Keselowski reaches new high despite last-lap Texas defeat

Brad Keselowski climbed to a new all-time high in the Castrol EDGE Rankings despite losing out to title rival Jimmie Johnson in a last-lap victory fight.

The 28-year-old had been leading in the latter stages, managing to fend off a fierce Johnson attack at what was the penultimate restart.

Another caution flew in the final laps however, and with two laps to run the final green flag gave Johnson the opportunity to drive around the outside of Keselowski and secure victory.

The Penske man lost out by just 0.808s, and in the process fell seven points behind Johnson.

He did however have the comfort of gaining significantly in the Rankings.

Second was enough to promote him five spots to an all-time high of 14th.

By comparison he started the season 26th, having been 71st mid-way through last year.

Johnson too gained, his victory elevating him one spot to eighth.

He has occupied the spot several times in recent weeks, but has not climbed higher since the end of October 24 months ago.

Only Denny Hamlin, who stayed 11th, now separates this year’s two title protagonists in the Rankings.

In part, that situation owes to the fact that Kasey Kahne (15), Greg Biffle (19) and Matt Kenseth (21) all suffered falls.

Kahne’s was the most pronounced, as a distant 25th caused him to plummet five places and effectively ruled him out of championship contention.

Moving in the opposite direction was Kyle Busch, who came home third behind Johnson and Keselowski.

He too reaped the rewards of a rostrum finish, jumping three spots and into a nine-week high of 25th.