NSW collapse sets up thrilling final day

NSW Blues believe they can fight back and beat the Alcohol.Think Again Western Warriors in their crucial top-of-the-table Bupa Sheffield Shield match, despite a rare batting failure.

The Blues are just 110 runs in front after they were reduced to 5-65 at the end of a dramatic penultimate day in Newcastle, one which started with WA nearly 200 runs behind and five wickets down.

Opener Scott Henry (37 not out) is the only recognised batsman remaining after the Blues' leading run-getter Peter Nevill was caught and bowled by spinner Ashton Agar off the final delivery of the day.

NSW coach Trevor Bayliss believes the first session on Saturday's final day will be crucial on a wearing pitch if his in-form side are to claim a fourth successive win.

"It has been a wicket that has been a little bit difficult to score on," Bayliss said..

"Tomorrow with 150, 200 plus on a wearing pitch, and with some tricks being played, there is no reason why we can't win it.

"The wicket was pretty good this morning, but in the afternoon could see the pitch wearing.

"From a positive point-of view, for every run we can score in the morning, the more chance we have of winning the match."

WA debutant David Moody continued his fine form from the first innings to claim 2-13, giving the 19-year-old six wickets for the match.

Earlier, WA captain Voges top-scored with 87, while Whiteman was last man out for a patient 74 as the Warriors finished on 300, 45 runs behind NSW's first innings.

"We demanded a bit more fight from the boys today, and they have done that," said West Australian coach Justin Langer.

"It will be tight now undoubtedly, so we need to fight like that again tomorrow.

"It is always hard chasing runs. It will be challenging whatever figure we are chasing. They basically have an international attack so we will have to bat really well."