Lizzy Banks lays down marker for Flanders

Brit finishes sixth but curses mistake that cost her podium chance, writes Vern Pitt

- Vern Pitt

Brit Lizzy Banks is confident she can contend for a podium place at the Tour of Flanders later this month after an impressive sixth place at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad.

The Bigla-Katusha rider had ridden faultlessly to be with the front group on the road when eventual winner Annemeik Van Vleuten (Mitchelton-Scott) attacked to go solo and win. Banks helped power the chase with Van Vleuten never allowed far up the road, but was distanced over the top of the Bosberg.

Ellen van Dijk (Trek-Segafredo) attacked just as Banks was throwing her mud-soaked glasses to the crowd.

“It was a half-second hesitation and lapse of concentration that led to me not being able to hold the wheel but I continued to fight and I refused to let the group behind catch me,” she said.