Three weeks into the Irish Premiership season and already the league table is starting to take shape. Five of last season’s top six sit in the top of half of the standings, with the lone exception being the back-to-back champions Larne who have yet to kick a ball in domestic action owing to their European run.
Tiernan Lynch’s side, who would have been hosting Portadown this weekend, will sit out another round this weekend in preparation for next week’s Uefa Conference League qualifying second leg against the Lincoln Red Imps, but we’ve still five games across Friday and Saturday.
Carrick Rangers striker Curtis Allen gives us his predictions for a slate that starts with his current side up against his old team.
Carrick Rangers v Glentoran – Friday 19:45 BST (live on BBC iPlayer)
We’re expecting a tough game but we welcome it with confidence. They beat us in the cup but didn’t beat us in the league. I feel we can get something out of the game.
Prediction: 1-0 (Result: 2-3)
Coleraine v Glenavon – Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)
Coleraine have had a more positive start to the season with Glenavon yet to win a game. I’d expect both teams to score but Coleraine to win.
Prediction: 2-1
Crusaders v Cliftonville – Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)
This will be a close one. A derby game and neither team will want to lose their winning start. Both teams will be happy with a point. I predict a draw for that one.
Prediction: 1-1
Dungannon Swifts v Ballymena United – Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)
Both teams with a start they wouldn’t have hoped for. Will be close but I think Dungannon might shade this one.
Prediction: 2-1
Linfield v Loughgall – Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)
It’s hard to look past Linfield. Loughgall look fit, like they always do, but with Linfield starting so well and hitting the ground running they will win comfortably.
Prediction: 3-0