Things still going to plan for Roche

CYCLING:NICOLAS ROCHE rode solidly on yesterday's longest stage of the Tour, completing the 226km in the 63-man front group.

The Ag2r La Mondiale rider stated beforehand he wanted to stay out of trouble and ensure he didn’t lose any time over the rolling course. Things went to plan in this respect, with Roche placing 21st.

He moved up one spot in the general classification to 23rd.

“The stage was wet, and cold, but otherwise fine. I’d no crashes or punctures, everything went okay. It was a tough course and very fast too.

“I feel that things are slowly moving forwards . . . as long as I am not moving backwards, in terms of form, that’s a good thing. I think I’m going in the right direction.”

Roche remains one minute 12 seconds behind leader Thor Hushovd (Garmin-Cervélo).

Today’s stage covers 218 flat kilometres from Le Mans to Châteauroux, and lacks any categorised climbs.

“I think it will be a bunch sprint, although there could be crosswinds,” he said.

“So we’ll have to watch out for that. The plan is just to keep the legs going, and stay as fresh as possible.”

Tomorrow’s stage is the toughest finish yet, with the riders tackling the Massif Central climb of Super Besse.