Moyola Park have been handed a major boost ahead of next season’s Championship campaign after confirmation that star striker David Parkhouse has signed a contract extension until 2028.

Parkhouse was named Premier Intermediate League Player of the Year at the NI Football Awards after scoring 25 goals in 23 appearances for Marty Smith’s title-winning side.

The 26-year-old joined Moyola ahead of last season after spending the majority of his career playing top-flight football – he signed for Derry City from Sheffield United in 2021 and was also on the books of Ballymena United.

During his time at Ballymena, Parkhouse enjoyed a loan spell with Cliftonville, making 15 Premiership appearances for the Reds.

placeholder image — Moyola Park striker David Parkhouse (left) with manager Marty Smith. (Photo by Moyola Park AFC)

Parkhouse arrived at Moyola from H&W Welders having netted nine times during the 2024/25 Championship season and made an instant impact at Mill Meadow.

With Moyola making a return to Northern Ireland’s second-tier next term, manager Smith feels it was crucial to keep Parkhouse at the club.

"We’re delighted that David sees his future here at Moyola,” said Smith. “It is vitally important we keep our best players at the club and this is a huge boost for everyone.

"Parky has had a fantastic season and played a hugely significant role in our success. I'm sure this news will be very welcomed across the club."

Parkhouse rounded his season off by scoring a hat-trick in Moyola’s 6-0 win over Lisburn Distillery and also struck trebles against Ballymacash Rangers and Banbridge Town.

Across all competitions, Parkhouse netted 46 goals and admits a move to Moyola has helped him rediscover his love for football.

"I would like to give my gratitude to the club for extending my future, something that was an easy decision for myself, and a special mention to Speirsy (David Speirs, chairman) and Marty for making it happen,” he said. “Ever since I came through the door they have gave me an environment and platform to enjoy my football again and that has happened in abundance.

“We have had a really successful season on and off the pitch and it’s important to keep pushing on and striving for more. I’m glad that I can be a part of it all."