MotoGP: Michael Laverty secures first points in Jerez

Northern Ireland rider Michael Laverty claimed his first points in MotoGP by finishing 13th in Sunday's race in Jerez in Spain.

The 31-year-old Toomebridge man, competing for Paul Bird Racing, picks up three points after just missing out in the Qatar and the United States.

Former British Superbikes competitor Laverty had been 17th in the opening race and 16th in Texas.

Dani Pedrosa won in Jerez, beating Spanish compatriot Marc Marquez.

Another home rider, Jorge Lorenzo, was third with Italy's Valentino Rossi fourth, ahead of Britain's Cal Crutchlow.

Laverty had started the race in 22nd place on the back row of the grid.

On his Twitter account, Laverty said he was pleased to get his first points, and also get some on the board for Paul Bird Motorsport in the constructors' standings.

"It was a tough weekend, so I'm happy to come away with a decent result," said Laverty, who was the third CRT rider home.