View Full Version : Middle-Earth Football Tournament
Sleepy Ranger
11-12-2005, 01:34 PM
Out of pure bordem I have decided to do a Middle-Earth Football Tournament. It will be done World Cup style. 8 Groups, 4 Teams in each. Top two will move on to the Quarter-Finals and from there on it will be in knock-out format.
All matches will be simulated in Fifa 2k6, and results will be posted with highlights. (I'll have a video of the match if people want.)
Here are the teams (In no paticular order)-
Gondor
Shire
Mordor
Numenor
Rivendell
Lothlorien
Bree
Arnor
Angband
Alqualondë
Belegost
Dale
Erebor
Mirkwood
Rohan
Moria
Gondolin
Grey Havens
Nargothrond
Valimar
Valmar
Vinyamar
Woodhall
Barrow-Downs
Old Forest
Fangorn
Isengard
Tol-In-Gauroth
Ephel Brandir
Doriath
Crickhollow
Goblin-town
I shall put up the groups and fixtures tomorrow. (The teams used for simulation will be picked at random before each match. Brazil will not be used because Fifa 2k6 has a bad habit of over-rating them. Only International teams will be used.)
Thoughts? Comments? Feedback? Should I go ahead with this?
(And also let me know which team you're supporting! ^_^)
NOTE- For the highlights I will change the player's name to someone from that region in Middle-Earth. (Some teams will have random players if nobody from that area has been named)
EDIT- I meant soccer. (Just clearing it up if anyone gets confused)
Hookbill the Goomba
11-12-2005, 01:39 PM
This sounds... ... interesting. I hope the Hobbits win something. :)
Nice idea, sleepy.
Bergil
11-12-2005, 01:48 PM
do we have to wait untill 2006 for the brginning (joke)
Sleepy Ranger
11-12-2005, 02:00 PM
do we have to wait untill 2006 for the brginning (joke)
No but you'll have to wait for 2009 to see the next one ;)
Gil-Galad
11-12-2005, 02:06 PM
is going to be human vs human i hope, if its human vs compu the human player could have more skill and dominate...
Sleepy Ranger
11-12-2005, 02:08 PM
is going to be human vs human i hope, if its human vs compu the human player could have more skill and dominate...
All matches are simulated. Its com vs. com (on professional difficulty it actually manages to dish out entertaining matches).
Gil-Galad
11-12-2005, 02:10 PM
hopefully the home team wins (Barrow-Downs)
Feanor of the Peredhil
11-12-2005, 02:49 PM
Sounds neat.
Alcarillo
11-12-2005, 02:50 PM
Sounds like a cool idea. I will of course be rooting for the Barrow-Downs, but I'm also a fan of Numenor. And Sleepy, how soon will this start?
Sleepy Ranger
11-12-2005, 02:53 PM
Sounds like a cool idea. I will of course be rooting for the Barrow-Downs, but I'm also a fan of Numenor. And Sleepy, how soon will this start?
Well, I'll have the groups and fixtures up tomorrow. I'll probably kick us off on Monday. The matches may be some what inconsistent till the 23rd but after that they'll be up as per schedule. :)
Sleepy Ranger
11-13-2005, 05:57 AM
Group A
Old Forest
Mordor
Moria
Rohan
Group B
Shire
Arnor
Rivendell
Vinyamar
Group C
Barrow-Downs
Woodhall
Valmar
Valimar
Group D
Nargothrond
Ephel Brandir
Mirkwood
Erebor
Group E
Dale
Belegost
Bree
Numenor
Group F
Goblin-Town
Tol-In-Gauroth
Doriath
Isengard
Group G
Lothlorien
Crickhollow
Fangorn
Alqualondë
Group H
Gondor
Angband
Gondolin
Grey Havens
Today's Fixtures
Opening Match-Barrow-Downs vs. Woodhall
Gondor vs. Angband
Lothlorien vs. Crickhollow
Goblin-Town vs. Tol-In-Gauroth
Dale vs. Belegost
Nargothrond vs. Ephel Barandir
Shire vs. Arnor
Old Forest vs. Mordor
---
There will be no videos for todays matches. Sorry.
