Adelaide rider Billy McConnell moves to third on the British Supersport standings after a solid showing at Donington.

Australian Smiths Triumph teammates Billy McConnell and Glen Richards have expressed delight at the late season podium form of their Daytona 675R racers after a successful outing at Donington Park on the weekend.

Round nine of the British Supersport Championship proved a breakthrough for both riders, with McConnell piloting his machine to a win in the sprint race and backing up with a third place in the feature.

Richards fought to secure third in the opener and narrowly missed a perfect podium haul with fourth in the final race.

McConnell’s win bolstered what the team has described as their best weekend of the season to date.

“It’s good to move up to third in the championship and although you never like following up a win with a third, it’s been my biggest points haul of the season and we’re back at the sharp end which is where we want to be,” explained McConnell.

“Both races were tough but we just got caught out by the red flag in the second race and with everyone pushing so hard, it shows the importance of always being at the front.

“I’m really happy with how well the Smiths Triumph Daytona 675R is working and we’re coming on in leaps and bounds so it’s good to repay the team with two good results so a big thanks to them once more.”

While his teammate has been on the podium previously, Sunday’s 12-lap sprint proved pivotal for Richards who has fought back from numerous setbacks to finally achieve a podium.

“It’s been a long, hard slog this season so to get back onto the podium feels great,” he said. “I felt strong at the beginning of the season when the bike was in its infancy and then when the development work started paying off I got injured, so it’s very satisfying to have the two come together at last.

“My fitness is back and the bike’s really good now and we’re seeing that in both Billy’s and my results so we’ll be looking to end the season with more podiums.”

McConnell’s results move him into a strong third on the points ladder, with Richards holding down seventh as he chases fellow Aussie Jason O’Halloran on the run above.