KNARESBOROUGH'S Darren Manning claimed his first points of the Formula 3000 season with second place behind Australia's Mark Webber at Imola.

Arden International driver Manning started from third on the grid but soon moved up to second spot and held on comfortably throughout the 31-lap race to finish 3.3 seconds behind Webber.

"I tried to get at mark at the start but it is so difficult to overtake at Imola. But I am happy with the six points.

Sheffield's Justin Wilson, who won the opening round in Brazil, maintained his overall championship lead by coming sixth.

Updated: 11:53 Monday, April 16, 2001