Finn Harps vs Treaty United: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Wednesday, 08 July 2026 by Steve
Finn Harps vs Treaty United
League of Ireland First Division Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
Tony McNamee Named Club Captain - Finn Harps FC Official Website
Finn Harps welcome Treaty United to Finn Park in Ballybofey this Friday evening for a crucial League of Ireland First Division encounter. Both sides find themselves in the lower reaches of the table as the 2026 season reaches its midway point, making this a potentially pivotal fixture in the battle to avoid the drop and keep faint play-off hopes alive. With Finn Harps sitting in ninth place and Treaty United occupying the tenth and final position, the stakes could not be higher for two clubs desperate to turn their campaigns around. The match carries significant weight not only in terms of league positioning but also for the morale and momentum of both squads heading into the second half of the season.
Kevin McHugh's Finn Harps have endured a frustrating first half of the campaign, managing just four wins from their opening 18 fixtures. While they have proven difficult to beat at times, a run of four consecutive defeats in the middle of the season severely damaged their play-off aspirations. The Donegal side currently sit seven points adrift of the play-off places, meaning they need a strong second-half surge if they are to challenge for promotion back to the Premier Division. Home form has been their saving grace, with 13 of their 18 points coming at Finn Park, and they will be looking to make their Navenny Street fortress count once again against a Treaty United side that has yet to win on the road this season. For those looking at today's football predictions, this fixture presents an interesting case study in mid-table First Division dynamics.
Treaty United, meanwhile, have struggled even more dramatically, recording just three victories from their 21 league matches so far. Tommy Barrett's men have shown resilience in patches, managing eight draws, but their inability to convert those stalemates into wins has left them rooted to the bottom of the table. The Limerick club have failed to score in 10 of their 21 matches, highlighting a chronic lack of cutting edge in the final third. However, they did avoid defeat in their most recent outing, which could provide a small boost in confidence heading to Donegal. With Cian Curtis leading their scoring charts with seven goals, Treaty United will be hoping their attacking talisman can find the net once more and inspire a rare away victory. For bettors seeking sure win predictions, the away side's poor travelling record makes them a risky proposition despite their recent improvement.
Tactical Preview
Conor Tourish returns and Edogun joins Finn Harps - Donegal News
Formation & Key Matchups
Finn Harps 4-2-3-1
Kevin McHugh has predominantly deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation this season, looking to control the midfield through the experienced Tony McNamee and the energetic Oran Brogan. The system relies heavily on width provided by Gavin McAteer and Aaron McLaughlin on the flanks, with the young Josh Cullen operating in a more central creative role behind the striker. Defensively, Conor Tourish and Joel Bradley-Walsh form a solid centre-back partnership, though they have been vulnerable to pace in behind. The full-backs, typically Josh Cullen and Seaghan McCormick, are encouraged to push forward and support attacks, which can leave gaps for counter-attacking teams to exploit. McHugh's side prefer to build from the back, with goalkeeper Corey Sheridan or Lorenzo Piaia distributing to the midfield pivot. However, their lack of a prolific goalscorer has been their Achilles' heel, with 17 goals from 18 matches representing one of the division's poorer attacking returns. Those interested in over-under predictions should note Finn Harps' tendency to be involved in low-scoring affairs.
Treaty United 4-3-3
Tommy Barrett has favoured a 4-3-3 formation for much of the 2026 campaign, aiming to press high and win the ball in dangerous areas. The midfield trio of Steven Healy, Colin Conroy, and Mark Byrne provides a blend of industry and creativity, with Healy particularly influential in transitioning from defence to attack. Up front, Cian Curtis operates as the central striker, supported by the pace of Jevontae Layne and the trickery of Ben Feeney on the wings. Defensively, Eric Yoro and Ben Lynch have formed a reasonably solid partnership at centre-back, though they have been exposed by teams that play with width and pace. Full-backs Richkov Boevi and Richy Lapointe-Guevara offer attacking threat but can be caught out of position. Treaty United's tactical approach is heavily reliant on winning second balls and quick transitions, making them dangerous when they can disrupt the opposition's rhythm. For double chance betting, Treaty United's ability to grind out draws makes them an interesting proposition.
