Image: Jeff Crow.

Husqvarna Red Bull WIL Sport NZ Racing’s Kayne Lamont had his hopes of a third Monster Energy MX Nationals MX2 overall victory evaporate with a frustrating first turn crash at Murray Bridge on Sunday.

The 2014 New Zealand MX2 Champion dominated moto one despite an off-track excursion while leading, however he had to settle for 11th in moto two after his costly mistake. Overall he still salvaged third for the round.

Lamont closed the gap to series leader Luke Clout by one point in South Australia, the deficit now standing at 12 points with the halfway mark of the season approaching.

“Race one I got the holeshot and managed to pull a gap, but I got a bit caught up worrying about people behind me and went off track, which put a bit of pressure on, but I managed to keep them at bay,” he explained.

“Then in the second, I missed third down the start straight which put me back to about 10th or so, and I hit about three or four guys going into the first corner and went down. I got back up, like way last, stopped to check my wheel and brake lever and I managed to catch back to 11th.

“I actually gained a point in the championship, and I didn’t lose anything to the guys behind me, so I’m looking forward to Perth.”

Lamont has captured round wins this season at Broadford and Wonthaggi, his tally compromised by mixed results at Appin at Murray Bridge to date.