ENGLAND are on the ropes with Australia set to square the Ashes series at the WACA tomorrow.

The Aussies need just five wickets to win the third Test in Perth - to make it 1-1 - with England 310 short of the 391 target.

In a lame attempt at the formidable chase, the visitors struggled badly to build any momentum.

The loss of Paul Collingwood for just 11, caught by Steve Smith off the bowling of Ryan Harris, at stumps meant England are seriously adrift at 81-5.

It was a tragic batting display by Andrew Strauss’ men.

Alastair Cook’s fine form took a nose dive, dismissed first for just 13.

Strauss went cheaply for 15 before Kevin Pietersen was caught by Shane Watson off Ben Hilfenhaus for just three.

Jonathan Trott offered hope but departed on 31.

Those who wrote off Australia are looking pretty silly now.

Only a miracle can save England now.

Jimmy Anderson is not out without scoring and will be joined at the crease by Ian Bell tomorrow.

England still have capable men in Matt Prior and Graeme Swann after Anderson and Bell but look doomed.