Hayden Paddon is on track for a top five finish at Rally Finland.
The Kiwi flyer has completed a solid third day, ending in fifth place, 1:29 seconds behind overall leader, Toyota's Ott Tanak.
Paddon had been fourth after the first two days, but a hard-charging Esapekka Lappi stormed past the Kiwi midway through the day.
The Finn is nine seconds ahead of the Kiwi leading into the final four stages on Monday (NZT).
"Our objective today has been focused on looking at the manufacturer points that we would achieve with our current position," Paddon said.
"We wanted to keep the Fords behind us, as Lappi would not be eligible for manufacturer points as things stand. There was not much we could do to keep him behind – he's a man on a mission.
"We have had to take it easy and just try to do a solid job for the team.
"I've continued to feel comfortable in the car, and the changes we've made on the front differential have really made a difference.
The hot conditions have punished the tyres in the afternoon, but I am pleased to be up there with Finns on their home turf and drivers who have won this event before."
Newshub.
