Mark Cavendish: Almeria Classic victory is fifth win of 2015

Cavendish became the most successful sprinter in Tour de France history in 2012 when he won his 23rd stage

Mark Cavendish continued his excellent start to the season as he sprinted to victory in the one-day Almeria Classic race in southern Spain on Sunday.

The Isle of Man rider, 29, edged out Spaniard Juan Jose Lobato and Mark Renshaw of Australia to win the 185.9km (115.51 miles) race.

Cavendish, who recently took an overall victory at the Tour of Dubai, won in four hours 36 minutes 19 seconds.

The victory is the Etixx-QuickStep cyclist's fifth of 2015.

Cavendish said: "By the time I went it was just a matter of finishing off the race for the win. It was perfect. I am super happy and proud about the way the team controlled the race the entire day.

"Now we just need to keep up this team atmosphere and keep trying to win races."

Final overall standings:

1. Mark Cavendish (GB) Etixx-QuickStep (4:36;19)

2. Juan Jose Lobato (Spa) Movistar

3. Mark Renshaw (Aus) Etixx-QuickStep

4. Valeri Agnoli (Ita) Astana

5. Edward Theuns (Bel) Topsport