Team Omega Pharma-Lotto's André Greipel (Germany) won his second straight stage in the 2011 Eneco Tour ahead of Tyler Farrar of Team Garmin-Cervélo. Edvald Boasson Hagen (Team Sky Pro Cycling) finished third in the 173.7 kilometer race, taking a four-second time bonus and thereby closing in on race leader Taylor Phinney of Team BMC Racing.

Phinney finished sixth Wednesday to retain his lead, but his advantage over second place was cut from seven to three seconds.

"It was a really nervous day, but the team took really good care of me," Phinney said after the stage finish and added "I was hoping to pay them back at the finish with a top five or top three placing. Unfortunately, I conceded some time, which was not part of the plan, but the team is really strong. I'm confident in my legs and looking forward to tomorrow."

Team BMC Racing assistant director Fabio Baldato believes Thursday's 191.2 km undulating stage 3 will be Phinney's greatest test since he took the lead with a win in the prologue.

"Tomorrow will be much more difficult," Baldato said and continued "We hope Taylor keeps riding well and receiving good teamwork to keep the lead."