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

All the best bets for this weekend's action in the League of Ireland Premier and Division One.

Best bets

Derry City +1 on Asian handicap v Shamrock Rovers
2pts 7-8 bet365

Over 2.5 goals in Longford v Bohemians
3pts 5-6 general

Wexford to beat UCD
1pt 5-1 BoyleSports

Preview

Derry City can keep League of Ireland Premier opponents Shamrock Rovers up to their game at Tallaght Stadium on Friday evening.

When the sides last met in Dublin, Derry were worthy of the 1-1 draw they secured on the night.

They have done superbly well under Ruaidhri Higgins and have realistic chances of finishing in the top four.

Rovers' win over St Patrick's last weekend pretty much sealed the deal in the title race. A draw would be far from a disaster for them on this occasion.

The concession of 11 goals in five games suggests Bohemians still have issues defensively, but they face a Longford Town side who have nothing to lose and are all but relegated.

This should be a lively game and over 2.5 goals makes plenty of appeal at odds of 5-6.

Bohs desperately need to win the game to get their European campaign back on the rails.

Drogheda United face St Patrick's in a fascinating game, with the Drogs still not quite out of the battle to avoid relegation.

Saints are out of the title race and this isn't an easy trip to Drogheda, although the loss of Gary Deegan is likely to be felt by the hosts.

Shelbourne are coasting to the Division One title. In the second tier Wexford have done well under Ian Ryan and are worth a modest punt at 5-1 at home to UCD, who shipped four against Galway United last Friday.

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