Sleepy Ranger
11-13-2005, 07:15 AM
Today's Results
Opening Match-
Barrow-Downs 1 - 0 Woodhall
A close fought contest with Barrow-Downs edging it thanks to a 52nd minute goal scored of a rebound by Saucepan Man. A low high powered shot by Sleepy Ranger was deflected onto Saucepan by Woodhall's keeper who effectively finished the job. Woodhall nearly levelled the match in the 70th minute but a motivated save by The Barrow-Wight kept Barrow-Downs ahead. The highlight of the match was the free-kick by Phantom which went straight out of the stadium.
---
Gondor 1-0 Angband
This match was quite an upset. Angband were strong favorites but an early 10th minute goal by Faramir set the tone for the rest of the match. A unified Gondorian defense held of numerous attempts to equalize by the forces of Angband. Towards the end several Angaband players resorted to dangerous tackles but this turned against them when their captain, Melkor, was sent off on a red card.
---
Lothlorien 0-1 Crickhollow
It was an even contest but Lorien always looked the stronger team. Just when it looked like Haldir was about to score a Hobbit snatched the ball and sent a long pass to Fatty who ran down the flank to knock in the winner. Lorien wasted several chances in corners and scored a late goal only to be given an off-side.
---
Goblin-Town 0-1 Tol-In-Gauroth
This match was rather strange. Goblin-Town had over 70% posession but never managed to shoot straight at goal, instead opting to shoot all around it. Sauron finally got fed up with them and stole the ball from a defender and shot it in to get the win.
---
Dale 0-0 Belegost
This match was a hard fought contest with no team able to gain an advantage. The only moment of real danger was when Bard shot the ball into his own box but the keeper was on it right away.
---
Nargothrond 1-1 Ephel Barandir
Two evenly matched, highly aggressive teams in this match. Surprisingly no cards were shown and a 35th minute by Turin but Nargothrond ahead but Ephel Barandir managed to score an equalizer just before half-time to keep the pressure on. In the second half apparently nobody felt like scoring and were content roughing up the other team.
---
Shire 3-3 Arnor
This match was a goal-fest. Arnor shot in two goals in the first 15 minutes. And at half time looked set for a 2-0 win but a come back led by Pippin saw Shire take the match 3-2 in their favor. A 90th minute equalizer in the form of a penalty saw Arnor save the game.
---
Old Forest vs. Mordor
*Later Tonight*
WaynetheGoblin
11-13-2005, 07:24 AM
Man this is a good idea you are so smart. I have to start a thread some day. Go barrow downs.
Hookbill the Goomba
11-13-2005, 08:50 AM
Hurrah! The Downs won a game! I think this deserves a group Huzzah!
HUZZAH!
Still, I hope the Shire does well.
Sleepy Ranger
11-13-2005, 09:08 AM
Old Forest 0-1 Mordor
This match was always going to be a close one. Old Forest seemed to have it under control for the first 45 minutes with Bombadil coming close to scoring many times but after the half the match dis-integrated into a mid-field battle. Dark Lord got himself a yellow card for a random tackle on a player that didn't even have the ball but he still managed to net in the winner in the 80th minute. Old Forest went ballistic in the last 10 minutes and came close to scoring but luck was not on their side and Mordor won the match.
---
Sauron in the Mordor team is listed as Dark Lord to avoid confusion. Another note if people want I can do a few more matches today.
Hookbill the Goomba
11-13-2005, 10:07 AM
Well, this is how it stands:
Kitanna
11-13-2005, 10:11 AM
Very nice, Sleepy Ranger, very nice indeed.
Sleepy Ranger
11-13-2005, 10:15 AM
Thanks for that Fainu! Nice chart! ^_^
Valesse
11-13-2005, 11:56 AM
Haha! I see this quickly becoming a rage in most Tolkien forums, Sleepy! I wonder where they're going to be selling jersys... :p
- - - - -
"Middle Earth Sports Watch" (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/Valesse/line%20art/Ar1.jpg) produced in association with Arda Sports Inc.
