Eugene Laverty started the first race of the season in Phillip Island from 13th spot on the grid, converting it to an 8th place finish.
After a difficult test and practice period Eugene showed improved pace in the race, executing a series of strong passes to finish 8th with 8 points.
With valuable data gathered during the race, there will be chance to find more pace from his Aprilia RSV4 RF. Eugene will take advantage of the new reverse grid ruling to start Race 2 from 5th position.
The team will debrief tonight ahead of Sunday’s finale and target podiums in Race 2.
Race 2 at Phillip Island begins at 15:00 (AEDT) (04:00am GMT).
Eugene Laverty #50
Grid – 13th / Race – 8th “The crash in qualifying came at the wrong time. The bike felt good up to that point and I was pushing harder, but the bike was off after two corners and I missed out. I made the race hard for myself by starting 13th, but I managed to make up a few places quickly. My feeling on the bike wasn’t great throughout and I struggled with getting it stopped and turning, but to score points is a positive.We can work on and improve our issues from today for sure. It’s only a short warm up tomorrow and it won’t be easy, but with the reverse grid tomorrow as well we should be in a better position.”
Source: Milwaukee Aprilia