There were more shocks than not in the opening round of the Premier Greyhound Racing All England Cup at Newcastle on Thursday night.

Ante post favourite Bogger Rambo was one of only two winning favourites, the other was the night’s fastest winner Swift Silly. Fortunately, the majority of the big names will be back next Thursday, the notable exception being Swift Iconic.

BET365 CHALLENGEOxford stage the semi finals of the Bet365 Challenge Cup tonight with the leading pair in the market separated, but both well drawn.

The first semi looks to be dominated by the three railers which include the ante post favourite New Destiny, the former record holder Lively Lauren (unbeaten in her last four over course and distance) and the new record holder, Havana Top Note.

The second semi sees Hunt Cup winner Havana Lover ideally drawn on the outside still available at 7/2, There is only one other single digit fancy in the race, Aayamza Sydney (8/1), then 14/1 bar the pair.

Assistant trainer Rab McNair gives his views on the chances of his pair.

The future of Henlow Greyhound Stadium seems set to be determined in a Luton court today in an on-going dispute over the renewal of a lease. Outline planning permission has already been granted for housing.