Critical Vulnerability
The critical vulnerability in this fixture lies in Finn Harps' defensive transitions and Treaty United's inability to finish chances. Finn Harps commit numbers forward in attack, leaving their centre-backs exposed to quick counter-attacks, which is precisely where Treaty United's front three of Curtis, Layne, and Feeney thrive. Conversely, Treaty United have squandered numerous gilt-edged opportunities this season, and if they fail to convert their chances against a Finn Harps side that has kept only four clean sheets, they could find themselves punished on the break by the pace of Aaron McLaughlin or the trickery of young Odhrán McHugh. The midfield battle between Tony McNamee and Steven Healy will be crucial in determining which team can impose their game plan. Those looking at BTTS predictions should consider that both teams have defensive frailties but also possess attacking players capable of finding the net.
Team News & Squad Status
Finn Harps 📉
- Corey Sheridan (GK) - Returned from injury but rotated with Lorenzo Piaia; manager Kevin McHugh has yet to settle on a first-choice goalkeeper.
- Darragh Coyle (DF) - Recently returned from a five-month injury absence and is being reintegrated gradually into the squad.
- Aaron McLaughlin (FW) - Back from injury and adding attacking threat; scored in recent appearances and looks sharp.
- Hans Mpongo (FW) - Signed in the summer 2025 transfer window and has been a bright spot in attack with his hold-up play and physical presence.
- Odhrán McHugh (FW) - 16-year-old academy product who became the club's youngest-ever goalscorer last month; pushing for more minutes.
- Josh Cullen (MF) - Part of the Ireland U-17 World Cup squad; one of the most exciting young talents in the division.
- Bernardo Monteiro (MF) - Portuguese midfielder signed from FIU Panthers; brings creativity and set-piece quality to the midfield.
Treaty United 📊
- Cian Curtis (FW) - Leading scorer with 7 goals; the focal point of Treaty United's attack and their most dangerous player.
- Steven Healy (MF) - Key creative force with the most assists for Treaty United this season; central to their transition play.
- Jack Brady (GK) - First-choice goalkeeper who has kept 6 clean sheets despite the team's struggles.
- Ben Lynch (DF) - Reliable left-back who has featured in 20 matches this season and provides defensive stability.
- Eric Yoro (DF) - Centre-back partner who has formed a consistent pairing at the heart of the defence.
- Jevontae Layne (FW) - Pacey winger who can stretch defences but has struggled for consistency in front of goal.
- Mark Murphy (MF) - Midfield anchor who has featured in 22 matches and provides defensive cover for the back four.
Predicted Lineups
Cian Curtis Brace Gives Treaty First Point! | Treaty United 2-2 Kerry FC | Full Match Highlights
| Finn Harps 4-2-3-1 | Treaty United 4-3-3 |
|---|---|
| Corey Sheridan (GK) | Jack Brady (GK) |
| Josh Cullen (RB) | Richkov Boevi (RB) |
| Conor Tourish (CB) | Eric Yoro (CB) |
| Joel Bradley-Walsh (CB) | Ben Lynch (CB) |
| Seaghan McCormick (LB) | Richy Lapointe-Guevara (LB) |
| Tony McNamee (CDM) | Mark Murphy (CDM) |
| Oran Brogan (CDM) | Colin Conroy (CM) |
| Gavin McAteer (RW) | Steven Healy (CM) |
| Bernardo Monteiro (CAM) | Jevontae Layne (LW) |
| Aaron McLaughlin (LW) | Ben Feeney (RW) |
| Hans Mpongo (ST) | Cian Curtis (ST) |
Head-to-Head Record
Steven Healy Signs On A Permanent Deal – Treaty United FC
The head-to-head record between Finn Harps and Treaty United is remarkably tight, reflecting the competitive nature of their encounters in the League of Ireland First Division. Over 15 meetings since Treaty United's formation, the honours are split evenly with seven wins apiece and just one draw, making this one of the most unpredictable fixtures in the division. The aggregate scoreline across those 15 matches stands at 15-16 in favour of Treaty United, underlining how closely contested these games have been. Finn Harps have historically held the advantage at Finn Park, where the vocal home support and the unique atmosphere of Navenny Street can unsettle visiting teams. However, Treaty United have managed to secure victories on their travels to Donegal, proving they are not intimidated by the occasion. For those checking hot predictions, the tight nature of this rivalry makes it a difficult match to call with certainty.
