Iban doing well in Paris-Nice

Iban did a good stage today in Paris-Nice. A demanding 170 km-long stage, with the end at the summit of a three km steep climb, saw Iban finish 23rd, only 56 seconds off the pace. Iban came in with a group consisting of, among others, strong-men like Luis Léon Sanchez, Patxi Vila, Joaquin Rodriguez, Alexandre Botcharov, Thomas Voeckler and Roman Kreuziger. It was impressive stuff from Iban, as he`s not supposed to be in peak form until May, and with a mission to look after David Millar as well. On GC, Iban lies 30th, 1:39 back. But with hilly and mountainious stages left, Iban might well advance on the overall standings. After the stage, Saunier Duval sports director Joxean "Matxin" Fernandez had this to say about Iban`s performance: "He did well. He had to have an eye on David (Millar) and did so. He was right where he had to be". He`s looking good...