91�ȱ�

Scott Newman's 95, his highest total of the season, gave Middlesex the momentum on day two of their Division Two clash with promotion rivals Northants.

Earlier, resuming on 145-3, Northants were bowled out for 276 as young opener Robert Newton hit a career-best 113, his first century of the season.

Corey Collymore claimed 3-55 as they made just 50 runs for the loss of four wickets after lunch.

Middlesex closed on 149-2, with Newman's innings including 18 fours.

He fell five runs short of a century when he was caught behind by Northants wicketkeeper David Murphy off James Middlebrook.

Newton's previous best total was 102, his only other first-class century, against Leicestershire in the final game of last season.

CLOSE OF PLAY SUMMARY

91�ȱ� London 94.9's Kevin Hand:

"Middlesex bowled with discipline to restrict the hosts to 276. There were signs of some inconsistent bounce once again but that has yet to play a major part in the match.

"The wickets were shared amongst the Middlesex seamers, who had to work hard, and Northants will be frustrated that they couldn't get a serious partnership going to boost the first innings.

"Rob Newton batted positively for his century and without his runs it would have been a disastrous innings for his side.

"The Middlesex openers looked to have put their team in a very strong position but both fell with the score on 143 just before the close to open up the chance of a fight-back from the hosts on the third day."