Irish Premiership Predictions with Gary Haveron
Week two of the season brings us our first full slate of Irish Premiership action with back-to-back title winners Larne kicking off their defence of the Gibson Cup after sitting out last week due to their European involvement. The Inver Park outfit's first team coach Gary Haveron gives us his predictions for another big weekend of football.
Coleraine v Ballymena United - Friday 19:45 BST (live on BBC iPlayer)
This is a huge derby game with two much-changed sides from last season both looking to register their first win of the campaign after an opening day draw and defeat respectively.
They may have to wait a little longer for a victory as I believe it’ll be honours even.
Prediction: 1-1
Glenavon v Cliftonville - Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)
A Glenavon side in transition will find it tough against Jim Magilton’s Reds.
They’re a strong outfit who will again see themselves as title challengers. Victory for Cliftonville at Mourneview.
Prediction: 1-2
Linfield v Dungannon Swifts - Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)
Rodney McAree’s Dungannon Swifts will travel to Windsor Park with no fear after causing the Blues problems last season.
However, with an opening day win under their belt and home advantage, Linfield will be expected to pick up the three points.
Prediction: 2-0
Loughgall v Carrick Rangers - Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)
After a strong showing in their first season back in the top flight, Loughgall may find this campaign a little more difficult.
As for Carrick, additional investment and good recruitment will make them a tough nut to crack. Back-to-back wins for Stuart King’s side.
Prediction: 1-2
Portadown v Glentoran - Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)
Strong recruitment in the summer for Portadown, but they’re a team still gelling together.
As for Glentoran, they’ll be hoping to bounce back quickly after a disappointing 1-0 defeat at home to Crusaders last week. The return to first team duties for Fuad Sule will be a major boost for Declan Devine’s side. An away win for me.
Prediction: 0-2
Crusaders v Larne – Sunday 14:00 BST (live on BBC iPlayer)
Declan Caddell will be determined to put his stamp on this group and build on their opening day win at The Oval.
Not the easiest venue to begin the defence of a league title, but Larne will have a few games under their belts due to European competition. The champions to claim all three points.
Prediction: 0-1
Join Gary and Michael McNamee on Sportsound this Saturday from 14:00 BST on Radio Ulster, BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website.
