McShea’s sensational start ended by electrical glitch  Northern Irishman Niall McShea set the third fastest time on SS1 in his Super 2000 Proton Satira - but reckons he could have been even faster.

McShea’s day came to a premature end on SS3 when the failure of a minor electrical component brought his car to halt, but the 2004 P-WRC champion reckons the Satira has already proved its giant-killing potential.

“What eventually stopped us was one of those silly little things - a small electrical component that costs about 50pence - but we don’t have one in the car,” explained McShea. “But on SS1 the car showed its mettle straight way. I knew the car was extremely good but I haven’t driven it a lot, so I was a bit nervous and trying to be sensible. With more testing - and if I’d pushed on a little - I think we could be quicker. Imagine if we’d set the fastest time! I’m just gutted it’s stopped.”

McShea is confident of a SuperRally return on Saturday, and has promised to show more of the potential of the car. “Spectators should make sure they stand well back tomorrow because now there’s no reason for me to drive sensibly,” he said.

Text: WRC.com