Back-to-back Supercars champion Scott McLaughlin has answered recent criticism about his 2019 title by landing the first blow at the season-ending Newcastle 500.
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McLaughlin, who wrapped up the main prize last round after claiming his maiden crown 12 months ago, was fastest in Friday's opening practice session.
On his last lap of the half-hour timeslot he stopped the clock at one minute and 10.6092 seconds (1:10.6092) shortly after making a save on the hairpin near Nobbys Beach.
David Reynolds was next best with 1:10.6214 while seven-time champion Jamie Whincup finished third in 1:10.7119.
Todd Hazelwood (1:10.9122) and Mark Winterbottom (1:10.9936), who will notch up his 500th race start this weekend, rounded out the top five.
Nick Percat careered into a wall on turn seven, near Noah's, midway through the period.
The second Supercars practice sessions gets underway at 3;25pm.
Qualifying and races take place on Saturday and Sunday.