Moto3: Australian Jack Miller turns head on Alex Marquez in practice at Valencia MotoGP

AUSTRALIAN Jack Miller struck the first blow in this weekend’s battle for the Moto3 world title with Alex Marquez at the Valencia MotoGP.

Red Bull KTM's Australian rider Jack Miller takes part in the second Moto 3 free practice session at the Valencia Grand Prix at Ricardo Tormo racetrack in Cheste near Valencia on November 7, 2014. AFP PHOTO/ JAIME REINA

AUSTRALIAN Jack Miller struck the first blow in this weekend’s battle for the Moto3 world title with Alex Marquez at the Valencia MotoGP.

Miller recorded the second-fastest time in free practice, just 0.201 seconds behind KTM rider Niccolo Antonelli, who was quickest in 1:39.647.

Marquez, who leads Miller by just 11 points heading into the final race of the season, was just 0.068 seconds behind the Australian.

Miller said he was happy with his bike’s performance but said he had concerns about the performance of his tyres on tomorrow’s all important qualifying lap.

“The bike worked really well today. From the first stint I felt very comfortable because we have made some big changes. The bike is working well with the two setups we tested. We have not used many new tyres today, so that is good for us,” Miller said.

Alex Marquez races to the third-fastest time in practice for Valencia Moto3 race.

“What matters is getting the bike ready for the race and we are not far from achieving that. Our pace is very good, and I could set some very fast laps with used tyres. What worries me most is making a flying lap on soft tyres, because I tried three laps but I preferred to go back to the old ones. Obviously in qualifying session tomorrow we will try them again.”

Marquez said he battled on the cold track during the morning’s session but felt more comfortable as the two sessions wore on.

“I am very happy because I think we’ve done a very good job. We thought about every step we have taken, however small, and they have always been constructive,” he said.

“In the morning the track was cold and it was harder for us, but in the afternoon the conditions improved somewhat. It was not easy because of the wind, but I felt very good. I rode comfortably and I was able to go at the limit a lot. This gives me confidence for tomorrow.”

Moto3 results (Combined practice time FP1-FP2)

1. Niccolo Antonelli (KTM) 1:39.647

2. Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Ajo) 1:39.848 +0.201

3. Alex Marquez (Honda) 1:39.916 +0.269

4. Enea Bastianini (KTM) 1:39.920 +0.273

5. Andrea Migno (Mahindra) 1:39.955 +0.308

Originally published as Moto3: Australian Jack Miller turns head on Alex Marquez in practice at Valencia MotoGP