Eugene Laverty insists he will go to the final round of the World Supersport Championship in Portugal with his sights set firmly on victory after seeing his title dreams dealt a potentially fatal blow at Magny-Cours.

Having moved to within two points of Cal Crutchlow in the overall standings following Imola, Laverty signalled his intentions early on during the race to get amongst the front pack and fight with his title rival and early leader Joan Lascorz.

Although a mistake would briefly set him back, a move on Crutchlow for second position on lap twelve meant Laverty had provisionally assumed the lead of the overall standings.

However, it was a joy that would prove short lived when, as he entered Chateaux d'Eau, he lost the front end of his Parkalgar Honda to be sent sliding into the gravel trap.

Causing damage to the side of his bike, although Laverty would get going again to bravely clamour his way back to 13th position at the chequered flag, the mistake – coupled to Crutchlow's eventual second place finish – means he heads into the final round 19 points behind the Yamaha rider.

Meaning Crutchlow needs just a top ten finish come race day in Portugal to take the title home, Laverty was disappointed with the outcome, but maintains he will keep pushing to make his rival's job just that bit harder.

“That was not what we wanted from today. I had been cruising behind Cal and when I passed him I was leading the Championship on track. Overnight the team had made changes and improved the bike significantly so we knew we would be in with a chance.

“I wanted to put Lascorz between us but the fuel load had dropped and it caught me out. Usually I have a few warnings and put more weight on the front but this time I had none and down I went. I got back on but the right lower fairing was dragging through the corners and slowing me down on the straights.

“I am not hurt but I am disappointed, however, it is not over yet and now we will go to our home track at Portimao and we have got to win either-way - who knows what will happen. We still have a shot at the title and want to win at our home circuit in Portugal.”