- Watch the Giro d'Italia streamed live at Cycling Central
- Kittel comes from behind to take second Giro stage win
- The five greatest climbs of the 2014 Giro d'Italia
Matthews claimed the race lead on Stage 2 from team-mate Svein Tuft who took the Maglia Rosa after Orica-GreenEDGE won the opening team time trial.
However there was panic when the 23 year old crashed during the third stage.
“It was a really crazy day,” said Matthews. “I almost expected a few crashes here and there. A few of our guys went down – me included – but luckily we were able to defend the jersey. I wasn’t able to get up there in the sprint, but it was mission accomplished for us today.”
Matthews went down with five of the Astana team, including their leader, Michele Scarponi, but they were not seriously hurt.
“The road narrowed with about 80 kilometres, and that’s when the crash happened,” said Matthews. “Unfortunately, I was just behind it, and I ended up over the top of it. I’m fine – just a little banged up.”
More serious was another crash as the peloton negotiated a tight roundabout with 35km to go.
Matthew's team-mate Cameron Meyer was the last rider to get up following the crash. He looked dazed but was able to get back on his bike and finish the stage.
Despite the stress in the final two hours of racing, Matthews made the most of his day in the Maglia Rosa, soaking up the incredible atmosphere the Irish created.
“The crowds out there were unreal,” said Matthews. “Everybody out there made it even more special to wear the pink jersey. I think the entire peloton has been blown away by the support up here. It’s been a dream start for us. We can’t wait to wear the jersey in Italy.”
SBS will broadcast every stage of the 2014 Giro d'Italia LIVE! There will be nightly highlights at 5:30pm on SBS ONE, and each stage will also be streamed live at Cycling Central.
Share
