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

Free football tips, best bets and analysis for Friday's League of Ireland matches.

Best bets

St Patrick's +1 on Asian handicap
8pm Friday
4pts 3-4 bet365

Shelbourne +1 on Asian handicap
7.45pm Friday
2pts 7-8 bet365

Wexford
7.45pm Friday
4pts 10-11 Paddy Power

Preview

Shamrock Rovers' quest to retain their title has looked shaky and they could find St Patrick's tough opponents in Tallaght.

Rovers are a better team than Saints but they have played them twice this season and failed to win either. Significantly, Rovers did not look assured defensively against Shelbourne and they've conceded in five of their nine games.

Saints have plenty of attacking threat and Darragh Burns can be expected to cause the hosts major problems.

Tim Clancy is an excellent manager and, despite injuries, Pat's were very good against Dundalk last week, allowing the visitors just two chances in the game. They look very much underrated in the betting and are worth backing with a one-goal start on the Asian handicap. The bet wins if they win or draw while stakes are returned if they lose by just one goal.

Damien Duff will need time with Shelbourne but they have picked up ten points from four games on the road and they can frustrate Derry City at Brandywell. Derry are a bit flattered by their points tally and Shels will be confident they can get something out of their trip to the northwest.

The other Premier Division matches seem priced about right. Bohemians desperately need a win at home to Finn Harps but are hard to have much faith in after the concession of several late goals.

Wexford are one place above Cobh in the First Division standings but a far better side nonetheless. They look more like 4-6 chances on Friday having nearly won in Galway last weekend. Take the 10-11 on offer about a side with a lot of attacking threats against Ramblers, who have failed to score in five of their eight games.

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