Expert League of Ireland predictions and football betting tips from Johnny Ward

When to bet

Waterford vs Drogheda
Premier Division, 7.45pm Friday

Best bets

St Patrick's Athletic to win the Premier Division 
1pt 100-1 bet365

Drogheda to beat Waterford
2pts 2-1 bet365 

League of Ireland predictions

In a congested group towards the top of the table, 100-1 St Patrick's Athletic can give punters a nice run for their money in a captivating League of Ireland title race. 

Crucially, Saints play Derry City at home on October 25 and they have won five on the bounce in the league, scoring 15 goals in the process. 

The Derry game will clearly be tough but Stephen Kenny's side can be fancied to win their other three matches, commencing with Monday's trip to Bohemians.

The pressure is on Derry City to beat Bohs on Friday. The Candystripes were on a going night a week ago in the FAI Cup semi-final against the same opponents and, as the betting suggests, they should get the job done again. 

If Pat's are the form team in the league, Waterford are the opposite, and Drogheda will fancy their chance of a crucial win in the southeast. 

Drogs have a chance of catching Bohs and their prospects of avoiding a relegation playoff can get a major boost with a win on Friday night.

Waterford, remarkably, have drawn only four of their 32 league games. They were flattered by their brief push for a European spot and Drogheda are very much in form, with a host of players scoring goals for the Boynesiders of late.

Douglas James-Taylor, on loan from Walsall, has been a big hit for United and it is hard to know how motivated Blues will be, making Drogheda an appealing bet at 2-1.

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