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

Best bets

Both teams to score in Shamrock Rovers vs Patrick's
Premier Division, 8pm Friday
3pts 10-11 bet365

St Patrick's to beat Shamrock Rovers
2pts 15-4 bet365

Drogheda +1 goal on handicap vs Derry City
Premier Division, 7.45pm Friday
2pts 13-10 bet365

League of Ireland predictions

Bookmakers seem to have missed how good Saint Patrick's have become under Stephen Kenny and they look badly underestimated by the market for their trip to Tallaght to face Shamrock Rovers.

This is a massive game if Rovers are to remain a proper threat in the title race but fourth place remains realistic for Saints and if they are not the most talented side in Ireland they are not far off it.

Side with Saints at the prices but both teams to score looks a bet too as a draw is no great use to either side. This should be an entertaining game between two teams who play attractive football. 

There is little obvious value elsewhere. Galway should be favourites against Waterford but this is their third game in a week and they are very short based on the league table. 

Dundalk players are wrapped up in payment issues and, the club look doomed to the drop or worse, it is hard to know how they'll do at home to a Bohemians team looking over their shoulder. 

Derry look short away to an improving Drogheda side. The visitors' league form remains far from convincing. 

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