Damiano Cunego claimed the first Vuelta a Espana stage of his career after his late surge to the summit finish at Aitana.
The Italian made his move in the final kilometre of the 204.7km eighth stage, passing Frenchman David Moncoutie who had been a part of the early breakaway group of six riders.
Cadel Evans finished the stage in fourth place, 44 seconds behind Cunego, to take hold of the leaders' yellow jersey.
The Australian's advantage is slim, however, as he holds just a two seconds lead over Alejandro Valverde (Caisse d'Epargne) with Samuel Sanchez (Euskallel-Euskadi) a further five seconds adrift.
Irish riders Daniel Martin and Philip Deignan enjoyed successful day, finishing 14th and 28th respectively. Deignan is now 23 in the overall standings, with Martin 32nd.
Cunego, the 2004 Giro d'Italia winner, made his decisive attack on the final climb to ensure a solo finish.
The Lampre-NGC rider attacked away from the main group of contenders two kilometres from the end of the Alto de Aitana before catching Moncoutie with a further kilometre remaining.
The Frenchman could not stay with Cunego, following his energy-sapping escape from the lead group, and the Italian powered ahead to win the first mountain stage of this year's Vuelta by 33 seconds.
Moncoutie was able to hold off Dutchman Robert Gesink who was three seconds further back in third.
Overnight race leader Fabian Cancellara, who had taken the lead jersey following Saturday’s time trial, finished the stage more than 25 minutes off the pace.
The Swiss' team-mate Andy Schleck pulled out of the race after completing 88kms.
The three-week race continues on Monday with the 188km ninth stage from Alcoy to Xorret del Cati.
