Trulli looks to end poor run of results

The Japanese squad have not scored any points since the Hungarian Grand Prix in August and endured a miserable home race in Japan last weekend.

Things looked positive on Friday, however, with Trulli posting the fifth fastest time while teammate Ralf Schumacher finished in seventh.

"Today went smoothly and we got through our usual programme of tyre testing and set-up," said Trulli. "Our long run pace was consistent but we still have some problems with balance. So we need to work a little more on the data in order to find more grip and speed.

"We've had a poor run of form but now we must forget everything and concentrate on this weekend. It's frustrating not to have scored points for such a long time so that remains the aim for this weekend and we will continue to push as hard as possible."

Schumacher, who this week announced he will leave the team at the end of the season, was also pleased with his day's work.

"The sessions went without any problems and we were able to test everything that we had planned," he said. "The track conditions were quite slippery but overall I am happy with our progress. This is my second last race for Toyota but that does not mean that my motivation is any way affected.

"It's been a hard year but the whole team remains focused on the job in hand. We will continue to push until the end of the season. I just want to finish off the last two races with as much success as possible and hopefully bring home the best possible result."