Ralf delighted with Toyota's showing

The German will start tomorrow's race from sixth fastest following a promising showing from the Japanese squad, who have struggled with poor performances so far this year.

Schumacher is now looking to score points in tomorrow's race.

"I'm delighted to have qualified so high and it's a good achievement for Toyota to be looking so good after the problems we have had," said Schumacher. "Yesterday was hard but already this morning our pace looked better so we're pretty pleased with what we have achieved today.

"It was a difficult afternoon, especially when the rain came down at the end of Session 2, but the circuit improved quite well in the last session due to the wind.

"The tyres felt good and the car was better than I expected on heavy fuel at the end. We've been struggling for grip but the last session was the best I have felt all season. Tomorrow depends on strategy but my target is to score points and we look pretty good for that."

Toyota's good day was completed by Jarno Trulli qualifying in ninth place, despite being hit by electrical problems.

"It's great that we are starting to improve but this has been a very unlucky weekend so far for me," said the Italian. "I'm struggling with the flu and I am completely blocked up. When I started qualifying the balance and tyres felt okay and even though I had a lot of traffic in both sessions I still managed to do good laps.

"Then at the last run when I was going even quicker I had an electronic problem and damaged my wing when I ran over some debris. Nonetheless, of course I am delighted about the pace we have shown here.

"It's good for the team and good for everyone that we have shown we can fight near the front - just a little bit unlucky for me. I've always performed well in Melbourne but I have also endured very bad luck. I hope that can change tomorrow and that we can score some points."