Declan Devine believes the 'sky is the limit' following a night to remember for David Parkhouse in Derry's EA Sports Cup semi-final victory on Monday night. The Derry City striker, on loan from Sheffield United, put together an incredible four-goal
Declan Devine believes the 'sky is the limit' following a night to remember for David Parkhouse in Derry's EA Sports Cup semi-final victory on Monday night.
The Derry City striker, on loan from Sheffield United, put together an incredible four-goal haul to see off Waterford after extra-time on Foyleside.
It takes the 19-year-old to 16 goals for the season and put him alongside Ciaron Harkin and Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe as the third player to seal an impressive hat-trick this campaign for the Candystripes.
Speaking to the media after the game, Devine said: "Listen, I am just delighted for them because it is a fitting reward to get to a final in their first year.
"And tonight is the David Parkhouse show, this is something special for the kid," he added.
"19-years of age, a major cup semi-final at the Brandywell, not only to score a hat-trick but to push on and score four, it is a night that the boy should never forget.
"I said it on Friday night (against UCD) we are so happy to have him and I think that the sky is the limit for the boy."
Devine quipped that the centre-forward had been set a target of 20 goals before the season.
"Well, as I told him there when he came off, his target has now gone up to 25," Devine joked. "But, look, if the boy doesn't score another goal between now and the end of the season, which is highly unlikely, it would be a terrific season for him.
"He is a special talent and he is a very brave boy because even when he misses a chance he comes back for more.
"He is such a nightmare for players," Devine said. "But what a lad and what a player and, all in all, what a night for the club."