Firefoot
11-13-2005, 11:57 AM
Sweet idea, Sleepy.
I'm rooting for the home team, of course, but I'd love to see the Rohirrim and the Shire do something.
Gil-Galad
11-13-2005, 12:00 PM
its going to be interesting, but i'm confused over the chart, wouldn't it be easier to go by game won? or are you going by points?
Sleepy Ranger
11-13-2005, 12:04 PM
its going to be interesting, but i'm confused over the chart, wouldn't it be easier to go by game won? or are you going by points?
By points. 3 for a win and 1 for a draw. I hope some groups have close endings.
Gothmog
11-13-2005, 12:09 PM
Great idea, especially for us football (soccer) fans. How about some betting? I bet this fine barrow-sword I found here on the Downs on Barrow Downs and Shire. That they make it through to the final that is. It's a fine blade from the west with a number of random signs. I'm sure it's worth a lot!
We should have journalists at the games too, interviewing the players.
Sleepy Ranger
11-13-2005, 12:17 PM
We should have journalists at the games too, interviewing the players.
I was planning some pre-match things and match previews (only for the KO stage though). I think I'll do some interviews as well. If anybody would volunteer to help with the pre-match stuff it would be appreciated. :)
The Saucepan Man
11-13-2005, 05:30 PM
Hey! I scored a goal! That makes a total of 2 goals scored in my life to date ... :eek:
Does that make me a striker in the Barrow Downs team, Sleepy? Or an attacking midfielder? Or a central defender up for a set-piece? Indeed, I would be interested to see who you have chosen to make up the various squads, and the positions that you have chosen for each player.
Nice thread, Sleepy. Particularly if we can get some (strictly canonical, of course ;) ) fan reaction going here. Knowing the players and their positions might help in that of course. We can then debate, for example, how Turin's woefully lacking defensive capabilities are more than made up by his strength in attack. And how how Gimli's obdurate nature contributes to his importance as a holding midfield player ...
I like how BW gets to be the Downs goalkeeper. :D
Sleepy Ranger
11-13-2005, 05:48 PM
SaucepanMan says too much, and really has no idea what he's doing.
I feel inclined to post that. ;)
I didn't make the squads because most teams wouldn't have enough players. Besides all the players from the actual team are give a Tolkien character at the start of the match (some people are featured more than once to make it 11). And to answer your question here is the Barrow-Downs squad-
--------------------BW---------------------------
--Glirdan----Rune-----Arctic------Firefoot---
-------Fea----------Gil-------------Hiriel-------
------------------Phantom----------------------
----------Sleepy------------Saucepanman---
Its a 4-3-1-2 formation.
Phantom takes free-kicks and left corners, Hiriel takes right corners.
Sleepy takes penalties and Barrow-Wight is the captain.
And of course all the pre and post match things are strictly cannonical. You needn't worry about that. :)
And I believe you shall find a lot of good humour in some of the writings people have submitted to me. Hats off to everyone who has. :)
wilwarin538
11-13-2005, 06:05 PM
Nice idea Sleepy. When I first saw the title I wasn't to excited, not being a fan of football. But I then realised that for you football is soccer. :rolleyes: I love soccer! So ya, I love this idea.
Keep it up!
By the way, Glirdan(in real life) isn't the best at soccer. :p But Wayne is very good at soccer. You might want to replace Glirdan(for the treams sake of course) with Wayne. ;) (just kidding, I'm just teasing Glirdy)
Bergil
11-13-2005, 06:49 PM
I note I'm not on the team, dispite all the "offensive" posts I make.
Where can I find a big-pointing-hand-thingy.
Sleepy Ranger
11-13-2005, 06:54 PM
I note I'm not on the team, dispite all the "offensive" posts I make.
Where can I find a big-pointing-hand-thingy.
