Yorkshire batting coach Paul Grayson tipped his cap to Somerset’s bowlers after they put the skids under the visitors’ victory bid on day two at Taunton.
The White Rose started the day on 70-3 in reply to a first-innings 199, only to crumble to 103 all out, losing their last six wickets for 17 runs inside 35 minutes.
Somerset then closed on 269-5 in their second innings, a lead of 365.
They are firmly on course for a victory which would likely take them back to the top of the Division One table as they chase their first ever Specsavers County Championship title.
“That was tough day at the office,” said Grayson.
“This time last night we felt we were in quite a decent position, 70-3. It was a big wicket losing Gary (Ballance) last night. This morning, they bowled beautifully.
“They were good conditions to bowl in, and we lost a couple of quick ones and just couldn’t stop it.
“We’re up against it now. The only thing you could say is that generally, over the course of the summer, we’ve batted better in our second innings. Hopefully when we get our chance, we can bat better.
“But, this morning, sometimes you have to take your hat off to the opposition. They were very skilful, bowled in the right areas and caught well. It was very difficult to stop it.
“I hope the pitch flattens out and it’s not going to spin and seam as much.
“The ball got a bit softer today. When the lights come on and it’s gloomy, it spins and seams a lot. When the sun’s out, it gets a bit flatter.
“Hopefully it’s a nice, crackin’ day in Taunton tomorrow and we can bat well.”
Yorkshire’s cause wasn’t helped by illness and injury.
Ben Coad was unable to play any part in proceedings today with either bat or ball due to illness, while Will Fraine suffered a knee injury in the warm-ups and did not field.
Grayson added: “Frainey will hopefully bat at some stage, but he won’t be opening because he hasn’t been out in the field.
“Coady’s struggling a bit. We’ll see where he’s at.”
