Matthew Tipton’s Irish Premiership Match Predictions

Matthew Tipton, who previously held managerial roles at Warrenpoint Town, Portadown, and Ards, shares his predictions. Crusaders v Glentoran (Friday, 19:45 BST, Live on BBC iPlayer & BBC Sport website) Tipton indicates that Declan Devine will likely be pleased with Glentoran’s impressive victory against Linfield a week ago Tuesday, but he identifies consistency as a challenge for the team. He suggests Crusaders face similar issues with consistency. Both sides, he notes, appear to have a strong scoring capability, which he hopes will offer “good viewing for the public at home!” Prediction: 2-2 (Result: 1-3) Ballymena United v Dungannon Swifts (Saturday, 15:00 GMT, coverage on Sportsound on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio Ulster) Tipton observes that both teams have been notable surprises this season. He points out that Ballymena initially struggled before embarking on a strong run near the top of the league. While he believes Rodney McAree’s squad has probably maintained their form more effectively throughout the season, Tipton anticipates Ballymena will secure the points given their home advantage. Prediction: 2-1 (Result: 0-1) Carrick Rangers v Loughgall (Saturday, 15:00 GMT, coverage on Sportsound on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio Ulster) Tipton recalls that both teams performed exceptionally well last year, with Stuart King leading Carrick to the European play-offs. He notes that King’s season has been less successful, and Stephen Baxter has since joined, bringing some stability. Tipton states that Loughgall has “just struggled this year,” and he “feel[s] for Dean Smith because he’s done a good job there.” Prediction: 3-0 (Result: 0-0) Linfield v Coleraine (Saturday, 15:00 GMT, coverage on Sportsound on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio Ulster) Tipton asserts that David Healy and his team will, as always, require a positive outcome. He highlights Linfield’s significant lead in the league table but points out their unusual inconsistency at home. Regarding Coleraine, Tipton admits limited recent observation but notes their fluctuating performance, being “brilliant one week and the next they’re a little bit poorer.” He attributes this to “a case of new team, new squad obviously with Dean Shiels coming in as manager.” Considering the match at Windsor, Tipton concludes that Linfield “will be too strong.” Prediction: 3-1 (Result: 3-0) Portadown v Cliftonville (Saturday, 15:00 GMT, coverage on Sportsound on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio Ulster) Tipton praises Portadown’s “brilliant” performance throughout the season, expressing his satisfaction with their success. For Cliftonville, he comments that while their start wasn’t “bad,” it also wasn’t “the greatest of starts,” especially in comparison to the previous season. He notes that Jim Magilton has now “stabilised” the team, and Joe Gormley continues his consistent scoring, “doing what he’s done for the last 15 years or so.” Tipton emphasizes Portadown’s “fantastic” home record, their tendency to score “late goals,” and the consistent “drama in their games so far this year.” Prediction: 2-2 (Result: 2-0) Listeners are encouraged to join Matthew and Michael McNamee on Sportsound this Saturday from 14:00 BST for the latest Irish Premiership updates. The broadcast will be available on BBC Radio Ulster, BBC Sounds, and the BBC Sport website. © 2024 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.