Mikko Hirvonen opted for a safety-first policy on day 2 of the Rally Ireland mindful that he needs to get to the finish and score at least three points in order to sow up Ford's second consecutive manufacturers' title.

As such the Finn kept an eye on the times of fifth-placed Petter Solberg and did not push to try and take third from Ford 'B' team member, Jari-Matti Latvala.

In the end Hirvonen finished the day 28.8 seconds off Latvala and 15.6 seconds up on Hollywood's Impreza WRC.

"I didn't need to attack, I just need to finish and take those three points for Ford," confirmed the 27-year-old. "I drove so steadily that I couldn't find a rhythm but I guess that didn't matter.

"There wasn't so much rain this morning, just a little bit in all three stages, and the roads were damp rather than wet. They were good stages with jumps and crests like we have in Finland, and in the dry they would be fast.

"The conditions were more difficult this afternoon but in a way it was easier because I could remember the roads. There was a little asphalt but mostly it was gravel and mud.

"I'm not trying to catch Jari-Matti and my plan for tomorrow will be the same as today."

BP Ford team director, Malcolm Wilson meanwhile was very happy to see Hirvonen get through the day: "It has been a solid, reliable drive [from Mikko]. He fully understands the role he has to play and he did that superbly," added Wilson Senior. "He maintained his position and he will be asked to do drive in the same way on Sunday."