ENGLAND scent what had earlier seemed a highly unlikely victory at the WACA in a potential classic after being set a target of 391.

Seamer Chris Tremlett’s excellent maiden five-wicket haul for 87 helped pave the way in dismissing Australia for 309.

Damage limitation had seemed the order of the day for England after their paltry 187 in response to Australia’s 268 first innings total.

Shane Watson’s superb 93 put Ricky Ponting’s men on the front foot before an even better 116 by Mike Hussey.

Mr Cricket Hussey was the last man to go for the Aussies, well caught by Graeme Swann off a hook shot by Tremlett.

England had seemed dead and buried at one stage.

But this could well be a classic if England's openers Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook can lead the way.

It’s by no means mission impossible for England with more than two days to play.

Only two years ago South Africa beat Australia at the WACA after being set an even bigger chase of 414, losing only four wickets in the bargain.

Time is on their side.