Benson and Hedges Jordan Honda continued their encouraging progress this morning when Heinz-Harald Frentzen and Jarno Trulli were fourth and fifth fastest during final practice before qualifying for tomorrow's Australian Grand Prix.

The Jordan drivers completed a total of 45 laps without major mechanical problems.

"The car is driving very well," said Frentzen, whose only problem had been a spin halfway through the morning. "I'm very pleased with this morning's work. We had no problems and our time shows that we are competitive with everyone else. The set-up we have on the car feels good and I'm hoping for a good qualifying this afternoon."

Trulli used the two 45-minute sessions to try different set-ups on his car. "We got through the work we wanted to and had a trouble-free run," said Trulli. "It looks promising although, to be honest, I would say McLaren and Ferrari are just far enough ahead to stay in front. But it's going to be very tight behind them. We're certainly competitive and it's going to be a good fight in qualifying."

Trevor Foster, Managing Director of Jordan Grand Prix, said he was reasonably satisfied with the morning's work. "The only hitch we had," said Foster, "was when Heinz spun and  stalled. It was just before the end of the first session and we lost preparation time during the 30-minute break while the car was recovered and brought back to the garage. Other than that, we learned a bit more. But it's going to be tough!"

David Coulthard was quickest for McLaren with team-mate Mika Hakkinen third fastest. It was a troubled morning for Ferrari, Rubens Barrichello suffering an engine failure in the first session and completing no more than six laps as a result. The Brazilian recorded 13th fastest time.

Michael Schumacher set second fastest time before stopping his Ferrari with a mechanical problem out in the circuit early in the second session. A front wheel bearing failure is suspected.