SS9 – Latvala in control but hammer and tongs for second

The story of the fist two stages on day three of the 2015 Vodafone Rally de Portugal was the fight for second place. On the first stage of the day, Andreas Mikkelsen overhauled Kris Meeke but the Irishman retook second overall on stage nine by winning the stage, reclaiming the advantage by 0.2 seconds. 

Overall leader Jari-Matti Latvala was second-fastest, slightly quicker than team-mate Sebastien Ogier who climbed two places to fourth on the previous test. 

Many drivers complained of extremely slippery conditions and times they felt would be very slow but in fact, surprised them. However, many also appeared to be managing their tyres ready fro the next stage, the first of the two through the 37.67Km of Fridao, the longest of the event.