Poels moves up after Tirreno sprint

14 Mar 2019

Poels moves up after Tirreno sprint

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Tirreno-Adriatico stage two: Camaiore - Pomarance, 195km

Wout Poels raced to a top 10 finish in a reduced bunch sprint on stage two of Tirreno-Adriatico as Julian Alaphilippe (Deuceunick - Quick-Step) prevailed.

Poels finished eighth on the punchy finish to Pomarance as Alaphilippe timed his attack to perfection following several failed breakaway attempts in a pacey finale.

As the attacks reigned in during a hectic final two kilometres, Poels was able to maintain position and respond to the final kick to the line to help his General Classification hopes.   

The Dutchman now sits 10th overall, 47 seconds behind new race leader Adam Yates (Mitchelton-Scott) who finished fifth on the stage to take the maglia azzzurra.

Unfortunately, Gianni Moscon was forced to abandon the race as he is still struggling with injuries sustained in a crash at UAE Tour. 
Reaction 

Wout Poels

"There were attacks, but I was not in the right spot to follow due to the wind and the fact that it was not super steep. I’d prefer steeper climbs, but I still had OK legs and I did an OK sprint, so it's always good for the confidence on the first road stage.

“The boys did a good job, it was a bit hectic at the end but it was sunny - you can’t complain!”

DS Matteo Tosatto

“Gianni is still suffering a little after his crash in the UAE Tour. He wanted to race this block at home here in Italy but didn’t feel his usual self at Strade Bianche and hasn't felt any better so far at Tirreno.

“He’s unlikely to improve as the race goes on and it’s important that he rests now before the Classics.”
Highlights 
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