Ferrari are on schedule, says Schumacher

LONDON, Mar 20 (Reuters) Michael Schumacher says he is happy with his start to the Formula One season and expects Ferrari to be even quicker in Australia next week.

''All in all I'm very happy with the first two races, things played out as expected for us,'' the seven-times world champion told his website after finishing sixth in Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix.

''I'll try to do even better as soon as next week comes around,'' added the German, second equal in the drivers' standings with 11 points to the 18 of Renault's world champion Fernando Alonso.

Schumacher said Ferrari were focusing on Melbourne after a difficult weekend in Malaysia with both himself and new Brazilian team mate Felipe Massa penalised for engine failures before the race.

''We analysed the race thoroughly and are now focused on the next race,'' said the 37-year-old.

''After all, we know that the circuit at Albert Park is much better for us than Sepang, so we have every reason to be optimistic.

''We wanted to score points in Malaysia and we did, and now we're hoping to score some more in Australia.'' Schumacher, enjoying a few days vacation with his wife in Australia, said he had considered returning to Europe for testing but decided it was pointless unless absolutely necessary.

''We are absolutely on schedule, so it wouldn't have done us any good,'' he declared.

REUTERS VJ RAI0259