Leus du Plooy scored an authoritative hundred for his side which leaves Middlesex on the cusp of a much needed County Championship win against 10-man Worcestershire at New Road on day three.
Middlesex began the day with work to do from a healthy overnight lead, but with bowlers from Worcestershire putting them under early pressure. Robson, who survived a testing opening spell alongside Ben Geddes early on the final day, showed he was as resolute as ever in these challenging conditions. Worcestershire did find a break-through though when Ben Allison forced Robson to edge behind for the ever-reliable Henry Cullen at first slip. It was with much smugger timing that Allison locked in Geddes leg before wicket soon after, to bring a renewed belief to the home side.
Middlesex endured a further blow shortly before lunch when Ethan Brookes clean bowled Max Holden, and although the lead was still healthy at this stage, the visitors now found themselves second best. If Murtagh played his part in extending Worcestershire’s momentum after the break, it was Tom Taylor to add to it when he destroyed Caleb Falconer’s stumps with a delivery that swung back and crashed into the pads.
The match was a contest still very much in the balance at that point, but Middle se captain broke through when his team needed him most. He was able to rebuild the innings superbly with great discipline and shot selection while absorbing increasing pressure exerted by a resolute Worcestershire attack. At the other end Joe Cracknell was equally handy, making a solid 46 as they put together and important partnership that turned the match back towards Middlesex.
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Du Plooy peaked his half-century with nonchalance before turning it into an exquisite hundred from 163 balls. However, while Harry Darley took the wickets of Cracknell and Eathan Bosch, Middlesex had already established a near stranglehold. They declared with du Plooy on 101* at 283 for 6, leaving Worcestershire needing a hefty 358.
The hosts had an absolute nightmare at the beginning of their response. Jake Libby was immediately run out without facing a ball after Toby Roland-Jones deflected a drive onto the stumps at the non-striker’s end. Dan Lategan soon followed him back to the pavilion, leaving Worcestershire 33 for 2 at stumps.
Worcestershire need another 325 runs with eight wickets standing to see off Middlesex for an important victory on the final day.