Taylor century tests England resources

HAMILTON, New Zealand -- Captain Michael Vaughan hit an unbeaten 44 to lead England's reply after their attack failed to halt New Zealand's progress to a major first innings total in the opening Test.

A maiden Test century by the recalled Ross Taylor, who featured in a seventh-wicket stand of 148 with Daniel Vettori, lifted New Zealand from a middle-order slump to an impressive 470.

Vaughan, limited to just 31 minutes batting during last week's two warm-up matches, showed no signs of rustiness as he helped the tourists progress to 87 for two at the close in reply.

They trailed New Zealand by 383 runs after England's attack failed to make use of the new ball earlier on the second day at Seddon Park.

Vaughan survived two close calls during his innings of nearly two hours, edging off-spinner Jeetan Patel just short of slip on 23 and then being given the benefit of the doubt over a strong lbw appeal from rival captain Daniel Vettori on 44.

His composure gave the tourists hope despite the loss of fellow opener Alastair Cook and nightwatchman Matthew Hoggard in the last five overs of the day, both to Chris Martin.

It had earlier taken Kevin Pietersen`s occasional off-spin to break a 148-run seventh-wicket stand between Taylor (120) and Vettori (88).

Ryan Sidebottom took the final two wickets to finish with four for 90 and will start the New Zealand second innings on a hattrick.

New Zealand believe the late two-wicket burst by Martin may have given them the edge.

Taylor, who hit 18 boundaries in his five-hour innings, said: "I think we can win the game. If they were none or one down overnight then I think it would have been an even game but it's good to have them two down.

"It's starting to slow down and take a little bit of turn and I'm sure the first session tomorrow will be a big session for the game to see where it goes. If we can pick up a few early wickets and put pressure back on England you never know."

Taylor and Vettori breezed through the morning session and into the afternoon before New Zealand's final four wickets went in the space of 45 runs.

Evidence of the role the placid wicket played in New Zealand's innings was put in context as Vaughan and Cook cruised to 84 without loss before Martin struck twice in seven balls.

Cook was first to fall for 38 when he miscued pulling a short-pitched ball and was caught at square leg by substitute fielder Nick Horsley, then nightwatchman Mathew Hoggard edged Martin to Stephen Fleming at first slip. E-mail to a friend