Darren Gough adopted traditional West Indies tactics in spearheading England's desperate but doomed attempt to restrict the tourists' advance towards a sizeable lead in the opening Test.

The Yorkshire fast bowler had watched the approach of the West Indies' battery of pacemen with interest yesterday as England were dismissed for a lowly 179, noting how Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh had spurned the use of short deliveries to concentrate on line and length.

His aggression and hostility unsettled Brian Lara enough to claim the prized wicket of the day and caused captain Jimmy Adams to remove his glove and inspect his bruised fingers.

But Gough's great efforts could not prevent the West Indies progressing to a 157-run lead by reaching a commanding 336 for seven at the close of the second day with Adams playing a crucial role with a unbeaten 66.

It took Gough just three overs to find his range when he was switched to the Pavilion End and remained there for the rest of the day, delivering 22 pacy overs and claiming an impressive return of three for 98.

The crucial contribution was from Adams, whose 278 minutes at the crease has put his side in control.