BRUSSELS, Sept 12, 2009 (AFP) – Australia’s Matthew Goss, of Saxo Bank, won the Paris-Brussels cycling classic on Saturday, succeeding compatriot Robbie McEwen as champion.

Goss finished ahead of fellow Australian Allan Davis and Belgium’s Kristof Goddaert as he proved the stronger in a mass sprint finish.

It was 23-year-old Goss’s fifth win of the season and his third in Belgium after two stage triumphs on the Tour of the Walloon during the summer.

“It was a difficult sprint especially towards the end when it was vital not to go too early,” said Goss.

Saxo Bank team sports director Dan Frost added: “We knew that Matthew was the guy to put us in a great position and he fulfilled our hopes in style. He is in perfect condition and last night he said he wanted to make a big result.”

Photo by: CorVos Pro