The Evening Punt: Tom Collins' free horse racing tips on Friday

BANKER

(4.35 Newcastle)

Mick Easterby's gelding has tumbled down the weights since joining his yard from Luca Cumani but showed signs of encouragement when second over this course and distance last month. He pulled hard throughout that contest and paid for it in the closing stages when passed by the fast-finishing Home Before Dusk. La Rav moved through the race like a well-handicapped horse, however, and should appreciate a quicker gallop tonight.

EYECATCHER

(7.35 Newcastle)

It's always wise to stick with course specialist at Newcastle and although Jim Goldie's Oriental Lilly appears to have completely lost her form since September, it is worth noting that she is now down to a mark of 68 (6lb lower than when last successful here) and appears ready to rack up a sequence of victories. She hasn't had the necessary early pace to chase on her last two starts but performed well in a much better race here three starts back and Corey Madden's 7lb claim will come in handy.

Did you know that you can get Tom's best bets earlier on our app? Download to get The Punt from 7.30am every morning