Ahead of the opening fixtures in the Irish Premiership, former Linfield and Ballymena United manager David Jeffrey gives us his predictions for an exciting weekend of football.

On the first day of the season, players, managers and supporters crave an opening day win.

However if victory is not forthcoming, avoiding defeat is the next priority and so a draw is acceptable and welcome to get off the mark in terms of points.

Glentoran v Crusaders - Friday 19:45 BST (live on BBC iPlayer)

A 2-1 win for either side could be predicted.

Two new managers, two new regimes, but for me I’m going to sit on the fence and go for a share of the spoils.

Prediction: 2-2

Ballymena United v Linfield – Saturday 15:00 BST (live on Sportsound on Radio Ulster/BBC Sounds)

I’m again going for honours even and a point apiece.

However, given their eye-catching recruitment, I wouldn’t be surprised if the points stayed in Ballymena.

Prediction: 2-2

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

Stuart King has strengthened what is already a strong squad and I expect their home form to be better this season than last.

Prediction: 3-1

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

This is the first test of Coleraine’s new full-time regime but remember what Dungannon achieved in their first fixture last year - a 4-4 draw with Larne. Another draw on this occasion wouldn’t be a surprise.

However, I believe Dean Shiels will leave his old stomping ground with the points.

Prediction: 1-2

Cliftonville v Portadown – Sunday 15:00 BST (live on BBC iPlayer)

A bold prediction from me for the Sunday game at Solitude as I’m going for a share of the spoils.

My opinion is similar to that of Ballymena United, regarding Portadown’s impressive recruitment, while the Reds have lost a few key players up front.

Prediction: 2-2

Join David on Saturday with Michael McNamee on Sportsound live from the Ballymena Showgrounds from 14:00 BST on Radio Ulster, BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website.