Intro:

Sebastien Ogier leads the Rally of Spain and has the overall drivers title in his sights.

Script:

Day three of the Rally of Spain saw a switch to tarmac on the only dual service circuit in the calender.

A strong showing from Sebastien Ogier over the early stages ensures he remains on course to defend his drivers title.

The Frenchman started the day out in front with a lead of over 30 seconds and gave a calm, controlled performance.

His closest rival Jari-Matti Latvala isn't giving up the fight though.

With a proven pedigree on tarmac, the Finn has to finish ahead of Ogier if he's to keep his title contest alive.

That resolve showed in his attacking performance as he won every stage of the morning loop to cut Ogier's lead by more than 8 seconds.

In the battle for third place, Andreas Mikkelsen was pushing hard to make it a Volkswagen podium clean sweep.

But a terrific run by Mikko Hirvonen through the 50 km stage nine saw him charge into third spot.

Mikkelsen remains in fourth, 5.5 seconds behind.