Hodgson holds a commanding lead in the championship

The Ducati Fila rider took advantage of Ruben Xaus - his biggest rival - crashing in race one although he could not prevent a popular victory for Italian veteran Pierfrancesco Chili, who scored the 16th World Superbikes win of his career.

Chili was taken out in a big accident at the start of the race but was able to take the restart after the red flag was shown and the 39-year-old benefited from the misfortune of others to take victory for PSG Ducati.

HM Plant Ducati rider James Toseland finished third.

"I cannot believe it," said Chili. "I'm very happy but I think I was ever so lucky."

Hodgson added: "That's the best second place I've ever had. It's really difficult to pass so you just hope people make a mistake and thankfully they did."

Chili's joy was short-lived though as he crashed out of race two on the first lap while at the front Xaus again set the pace.

This time though the erratic Spaniard held on for the win.

Hodgson now leads the championship by 122 points, with Nottingham's Chris Walker third.

Race one:

1 Pierfrancesco Chili (Ita) Ducati 40mins 35.653secs
2 Neil Hodgson (Gbr) Ducati 40:38.721
3 James Toseland (Gbr) Ducati 40:41.725
4 Mat Mladin (Aus) Suzuki 40:47.975
5 Chris Walker (Gbr) Ducati 40:57.258
6 Aaron Yates (USA) Suzuki 40:57.544

Race two:

1 Ruben Xaus (Spa) Ducati 40mins 43.876secs
2 Neil Hodgson (Gbr) Ducati 40:55.441
3 Chris Walker (Gbr) Ducati 40:56.940
4 Regis Laconi (Fra) Ducati 40:59.436
5 Gregorio Lavilla (Spa) Suzuki 41:00.230
6 Giovanni Bussei (Ita) Ducati 41:03.561