Logano’s momentum continues; Sadler loses ground at Phoenix

Joey Logano heads to victory lane at Phoenix, claiming his ninth victory
of the 2012 season. Credit: Todd Warshaw/Getty Images for NASCAR
The Nationwide Series headed to Phoenix International Raceway Saturday afternoon in what proved to be an exciting race as the 2012 Championship battle draws to an end.

Joey Logano took command of the Great Clips 200, winning his 9th Nationwide Series race of the season after fighting off his teammate, Brian Vickers. Today’s win marked Logano’s first at Phoenix and the 18th of his career.

Championship contenders Elliott Sadler and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. entered the race in a dead heat, tied for the points lead. Sadler started the race in the rear of the field after switching over to a backup car following qualifying. He fought hard the entire race, up until Lap 197 when he was involved in a wreck with Cole Whitt and Brendan Gaughan. The No. 2 car suffered extensive damage and rolled across the finish line in the 22nd position.

Phoenix has not treated Elliott Sadler well over the past two years. Wrecks both this year and last year have taken him out of Championship contention.

Ricky Stenhouse Jr., the defending Nationwide Series Champion, finished a solid third. With that finish and Sadler’s misfortune, Stenhouse Jr. now sits 20 points ahead of Sadler in the Championship standings. Sadler’s only hope of taking the 2012 Championship is Stenhouse finishing worse than 16th without any laps led next weekend.

The Nationwide Series heads to Homestead-Miami next weekend for the final race of the 2012 season. It will be an exciting fight to the finish. Make sure to tune in to see who will bring home the Championship title.

For full race results click here.
Logano’s momentum continues; Sadler loses ground at Phoenix Logano’s momentum continues; Sadler loses ground at Phoenix Reviewed by Unknown on Saturday, November 10, 2012 Rating: 5