Valverde reinforces Catalunya lead with third stage win

By Alasdair Fotheringham

LA POBLA DE LILLET, Spain (Reuters) - Spaniard Alejandro Valverde scooped victory in the 10-rider sprint that decided stage three of the Tour of Catalunya on Wednesday, reinforcing his overall lead.

The Caisse D'Epargne rider's win was his first since he was banned for two years on May 11 from racing in Italy.

Compatriot David de la Fuente finished second on the 182-km mountainous trek through the Pyrenees from Roses to La Pobla de Lillet. Irishman Dan Martin was third.

Overall Valverde leads by 14 seconds from fellow Spaniard Haimar Zubeldia with countryman and 2008 Olympic gold medallist Samuel Sanchez in third.

"After my team had softened up the race on the first big climb, I attacked at the foot of the last ascent and it all blew apart," Valverde said.

"I'm pleased I got the stage win, but my overall advantage remains very small."

"Tomorrow's big stage into Andorra will probably be much more decisive, and there are lots of riders who could threaten me."

Valverde, the world's top-ranked rider in 2008, was banned from racing in Italy by the country's Olympic Committee (CONI).