In their most recent encounters during the 2025 and 2026 seasons, the pattern of tight, low-scoring affairs has continued. The last meeting between these two sides saw Finn Harps edge a narrow 1-0 victory at Finn Park, with Conor Tourish scoring the decisive goal from a set-piece. Treaty United's most recent win in this fixture came earlier in the 2025 campaign when Cian Curtis scored twice in a 2-1 victory at the Markets Field. Both teams have shown a tendency to raise their game for this particular matchup, with the narrow margins and high stakes producing intense, physical encounters. The psychological edge may lie with Treaty United given their superior head-to-head record in recent seasons, but Finn Harps' home advantage cannot be underestimated. Bettors exploring correct score tips should note that 1-0 and 2-1 have been the most common scorelines in this fixture.
Key Players Comparison
Conor Tourish (Finn Harps)
Position: Centre-Back / Top Scorer
Finn Harps' captain and defensive leader has been their top scorer this season, highlighting both his aerial threat from set-pieces and the team's struggles in attack. A towering presence at the back.
Cian Curtis (Treaty United)
Position: Striker / Top Scorer
With 7 goals in 21 appearances, Curtis is Treaty United's most reliable source of goals. His movement off the ball and clinical finishing make him the player Finn Harps must stop.
Tony McNamee (Finn Harps)
Position: Midfielder / Playmaker
The experienced midfielder leads the team's assist charts and is the creative heartbeat of the side. His set-piece delivery and passing range will be crucial in unlocking Treaty United's defence.
Steven Healy (Treaty United)
Position: Midfielder / Creator
Healy has been Treaty United's most creative player this season, providing the most assists and driving the team forward from midfield. His battle with McNamee will be fascinating.
The key players comparison reveals an intriguing clash of styles and personalities. Conor Tourish represents the old-school, physical defender who can dominate in both boxes, while Cian Curtis embodies the modern, mobile striker who thrives on service and space. In midfield, the veteran guile of Tony McNamee against the industry of Steven Healy will likely determine which team controls the tempo of the game. Finn Harps will also look to the youthful exuberance of Josh Cullen and the pace of Aaron McLaughlin to stretch Treaty United's defence, while the Limerick side will hope that Jevontae Layne and Ben Feeney can provide the width and creativity to support Curtis. For those looking at banker of the day tips, identifying which of these key players can influence the game most will be essential to making an informed wager.
The Managers
Kevin McHugh (Finn Harps)
Kevin McHugh took charge of Finn Harps with the remit of restoring the club to the Premier Division, but the 2026 season has been a challenging one. A club legend from his playing days, McHugh has tried to instill a possession-based philosophy, but the squad's lack of a prolific striker has hampered their progress. His decision to rotate goalkeepers between Corey Sheridan and Lorenzo Piaia has drawn some criticism, though both have shown moments of quality. McHugh's faith in youth has been admirable, with Josh Cullen, Gavin McAteer, and Odhrán McHugh all given significant opportunities. However, he will know that results must improve quickly if Finn Harps are to avoid another season of mid-table mediocrity. His tactical flexibility has seen him switch between 4-2-3-1 and 4-4-2 formations, but consistency has been elusive. For managers looking at bet of the day selections, McHugh's ability to motivate his side for crucial home fixtures will be tested.
McHugh's man-management skills are widely praised within the club, and he has managed to keep morale relatively high despite the poor run of results. The return of Darragh Coyle from injury and the emergence of Odhrán McHugh as a genuine first-team option provide some optimism for the second half of the season. McHugh will be desperate for his side to start converting draws into wins, as their resilience in avoiding heavy defeats has not been matched by an ability to close out games. Against Treaty United, he will likely stick with the 4-2-3-1 formation that has served them well at home, looking to exploit the wide areas and get crosses into the box for Hans Mpongo and the arriving midfielders. Those following full-time predictions will be watching to see if McHugh can turn Finn Park into the fortress it needs to be.
