Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r) almost brought a 3-year victory drought to an end on today's 13th stage of the Vuelta a Espana but the veteran Italian had to settle for 2nd behind young talent Warren Barguil (Argos-Shimano). Having missed a big opportunity, there was little joy in the Ag2r camp.

Rinaldo Nocentini last won a race on the first stage of the Tour du Haut Var in February 2010 but since them victory has escaped the classics specialist. Numerous places of honour have marked him out as one of the most successful riders of the Ag2r team but he has been unable to add to his tally of wins.

Today he got a big opportunity when he made it into the 10-rider group that had to decide the win on the 13th stage of the Vuelta a Espana. With a short ramp to the finish that suited the punchy Italian perfectly, he gambled everything on a sprint finish and dutifully won the final dash to the line.

Unfortunately, young Warren Barguil had escaped a little earlier and so Nocentini had to settle for second. Having once again missed a big opportunity, there was no satisfaction for Nocentini.

“Obviously, I’m disappointed," he said. "It’s always a good result to get a 2nd place but in such a situation, only the victory is important! I haven't won a race for more than three years and there are not many opportunities to be successful."

Nocentini now hopes to shine later in the race.

"At least, this result demonstrates that I’m in an excellent shape. There are still many stages in this Vuelta and I will try my luck again, for sure.”

Nocentini will get his next chance in tomorrow's first of three Pyrenean stages. Starting at 14.45 CEST you can follow the stage on CyclingQuotes.com/live.