Image: Supplied.

Defending champion Kirk Gibbs has levelled the points standings in the 2019 New Zealand MX Nationals, scoring the overall win at the weekend’s second stop in Rotorua.

The JCR Altherm Yamaha rider recorded a supremely consistent 1-2-1 scorecard, defeating rival and local favourite Cody Cooper (Honda Team) by three points, bringing the series points total to 141 each.

“The day was really good,” said Gibbs. “I got a good start in the first moto then had a good gap and rode to the win, so I was really happy. In the second outing he got a decent start but got pushed wide.

“I made it really tough for myself. I was probably back in about 10th or so, then had to make my way back. I got into second but just couldn’t bridge the gap to Coops and finished there. I put a little peg back in for the championship – Coops beat me by three points at the first round and then I beat him by three points yesterday.”

Gibbs’ teammate Kayne Lamont rounded out the MX1 podium at Rotorua, while the MX2 class was topped by Australian duo Wilson Todd (DPH Motorsport Husqvarna) and Kyle Webster (Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing), followed by reigning champion Hamish Harwood (CML Motorex KTM Team).

Aussie contender Morgan Fogarty (KTM) was fifth overall, while the penultimate round will take place this weekend at Pukekohe.