Not a bad race, but Alpecin-Deceunink are simply too strong today. Good ride by Pedersen, although I think the others could have tried more. Seems like everyone was resigned to play for seconds.
It had it’s moments, I didn’t expect Mathiu attacking in that sector, I thought he would do in the next. I believe that he take them by surprise and then he was too strong and Pedersen did not have any help.
There where not more actual contenders than Mads.
But the last 60Km or so were just wait until the finish.
Impressive the new visma boys. They produce raiders too easy.
Next, the Ardennes with different race profiles. Will Van der Poel be strong enough to be a rival in LBL? I don’t see other contenders for Pogacar.
Alpecin-Deceunink were very impressive, but I do wonder if it had made a difference if Stuyven & Milan weren’t out, and Mads didn’t have his puncture. Maybe, maybe not.
I was super impressed with Vacek, though. He’s only 21 and rode with great strength and authority.