Through Flanders: Neilson Powless Annom Wout Van Aert and Visma

It has been Powless’s first victory since he claimed the Japan Cup road race in October.

Van Aert, who collected nine wins on the stage of the Tour de France, remains without a victory since he took the tenth phase in the Vuelta in Espana last August.

“It was I who made the call for the sprint.

“I wanted the victory so badly, especially after all the criticisms I spent and all the bad luck I spent.”

In the women’s race Elisa Longo Borghini recorded her 50th career victory with an excellent solo effort after moving away from the group with 30 km left.

“I was very hungry for the victory here,” said Borghini.

“I really wanted to prove that I was strong. There has been some frustration in recent weeks and I have to thank my coach who always keeps me calm.”