Irwin: One of the most frustrating days, 12th isn’t where we want to be

Glenn Irwin endured a difficult opening British Superbike race at Knockhill for Honda Racing UK. 

Irwin went into the weekend as a potential top five challenger based on the two-day test last month, but was unable to replicate similar results as he finished 12th. 

In a year where he and the team expected to be fighting for immediate wins, the first four races have been far from ideal.  

After Saturday’s race one, Irwin said: "Today is up there as one of the most frustrating days possible, but this can happen in racing we have to try all options and settings in order to progress and today it just didn't work out for us. 

"We had such a positive test here and to walk away from today's race 12th isn't where we want to be. 

"Today has highlighted an area of the bike where we have struggled a lot this year, so we need to come together as a team and rectify this to come back stronger for the next two races."

Although it’s been just four races, Jason O’Halloran and Christian Iddon are already running away with the title battle at the front, which makes the next two races at Knockhill vitaly important for Irwin if he’s to put his name in that battle. 

"We need to have two solid races tomorrow in order to claw back points and get us nearer the front of the championship," added the Northern Irishman.