League of Ireland: Friday football tips, odds and betting preview

From 7.45pm Friday

St Patrick's are better than their league form suggests and they can surprise League of Ireland opponents Dundalk at tasty odds at Richmond Park.

With Mikey Drennan out, Pat's will have to change things and Gary Shaw, with Brandon Miele possibly playing off him, can cause problems for the Dundalk defence, which was untested by an insipid Cork City side at Oriel Park last weekend.

Pat's are finding it hard to score goals but that has much to do with the struggles of Christy Forrester and they can show what they are capable of against a Dundalk team who are still missing some key midfielders.

Shamrock Rovers go to Cork as strong favourites for the first time in several years, which shows how impressive Rovers have been this season, but City look capable of a big perform­ance at home.

Rovers have not done that well against the better teams this season and while they deserve to be favourites, this is a big test against a side who have a point to prove after their Dundalk defeat.

Rovers lack a regular goalscorer and much will depend on how the hosts manage Jack Byrne in an intriguing televised clash.

UCD, who are at home to Waterford United, will improve with experience and they beat the Blues in the FAI Cup last season.

Sligo Rovers look under­estimated at home to Bohemians, who could be flattered by their points tally at this stage.

Recommendations
St Patrick's draw no bet
2pts 11-4 bet365
Cork City
2pts 5-2 BoyleSports
UCD
2pts 16-5 bet365, Betfair
Sligo Rovers
2pts 14-5 BoyleSports

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