ESSEX head coach Paul Grayson was delighted by Jesse Ryder's "first big contribution" with the bat.
Ryder hit his first County Championship century for Essex on Monday to build a platform as they reached 541 all out on the second day against Gloucestershire.
The New Zealander smashed his way to 133 from just 164 balls, including 15 fours and four sixes.
Grayson said: "Going into lunch on day three with a lead of 317 was obviously a massive position for us to be in. The guys bowled really well on the first day, especially in the morning session.
"I am really pleased for Jesse with his first big contribution in the four-day format. He hasn't really made a big score with the bat so far in the Championship but he batted exceptionally well. He took the attack to the bowlers and it paid off."
Essex managed to pile on the pressure batsman, with the top five all reaching at least 50.
That included a maiden first-class 50 for Nick Browne, who put on a partnership of 139 with Tom Westley for the first wicket.
Ravi Bopara also continued his good form with a watchful 147 from 302 balls, before Tom Smith eventually bowled him.
"I was delighted for Nick (Browne) to get his first half century. He has performed well in the second team and it was nice for him to get a score.
"Tom (Westley) is also hitting the ball well and Ravi (Bopara) is just continuing on the great form that he is in."
The Eagles next outing is T20 Blast action against Surrey in front of a sell-out Chelmsford crowd. Grayson's side are currently top of the South Group, having won seven of their eight games.
"We are going really well in that competition," Grayson said. "There have been some brilliant team performances as well and, when they have been needed, some top individual scores.
The way that we have been playing in the T20 is as good as I have seen and we are all looking forward to entertaining a packed crowd against Surrey."
