Di Resta starts 10thposted in F121 | 04 | 2012

BATHGATE'S PAUL DI RESTA delivered a strong qualifying performance today in his Mercedes-powered Sahara Force India VJM05, and will start tomorrow's Bahrain Grand Prix from 10th.

His fastest lap of 1min 33.510secs in Q2 was 0.297s faster than his team-mate Nico Hulkenberg who lines up 13th.

And Di Resta's performance was all the more impressive considering the team decided not to participate in yesterday's second Free Practice session.

“I’m very happy with our qualifying performance today," the 26-year-old Scot (pictured in action today), who scored in the opening two grands prix of the season, admitted afterwards.

"With our reduced programme yesterday it wasn’t easy getting all the work done, but the team did a good job to get the car dialled into the track before qualifying.

See more official photos of Paul in action in Bahrain today

"I had a great lap in Q2, just three tenths away from the quickest time, but in Q3 we all took the decision from a strategic point of view to save tyres.

"I think this will put us in the best shape for tomorrow and I hope we can deliver a strong race.

"It was disappointing to miss out on points last week in China, but with the race pace we know our car has, and starting in the top 10, we're in with a good chance of scoring tomorrow."

And Di Resta's performance was praised by deputy team principal, Robert Fernley.

"Paul’s pace in Q2 shows the potential we have in the car and allowed him to reach Q3 for the first time this year, which was a tremendous effort.

"I think the whole team has delivered an impressive performance today, which leaves us in a competitive position heading into the race."

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Jim McGill