Tommy Barrett (Treaty United)
Tommy Barrett has been at the helm of Treaty United since their inception and has established the club as a competitive force in the First Division. However, the 2026 season has tested his resources and tactical acumen, with the team struggling for consistency and goals. Barrett's preferred 4-3-3 system is designed to be aggressive and high-pressing, but the squad's fitness levels and defensive vulnerabilities have meant that this approach has been difficult to sustain for 90 minutes. His reliance on Cian Curtis as the primary goal threat has made Treaty United predictable at times, and he will be hoping that the supporting cast of Layne, Feeney, and Oyenuga can step up to share the goal-scoring burden. Barrett's experience in the division is a valuable asset, and he will know that a positive result at Finn Park could be the catalyst for a turnaround in fortunes. For value betting enthusiasts, Barrett's ability to set his team up for away fixtures will be under scrutiny.
Barrett has shown a willingness to adapt his tactics when necessary, occasionally switching to a more conservative 4-5-1 when facing stronger opposition. Against Finn Harps, he may look to exploit the home side's high defensive line with the pace of Curtis and Layne on the counter-attack. The midfield battle will be crucial, and Barrett will be hoping that Mark Murphy and Colin Conroy can nullify the influence of Tony McNamee and Oran Brogan. Defensively, Eric Yoro and Ben Lynch will need to be at their best to deal with the physical presence of Hans Mpongo and the movement of Aaron McLaughlin. Barrett's motivational skills will be tested as he tries to galvanize a squad that has won just three times all season. Those checking away win predictions will note that Barrett has yet to secure a victory on the road in 2026.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 2.85
Despite their poor away record, Treaty United have shown signs of improvement in recent weeks and possess the individual quality in Cian Curtis and Steven Healy to trouble a Finn Harps side that has lost four of their last nine matches. Finn Harps' defensive vulnerabilities, particularly on transitions, play into Treaty United's counter-attacking strengths. The value in these odds is too good to ignore for a team that has historically performed well against Finn Harps and desperately needs three points to kickstart their season. For more sure win selections, this match offers genuine value.
Odds: 1.90
Both teams have defensive frailties that should lead to goals at both ends. Finn Harps have kept just four clean sheets in 18 matches, while Treaty United have managed six in 21 but have been porous against teams with pace and creativity. With Cian Curtis in form for Treaty United and Finn Harps' Conor Tourish a threat from set-pieces, expect both goalkeepers to be beaten at least once. This is a strong value play given the attacking intent both managers have shown this season. Check out our BTTS predictions page for more similar tips.
Odds: 2.10
While both teams have been involved in their fair share of low-scoring games this season, the nature of this fixture and the desperation for points suggests an open, attacking encounter. Finn Harps have been involved in 12 matches with over 2.5 goals this season, while Treaty United have seen 11 of their 21 games exceed that threshold. With both defences prone to errors and both attacks needing to take risks, this match could see three or more goals. For over-under betting tips, this market offers solid value.
Odds: 2.40
Treaty United's leading scorer with 7 goals in 21 appearances, Cian Curtis has been the one consistent bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season for the Limerick club. His movement, finishing ability, and knack for scoring against Finn Harps make him an excellent anytime goalscorer bet. With Finn Harps' defence vulnerable to pace and intelligent runs in behind, Curtis should get at least one clear chance to add to his tally. For anytime goalscorer predictions, Curtis is a standout selection.
Odds: 9.50
Our prediction model points to a narrow away victory for Treaty United, with Finn Harps managing to score but ultimately falling short. The 1-2 scoreline reflects Treaty United's ability to score multiple goals on their day, combined with Finn Harps' tendency to concede at home while still finding the net themselves. This is a speculative but potentially lucrative bet for those willing to take a risk on a specific outcome. For more correct score betting tips, visit our dedicated page.
📊 Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
Our prediction model forecasts a narrow 2-1 victory for Treaty United in what promises to be a tightly contested encounter at Finn Park. Finn Harps will enjoy the majority of possession and create chances through their wide players, but their lack of a clinical finisher will prove costly. Treaty United, meanwhile, will look to stay compact defensively and hit on the break, with Cian Curtis and Jevontae Layne posing a constant threat to the Finn Harps backline. We anticipate Finn Harps taking an early lead through a set-piece or a moment of individual brilliance from Tony McNamee, but Treaty United's resilience and counter-attacking prowess will see them equalize before halftime. In the second half, as Finn Harps push for a winner, Treaty United will exploit the spaces left behind, with Curtis scoring the decisive goal around the 75-minute mark. For more tomorrow's football predictions, check our daily updated tips.