Offensive posts? O_o
Anyway you can be on the bench and drink tea with dear Fainu!
Firefoot
11-13-2005, 08:53 PM
Apparently my virtual left foot is better than my real life one, or else I wouldn't be playing on the left side... ;)
Hopefully the BD team actually gets pretty far in this. That would be exciting.
And kudos to Sleepy for organizing this whole thing. I'll admit, I was a little skeptical at first that this would actually go anywhere, but it's really shaping up.
Glirdan
11-13-2005, 09:16 PM
Wow!! This is awsome!! I'm of course rooting for the home team, being a player and all. Wilwa, no offence taken. This is really cool!!! Great idea Sleepy!!
the phantom
11-13-2005, 10:30 PM
Nice stuff, Sleepy.
I'm going to give my take on the different groups.
GROUP A
This group looks fairly strong. Mordor would seem to be the favorite. The Dark Lord is an excellent team leader- the rest of the team (Nine Nazgul and The Mouth of Sauron) follow his every command as if they were all one joint body. Sauron and his Nazgul have a nearly psychic connection, which leads to some of the most outstanding passing the world has ever seen. And in goal, they have "The Mouth"- named for his ability to swallow up about any shot attempt at his goal.
Rohan certainly has athleticism and grit, but they can't really stack up against Mordor.
Moria has a dangerous captain (Durin's Bane), but his supporting cast doesn't give him that much help.
The Old Forest has the lightning fast Tom, who no one has ever caught, but his teammates just stand there rooted in the ground leaving him to do everything himself. Against a weaker team Tom can carry the load, but not against the likes of Mordor.
Chances of Winning Group-
Mordor- 91%
Moria- 6%
Rohan- 2%
Old Forest- 1%
If they win their group, they...
Could go all the way- Mordor
Might make semis- Moria
Won't advance any further- Rohan, Old Forest
GROUP B
Rivendell is the obvious pick in this group. Elrond leads a team of powerful elves, including Glorfindel, Elladan, Elrohir, and Erestor.
Vinyamar might be able to stay with Rivendell early, but as we all know, it doesn't take members of the Vinyamar team long to lose interest and desert the team to go someplace like Gondolin.
Arnor has the same problem. They tend to start strong, but then sort of fade away.
The Shire, if it is able to survive the early onslaught, is capable of beating both Vinyamar and Arnor, but I don't think the hobbits can keep up with the elven lords of Rivendell.
Chances of Winning Group-
Rivendell- 92%
Shire- 5%
Vinyamar- 2%
Arnor- 1%
If they win their group, they...
Could go all the way- Rivendell
Might make semis-
Won't advance any further- Shire, Vinyamar, Arnor
GROUP C
In my opinion, The Barrow-Downs will own this group. First, they hold a huge advantage in the realm of strategic thinking. Many of their players have honed this skill by participating in Werewolf games. The Downs also has incredible depth- a roster of several thousand. In addition, many of the Downers will be able to distract opponents with their extreme attractiveness. The Barrow-Downs also can fall back on its fabulous goal keeper, The Barrow-Wight, whose hands are four feet long and four feet wide, and positioned at the end of ten foot arms. It takes some serious work to get something past him. Also, the phantom is nearly always able to win the crowd over to side with the Downs- even if the game is in the other team's stadium.
Valimar and Valmar both have great talent (the Valar), however, their rosters are identical, meaning that the players will have to play twice as many games as everyone else. I can see them being strong for a couple of games, but the teams will really start to go downhill after that. However, if by some miracle either Valmar or Valimar advance out of this group, they will suddenly be very dangerous as they will no longer be pulling double duty.
And Woodhall- do they even deserve discussion? They were only allowed into the tournament out of pity.
Chances of Winning Group-
The Barrow-Downs- 89.5%
Valmar- 5%
Valimar- 5%
Woodhall- 0.5%
If they win their group, they...
