EDFL: Mohammed Yassine moves from Pascoe Vale to Hillside

An Essendon District Football League club has bolstered its playing list as it attempts to play catch up this season with a Richmond VFL speedster signing — and he will debut this weekend.

Mohammed Yassine has joined Hillside from Pascoe Vale.

Hillside is enjoying quite the week.

The Essendon District Football League club appears to put its slow start to the season behind it after picking up its first win.

Now the club has confirmed the signing of Richmond VFL speedster Mohammed Yassine from Premier Division club Pascoe Vale.

Yassine has played four games for the Tigers in the state league this season but when he’s returned to local level has only played reserves or thirds footy for the Panthers.

He will make his debut in the Division 1 clash against Tullamarine on Saturday with both sides sitting at 1-3 after the opening month of the season.

Richmond VFL’s player bio of Yassine described him as a “dangerous and impactful half forward”.

“Speed is his best attribute and his work rate is excellent. Good user of the ball and kicks goals,” it said.

In his four games for the yellow and black army this season, Yassine has kicked four goals.

‘Weaved his magic’: Inside McHarg’s return to Deer Park

Kwame McHarg’s return to local footy almost flew under the radar.

Deer Park didn’t post anything on its social media channels until just before the game and then he just “weaved his magic” according to Lions coach Jamie Madigan.

Considered one of the greatest local footballers since 2000, McHarg booted eight goals as Deer Park overcame Essendon Doutta Stars by 27 points in a thrilling Essendon District league Premier Division clash.

“Absolute freak,” Madigan said of McHarg.

“He’s been living overseas for the last couple of years and he’s moved back to Australia now and we’ve stayed in touch. He trained on Thursday night and he trained the house down.

“He won four best-and-fairests in our run of seven premierships. He won’t be available for every game, he’ll play six or even hopefully.

“We told him to go out there and just enjoy himself, there was no pressure and he managed to produce that.”

Madigan was eventually able to isolate McHarg inside forward 50 after he was forced to shuffle the magnets early in the game.

Defenders Tim Quick (back), Billy Cannolo (hamstring) and Will Krithararis (knock) were all forced from the ground by quarter-time.

“Trent McKenzie went back to help us out,” Madigan said.

“It’s one of the beauties of having his experience in our side. Oscar Sasalu was giving us a few headaches, he kicked five, and Tim Quick was the match up we had set aside for him.

“Jake McKenzie went back as well. They really helped to steady the ship for us down there.”

Trent McKenzie played a key role down back. Picture: Andrew Batsch

Despite jumping out to a six goal to none lead at the first break, Doutta Stars eventually took the lead in the final term before the Lions, celebrating their 100th anniversary, booted the last several goals.

“Spiros (Amarantidis) had four or five centre clearances late which really helped us to get back on top,” Madigan said.

“Lin Jong was amazing again. Josh Chatfield played his second game back from injury. We’re playing him off the halfback flank to give us some real run and drive out of defence.”

After a “really proud” performance, the Lions now turn their attention to a clash with Strathmore.

VFL MAN LIGHTS IT UP FOR AIRPORT WEST

Max Rider produced his best game in Airport West colours, booting six goals in a 38-point win over Greenvale. Rider, a former Sydney Swans Academy Member, is listed by Port Melbourne in the VFL. Eagles skipper Ned Gentile also continued his impressive form with three goals. Recruit Jacob Bygate was also among the better players.

FORMER AFL BIG MAN’S HUGE OUTING 

Ex-Port Adelaide ruck Sam Hayes booted 10 goals as Strathmore powered to a monster win over East Keilor in the Essendon District Football League. In his best game for the Mores, Hayes had more than enough support as Mitch Purcell (seven goals) and Amin Naim (six) also hit the scoreboard heavily.

KEILOR PASSES BIGGEST TEST

In its biggest test of the season so far, Keilor got the better of Aberfeldie by 23 points in a contest which could shape as a potential grand final preview. Blair Wylie was best afield for the Blues while Nick O’Kearney dominated again. Abers skipper Brodie Newman was best afield in his first game since round 1.

MARBY’S IMPRESSIVE STATEMENT

After three straight wins, the Lions have jumped into third on the ladder. Brodie Holland’s side recorded their best of the season so far with a 32-point victory over 2024 grand finalist Pascoe Vale. Sean Hetherington was brilliant while Jack Kaygisiz and Ned Ryan won plaudits for their performances.