HARD-charging Ed Fossey admitted he had surpassed his expectations in the Protyre MSA Asphalt Championship after the campaign reached its mid-point.

The Bournemouth University student is sixth overall having chalked up a class victory in the Carryduff Down Rally in Northern Ireland at the weekend.

And after guiding his Yokohama Peugeot 208 R2 to top spot, the Jerseyman revealed his delight at his opening half of the season.

Fossey said: “In general, the day went really well. I struggled a little throughout the morning because of the nature of the roads, which were the polar opposite to Belgium last time out.

“But once we got into the groove it was a really rewarding day. It meant a lot to be able to get to the end of the event and to gain valuable experience from it.

“We can’t complain about where we are at the minute. Sixth overall is way ahead of where I thought we would be at this point.

“I know there’s a lot more pace to find out of the car.

“I need to work on set-up and driving style for certain events and situations but, hopefully, by the end of the year we’ll have sorted out these issues.”

The next round of the championship sees Wales host the Mewla Rally on August 25-26.