Rossi takes pole ahead of Edwards and Hayden

teamcar - The MotoGP title chase undertook its latest twist this afternoon in qualifying for the bwin.com Grande Premio de Portugal, with both Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden lining up on the front row for tomorrow's race.

There is also added intrigue provided by the presence of both riders' team-mates in the immediate vicinity, perhaps acting as spoilers as they aim to help their colleagues. Rossi took pole with a storming time of 1'36.200, taking his first ever front spot in Portugal but his fourth of the 2006 season. He lines up alongside Colin Edwards, who has stated that he will be looking to assist his Camel Yamaha colleague in Estoril.

Nicky Hayden joins the two Yamaha M1s on the front row, and knows that a good start will be essential if he is to prevent title rival Rossi from getting away. Carrying his good form over from his free practice performance this morning, the Kentucky Kid wasn't quite able to catch Rossi and Edwards but is still in a good position at the track where he has yet to finish higher than fourth.