Irish League predictions with Liam Beckett

Carrick Rangers v Portadown – Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)

The Ports have adapted quickly to Premiership standards and already have some points on board, but Carrick have recruited extremely well in the summer and are incredibly hard to beat at home. No team fancies the trip to the Rangers so I’m taking Carrick to edge this one possibly by just the odd goal.

Prediction - 2-1

Dungannon Swifts v Glentoran – Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)

The Swifts have started really well and sit in fifth place while Glentoran are in yet another period of transition. Both teams are currently very evenly matched so I’m opting for a draw. Key players to look out for are Bobby Jack McAleese for Dungannon and Fuad Sule for the Glens.

Prediction - 1-1

Glenavon v Loughgall – Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)

Glenavon have struggled over the last few seasons and to be honest I still don’t see a massive improvement as their current league position clearly shows. Loughgall will now have to see how they can perform without their key player Benji Magee, who has moved to Larne, and so far they too have been very inconsistent. However, I’m taking the Villagers to nick this one.

Prediction - 1-2

Larne v Ballymena United – Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio

Although the Braidmen have made some stellar signings of late they are still struggling to find a winning formula, but they will see this as the perfect opportunity to get their season up and running. Nevertheless, Larne are the champions and for me they are still the best team in the league, so it’s my hunch they will take all three points in this one.

Prediction - 2-0