After a surprise second place in the Scheldecross, Laurens Sweeck was a happy rider. However, a puncture in the final lap was about to ruin his race. Nonetheless, he manage to reach the finish as the first rider behind superior winner Mathieu van der Poel. "Before the start I was hoping for a place in the top five. Eventually I was second and I am very happy with that," he told Het Nieuwsblad.

"Near the end of the race, I punctured," he added. "I didn't know what to do: should I take a new bike in the pit or continue. I opted for the latter option. I would lose more time by going to the pit.

"Early in the race I went on the attack and rode in support of [teammate] Mathieu van der Poel. I could stay with him, but he was just a bit stronger so I had to let him go. I had not blown up and as the riders behind me had already lost considerable time, I measured my effort. I could continue the race in a quieter way. I have very fond memories of Antwerp. After all, I won the Belgian junior championships here. Tomorrow in Mol I will again try to do my best."