MG looking forward to race

Blundell, although disappointed that he had been unable to complete more laps before problems put the car out of action, is optimistic of a strong race showing.

"I'm frustrated as we weren't able to complete another qualifying run due to technical problems," he said, "and even more frustrating is that first sector was looking very good and there's more to come from the car."

The sister number 26 MG will start in 12th position after difficulties during Wednesday's two sessions. The car ground to a halt with engine problems before the half-way mark when Jonny Kane was caught out by a slower car and over-revved the engine.

Anthony Reid, who set the car's fastest lap of 3m36.694s, feels that the car is capable of a good result in the race.

"I'm very pleased with the adjustments the team have made to the car this evening," said the BTCC star, "we're looking in strong shape for the race."

Reid's BTCC team-mate Warren Hughes was equally pleased despite the problems. "The priority was to get the car qualified," he said. "As a racing driver you always want to push yourself for a better lap time, but it's a long race and we're starting from a reasonable position on the grid."

Mike Lancaster, the managing director of MG engine partner Advanced Engine Research, believes that reliability should not be a problem.

"Since last year we've had a good reliability record with this engine," he said. "It's unfortunate that this is the first bottom end failure we've had. We're still very optimistic about the race."