JON Kirkham's Tsingtao Kawasaki boss has backed his man to come good in the British Superbike Championship.
The Ockbrook racer had a disastrous outing at Brands Hatch in the opening round, failing to score a point after suffering mild concussion when he crashed in practice.
But the 28-year-old was something like his old self at Oulton Park on Monday, when he racked up steady ninth and tenth places.
Team owner Dave Tyson said: "Jon did a great job. He's a bit disappointed that he didn't get to chase for a top seven but that's just how he is.
"He's a competitive and very talented rider and we've seen him climb higher each time he's gone out.
"After missing most of Brands Hatch, it was always going to be a tough one but he's come back strong and showed the rest of them he can be a contender this year.
"As a team, we're strong and we're all excited about what the rest of the season has in store."
Jacksdale's Kyle Ryde continued his good form in the British Superstock 600 series, bringing his Racedayz Yamaha home in fifth place at Oulton.
The former British 125cc champion is now fourth in the points standings.
