A wee problem brings Matthews undone

MICHAEL Matthews could have won the brutal stage to Le Puy en Velay but he desperately needed to stop for a nature call.

With thousands of people lining the road he just couldn’t do what most riders would. So he stopped and found a secluded spot.

If I was faced with that same challenge I would have just peed my pants. Tour de France stage wins are very rare and although Michael won his second TdF career stage only a couple of days ago, his one would have been a beauty.

Matthews is certainly taking up the challenge to Marcel Kitten the battle for green jersey and although he is still 79 points behind he has a genuine chance to close the gap because of the tough days ahead.

Chris Froome had some challenges when he punctured and had to call on Mikel Landa to help him get back in the fold. There are rumours floating about regarding their relationship comparing them with the Wiggins-Froome challenge of 2010. The main difference is that Landa seems comfortable with the role.

Froome still looks strong but not as in command as last year. His team is the strongest in the race but he will be worried. There is no doubt that Fabio Aru and Romain Bardet will attack seriously over the next few days because they have to. If they get to Marseille on Saturday with the time gaps even close to what they are now it’s all too late. Froome will take a minimum of a minute from all the challengers.

The fight for the white jersey for leading young rider is also getting serious. Orica-Scott’s Simon Yates looks in control with a three minute lead but young South African Louis Meintjes is climbing very well.