Team LottoNL-Jumbo Moreno Hofland finished seventh for the third day in a row in Paris-Nice today. Michael Matthews claimed victory in the fourth stage, finishing in Saint-Pourcain-sur-Sioule, France.

The Australian of team Orica-GreenEDGE moved into the overall lead thanks to the bonus seconds that came with his victory.

“Well, yes, seventh again,” Hofland sighed afterwards. “Obviously, I would have preferred to do better, but in the final corner, the lead-out man of GreenEdge used the inside of the corner to ease off. I lost speed because of that and it was difficult to get back on track afterwards.”

Hofland was more satisfied with the lead-out today. “Up until the 400 metres sign, I had nothing to worry about. I was in Jos van Emden’s wheel and that went very well, better than yesterday.

“I’m content with my seventh places because my preparation for this race wasn’t exactly flawless with a crash and sickness. I hope to get better for the upcoming races here.”

D-Day

In Thursday’s fourth stage from Varennes-sur-Allier to Croix de Chaubouret, everything will be about Wilco Kelderman for Team LottoNL-Jumbo.

“Tomorrow is D-Day for the overall riders. On the difficult final climb, we will definitely see time differences arise,” said Merijn Zeeman.

“We are confident. Wilco has performed well ahead of Paris-Nice and he’s been doing fine over the last few days. Tomorrow is going to be a great challenge for him.”