Australian ‘wild card’ rider Brendan Roberts finished on top at the end of the first qualifying for this weekend’s Suzuki GSX- R European Cup third round at Silverstone. Roberts, who is leading the British Superstock 1000 championship, adapted to his GSX-R750 Suzuki almost straight away and finished ahead of series leader Xavier Simeon. Third quickest today was another ‘wild card’ Tommy Bridewell, with Magnus Houston fourth. Brendan Roberts – 1st, 1:31.57: “It took me a little while to get used to the bike, but once I did I felt pretty comfortable. It’s a great pleasure to be racing at an International event like this and being seen by so many people. I had a little suspension problem today, but that was about it. I’m looking forward to the rest of the weekend.” Friday GSX-R Cup Qualifying: 1 B Roberts, 2 X Simeon, 3 T Bridewell, 4 M Houston, 5 R Barber, 6 S Castellani.