- Shamrock Rovers FC have won three of their last five matches (D1, L1) and lost just one of their 11 home league games (W7, D3).
- Waterford FC have won one, tied three and lost one of their five most recent league matches, but they have won just four of their ten away matches (D1, L5).
Top versus bottom in a classic Irish rivalry
The bookies are clearly on the Shamrock bandwagon for Friday’s Premier Division 2025 clash at Tallaght Stadium, where they have priced the Hoops at -270, Waterford FC at +820 and the draw at +385. According to the latest Shamrock Rovers FC vs Waterford FC odds, the expectation is strongly in favour of the home side.
It seems that Stephen Bradley’s men are running away with the title this year after amassing 45 points from 23 games, but they have had a few slip-ups, most recently a 2-0 defeat at Bohemian FC. The most recent clash between these sides, referenced in our Shamrock Rovers FC vs Waterford FC preview, was a 2-0 home win for Rovers in Premier Division 2025, which is also a reason for the bookies to be wary.
Bradley has been at the helm of Shamrock Rovers FC since 2016 and during his tenure he has overseen the development of a technically adept side that dominate possession and play with a structured and patient approach. The Hoops have also been known to dominate teams with their set-piece play and superior build-up.
Daniel Mandroiu has contributed eight goals and three assists for Rovers this season, and Graham Burke is their top scorer with eight in the league.
Blues will make Rovers work for it
John Coleman, who took over as Waterford FC boss in May 2025, has put a more pragmatic edge to his new team’s approach and has tightened up their defense.
Waterford FC’s most impressive statistic is their points tally of 27 from 21 games, which puts them in eighth place in the Premier Division 2025.
However, their away form is a concern with four wins, one draw and five defeats in ten attempts.
Padraig Amond has been in form of late for Waterford FC, scoring three goals in his last 5 appearances, and he is their main scoring threat.
Expect a game of possession domination for Shamrock and frustration for Waterford on Friday, as the visitors will set up with a compact defensive block and look to counter when they can.
Rovers have won two of the three home meetings between these clubs and should do so again, but Waterford will make them work for it. This Shamrock Rovers FC vs Waterford FC prediction suggests a tight contest, but the home team has the advantage.
A BTTS bet is available at close to even odds (+103) as Waterford can hurt Rovers on the counter, but we’re taking Rovers to get another home win after averaging 2.18 goals scored and 0.64 goals conceded at home this season, making them the league’s stingiest defence. Furthermore, our Shamrock Rovers FC vs Waterford FC betting tips point towards a strong defensive display from the hosts, consistent with the season’s trends. In summary, this Shamrock Rovers FC vs Waterford FC prediction leans towards a home victory, with Waterford finding it tough to break down the league leaders.
