Yesterday a split in the finale caused a 4-second time loss for Chris Froome compared to some of his key rivals and the Brit was intent not to let it happen again. Hence, he took part in today's bunch sprint and finished 10th ahead of sprinters like Moreno Hofland and Luka Mezgec.

 

Chris Froome looked comfortable as he sprinted for the finish of stage two at the Tour de Romandie, claiming a top-10 finish in the process.

 

The Brit produced a surprising turn of speed in the final metres in Montreux to solidify his general classification charge, placing 10th on the stage and moving up to ninth overall.

 

Team Sky helped with the early pace-setting duties on the 166.5-kilometre test, keeping the defending champion safe and well-positioned ahead of a key mountain test on Friday.

 

Michael Albasini (Orica-GreenEdge) claimed back-to-back stage wins on the day, racking up enough bonus seconds to move into the race lead, elevating himself above Michal Kwiatkowski (Omega Pharma – Quick-Step).

 

Tony Hurel (Europcar) and Giacomo Nizzolo (Trek Factory Racing) came closest to upsetting Albasini, while fifth place provided no bonus seconds for Kwiatkowski as the Pole relinquished yellow. Froome sits 19 seconds back heading into the mountains.

 

After the stage Sports Director Servais Knaven admitted that disappointment at time loss on Wednesday led to a battling finale from Froome.

 

“Yesterday there was a gap in the group and he lost four seconds to some of the contenders," said the Dutchman. "Obviously we did not want that to happen again and he was right up there doing the sprint which was good to see. That means the legs are good and the motivation is there.

 

“The team were there supporting him until the last five kilometres. It was a good day."

 

Knaven also gave TeamSky.com an update on the returning Richie Porte and the plan for Friday's stage.

 

"Richie needs some time to get back to his normal level. He’s not raced much this year but we know where he will be in a month or so. He’s building up towards the Tour and he will get better and better.

 

“Tomorrow is a big day. The finish is not at the top of the climb which will make it a bit different. For most people they will still ride as if the finish is at the top, then drop down to the finish. It’s going to be a hard day. We aren’t the only ones who want to win GC and plenty of other teams will be going for the win. The guys are ready for it."