England on brink of Ashes win as Australia slump

MELBOURNE, Australia // Paceman Tim Bresnan claimed three early wickets to scuttle Australia's unlikely second-innings run-chase and leave England on the brink of an Ashes-winning victory in the fourth Test today.

Australia ended the third day at 169-6 after Bresnan claimed the crucial wickets of Shane Watson, Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey shortly after tea. The home side still trail by 246, after England were out for 513 at lunch. England dismissed Australia for a paltry 98 on the first day.

Bresnan ended the day with figures of 3-26 off 15 overs with 7 maidens.

Mitchell Johnson will resume the fourth day on 6 with Brad Haddin on 11. With just four wickets remaining and two days still to play, a loss appears inescapable.