Williams drivers lament tough day

"It was a tough day for us," said Webber, who wound up 22nd fastest, over 3.5 seconds off the pace.

"The car isn't working that well yet and we only get a short period in which to make it work. Today is just about getting as much information as you can though and we have plenty of it.

"We need to find out why we weren't that strong in practice and make it work for tomorrow and more importantly, Sunday."

Webber, who will leave the team at the end of the year, was the slowest of the Williams drivers, with Austrian Alex Wurz finishing down in 16th and German Nico Rosberg in 18th.

Rosberg admitted he was also unhappy with his car's handling.

"It was quite difficult for us today," said Rosberg. "I think everyone struggled, though, so getting grip was the main issue of the day. I'm not happy with the set-up just yet, but we will improve upon that when we work on it tonight and get it right for tomorrow."

Williams are looking to end a point-less seven-race streak, their worst since the 1984 season.