Sordo predicts tough fight for lead

Sordo leads Loeb by just one second and expects tomorrow's battle to be even more intense than today's.

"You can't afford to put a wheel off line so I tried to keep it as clean as possible," he said. "That worked well for the first three stages but I didn't feel at ease on the morning's final test. There were lots of crests and blind corners and I dropped a little time.

"As expected, the fight was extremely close this afternoon when the conditions were the same for everyone. I'm pleased with my start to the rally be we now have to try and defend our lead tomorrow and that won't be easy."

Loeb struggled earlier in the day, but was quickest on SS5 and SS6 and hopes to carry that form into the second day tomorrow.

"I had trouble settling into a good rhythm which affected my driving and I had a couple of scares. We made a few small changes for the second loop and that felt much better.

"We didn't have to clear the top-coating of gravel second time round so it was easier. The gaps at the moment don't signify much because I'm sure it will be another tough day tomorrow."