Ben Stokes says England are happy with the way they bowled despite Australia reaching 287-3 at stumps on day one of the fifth and final Investec Ashes Test at the Oval.
England skipper Alastair Cook won the toss and put the tourists in, but Australia openers Chris Rogers (43) and David Warner (85) put on a century stand for the first wicket to frustrate any hopes of an early breakthrough in the match.
Steve Smith was 78 not out at the close, with Adam Voges (47no) offering valuable support as Australia look to reduce the deficit in the series to 3-2, having already relinquished control of the urn.
Stokes admitted the pitch did not play the way the home side hoped it would, but insisted they can count themselves unlucky not to have packed up more wickets after bowling well as a unit.
"The first hour we had with the new ball we were fantastic, we didn't give them many scoring opportunities," he told Sky Sports Ashes.
"Obviously, we've only had them three down but on another day we probably could have bowled a bit worse and maybe got them five (or) six down."
"Australia played a lot better than they did at Trent Bridge but as a bowling group we're very happy with how we bowled," added Stokes, who also played down concerns over a possible shoulder problem.
Australia opener Warner again failed to secure his first Ashes hundred of the summer but his fifth half century of the series ensured Michael Clarke's side finished the opening day on top.
"It was a very good day for us and a good toss to lose," said Warner.
"We knew early on it was going to be very tough conditions for us and I think there were 19 or 20 runs scored in the first hour, so positive signs for us moving forward for tomorrow.
"I felt the England bowlers bowled well but today was our day."
As for the new ball, which will be due after two deliveries on Friday, he added: "It's very important, we've got to get through that first session and then bat big like at Lord's.
"We're in a good position now but we've got to capitalise."
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