Could go all the way- The Barrow-Downs, Valmar, Valimar
Might make semis-
Won't advance any further- Woodhall
GROUP D
Nargothrond has to be the favorite in this division. Before the rosters were announced, I wasn't sure who to pick, Ephel Brandir or Nargothrond, but now that it has been announced that Turin will play for Nargothrond rather than Ephel Brandir, I have to give the elven realm the advantage.
I know Erebor may seem like a great pick because of Smaug, but Turin, who slew the father of dragons, will defeat Smaug head-to-head every time. Also, Smaug tends to get ejected from a lot of games for his horribly mean behavior.
So, while I believe that the Smaug-led Erebor team will roast Mirkwood and Ephel Brandir more handily than Nargothrond will defeat them, I can't see Erebor defeating Turin and Nargothrond.
Chances of Winning Group-
Nargothrond- 81%
Erebor- 15%
Mirkwood- 2%
Ephel Brandir- 2%
If they win their group, they...
Could go all the way- Nargothrond
Might make semis- Erebor
Won't advance any further- Mirkwood, Ephel Brandir
GROUP E
Bree is horribly outmatched in this division. Dale isn't much better off. Belegost is better offensively and defensively than both. And then Numenor- they are as far above Belegost as Belegost is above the other two teams.
The Numenorians are stronger than the dwarves of Belegost and wiser too, but it is their huge height advantage that will seal the deal. The players from Numenor will all have an unobstructed view of the field, and they will be able to head-strike any ball in the air without interference. The Numenorians should be able to use their heads to take the ball all the way down the field, where they can then pop the ball over the dwarvish goal keeper, who is unable to guard the upper portion of the goal.
I definitely think Numenor has a clear path to win their group, however, I don't think Numenor has any chance of going all the way to the championship. There are several teams with better talent than them, and they won't stand a chance if matched against either Mordor or Tol-In-Gauroth, who are both likely to advance out of their groups. They don't stand a chance against those two teams because of the Sauron factor. He has the Numenorian's number.
Chances of Winning Group-
Numenor- 86%
Belegost- 8%
Dale- 5%
Bree- 1%
If they win their group, they...
Could go all the way-
Might make semis- Numenor
Won't advance any further- Belegost, Dale, Bree
GROUP F
Goblin-town is sure to lose all of its day games. This is too great a disadvantage to overcome. You can write them off.
Isengard's orcs don't have this problem, and with Saruman leading them they are certainly formidable. But I think Doriath, led by King Thingol and the fine goal-scoring duo of Mablung and Beleg, is a bit better than Isengard.
But my pick to win this group is Tol-In-Gauroth. Sauron is one of the best players in the tournament, and his strong and agile werewolves have not only excellent physical skills, but also an intimidation factor that simply cannot be overlooked. Tol-In-Gauroth will win their group.
That said, I wouldn't pick Tol-In-Gauroth to advance farther than the semis in the overall tournament- not unless it picks up another star player. Sauron tried his best to convince the phantom to defect, but Phantom chose to stick with his fellow downers.
However, if for some reason team chemistry is destroyed and there is a falling out between the phantom and the managers of the Downs team, expect Phantom to switch over to the Tol-In-Gaurhoth team- a move that might make the Gauroth team the favorite to win the title. But at this point, I can't see that happening.
Chances of Winning Group-
Tol-In-Gauroth- 80%
Doriath- 12%
Isengard- 7%
Goblin-Town- 1%
If they win their group, they...
Could go all the way-
Might make semis- Tol-In-Gauroth, Doriath
Won't advance any further- Isengard, Goblin-Town
GROUP G
This group is a very very weak group. There are several teams in other groups that will not win their group but would've won this group had they been placed here. In my opinion it is rather unfair that one of these four teams will get a spot in the final eight while other more worthy teams sit out.
Lothlorien has Galadriel, but as people will soon find out she is mostly hype. And even was she as good as she wishes she was, she doesn't have much help.
Crickhollow's team is laughable. Most of their players are overweight and timid.
Alqualonde is a somewhat solid team. They are probably better at most positions than Lothlorien, so I can see them winning that match up. However, if they advance out of this group, don't expect them to go any further, especially if they run into a team with a Noldor or two playing for them.
