BUSCH: Phoenix: Marcos Ambrose practice notes

MARCOS AMBROSE SIXTH IN PHOENIX PRACTICE

Team Australia's Marcos Ambrose has finished an impressive equal fifth fastest and top rookie in final practice for the Bashas' Supermarkets 200 at Phoenix International Raceway in Arizona today.

The Australian set a time equal to that of Nextel Cup star Kyle Busch around the one-mile speedway to make it strong start for the aussie Vineyars-backed #59 Kingsford Charcoal Ford Fusion in Phoenix.

Ambrose was the fastest non-Nextel Cup driver in practice. This weekend Ambrose is aiming to maintain his status as leading rookie in the NASCAR Busch Series, as well as his eighth position in the overall standings after eight races.

Earlier in the day Ambrose was 30th in opening practice and fifth fastest in Rookie Practice.

Ford drivers Carl Edwards and Matt Kenseth were fastest in today's final practice ahead of fellow Nextel Cup driver Clint Bowyer.

Marcos Ambrose -- #59 Kingsford Charcoal Ford Fusion

"We obviously got better as the day progressed," said Ambrose.

"I would be more than happy if we could be in a similar position after qualifying tomorrow.

"It took me a little while to adapt to the Phoenix track, but we are getting there.

"The idea is to keep the points ticking over and keep us in the top 10 of the championship."

Craig Gore -- Owner Team Australia

"Another great start for Marcos in what is a big weekend for Team Australia," said Gore.

"The hard part comes tomorrow with qualifying and the race, but we could not have asked from much more today."

-credit: teamaus