The Roscommon & District Football League returns to action this weekend – its 50th season – so that means a return of the weekly predictions…best of luck to all clubs and officials this season.
Similar to last season, the Premier Division will split into two sections following the first round of games. The top five at that stage will play each other for the Premier Division title while the bottom six will battle it out to avoid relegation.
Friday, August 30th
RDFL Premier Division
Shiven Rovers v St. John’s Athletic FC. 8 pm
The Lecarrow side are back in the top flight but they face a tricky opening day against Shiven Rovers.
Prediction: Shiven Rovers
RDFL Second Division
Skyvalley Rovers B v Cloonfad United B. 8 pm
Home advantage to swing it for Skyvalley?
Prediction: Skyvalley Rovers
Saturday, August 31st
RDFL Premier Division
Castlerea Celtic v Moylough ’79. 7.45 pm
The visitors have rocketed up the divisions and while they are always competitive, may find the going tough against one of the best teams in Roscommon.
Prediction: Castlerea Celtic
RDFL Second Division
Glen Celtic v Ahascragh United. 7.45 pm
This could be a cracker between two teams with genuine promotion hopes.
Prediction: Draw
Ballinasloe Town B v Boyle Celtic B. 8 pm
The home side won’t have it all their own way but are among the favourites for promotion.
Prediction: Ballinasloe Town B
Sunday, September 1st
RDFL Premier Division
Skyvalley Rovers v Moore United FC. 11 am
The hosts open their 50th season in the top flight. Moore are the slight favourites.
Prediction: Moore United
Ballinasloe Town v Boyle Celtic. 2 pm
The ‘Game of the Weekend’: Boyle were frustratingly inconsistent last season while The Town tend to grow stronger as the season goes on.
Prediction: Draw.
RDFL First Division (Kick-off 11 am unless stated)
Strokestown United v Cloonfad United
Both sides will be hoping for an immediate return to the Premier Division.
Prediction: Draw
Rahara Rovers v CP Ajax
Difficult to call but the Castleplunkett side gets the nod.
Prediction: CP Ajax
Dysart FC v Roscommon United
A difficult opener for newly-promoted Roscommon United. However, they’ll be delighted to know that I’m backing the hosts.
Prediction: Dysart FC
Dunmore Town v Ballaghaderreen FC
Away win.
Prediction: Ballaghaderreen FC
Cam Celtic v Castlerea Celtic B
The home side should have the edge over the new boys.
Prediction: Cam Celtic
RDFL Second Division (2 pm)
Manor United v Moore United B
The hosts should be aiming for promotion this year.
Prediction: Manor United
St. Cuan’s v Ballaghaderreen FC B
Home win.
Prediction: St. Cuan’s
Roscommon United B v Ballymoe FC B
United appointed Mike Ryan and John Hannon as head coaches of the new second team over the summer and according to sources at the club (those who go training), preparations have gone well ahead of this weekend’s opening fixture.
Prediction: Roscommon United