Fangorn is the only somewhat dangerous team in this group. If they get "roused", they can play an awfully good game, but the problem is I don't imagine they will be able to rouse themselves in time to avoid elimination. And even if they do manage to get charged up and advance out of this group, you know they'll probably just go back to sleep in the next round.
Chances of Winning Group-
Alqualonde- 50%
Lothlorien- 30%
Fangorn- 19%
Crickhollow- 1%
If they win their group, they...
Could go all the way-
Might make semis-
Won't advance any further- Alqualonde, Lothlorien, Fangorn, Crickhollow
GROUP H
Group H is an extremely competitive group. The Grey Havens isn't particularly good, but the other three teams all have a shot.
Gondolin has an amazing offense. Turgon takes the center, and Glorfindel and Ecthelion take the flanks. Maeglin and Tuor are aggressive mid-fielders and often come all the way up with Turgon to put pressure on the goal.
Gondor also has an aggressive offense. Providing the firepower is Aragorn, Faramir, Boromir, and Imrahil.
In my opinion, Gondolin has the edge over Gondor.
But the favorite would have to be Angband. Morgoth is a clever strategist, and his balrogs and dragons carry out his designs with ruthless efficiency. Their game one loss to Gondor was a fluke. I can't see them getting shut out in any more games.
Chances of Winning Group-
Angband- 71%
Gondolin- 17%
Gondor- 11%
Grey Havens- 1%
If they win their group, they...
Could go all the way- Angband
Might make semis- Gondolin, Gondor
Won't advance any further- Grey Havens
Orominuialwen
11-13-2005, 11:43 PM
Even if they had nothing else on their side, the Barrow-Downs team would always have their extremely stylish and attractive jerseys. (Please note that I didn't draw the jersey, just photoshopped the logo on to a picture I found.)
Sleepy Ranger
11-14-2005, 04:04 AM
Art-strip for the World-Cup (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/Valesse/line%20art/Haldir1.jpg) - Drawn and written by Valesse
Rohan vs. Moria (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v222/Valesse/line%20art/Eomer1.jpg) - Drawn and written by Valesse
Riots in Angaband
-Arcticstorm
Riots erupted in the forums today after Angband was soundly defeated by the virtually unknown team from Gondor. Five fans were killed in the riots immediately after the game. The Center Referree, Boromir88, recieved many death threats from irate fans who are angry over the red carding of their best player. Boromir told us that this does not suprise him much, as he has gotten these threats before and nothing usually materializes, but he said he was a little worried about the arrows being shot at him by the Angband fans during the game. One fan when asked about his reaction to the red card told us that he does not know who they will turn to now. "Perhaps Gothmog," he said, "will fill Melkor's cleats in the next game." But the ref was not the only one recieving the agressions of the fans. The Angband keeper, Glaurung, had to be escorted out of the stadium for his own safety. It has also been said that the Gondor team bus had been completely vandalized and had various orcish writings on them. It has also been said that Faramir, the Gondorian forward who scored the winner, has been poisoned but the coach has denied the claims and said Faramir is in perfect health. The fans though are not willing to believe this since Faramir has not been seen since the match. In Northern Beleriand, the gondorian diplomats had to leave the area under assumed identities for their own safety. We even have reports that the embassy was completely destroyed.
Exclusive Interview with Turgon
Reporter- Rune son of Bjarne
Your Nation highly values your talent, so what do you think of playing for a team with such great cup traditions? Do you feel a lot of pressure each week?
There are only a handful of Nations who is good enough to compete for the title every world cup and Vinyamar is one of them. So I’m proud to be playing at this team. Having this pressure week in week out is a thrill.
Your next game is against Rivendell captained by Elrond, what do you make of his team?
Sure they are talented, no doubt about it, but overall they are just a bit to inexperienced to play at this level.
What do you see as the main difference between your teams?
