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 matches.

Best bets

Draw in Shamrock Rovers v Dundalk
7pm Sunday
1pt 12-5 general

Sligo Rovers draw no bet
8pm Friday
2pts 7-10 Coral

Galway -1
7.45pm Friday
3pts 6-5 Paddy Power, Betfair

League of Ireland preview

Shamrock Rovers are in Europa League qualifying action in Hungary on Thursday night and their continuing continental involvement will give Dundalk backers real hope when they clash in Tallaght on Sunday.

Given the Hoops' busy schedule and injury concerns, Dundalk have a realistic chance of at least a point, especially as they beat Rovers when the teams clashed at Oriel Park.

Dundalk boss Stephen O'Donnell has worked hard on nullifying Rovers since he became a manager, initially at St Pat's and now with the Lilywhites, and in general his games against Shamrock have been tight.

A draw wouldn't be disastrous for Rovers as it would maintain their advantage over the Lilywhites, and that result does look a tad big at 12-5. Dundalk have lost only three games all season.

Derry desperately need to beat Drogheda to keep the pressure on the top two. They should win but make no appeal at the prices, with Sligo Rovers the only other Premier Division team who appeal at the odds.

Rovers remain in the hunt for Europe and the bottom line is Finn Harps are having a terrible season. They have lost 17 of their 26 matches and a sizeable Sligo support can cheer their side on to victory.

Bray are having a wretched season and Galway should again beat them easily in Terryland, having thumped Wanderers when they last met. Stephen Walsh, who has netted 14 league goals, will fancy his chance of breaching a Wanderers side who have won just four games this term.

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