Newcastle kick-starts a brilliant open-race week with a cracking card in the north-east tonight featuring the semi-finals of the Time Greyhound Nutrition Northern Flat and Arc Angel of The North.

Last week's heats saw some eye-catching performances, notably from Jimmy Fenwick's fastest-of-the-night Ballymac Camilla in her Angel of The North heat and Kevin Hutton's Antigua Eagle (ex-Omuircheataigh) in his heat of the Northern Flat.

In fact, Hutton's team in general ran really well, making the long trip north a largely successful one with a treble on the night, while Midlands trainer Barry Denby also had a worthwhile journey courtesy of success with Leighas Dream.

However, the Newcastle trainers will look to get their own back on semi-final night, laying the foundation for next week's gala card at the Byker venue which will include Category One and Two finals, as well as a sprint decider and supporting opens.

So to five of the best at Newcastle, beginning with Coolavanny Mercy (7.44) - and we are keeping faith with Angela Harrison's bitch who missed the beat in the heats last week. It's a really tough semi-final of the Angel of The North with Ballymac Camilla, Untold Ruble and Jet Stream Angel, but Mercy's early dash could have them soon under pressure.

Southfield Daisy (8.01) might not have things easy in her Angel of The North semi-final but Kevin Hutton's bitch left a real impression when powering through in the heats and is clearly on the upward curve judged on that. Kennelmates Southfield Poppy and Coppice Ella could battle for the lead but they might be looking over their shoulder for Daisy!

It might not have been the fastest time last week but the duel between Wicky Ned and Romeo Crossfire (8.19) was a good one - and the latter impressed in behind the ante-post favourite, never giving up the chase. Neither had the best conditions to work from on the night, it could be argued, so both have scope for better, starting with Crossfire.

Next up is long-odds favourite Wicky Ned (8.36). Jimmy Fenwick's exciting Gymcrack  and Derby night winner cut a dash in the heats last week and, while never quite putting the race to bed, credit must go to the runner-up as mentioned. Tonight might be more plain sailing if hitting his straps early to beat Bogger Rambo and Annadown Panther.

Greenwell Ovett (8.54) could be another Jimmy Fenwick runner to star. He's lightly raced of late and will improve for last week's run in the heats of the Northern Flat - expect better with a slick start and handy position into the turn and onwards, although another lead for the talented Antigua Eagle might be tough for all these to back-run.

Newcastle nuggets

Coolavanny Mercy (7.44)

Southfield Daisy (8.01)

Romeo Crossfire (8.19)

Wicky Ned (8.36)

Greenwell Ovett (8.54)