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.
Baby steps as Bombers on the mend
Martin Blake Essendon keeps taking two steps back for each step forward in the injury stakes.
AFL
'As a kid I hated Hawthorn': Hird gets personal
Martin Blake Essendon coach James Hird is looking forward to renewing his club's rivalry with Hawthorn at Docklands tomorrow night, although he has bigger things on his mind.
Hodge back for Hawks
Jared Lynch, Martin Blake Luke Hodge is set to captain Hawthorn for just the third time this season in tonight's clash with Essendon, while Bombers speedster Jason Winderlich will play his first game for the season in his...
AFL
Bomber stars return
Martin Blake Essendon coach James Hird has spent the season with headaches at the selection table and a glut of injuries, but the Bombers are on the verge of pulling their full list together.
Football
Winderlich back as Bombers test the best
Martin Blake Winless Essendon picks its strongest possible squad for tomorrow's NAB Cup match against Sydney.
AFL
Tonight's NAB Cup games
Martin Blake A preview of tonight's NAB Cup matches, Essendon vs Sydney and Collingwood vs Adelaide.
Incredible bulk
Martin Blake The young Bombers are bigger and, they hope, better, writes Martin Blake.
No more booze for Bombers
Martin Blake James Hird has been driving Essendon's players since pre-season began on October 26.
Five questions for Anzac Day
Martin Blake Injuries will test the depth of both clubs, writes Martin Blake.
