Tim Merlier (Vastgoedservice Golden Palace) took his second podium of the season when he finished second in the Azencross in Loenhout. Previously Merlier was third in the Superprestige race in Gieten. "It's difficult to finish on the podium," he said afterwards. "Behind the top riders, we are still a lot of riders who compete for these places of honour. So this feeling is very good."

Merlier owes his second place to teammate Wout van Aert. "Wout told me that he would lead me out in the sprint," said Merlier. "I was just losing his wheel, but eventually it turned out so well. Both of us could even get our wheel past Laurens (Sweeck, ed.) It's fun to be second and third."

Manager Geert Vanhoof said a few weeks ago that he had expected more from his riders except Van Aert. "I was quite shocked by that message in the press," said Merlier. "I called him because I felt that I was having a strong season. But he is aiming higher. He thought that I had to show more and had to fight for the top five every week. When you hear that, it's a challenge and it is motivating. I'm never far away, but the level is so high in cyclo-cross. The difference between a fifth or tenth place is sometimes very small. I think he will be very satisfied today."

Last year Merlier just missed out on selection for the Worlds. "That was a disappointment and I am no thinking too much about it yet. I'd like to be there and I think I can be a good domestique for Wout. I'm just going to keep doing my best and then it's up to the coach to make the decision."