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

When to bet

Kick-offs at 7.45pm Friday, September 19

Best bets

Shelbourne draw no bet
1pt 2-1 bet365

Draw in St Patrick's vs Galway
1pt 27-10 bet365

Kerry
1pt 7-2 BoyleSports

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League of Ireland predictions

Derry are in pole position for the battle to finish behind Shamrock Rovers in the League of Ireland and Shelbourne will be conscious that defeat would be hugely damaging at Brandywell.

Shels were abysmal when they last visited Derry, losing 2-0, but they are in far better nick now. Under Joey O'Brien, they have sealed a spot in the league phase of the Conference League and they have a really good bench to call upon.

As the table suggests, there is not much between these two teams, yet Shels are 2-1 in the draw-no-bet market. Mipo Odubeko, who looks a different player under O'Brien,  should embrace the challenge of the big Brandywell pitch and he could be the difference against a vulnerable Derry defence. 

Galway United gave it a good go against St Patrick's in the FAI Cup on Sunday, forcing extra-time. There was plenty to like about that performance and another draw – one which would represent a decent result for Galway – in Inchicore looks a little big at 27-10.

There is little apparent value in the other Premier Division matches, with Shamrock Rovers no certainties to beat a resurgent Cork City, who give themselves a late lifeline if they can win at Turner's Cross in the battle to avoid the drop.

Since Colin Healy took over Kerry there has not been much between them and UCD, and the Kingdom look big at 7-2 in Belfield after hitting four goals against Sligo Rovers in their dramatic FAI Cup win.

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