Honda duo encouraged by early form

The Japanese squad struggled for pace during 2007, going on to score just six points on their way to eighth place in the standings, but a promising start in 2008 has raised spirits in the team.

Brazilian Rubens Barrichello finished in the points in the season opener in Australia, although he was disqualified for a pitlane infringement.

Button, who was 10th in Malaysia after retiring from the Melbourne race, believes the team can be happy with their current form, but the Briton reckons they need to take a step forward to fight for points regularly.

"We are pleased with our performance so far this season and it was very valuable to complete the full race distance in Malaysia last weekend," said Button in a team preview ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix.

"Our overall position in the midfield pack is encouraging, however we have to make a further step to be competing for points on a regular basis.

"With no opportunity for testing since the season began, we will be using the data gathered in Australia and Malaysia to maximise our performance at what will be another very hot race in Bahrain. I'm hopeful that we will be knocking on the door of the top ten in qualifying once again."

Barrichello added: "The first two races of the season have been very encouraging for the team and I have been pleased with how the car has performed, particularly that I have completed both races in the very tough conditions.

"Malaysia was a challenge for me after losing the practice running on Saturday, compromising my race set-up, but overall the RA108 has proven to be competitive and shown good race performance."