Draw looms as England toil

Half-centuries from Michael Clarke and Marcus North meant England laboured without success in the afternoon session of the fifth day.

Resuming this morning 25 runs adrift on 88 for two, Australia's hard work before lunch seemed to have been undermined by the loss of Michael Hussey for a determined 64. But Australia demonstrated great discipline after the interval with vice-captain Clarke teaming up with left-hander North to reach tea on 293 for four.

Their unbroken 132-run alliance for the fifth wicket opened up an advantage of 180, with just 33 scheduled overs remaining.

Sensing a chance for England to secure a 2-0 lead in an Ashes series for the first time since 1986-87, the match began in front of a sell-out crowd at Edgbaston. But it was not until James Anderson struck with his sixth ball that England managed a belated breakthrough on the final morning.

Swing bowler Anderson was brought on immediately after the drinks break and delivered the first blow to the Australian batting when Shane Watson was caught behind driving.

England had failed to separate Australia's stubborn third-wicket pair Watson and Michael Hussey in the opening hour.

Andrew Strauss' team began the fifth morning requiring eight wickets as quickly as possible to set up a chase for victory. But makeshift opener Watson registered his second half-century of the match before perishing for 53.

Hussey also played fluently to hit 64 before succumbing shortly before lunch.