Billy Taylor bowled impressively to take 4-36 as Sussex Second XI dismissed Gloucestershire for a modest 189 on the opening day.
Sussex, bidding for their third consecutive victory, lost Wasim Khan off the first ball of their reply before closing on 16-1 at Bristol University.
Taylor was well-supported by Mark Robinson, who claimed 3-25 from 14 overs after the hosts chose to bat.
Their innings did not start until after lunch due to a shower and Taylor quickly had Imran Mohammed caught for seven.
Taylor then bowled the dangerous Rob Cunliffe for a duck, and Mark Hardinges was also sent back by the pace bowler for 19.
Off-spinner Justin Bates got through 22 overs to have 2-43 and he claimed his first victim by trapping Chris Budd leg before for 45.
Opener Nick Stovold struck 52 before having to retire hurt in Glouces-tershire's stuttering innings.
Sussex, unbeaten for six weeks, received an early shock when Khan drove Neil Bressington's first delivery straight to mid on.
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