MICK Newell is hoping Notts can push for victory against Sussex at Hove after turning their County Championship match on its head.

After Wednesday's first day, the visitors looked to face an uphill struggle as Murray Goodwin helped the South Coast side post 292-5.

But Notts came roaring back in the morning session yesterday as Charlie Shreck took four wickets to help bowl Sussex out for 339.

Will Jefferson (80) and Bilal Shafayat (118) carried on that work with the club's highest opening stand of the season of 157.

And though both fell before the close, Notts are well placed on 259-2 – just 80 runs behind – with Mark Wagh (31 not out) and Ashwell Prince (20 not out) at the crease.

Director of cricket Newell knows a big score on day three could really put the pressure on Sussex, as Notts look for a win that would enhance their title ambitions.

"The pitch is quite dry and more suited to spin than seam bowling, so I can see Rob Ferley coming into play if we can get the runs on the board."

There was little doubt whose bowling had helped transform the match – Cornishman Shreck's.

After finishing the first day wicketless, he got the breakthrough after a good start from Sussex by bowling overnight half centurion Carl Hopkinson for 62.

He also ousted the dangerous Robert Martin-Jenkins and dismissed William Beer and James Kirtley without either scoring before Ferley took the final wicket of Jason Lewry.

That took him to 51 first-class wickets for the season in 13 games for Notts and the MCC.

Shafayat compiled his second Championship hundred of his season, while Jefferson's knock saw a welcome return to form.