Jeff Burton takes Busch honours

Scott Riggs and Michael Waltrip provided the nearest challenge in terms of speed, but Riggs dropped out of contention when his engine cut, while a long stop curtailed Waltrip's strong showing.

In Victory Lane, Burton paid tribute to new crew chief Brad Parrot: "The car was awesome," he said. "Brad came in and brought a load of guys with him, and they've worked hard to turn this program around."

With 25 laps to go, the race had boiled down to one of strategy. A number of cars had gambled on making it to the end without stopping, and hoping for a further caution. Among those were rookie Casey Mears who led with 20 to go, and Joe Nemecheck, with Burton comfortable in third on four fresh tyres, and looking confident.

With 12 to go, his confidence was proved to be justified as he re-took the lead, a safe eight seconds ahead of Waltrip. Jay Sauter ran third, but had to pit for fuel. Both Nemecheck and Scott's Wimmer's gambles in Vegas failed to pay off, as both coasted dry to the finish on the final lap.

Ricky Hendrick was taken to hospital for x-rays on an injured shoulder after a heavy crash in Turn One. It was later reported to be a separation.

Jack Sprague now leads the title chase with 446pts, ahead of Randy LaJoie, Jason Keller and Waltrip.