Goddard delighted with hard-earned Race 26 result

Zane Goddard was "super happy" to score a top 10 finish in the BP Ultimate Sydney SuperSprint opener after a tough fortnight at Eastern Creek.

Goddard crossed the line eighth in Saturday’s Race 26, having made up 10 positions during the 32-lap sprint.

It came after the Matt Stone Racing driver recorded results of 22nd, 13th, and 21st in last weekend’s ARMOR ALL Sydney SuperNight.

Saturday’s result ensured Goddard remained ahead of 20th-placed teammate Jake Kostecki in the points standings.

It marked a key progression for the Gold Coast-based team, which has struggled to consistently run in the top 15.

“I’m super happy,” Goddard said.

“It’s been a tough three weeks for the team and me to get that result is definitely needed and we are stoked about it.

“Now we need a strong day tomorrow to tick off a good weekend.”

Goddard launched from 18th for Saturday’s opener, and moved up 10 positions to bring home his second-best career finish of eighth.

The 22-year-old finished seventh at Symmons Plains in April.

Speaking of how the blustery conditions affected his charge, Goddard was adamant his team has turned a corner.

“I haven’t noticed the temperature change much, just the wind,” Goddard said.

“There is a big headwind going into Turn 1, I think compared to last week our minimum lap speed is way up.

“You notice that and get tailwinds at other corners, that’s messing the balance around, but I think we have definitely made some gains, so I’m happy about it.”

Cars will return to the track on Sunday for consecutive qualifying sessions from 11:45am AEDT.

Race 27 will commence at 1:30pm, followed by Race 28 at 4:45pm.