Strong run continues for Sam Bennett with top 10 in Oman charge to line

Sam Bennett is continuing his strong start with NetApp-Endura, bagging a top 10 spot again today in Oman after some very good results at the Tour of Qatar last week. Seen above in the centre; blue kit and black helmet.

Having impressed at the Tour of Qatar last week, Sam Bennett took another top 10 finish today as Alexander Kristoff of Katusha took victory on stage two of the Tour of Oman.

Bennett crossed the line in 10th place for the NetApp Endura squad as Norwegian Kristoff outsprinted Leigh Howard of Orica-GreenEDGE and double stage winner at the Tour of Qatar, Tom Boonen (Omega Pharma-QuickStep).

Three early escapees; Preben Van Hecke (Topsport Vlaanderen), Paolo Colonna (Bardiani CSF) and Aldo Ino Ilesic (UnitedHealthcare) held a maximum lead of 7’45” before the peloton began to reel them in, finally ending their hopes with 10km remaining.

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Bennett was once again involved in the final sprint nabbing that 10th place finish which suggests he has recovered well from last week, his first stage race with his new sqaud.

The only other Irish man riding in Oman this week, Nicolas Roche of Tinkoff-Saxo finished in the middle of the main bunch that arrived at the finish together at the end of today's 139km pan flat stage from Al Bustan to Quriyat

Runner up again today, placed Howard now takes over as leader of the race thanks to bonus seconds accrued on the line.

Feb 18th to 23rd, Tour of Oman (UCI 2.HC)

Feb 19th: Stage 2 - Al Bustan to Quriyat 139km