Jordan pleased but expected better

Fisichella lapped the two-mile track in 1m17.080s, seventh-tenths slower than Michael Schumacher's Ferrari, and is upbeat about his chances this weekend in the Principality.

"The car's balance is not too bad here," said Fisichella. "I'm pleased with a top 10 time, although I'm sure there was a possibility even to get on the second row today. My lap was clean but not fantastic, so I'm looking forward to final qualifying and the race."

Gary Anderson, Jordan's director of race and test engineering, said: "We did a bit of work for this grand prix and the car seems to be a bit better in relative terms - I actually expected slightly better in qualifying. Giancarlo made a couple of mistakes on the lap, and here especially, you pay a price for it."

Fisichella's team-mate Ralph Firman ended his first qualifying session at Monaco in a respectable 13th position.

"I'm happy with that," he said. "It's my first time here and I love the circuit. I feel really at home and can't wait to get out again on Saturday. I was cautious on the first two sectors because of the oil on the circuit when the session re-started, but I've got a pretty good pace, especially on the last sector. I think this could be my best chance yet of scoring points."