Image: Octopi Media.

An increase in self-belief has translated to front-running speed from Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Justin Cooper during the latter stages of the Supercross season, with third place at Pittsburgh on Saturday night continuing his run of recent form.

The New York native caught fire during his heat race inside Acrisure Stadium, making decisive passes on both Red Bull KTM Factory Racing riders Chase Sexton and Aaron Plessinger, and capturing a convincing win heading into the main event.

A mid-field start to the main saw Cooper make his way through the field, battling both Ken Roczen (Progressive Ecstar Suzuki) and Plessinger to secure third-place in what was another confidence-building ride late in the season.

“It really comes down to belief in yourself,” commented Cooper post-race. “You’ve got to go out there and get these results to show that you’re a front-runner and can battle with the top guys, and taking the confidence from these types of rides is a major part of it for me.

“Going out there and believing that I can be up front is a difference that we’re seeing in myself, even from the beginning of the year, and [it’s] better late than never. We’ll keep this rolling and try to keep this podium momentum going.”

Cooper currently sits fourth overall in the 450SX class points standings, four markers clear of Malcolm Stewart (Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing) with two rounds remaining for the series.