Cliftonville FC vs Crusaders FC Prediction: Both teams are highly efficient in their play

As the 18th round of the Northern Ireland Premier League approaches, an exciting showdown is scheduled at Solitude Arena, featuring Cliftonville against Crusaders. Both teams, recognized as top performers, have demonstrated efficiency in recent games. Cliftonville has clinched two consecutive league victories, while Crusaders secured a win in their latest league fixture. Expecting a challenging contest, our prediction is for a game with goals from both teams. We anticipate a match characterized by goals from both Cliftonville and Crusaders. Feel free to peruse our carefully crafted tips for a more comprehensive insight into the upcoming match.

Form: WWLWL

Cliftonville extended their winning streak with a second consecutive league victory, showcasing a dominant performance in their recent triumph against Carrick Rangers, concluding with an impressive 0-3 scoreline. Rory Hale played a pivotal role, securing a brace for Cliftonville in that encounter. The team aims to maintain its positive momentum as they gear up to face the Crusaders on Saturday.

Cliftonville has achieved an impressive record of 11 wins, 2 draws, and 4 losses out of 17 games played, accompanied by a notable total of 36 goals scored. Ben Wilson leads the team's efforts on goals with 13 goals scored this season, he is in incredible goal-scoring form and may get a goal on Saturday against Crusaders. 

Form: WLDWW

Crusaders have sustained a commendable record in their recent five matches, notching three victories, enduring a single loss, and securing a draw. In their latest league fixture, Crusaders emerged triumphant with a 1-2 victory over Loughgall, further solidifying their position. Eager to continue their positive run, they now set their sights on the upcoming clash against Cliftonville on Saturday.

Crusaders are waxing strong this season with a track record of 9 victories 4 draws and 3 losses in the 16 league matches played, the Crusaders are demonstrating extraordinary form. Ben Kennedy stands at the forefront of the team's goal-scoring efforts, having secured 9 goals this season.

A critical look at the last 11 games between them produced 3 wins for the Crusaders, 6 draws, and 3 wins for Cliftonville.

In six of the previous seven matchups between these two teams, we've witnessed a total of over 2.5 goals, and given their recent scoring prowess, a similar outcome seems likely on Saturday. The first-leg encounter also saw over 2.5 goals, with Cliftonville dominating Crusaders in a 0-3 victory. Our confidence in predicting over 2.5 goals in this match stands at 1.86 odds.

Furthermore, we anticipate both teams to find the back of the net, with odds at 1.67, as a "Both Teams to Score" (BTTS) scenario has unfolded in five of their last seven meetings. Lastly, we hold the belief that Cliftonville will not suffer a loss in this game.