Coulthard chasing points

David Coulthard is determined to open his account in the 2002 championship this weekend in Malaysia and take the fight to Michael Schumacher. Coulthard retired from the Australian Grand Prix after his McLaren developed a terminal gearbox problem and he knows he must earn some points quickly to avoid being left behind -- not only behind Schumacher but also young team mate Kimi Raikkonen.

"I am focusing on scoring my first points of the season and we are optimistic that we can leave Sepang with a good result," said the Scot, who was runner up to Schumacher last year. " I am ready for action. Ferrari had the edge on us in Australia but I am confident that we will be much more competitive in Malaysia. Michael has got that 10-points gap, but the championship is not decided after just one race. But it is important for me to get some points as quickly as possible."

Schumacher is looking for his third consecutive win at the Sepang circuit this weekend so Coulthard needs to be on the attack. Raikkonen will also be wanting to consolidate his position after his first podium in Australia, the Finn finishing third for a good result in his first race for the team. McLaren and Williams are expected to be Ferrari's main challengers this season and both are hoping their Michelin tyres will give them the edge in Malaysia's hot climate.