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

Best bets

Dundalk
3pts 11-10 Betfair

Under 2.5 goals in Shelbourne v Shamrock Rovers
3pts 8-13 Hills

League of Ireland weekend predictions

Dundalk should get the better of a Sligo Rovers side with big questions to answer at Oriel Park on Friday.

Rovers have had to make ends meet of late with a push for Europe now out of the question. Max Mata has joined League One Shrewsbury and goalkeeper Luke McNicholas is set to sign for Wrexham meaning teenage shot-stopper Conor Walsh will be between the sticks for a side who are not high on confidence.

Daryl Horgan is a massive signing for Dundalk, who played well against Shelbourne on Sunday and are pushing hard to finish in the top four. They should probably be odds-on to beat Sligo so take the 11-10 on offer.

Shelbourne's home games against Shamrock Rovers have been forgettable affairs in recent seasons and their latest meeting may prove to be another slow-burner. Rovers have struggled for form recently while Shels have lost just five games all season.

Under 2.5 goals may seem short at 8-13 but it is hard to envisage many goals. Rovers have scored three goals in eight games and Shels are not exactly prolific themselves.

There's a potential cracker in Inchicore, with Bohemians bidding to stay in the title race and St Patrick's full of confidence, but the prices look accurate.

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