BAHRAIN Merida team cyclist Vincenzo Nibali finished third in yesterday’s shortened second stage of Tour of Croatia while Kanstantin Siutsou was sixth and the whole team was satisfied with their performance in the tough weather conditions.
The Merida riders followed their strategy throughout the stage and gave a good and much-needed wind shelter to Nibali. The team had a strict plan to work hard for Nibali and to avoid any unnecessary risks.
Domen Novak, a new member of the squad, had a minor crash after the fifth km and got a facial scratch, but that was not a reason to quit.
Difficult
Kristijan Äurasek, a Croatian rider, from UAE Team Emirates won yesterday’s stage.
“The end was quite difficult; it was the first climb finish. The team worked well and we took third place. There is room for improvement, but I feel better day after day. We will see how the next stages will go,” said Nibali.