OLIVER Webb clinched a third successive top-five finish at the latest round of the World Endurance Championship over the weekend.

The Knutsford driver, racing in Japan for the first time, briefly led in the series' LMP2 class during a six-hour race at Fuji International Speedway.

However a minor mistake, which caused his Team SARD Morand car to slide into the gravel from a wet track, ended any hopes of victory.

"We were looking good for a podium result - perhaps even a win," he said afterwards.

"But we lost a lot of time when I went off the circuit because I couldn't engage a gear.

"It was challenging weekend, particularly on my first visit here and also because it was wet, but it was a great experience."

Webb's teammates, Pierre Ragues and Canadian newcomer Chris Cumming, recovered lost ground during their respective stints behind the wheel.

It leaves the Swiss outfit placed fifth in the standings with two rounds left.

Webb had been fastest of the trio during qualifying, securing a top-three slot on the grid.

A sodden surface on race-day prompted a change in approach, but the 24-year-old adjusted quickly to take second spot in his category.

He punished an error by the leader when he ran wide, establishing a lead over his rivals.

The race's critical moment followed, when Webb slowed to let a faster LMP1 car past.

He said: "Pierre and Chris did a great job to recover.

"We can still take a lot of positives forward to Shanghai in a fortnight."