Another stage on which Peter Sagan started as a big favourite for overall success became another day on which he was once again pipped to victory.

The Slovakian missed the first split in the bunch, but after superb work from Alessandro de Marchi to put him right back in contention, Sagan had no answer to Tony Gallopin’s late attack.

Nursing injuries in the first week of the Tour, Sagan – though holding a commanding green jersey lead – appeared to have lost his mojo somewhat.

Several times he has been well placed in the front group but attacked too soon, or not trusted his sprint and tried to forge a solo success.

He has pulled on both the white and green jersey at this year’s Tour but a maiden yellow jersey – which was within his grasp on several occasions – has eluded him.

Furthermore, a stage win has so far not been forthcoming.

More undulating stages await, which appear well suited to Sagan, but with John Degenkolb (Giant-Shimano) also seemingly back in form, the Slovakian needs his luck to change if he is to finally break his Tour de France 2014 duck.