There is an old saying that summed up Hampshire's evening demise at the Rose Bowl against fellow strugglers Yorkshire, "Pear shaped" and that is exactly what happened in a mad half hour that put into jeopardy any chance the home side have of avoiding relegation.

The day started with honours pretty even, and so it continued throughout the morning and afternoon sessions. Yorkshire drew close to Hampshire first innings tally, mainly thanks to a sparkling inning from Victorian Matthew Elliot, who was unlucky not to record a century.

Shaun Udal's off spin dominated much of the day, and he deserved his five wicket haul, that allowed the northerners a slender 11 run lead.

Nic Pothas who injured his knee in pre-morning practice did not take the field, with Jason Laney taking over his roll as wicket-keeper.

At 83-2 a lead of 72 with 8 wicket standing, Hampshire would have been satisfied, but with 7 overs to go the bottom fell out of their task.

Robin Smith stretching forward was given out lbw, night-watchman Hamblin survived one ball before he edged Kirby, John Francis was lbw to Dawson first ball, and then John Crawley inexcusably taking into account the circumstances gave Dawson the charge and was caught at deep mid-on.

It will take a monumental effort by the Hampshire side to recover this situation, let alone allow the match to go into its scheduled fourth day.

© Hampshire Cricket