The 125 kilometer fifth stage of Giro d’Italia between San Martino di Castrozza and Alpe di Siusi eventually ended in a battle between the favorites for the overall victory, Denis Menchov from Rabobank the stage winner.
The day was, however, dominated by a breakaway of eight riders but their lead was cut down as Liquigas took control of the peleton at the bottom of the last climb.
As the breakaway was caught with ten kilometres from the finish line a few riders initiated counter-attacks but they were were all chased down.
Lars Bak was the best rider from Saxo-Bank finishing in the same group as Armstrong three minutes behind Menchov.
"I felt very good today. When you can follow Armstrong to the top of a mountain, it can not be totally bad," said a delighted Jutlander.
Saxo-Bank sports director Lars Michaelsen, "We had no expectations from the riders before today’s stage more than they had to save their strength for later when we have a chance of achieving our primary goal – stage victories."
Website: Team Saxo Bank
