Irvine optimistic after qualifying eighth

In a typical topsy-turvey performance Eddie Irvine put his car eighth on the grid and Johnny Herbert, battling to save his career, could manage no better than 17th on the grid.

While a delighted Irvine said fifth was within his reach while Herbert, the winner here last year, was dejected and confused.

'I was blocked by a Prost and think I could have been fifth,' said Irvine. 'The two issues for the race are the weather and the start. If we make a better start than we have been I expect to be chasing for points.'

Race starts have been a problem for the Jaguars this season, with a temperamental clutch often causing both drivers to lose places off the line.

Herbert did not manage to get a clear lap in when the conditions were at their best.

'I'm thoroughly disappointed. It wasn't what I wanted or expected but I guess it's what I got,' he said.

'I'm a bit confused as to why I did not improve from morning to afternoon when everyone else did. It's going to be a tough race but if I am allowed to make a good start then that can only help the end result.'