England on the brink as Lyon and Cummins put Australia in control of Ashes series

Despite showing more resolve earlier in the day, the visitors stumbled to 207-6 chasing a record 435, as three late wickets from Australia's veteran off-spinner saw the home side seize control.

Lyon (3-64) turned the tide, dismissing Harry Brook (30) and captain Ben Stokes (5) before having Zak Crawley (85) stumped, with three wickets falling for 17 runs in just six overs.

Pat Cummins (3-24) had earlier dismantled England's top order, removing opener Ben Duckett (4) and trapping Joe Root (39) soon after a 78-run third-wicket stand with Crawley.

Australia began the day on 271-4 in their second innings, leading by 356, but England's bowlers, including Stokes returning for a seven-over spell, ensured the hosts did not bat them into submission.

Travis Head took his total to 170 before falling to Josh Tongue (4-70), while Alex Carey (72) was caught by Stokes at leg slip.

Tongue and Brydon Carse (3-80) cleaned up the tail, with Jofra Archer finishing with a caught-and-bowled to dismiss Scott Boland as Australia's final six wickets fell for just 38 runs.

Unfortunately, that still left England chasing a massive total of 435 for victory.

Early hopes faded as Duckett fell cheaply and Ollie Pope (17) was spectacularly caught by Marnus Labuschagne.

Crawley and Root briefly steadied the innings, but Root fell to Cummins after tea, and Brook was bowled attempting a reverse sweep against Lyon.

Stokes and Crawley were soon removed by Lyon, leaving Jamie Smith (2*) and Will Jacks (11*) to see out the day.

With 228 runs still required and only four wickets in hand, England face an uphill battle on the fifth day. Some morning showers have been predicted but are unlikely to be enough to halt Australia as they move within touching distance of a 3-0 series lead and a fourth consecutive home Ashes victory.