The key to this result lies in Treaty United's superior efficiency in front of goal and their ability to frustrate Finn Harps' build-up play. Finn Harps have averaged just 0.91 goals per game this season, the third-lowest in the division, while Treaty United have shown they can be clinical when opportunities arise. The psychological factor also plays a role, with Treaty United desperate to avoid being cut adrift at the bottom of the table, while Finn Harps may be suffering from a lack of belief after their mid-season slump. The home crowd at Finn Park will provide vocal support, but Treaty United's recent improvement and their historical edge in this fixture give them the slight advantage. For those looking at draw no bet options, Treaty United at 2.85 offers reasonable protection.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Finn Harps have won just 4 of their 18 league matches this season, sitting in 9th place with 18 points.
- Treaty United are bottom of the table in 10th place with 17 points from 21 games, having won only 3 matches.
- Finn Harps have scored just 17 goals in 18 matches (0.94 per game), highlighting their chronic lack of attacking firepower.
- Treaty United have failed to score in 10 of their 21 league fixtures, but Cian Curtis has netted 7 times to keep them competitive.
- The head-to-head record is perfectly balanced at 7 wins each from 15 meetings, with just 1 draw.
- Finn Harps have picked up 13 of their 18 points at home, making Finn Park their stronghold.
- Treaty United have yet to win an away match this season, with 0 victories from 11 road trips.
- Both teams have been involved in 12 matches with over 2.5 goals this season, suggesting potential for a high-scoring game.
- Finn Harps' Conor Tourish is their top scorer despite being a centre-back, underlining their attacking struggles.
- Treaty United's Steven Healy leads their assist charts and will be key to creating chances for Curtis.
- Finn Harps have kept only 4 clean sheets this season, while Treaty United have managed 6.
- The last meeting between these sides at Finn Park ended in a 1-0 victory for Finn Harps.
- Both managers, Kevin McHugh and Tommy Barrett, are under pressure to deliver results and avoid a relegation battle.
- Finn Harps' young trio of Josh Cullen, Gavin McAteer, and Corey Sheridan all represented Ireland at the U-17 World Cup in Qatar.
- Treaty United's most recent result was a draw, ending a run of three consecutive defeats and providing a small confidence boost.
Conclusion
This First Division clash between Finn Harps and Treaty United represents far more than just three points for two struggling sides. For Finn Harps, a victory would reignite their faint play-off hopes and restore confidence to a squad that has endured a difficult mid-season period. For Treaty United, three points would be a lifeline, lifting them off the bottom of the table and providing tangible evidence that their season can still be salvaged. The tactical battle between Kevin McHugh's possession-based approach and Tommy Barrett's counter-attacking philosophy will be fascinating, with the midfield duel between Tony McNamee and Steven Healy likely to determine the outcome. Finn Harps will look to dominate the ball and create chances through their wide players, but their inability to convert opportunities has been their undoing all season. For more daily football predictions, visit our regularly updated tips page.
Ultimately, we believe Treaty United's desperation and the individual quality of Cian Curtis will prove decisive. Finn Harps' defensive vulnerabilities, particularly on transitions, play perfectly into Treaty United's hands, and we expect the Limerick side to capitalise on the counter-attack. While Finn Harps will enjoy periods of dominance and may take the lead, their lack of a clinical finisher will allow Treaty United to stay in the game and strike late. A 2-1 victory for the visitors would be a significant result in the context of the season and could mark a turning point for Barrett's men. As always, bettors should consider all factors and gamble responsibly, using our banker tips and value betting guides to inform their decisions.
For fans attending at Finn Park or watching on LOITV, expect an intense, hard-fought encounter with plenty of commitment from both sides. The First Division may not always grab the headlines, but matches like this, with so much on the line for both clubs, encapsulate the passion and drama of Irish football. Whether it's the emergence of young talents like Odhrán McHugh for Finn Harps or the experienced heads of Curtis and Healy for Treaty United, there will be no shortage of talking points. Our final prediction stands at Finn Harps 1-2 Treaty United, a result that would shake up the bottom of the table and set up an intriguing second half of the season. For more hot betting tips and analysis, keep following our coverage of the League of Ireland First Division.