Dergview snap up key Bonagee United trio

Bonagee United trio Gareth Harkin, Conor Black and Stephen Black have been snapped up by NIFL Championship club Dergview.

Former Finn Harps midfielder Harkin is joined by the Black twins, who were also previously on the books of Harps, in making the move to Darragh Park.

Harkin, who has also played for Derry City, Coleraine and Limavady left Harps in January 2021 after eight seasons at Finn Park.

The 35-year-old worked with Dergview boss Tommy Canning during his spell at Harps and is eager to make an impression.

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“I'm excited by the challenge,” Harkin said. “I'm very impressed by the set-up here. I'm looking forward to a new challenge and I'm intrigued by the project at Dergview. I have a lot of experience behind me, hopefully I can help the younger players and the club achieve its goals.”

The 21-year-old Black twins, from Kilmacrennan, also worked with Canning at Harps. Conor Black plays on the left side with Stephen a centre-back.

Canning said: “They are coming to Dergview to fulfil their potential and kick on. They have a bit about them and this is a big opportunity for them both. They'll get opportunities here and it's up to them to prove themselves.”

Harkin and the Blacks helped Bonagee to victory in the USL League Cup in the 2022/23 season while they finished as runners-up in the Ulster Senior League, the immediate future of which appears doomed.