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

Free football tips, best bets and analysis for this weekend's League of Ireland Premier and Division One matches.

When to bet

From 7.45pm Friday

Best bets

St Patrick's +0.25 on Asian handicap v Shamrock Rovers
7.45pm Friday
3pts 2.35 bet365

Derry City to beat Shelbourne
7.45pm Friday
2pts 1-2 BoyleSports

Wexford draw no bet v Treaty United
7.45pm Friday
3pts 5-6 general

Cork City -1 on handicap v Bray Wanderers
7.45pm Friday
4pts 10-11 general

Friday's betting preview

Saint Patrick's look a fine bet to get something in Tallaght on Friday evening in one of the most eagerly awaited games of the season for neutrals who hope there's life in the title race.

Derry outstanding form means Rovers are under pressure to win tonight. If they fail to win, the title is in Derry's hands – and Saints are in excellent shape too.

Barry Cotter's absence due to the regulations of his loan move weakens Tim Clancy's men but they can revert to four at the back and are likely to play crack youngster Sam Curtis, seemingly bound for Manchester City, on the right.

More importantly, they have plenty of pace up top, and a midfield that should gain parity of sorts against a Rovers side struggling for form. There doesn't look to be much between these teams at the moment yet Rovers are odds-on in a game televised on RTE.

Derry City should have too much for Shelbourne, who have nothing to play for and have some key absentees. City need to win to keep within sight of Rovers and have been solid defensively.

Dundalk, who are currently winning the battle for third, host Sligo Rovers. They are tempting at evens but still look a little vulnerable defensively.

Division 1 effectively sees a series of dead rubbers. It seems unlikely that Treaty will play their best available 11 against Wexford, who look great value at 5-6 in the draw-no-bet market.

Bray Wanderers are a mess and Cork City should enjoy the celebrations with an easy win at Turner's Cross.

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