"The sprint was not like last year, but it was enough" - Tim Merlier takes second consecutive Nokere Koerse win

Belgian champion Tim Merlier is a specialist when it comes to the local classics in Belgium, and today he won his second consecutive Nokere Koerse in dominant fashion as the sprinters battled it out for the win.

“In the last two laps it was full racing and it was difficult to find control. But we had a very strong [Bert] Van Lerberghe who straightened everything out for us. And he did a good lead out too. That was really classy work. That was almost indescribable. It's a dream to be behind that," Merlier shared in the flash interview.

Soudal - Quick-Step had to count on the support of other teams in the closing kilometers to close the attack of Vermeersch, Vanmarcke and Pithie, however the catch was made entering the cobbles for the final time. In characteristic fashion, Merlier powered through to take the win in a convincing sprint.

“The sprint was not like last year, but it was enough. I told Bert not to hesitate anymore because they fell behind us. He did an excellent job, he brought me the way I wanted it. Then I did my sprint and that was enough to keep it to the finish," Merlier explained.

“And it is the first time that the champion of Belgium wins in Nokere. I am very satisfied, for myself and for the team. Where possible, I will return the team for which they were brought to me," he concluded. Merlier will be back in action Friday at the Bredene Koksijde Classic.