Tagliani not feeling down

"After we were so close in Rio, a lot of people have told me to hang in there and not get discouraged. I appreciate their words of encouragement and, believe me, I'm not down at all," said Tagliani.

"In fact, there were so many positives coming out of the last race that I'm convinced we're closer than ever to getting that first win under our belt," added the 27 year old.

Tagliani replaced Greg Moore, the Player driver who was killed at Fontana last year, and Tagliani looks like he does no disservice to his compatriot's memory. He recognises that he has plenty of time to take that elusive first victory.

More importantly, he has the confidence in himself and his team to make sure that this process will not take too long.

"I know that winning the first one is always the toughest, especially when you're a rookie, but everything is clicking with the Player's team," he enthused.

"I think the fact we were able to get the pole and lead for most of the race in Rio is a sign that we're right there. We just need to put in that extra effort and maybe get a lucky break to put us over the top.

"Hopefully, that will be at the Twin Ring in Motegi. I've never raced there, but I know the Ford-powered cars like our Champ Car have won both of the races held there thus far."