Edwards logs first victory in two years

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AVONDALE, Ariz., March 3 (UPI) -- Carl Edwards conserved fuel down the stretch and posted his first victory in two years Sunday, claiming a Sprint Cup win at Phoenix International Raceway.

Edwards did his trademark celebratory back flip for the first time since March 2011 after edging out Jimmie Johnson, Denny Hamlin and Brad Keselowski during a green-white-checkered finish.

It was the 20th career Sprint Cup win for Edwards, but first in 70 races since taking the 2011 event at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Johnson, coming off last week's Daytona 500 triumph, barely bested Hamlin to claim the second spot.

Hamlin settled for third after attempting to pass Johnson and Keselowski on the track apron during the final lap.

Keselowski claimed fourth while Dale Earnhardt Jr. rounded out the Top 5.