Valverde wins fifth stage of Volta a Catalunya

Spain's Alejandro Valverde. (Christophe Ena/AP)

VALLS, Spain — Alejandro Valverde won the fifth stage of the Volta a Catalunya on Friday, while Richie Porte took the lead of the seven-day race.

The Movistar rider claimed his second stage win of this edition after completing the 195-kilometre (121-mile) mainly downhill ride from Alp to Valls five seconds ahead of his nearest chasers.

Valverde left behind a small group that included Porte and Alberto Contador on an ascent with 10 kilometres left.

Porte, riding for Sky, finished the day with a five-second lead over Domenico Pozzovivo in the overall standings.

Contador is next at seven seconds behind, while Valverde is fourth at 16 seconds back.

The race finishes in Barcelona on Sunday.

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