Maidstone's Scott Smart endured a dramatic but ultimately disappointing race at Cadwell Park in the Metzeler Superstock 1000 National Championship after engine trouble saw him limp home in sixth place.

After qualifying in fifth, Smart started well roaring to third and scrapping with race winner Richard Cooper and runner-up Jon Kirkham at the track where he climbed the podium earlier this season.

But on the last lap the Moto Rapido Ducati rider slowed and with smoke billowing from his stricken machine Smart could do little to defend his podium position.

This latest setback is one of several that has blighted a hugely disappointing season for the 35-year-old, who occupies 11th place overall, and he offered an honest assessment of his campaign.

“There’s no denying what a disappointing season it’s been so far for us, for a whole number of reasons,” said Smart.

“I had a cracking race at Cadwell Park last time out when three of us made a breakaway and I managed to get third, which I was obviously delighted with.

“We had a string of mechanical issues at the beginning of the season, which really got us off to a bad start, and we then got disqualified at Snetterton for weight issues, so you could say it never rains but it pours.”

Despite the disappointing end to a potential podium finish, Smart was adamant there was plenty left to fight for as the championship slowly comes to a close.

“As for the rest of the season, it’s just about getting podiums now, it’s as simple as that,” said Smart.

“I still look forward to every race – I always do, no matter how badly I’ve done this season- because once you don’t look forward to racing, you should probably just stop.”

• British Eurosport 2 will be broadcasting every round of the 2010 MCE British Superbike Championship. The channel is available on Sky 411 & Virgin Media 525.