Fernando Alonso says McLaren's first 2015 F1 points "very possible"

For the first time this campaign both McLarens made it into the second session of qualifying, with Alonso to start 13th at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, one place ahead of team-mate Jenson Button.

From McLaren's highest grid slot this year, double-world champion Alonso feels a top-10 finish is on the cards.

"It's the place we deserve. The McLarens are in Q2, so it's another step forward, and tomorrow we could fight for the points," said Alonso.

"If we have a good start and good strategy, our pace on the long run is usually quite good so tomorrow we have our first chance of points. I'm confident.

"First of all we need to finish the race, hopefully we will fight with the midfield teams for a second time, but I believe the top 10 is very possible from starting 13th.

"For that I think we need a perfect race, but we have to try."

Alonso feels a points-scoring finish would serve as a small triumph for the team given its woes this year since partnering with new engine supplier Honda.

"To finish ninth, 10th or 11th and get one or two points is not what we want, we want much bigger than that," said Alonso.

"But it's also true for team motivation it's good to achieve some results you can touch.

"At the moment it's only hopes and words, but if we can physically start scoring points that will be a help."

While it is clear McLaren have taken another step forward, Alonso knows there remains so much more untapped potential the team need to find.

"There is still a margin to improve," added Alonso. "We have made a lot of changes to the car, with the power unit the biggest one.

"I felt more power and better driveability, so everything is going in the right direction.

"We are learning about the car with every lap and every session we do.

"It's only my fourth grand prix of the year with almost no winter testing, so there is more to come in the next races.

"We are unlocking some potential of the car here and there, and we keep updating the car.

"We need to unlock more performance. Although this is a good step although, we need a bigger one."