Although the term “football on the island” usually refers to England and its world-leading Premier League, there is plenty else that the most popular sport on the planet has to offer. In the Republic of Ireland, quality football is being played as well, despite the rest of Europe not paying too much attention to their domestic league. They have had some great footballing talent over the years, and their domestic competition, although with only 10 clubs, is just starting to heat up.
If you are a fan of the game, you know that there can never be too many leagues to follow. And better yet, if you are a betting man and a sports wagering enthusiast, you know full well how big discovering a whole new league can be. Join us as we explore the latest news in Irish football so that you can take your knowledge to a Bitcoin live casino and place some bets on the top flight of the country’s footballing scene.
A Look at the Table
After matchday 10, and each team looking ahead to their 11th game, the situation in the standings is quite interesting. The difference between the first and the fifth is a mere 3 points as the third of the season is almost over. As of this writing, Drogheda United is sitting at the top of the standings, but is not at all secure up there. They have 19 points after 5 wins, 4 draws, and 1 loss, and have a +8 goal difference. Behind them are two teams with 18 points and the same record of 5 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses.
In second place, we find St. Patrick’s Athletic with a +7 goal difference, and in third, it is Shamrock Rovers with a +6 goal difference. It is as tight as it can be in the top three spots right now with a ton of football still left to be played. The defending champions, Shelbourne, are currently 4th with 17 points coming from 4 wins, 5 draws, and 1 loss, with +4 goals. It is then Galway United with 16 points, Derry City with 14, Bohemian with 12, and Waterford with 9. The two teams at the end of the table are Sligo Rovers and Cork City, with 7 points each.
Goal and Assist Leaders
When it comes to the leading goal scorers, there are four players with 5 goals leading the charge, sharing the first spot amongst themselves. These include Aidan Keena of St. Patrick’s Athletic, Michael Duffy of Derry City, Owen Elding of Sligo Rovers, and Warren Davis of Drogheda United. Right behind them, with 4 goals to their names, are Colm Whelan of the Bohemians and Patrick Hickey of Galway United.
Among the assists leaders we find Jack Byrne of the Shamrock Rovers and William Fitzgerald of the Sligo Rovers with 4 a piece. Behind them are Bobby Burns and Dom Thomas of Galway United and Derry City, respectively, with 3 assists. It is then a plethora of players with 2 assists in what is a very diverse and interesting race so far.
Upcoming Fixtures
For the sports wagering fans among you, soccer (football) in Ireland is heating up with plenty of games coming our way in the next few days. Today, on April 21, the Shamrock Rovers are hosting the Bohemians and are the favorites with 1.66 odds over the visitors’ 4.90. Cork City is at 2.09 when Waterford, with 3.20, comes to town, while Drogheda United are the underdogs at home versus the visiting St. Patrick’s Athletic. In the final match of the day, Shelbourne welcomes Galway United and is considered the favorite according to the bookies, with 2.17 odds against 3.40.
For those among you who prefer outright bets regarding the winner of the league, at the moment, it is St. Patrick’s Athletic leading the way with 2.75 odds to be the 2025 champions. Behind them are the Shamrock Rovers with 3.20, the champions from four straight seasons between 2020 and 2023, followed by the defending champions, Shelbourne, with 4.00. Derry City is fourth with 9.00 odds while Drogheda United is sitting at unfavorable 15.00 at this moment in the season, despite leading the standings.
Ireland Premier Division FAQ
What is the League of Ireland Premier Division?
The League of Ireland Premier Division is the top-tier professional football league in the Republic of Ireland.
When does the Irish Premier Division season run?
Unlike many European leagues, the Irish Premier Division follows a summer schedule, usually from February to November.
Which team has won the most titles?
Shamrock Rovers hold the record for the most titles with 21 league championships. They have been especially dominant in recent years with strong performances domestically and in European qualifiers.
Can teams from the Irish Premier Division play in European competitions?
Yes, the top teams qualify for European tournaments. The league champions enter the UEFA Champions League qualifiers, while other top finishers could compete in the Europa Conference League.
What are the biggest rivalries?
Matches like the Dublin Derby between Shamrock Rovers and the Bohemians are fiercely contested and deeply rooted in local pride. Young Irish talent often emerges from these clubs before moving abroad.
