The Spanish rider Alberto Contador managed to keep within firing range of the first spot after Saturday’s 19th Tour de France stage and can almost feel the sweet taste of success.

Although his team mate Levi Leipheimer clinched the first step of the podium, Contador continues to lead the overall standings with 23 seconds ahead of second seed Cadel Evans after crossing the finish line fifth, 2 minutes 18 seconds behind the winner.

The Australian was a tough nut to crack for both Discovery Channel riders and managed to finish second, trailing 51 seconds behind Leipheimer who made the time-trial of his life, as he scintillating said.

Between Evans and Contador, Vladimir Karpets and another Discovery rider Yaroslav Popovych managed to set out a blistering performance.

Meanwhile, Leipheimer keeps his fair chance at a second place with 31 seconds behind the leader and a last-gasp race to Champs Elysees scheduled to pull the curtain on the most controversial Tour de France on Sunday.

If the contingent doesn’t play a cruel trick on him, Contador will be crowned king of the 2007 edition of the world’s most prestigious cycling race. Unfortunately this year, no more than 48 riders left the race, due to injuries or the doping scandal that threatens to unleash a wave of affray after the Tour closes its doors on Sunday.