CRAIG Overton struck an impressive 86 as Somerset fought back from a calamitous start to their first innings against Sussex at the County Ground today.

Replying to a Sussex total of 214 all out, the Cidermen were in dire straits as they slumped to 39-5 in the face of impressive seam bowling from Steve Magoffin (6-60).

But Craig Kieswetter (65) and Pete Trego (27) staged a recovery which was carried on by Overton and Craig Meschede (38).

Alfonso Thomas (38) also hit late runs before Somerset were dismissed for 289 giving a lead of 75.

By the close of the second day Sussex had reached 26-0 from 11 overs in their second innings.