MSS Colchester Kawasaki's Stuart Easton is 'shocked' to be leaving Brands Hatch sitting third in the British Superbike Championship table, saying the team had plenty of problems over the opening race weekend.

The Hawick rider was just beaten to third place by Tommy Bridewell in race one after making a mistake in the last corner while sixth in the second outing saw Ratboy claim third place behind Tommy Hill and Shane Byrne.

“To be honest I’m pretty shocked at our results – we had some problems over the weekend and to leave Brands in third place in the Championship is a fantastic result. The chassis on the ZX-10R isn’t quite there yet and we struggled towards the end of the race with side-grip and the front end," said Easton.

"It’s still very early days for the team and I think this year will be about consistency, getting those points in the bag. I’m gutted to miss out on a podium in race one but I knew that whoever was behind was close and I tried to keep them off but nearly lost the front. With a fourth and a sixth I haven’t sprayed any champagne but I’m satisfied and looking forward to Oulton, which I think will suit the bike.”