By Bryn Palmer, Sydney

Britain emerged from the opening dressage section of the team Three-Day Event in confident mood after impressive performances by Jeanette Brakewell and Leslie Law saw them end the first day in second place.

With half of the riders still to complete their tests on Sunday, Britain's opening pair of Brakewell, on Over to You, and Law, with Shear H20, both excelled in the set movements to leave the team tucked in behind defending champions Australia.

Brakewell, the youngest member of the equestrian squad, accumulated 50.60 points in her three tests, while Law did even better with 44.00 - the second lowest individual tally of the day behind Australia's dual gold medallist Andrew Hoy, who recorded 30.60.

The host nation, going for a third consecutive team gold, lead with a combined total of 76.60, with Britain on 94.60, and France in third place on 98.60.

Toby Vintcent, Britain's assistant team manager, was "extremely pleased" with the way both riders performed.

"It was a tall order for Jeanette to have to follow Andrew Hoy, who did a superb test, but she didn't let the situation get to her and really rose to the occasion," he said.

"It was one of the best tests she has ever ridden and we are very pleased with her.

"Leslie was cracking," he added.

"He was meticulous in his preparation and it really paid off today. He peaked exactly when he needed to, and both of them have given a lot of encouragement to the others for Sunday."

"Training with Chris Bartel is what got us the mark," Law said. "It was Chris' 44, not mine. We've just been improving and improving with him."

Ian Stark, on Jaybee, and Pippa Funnell, with Supreme Rock, will complete Britain's quartet in the dressage tests on Sunday, with the cross-country and jumping sections to follow on Monday and Tuesday.

Ireland ended the opening day 10th out of the 12 teams after the tests performed by Susan Shortt on Joy Of My Heart and Patricia Donegan on Don't Step Back.

Hoy gave credit to his horse, saying: "Darien Powers was magnificent, he couldn't have been better. It's a fabulous start for the team, but it's not over yet."

Australia's second team rider Dutton saluted Hoy.

The United States will attempt to close the gap on third-place France, whom they trail by more than four points.

American David O'Connor, whose 44.40 was good enough for third best on the day, said of Giltedge: "This horse is capable in what he can do, a real trier who loves to compete. He's fun to compete on."

New Zealander Mark Todd refused to rule the Kiwis out, despite their lowly sixth position.

"I am a bit disappointed, but it could have been a lot worse. It's early days yet."