Australian WSB: Haslam pips Rea for dramatic race win

Leon Haslam has returned to the top step of the World Superbike podium after five years, pipping Jonathan Rea on the line in Phillip Island to win by only 0.01. Chaz Davies completed his second visit to the podium in third.

Race one winner Rea was an early leader, but it was Michael van der Mark, in only his second every WSB race on the Pata Honda, who emerged clear of a four way tussle. However, the young Dutchman was quickly overhauled by the chasing British pack before crashing out.

That left race one’s podium to slug it out for the win, and it looked like Rea was set to repeat race one’s performances until the very last corner, with Haslam getting the drive out of turn twelve for the win.

“I got my run to the line better. I didn’t feel like I had much in reserve, and I struggled all race long, especially with chatter, so I’m just so, so happy to be back on the top step after five years.”

Tom Sykes made it four from four for the British contingent, but the former world champion never looked capable of challenging the front runners, as did reigning world champion Sylvain Guintoli on the second Honda in fifth.

Rookie Nico Terol had another strong performance to finish sixth, ahead of Voltcom Suzuki rider Randy de Puniet. His teammate Alex Lowes was less fortunate, retiring with mechanical problems in the early stages. Leon Camier completed the top eight on the MV Agusta.

Triple champion Troy Bayliss has a less successful race to finish back in sixteenth. The wildcard had ran as highly as the top eight before he was forced to pit for new tyres.