On the opening stage of the Vuelta al Pais Vasco, Bauke Mollema had a very bad day while Robert Gesink gained confidence for the future battles in the Basque race. Today the roles were reversed as Mollema finished 5th while Gesink dropped out of GC contention.

Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM's Bauke Mollema placed fifth in today's fourth stage of Vuelta Ciclista al País Vasco in Eibar, Spain. Robert Gesink arrived at the line in 23rd position, fifty seconds behind his fellow Dutchman and stage winner Wout Poels of team Omega Pharma-Quick Step. 

Mollema lost a lot of time during the first day, but was able to stay with the favourites until very late in today's stage and said that he felt satisfied with that.

"Along the way I asked Robert several times if he needed my help, as he wasn't feeling great," said Mollema. "He told me to ride my own race, however. 

"Monday was an off-day, as I thought my legs were good. I'm glad things are going better now. The last few days, I felt I was improving. This gives me some confidence towards the classics, although it's a pity that I'm out of the overall battle now." 

"I just didn't have the legs to compete with the best today and that disappoints me," said Gesink. "The guys did great in the run-up to the final, but I just wasn't good enough. I don't know what the reason is. I'd really hoped to be able to compete because during my training rides leading up to this race, I worked hard and things seemed to be going well." 

Gesink said that he isn't thinking about a top spot in the general classification anymore but that he wants to use the last two days to his advantage.

"The level here is high and hopefully it helps me to improve towards the Amstel Gold Race." 

Mollema expects an escape will stay clear in tomorrow's stage five. He wants the team to have at least one rider in the lead group.

"We have to go for it. I'm interested in getting involved, but we have more men who are capable."