Aussie Brett Metcalfe is hoping for a solid second half to his rookie 450 season.

South Australian Brett Metcalfe says it’s now time to start pushing to get “better results” heading into the mid-stages of his rookie AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, season in the U.S.

The Rockstar Makita Suzuki rider finished eighth in San Diego last weekend in what were difficult conditions, remaining seventh in the series standings after seven rounds.

“I really enjoyed riding the track tonight,” said Metcalfe. “I’m just a little disappointed in my results. I got a bad start in the main – I had a lot of wheel spin at the start because the gate was so slick. I had to fight my way through the pack with my RM-Z a bit but I was a little inconsistent.

“It was a difficult one, but I still picked up an eighth and I’m happy that my Rockstar Makita Suzuki is still sitting seventh in the points. I need to start pushing and get some better results.

“I’m glad to go to Atlanta [because] I’ve done well there in the past and it’s a good layout with a lot of floor space. The dirt is tacky and it suits my style. I look forward to a better result with my Suzuki there.”

Metcalfe has now finished eighth in five races from eight starts so far in his debut season as teammate to Ryan Dungey, who currently sits fifth in the standings.