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Potchefstroom - The top-of-the-table Sunfoil Series clash between the Highveld Lions and Titans was heading towards a thrilling climax after six wickets from Hardus Viljoen brought the game to life on day three on Saturday.
The fast bowler, who made his debut for the Proteas last week, made a smooth transition back to domestic duty with six for 75 as the visitors reached stumps on a rain-affected day in big trouble on 169 for eight.
It was also a memorable day also for Alviro Petersen, who recorded a double century that seemed to shift the momentum firmly in favour of the hosts early on.
Batting in the middle order, the former Proteas opener added 80 for the final wicket with Pumelela Matshikwe (14 not out) with the Lions eventually bowled out for 295, a lead of one.
They had resumed the day on 255 for nine with Petersen taking his score from 172 to 203 off 252 deliveries, including 34 boundaries and two sixes.
He was eventually the last man out, falling to Marchant de Lange, who ended as the pick of the bowlers with four for 49.
In reply, the table-topping Titans were cruising on 80 for one thanks to Theunis de Bruyn (62) and Heino Kuhn (26).
But Viljoen then found his rhythm as the Pretoria side lost six wickets for 45 runs.
Captain Farhaan Behardien with an unbeaten 28 kept them fighting until a combination of bad light and rain ended the day early.
Only 57.1 overs were possible on day three.
