New Zealand fought back over the final two sessions on day two to put the first Test against Sri Lanka on an even keel yesterday.

The visitors reached 87-2 at stumps after Thilan Samaraweera top-scored with 159 to take Sri Lanka to a first innings score of 452.

New Zealand opener Tim McIntosh was unbeaten on 36 in a patient 88-ball innings batting with night watchman Jeetan Patel on six.

New Zealand's captain Daniel Vettori, was pleased with the side's fighting spirit.

"I think from where we were yesterday the big thing that we wanted was to show some fight today to put ourself in the position that we have."

Mahela Jayawardene (114) added just six runs to his overnight score before being caught at slip by Ross Taylor off seam bowler Iain O'Brien in a rain-shortened first session. He hit 15 boundaries in a 227-ball innings and was involved in a 166-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Samaraweera.

Jayawardene made it clear that his dismissal had been a setback.

"We had a plan to bat at least till lunch...but unfortunately it was a bad shot, loss of concentration as well. Disappointed, definitely," Jayawardene said.

Satisfied

"Getting 500 or 550 would have been ideal, but I think from where we are right now we are satisfied with 450 and two wickets this afternoon."

Seamer Chris Martin (4-77) and Vettori (4-78) played key roles in preventing the hosts recording the giant score they threatened when there were only four wickets down and the score approaching 400.