Martin Blake
Martin Blake has been a senior writer for The Age since 1986 and has covered numerous AFL seasons, three cricket World Cups and various Australian cricket tours overseas, two Olympic Games, three Commonwealth Games, and a plethora of other major sports events including the British Open Championship and the US Masters. He covers all sports with an emphasis on Australian football and golf.
Buckley stands by his under-siege forwards
Martin Blake Nathan Buckley is not happy with his two key forwards, Travis Cloke and Chris Dawes. But he believes they have copped too much of the focus since last weekend's defeat by North Melbourne.
Franklin back as Hawthorn ups the ante
Martin Blake LANCE Franklin's long-awaited return from a hamstring injury and illness, along with the inclusion of former captain Sam Mitchell and Josh Gibson, gives Hawthorn an imposing look for the...
AFL
Magpies sitting pretty with percentage boost
Martin Blake Collingwood gives itself an important percentage boost by flogging Gold Coast at the MCG last night, despite an injury scare involving Scott Pendlebury.
Pies ponder problem of a different kind
Martin Blake Collingwood has a selection dilemma with three top players proving their fitness and available for the potential grand final preview against West Coast at the MCG on Saturday.
Football
Magpies tackle Eagles ruck
Martin Blake Collingwood is pondering a two-ruckman policy for just the second time this season.
AFL
Tonight's NAB Cup games
Martin Blake A preview of tonight's NAB Cup matches, Essendon vs Sydney and Collingwood vs Adelaide.
Football
Pies ban Wellingham for two matches
Michael Gleeson and Martin Blake Collingwood has decided to suspend premiership midfielder Sharrod Wellingham.
Football
Magpie injury crisis deepens
Martin Blake A phlegmatic Collingwood is dealing with its worst injury blight in years as another two star players went down yesterday.
Football
Magpies ace Thomas set to return for Lions clash
Martin Blake Dale Thomas is on track to make his return to Collingwood's team at the Gabba on Saturday.
