Popular New South Welshman Hayden Mellross has stated claiming the SX2 title ‘wasn’t to be’ after ultimately falling six points shy of the crown as the Australian Supercross Championship wrapped up on the weekend with the Monster Energy AUS-X Open Sydney.

Mellross was unable to capitalise on a difficult night for eventual champion Jay Wilson (Yamalube Yamaha Racing), lodging 5-3-3 results in the Triple Crown for third overall.

The DPH Motorsport Husqvarna rider’s 2018 campaign started with broken toes across both feet that later required surgery, although the number 45 returned to form in the closing stages, capturing victory at the penultimate round in Adelaide that set him up with a chance of snatching the title.

“I wanted that championship so much, but it just wasn’t to be,” Mellross explained. “In the end, just six points separated myself and Jay [Wilson] and he rode well from the start, so congratulations to him and his team. As for me, I think I had a strong second half to the season, but the broken toes really took a toll on my points tally.

“I want to thank the entire DPH Motorsport family for having me back again this supercross season. It really is like a family, and they helped me, along with Marty, to adapt to the FC 250 so quickly.”

Mellross will now make his way to New Zealand for the S-X Open Auckland, scheduled for 24 November at Mount Smart Stadium.