Ballymena United v Glenavon - Friday 19:45 BST (follow live-text coverage on the BBC Sport website)

It’s a game neither side can afford to lose with Glenavon going into the game the more confident after their win at Coleraine last Saturday.

For Jim Ervin’s Ballymena, they need to take something from the game to avoid being cut adrift. Given their desire to get something on the board, I’ll edge a narrow home win.

Prediction – 2-1

Portadown v Linfield – Friday 19:45 BST (follow live-text coverage on the BBC Sport website)

Early season form shows Linfield are on song and they’ll also take a massive boost from David Healy’s decision to remain with the club, despite interest from Raith.

As for Portadown, it’s free hit, but Linfield are on song and I expect them to win comfortably.

Prediction – 0-3

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

Declan Caddell will be happy with his start to the season and he’ll be quietly confident. Crusaders home form is always good and they’ll be expecting to win.

Stuart King’s Carrick Rangers will put up a fight, but it has to be a home win.

Prediction – 2-0

Glentoran v Cliftonville - Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)

I think there will be goals in this game. Cliftonville have been strong in the past few seasons and have started this season well.

Glentoran have under-achieved for the past few seasons, but new faces will be keen to impress Declan Devine. I think it’ll be close.

Prediction 2-2

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

Dean Smith has done a great job and he’ll be hoping to build on last year. Their home form is good and they are a tough nut to crack at Lakeview Park.

They’ll be difficult to beat there and they could edge this against a Dungannon side which have started reasonably well. Home advantage to hold the key here.

Prediction – 2-1

Coleraine v Larne – Sunday 14:15 BST - (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)

It’s the season opener for the defending champions, but they’ll have had European action to get them into shape. They will remain the team to beat this season having strengthened with quality in recent days.

As for Coleraine, I thought they were disappointing against Glenavon last week, but I’m sure Dean Shiels will be looking for a reaction. Big ask for the Bannsiders.

Prediction – 0-2