Kristof Vandewalle (Trek) saw his winning streak at the Belgian TT championships come to an end when he could only manage third in today's race.

"Today I actually had no problems with my broken middle finger, but in the past few weeks I have not had ideal preparation," Vandewalle told Het Nieuwsblad, referring to the injury he sustained in the Giro. "I was more with the physiotherapist and osteopath than on my bike. Today I had to do it with mental strength. So I can be satisfied with my third place. 

"I also have a sad period behind me with long-term injuries. In the Giro I was on top again, but then I broke my finger. Today more was not possible. When I heard through the split times of Jurgen Van den Broeck, I knew it was over. I could never beat those times, let alone come close. I admit that. Even at full strength it would have been difficult to beat him."

While Vandewalle was satisfied, Sean De Bie (Lotto Soudal) disappointed as he could only manage 9th.

"It was hot so I have not made ​​a big effort," he told Directvelo. "I managed my effort by doing the two laps at the same pace. Finally I did a better time than I expected so I am happy. 

"On Sunday, I leave with the advantage of being less marked than Boonen and Van Avermaet. The distance will be an additional difficulty, but the course definitely suits me. We will climb, descend and turn a lot. I think the turns have even more impact than the short ascents."