"We positioned ourselves well and gave it a shot" - Michael Matthews narrowly misses out on second stage win at the Giro d'Italia

Michael Matthews came so close to taking his second stage win at this year's Giro d'Italia before being narrowly edged out in the final sprint by Jonathan Milan and stage winner Alberto Dainese.

"It was an exciting final. I like such a technical final," the Australian said in his post-stage interview with Eurosport immediately following the conclusion of the stage in which Matthews eventually finished in third place. "I am very happy with how the team rode today. Eddie Dunbar came through the stage safely and we have a podium place with me."

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After initially trying to get into an early breakaway, Matthews instead had to take his chances in the bunch sprint. Leading out the final effort, the Team Jayco AlUla rider looked good for victory before being edged out in a photo finish.

"It's always difficult for me against the pure sprinters," he says. "However, we positioned ourselves well and gave it a shot. I don't think my sprinting legs were that great, it was really the positioning of the teammates. I was really perfect, after which it was up to me. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough."

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VIDEO: Alberto Dainese edges Matthews and Milan in thrilling finish to stage 17 at the Giro d'Italia

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