Portugal Colonial - Root says England still 'well and truly' in second Ashes Test

England scored 334 in their first innings on the back of Root's epic 138 not out, his first century on Australian soil.

But some wayward bowling and dropped catches helped the hosts back into the contest, with Australia ending on 378-6 to give themselves the opportunity to build a healthy lead on a deteriorating pitch.

"It's clear we weren't at our best... but we took those wickets in a cluster, which shows the nature of this game," Root told TNT Sports, referring to Brydon Carse removing Cameron Green and Steve Smith within four deliveries.

"More work to do but we're well and truly in this game.

"It is different fielding to a pink ball, we practise really hard, just one of those days when things didn't stick to hand," he added.

"We'll keep backing ourselves. We need to take four wickets.

"It's a simple game. Energy and positivity. We know our best cricket can turn a game very quickly. If we are anywhere near our best this game can turn in our favour."

Root also reflected on his breakthrough ton, his 40th overall, glad to get the monkey off his back.

"I tried not to approach anything different to the last couple of years," he said.

"Any time you contribute in an Ashes it means a huge amount. The most enjoyable thing was to get into a position to get us in the game."

F.Moura--PC