Chaz Mostert wasn't taking any risks in Cam Waters battle
Mostert and Waters clashed at Turn 4 disputing third in Race 33
Mostert let Waters back past, avoided penalty over clash
Chaz Mostert wasn't taking any risks amid his battle with old sparring partner Cam Waters.
The reigning champion clashed with former teammate Waters while disputing the final step on the podium in Saturday's Penrite Oil Sandown 500 opener.
Having charged through from 10th, Mostert had the bit between his teeth, but a collision at Turn 4 put Mostert ahead of Waters and into third.
Instead of risking penalty, Mostert recognised the situation and let the Monster Ford back through.
"I was having deja vu, ding dong battle with Cam, like we used to do back in the day when I was with Tickford," Mostert said.
"The guys were updating me with where I was with points, and to finish fourth from starting in 10th is I think an awesome effort.
"Didn't quite feel like I had the outright of the car, but drove that last stint a lot smarter and that got me into a position to try and fight for the podium at the end there.
"It was a good battle, I didn't know if I'd get a penalty for Turn 4 there. I put the nose in and stopped it, but it wasn't worth the risk, so gave it back."
Securing valuable points helped Mostert move to third heading into Sunday, albeit with a slender 11-point margin to the cut.
"I think our car on the Super Soft is probably a little bit aggressive, I just couldn't quite keep the tyre under me. We know the Soft is a little more durable, but saying that we will go through some data tonight," Mostert said.
"We need to try and start a bit further forward to the front, and not make it so hard on ourself. When these 250km races are on, it's never over until it's over, and the crew got me out of the hurt locker today.
"They were really awesome in the lane, they've been working extremely hard, so today is a real team effort.
"It sounds a bit like a lot of my Finals drives, so good to get into the last day where we need to be to try and make the final, but tomorrow will be just as hectic."
