Ryan Harris of Australia during day two of the Fourth Ashes Test Match between Australia and England at Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 27, 2013 © Getty Images