Cycling: Tiralongo's late surge seals win

(Reuters)

Astana rider Paolo Tiralongo edged out Spaniard Alberto Contador to win the 19th stage of the Giro d'Italia yesterday.

With 500 metres to go, Tiralongo went for the line and, although Contador, who increased his overall lead to 5min 18sec, was in close pursuit, the Italian held on for his first win in this year's edition.

Tiralongo, who had broken clear of the leading group in the final six kilometres, completed the 209km (131-mile) ride from Bergamo in 5hr 26min 27sec.

"I am delighted with this victory," Tiralongo said. "I have to thank Contador. We are great friends and I have a lot of respect for him. He saw that I was in good form and told me to go for it."