Popular 250SX West contender Adam Cianciarulo says it was tough to swallow crashing in Saturday night’s Monster Energy AMA Supercross opener, which came as a result of being taken down by Geico Honda’s RJ Hampshire.

The duo engaged in a battle for position, which quickly escalated in a heated scenario where Hampshire cleaned out the Pro Circuit Monster Energy Kawasaki rider’s front wheel, one corner after he himself was pushed wide.

Cianciarulo downplayed the incident, adamant he would’ve landed on the podium if it wasn’t for the clash, although he’s satisfied to exit Anaheim with full health and a fifth place finish.

“For me, there are a lot of positives to take away from today’s race,” said the number 92. “The day started out great as we were able to secure the fastest qualifying time in practice, which gave us first gate pick to start the evening races. In my heat race, I got a little squirrelly off the start but I was able to save it and charge to the front and get my first heat race win of the year, which was awesome.

“The main event is a tough one to swallow because I know I should have been on the podium. It is unfortunate that I came together with another rider, however, I am happy I was able to remount and safely walk away from Anaheim 1 with some decent points. I am already looking forward to next weekend in Glendale.”

Colt Nichols (Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing) was the eventual winner of the 16-lap main event – the first of his career – while teammate Dylan Ferrandis was second ahead of Shane McElrath (Troy Lee Designs Red Bull KTM) and Hampshire.