Scott McLaughlin is never kept down for long, with the Ford flyer ending the Townsville Supersprint by winning the final race of the round from pole.

The two-time defending champion was off the podium in the round’s first two races as star Holden veteran Jamie Whincup secured back-to-back wins.

But McLaughlin performed better in qualifying after two nightmare sessions at Reid Park to set him on his way to a 52nd career victory and ninth of 2020.

Tickford Racing’s Cameron Waters put together an impressive race to give Ford a 1-2 finish, while Whincup capped off a productive event to cross the line in third.

The result again gives McLaughlin some breathing space in the championship standings after Whincup cut the gap in the first two races.

“Awesome battle with Cam (Waters), he was fast. A bit of work to do but really happy,” McLaughlin said.

“To get a win on a tough weekend is a great thing.

“Every win is a goal. You start on pole, you want to win and I feel good physically. But it’s hard without a cool suit.”