As I said the experience will be the main factor, lets face it Elrond and his “baby’s” have only really been in this game since the second age. Where as all of my team learned all we know in the first age were there was “real” competition.
How have you prepared for this world cup?
Well as all know started of with a real hard pre-season at the training camp of Helcaraxë, witch really helped us getting close to each other. This was mostly because of the extreme cold, but it really helped us find the right players as those not fit for the game perished. It was however quite disturbing with all the attention from scouts and the media, so we decided to move our practise Nevrast where there are extreme good facilities. Especially our great hall in Vinyamar is good for indoors training and it allow us to train without being watched by spies from other teams.
Could you tell our readers what kind of games they should expect.
Vinyamar always has to win, so it will properly be an aggressive game, but the key to be consistent is a great defence witch the opponent will have difficult braking down. We have different solutions, it depends on the opponent. We can play with a taller central defender like Tuor of Vinyamar with my self and Glorfindel of Vinyamar on the sides. We can play just as well with me or Glorfindel in the central position, or also with the four-man defence.
Is it true you've got a footballing family as your sister plays for Gondolin?
Yes, she's a goalkeeper and she plays for Gondolin’s national team and has done so ever since she was picked for the Gondolin Under-1900 team. She's doing well and I'm proud of her.
Besides your selves who do you see as favourites to lift the cup?
I don’t see anyone beat us, but if I have to choose then it must be Gondolin
Thank you for your time Turgon and best of luck for your match.
Tensions Run High as Rohan, Moria Prepare
-Firefoot
The upcoming game between Rohan and Moria is shaping up to be well-matched game of great interest. Rohan is coming off a strong winning season while Moria, one of the most controversial teams in the tournament, has apparently put its rocky start behind it to take some major wins.
Théoden, Rohan’s captain, seemed confident of his team’s abilities. “We have a good team this year, and we’ve been getting better all season. I don’t see any reason why we can’t win this game. We all have high hopes for this tournament.” Éomer, a Rohan midfielder, seconded Théoden’s statement: “There’s nothing that the Moria team has that we can’t beat. It should be a good game.”
Of more public interest, however, has been the Moria team, an interesting mix of Dwarves, Orcs, and a Balrog. Many sports analysts have agreed that this combination was a large contributor to the team’s poor start this season. Nor is it an issue that has been wholly resolved, as evidenced in an interview.
Moria’s captain, Balin, denied that problems still existed. “We were having a tough time coming together as a team, but we’ve put that behind us and begun winning some games. There’s a lot of talent on this team, and we’re finally putting it all together.” He declined further comment.
Bill, Moria’s Balrog defender, had more to say on the matter, however. “The Dwarves are the ones who always get the credit on this team. It wouldn’t matter if I could play three times as well as the best of the Dwarves on this team; the only reason that I and the couple of Orcs are able to play is because of the fan following; the team wouldn’t be making any revenue if not for the populous Orcs of Moria.” No follow up was able to be gotten from Bill, as he was then needed by a pair of Dwarvish teammates.
Azog, one of the team’s Orcs, seemed reluctant to give any comment, though his disgusted attitude with the Dwarves could not be mistaken. “We’re finally coming together – the Dwarves are finally starting to realize that not all Orcs are just interested in killing each other or aimless pastimes like killing rats for fun. We’re avid strategists and athletes as well – not that many people remember our role in inventing the game of golf. The point is, we should be able to grind the Rohan team into the ground.”
Both teams’ attitudes can accurately be described with Éomer’s closing words: “Now for wrath, now for ruin, and a victorious goal scoring!”
The Result, The Reaction
-Hiriel
Fans across the whole of Middle Earth, Beleriand, and the Undying Lands have been chomping at the bit (some mearas quite literally so) for the first-ever middle-earth football tournament, and now that the first match results are in, it appears as if the excitement is just going to continue to build faster and hotter than an explosion of lava flying out of Mount Doom.
The kickoff match between The Barrow-Downs and Woodhall met with an almost unprecedented sight. The young eagle Landroval reported to us that on his way from the match, “The Downs looked positively radioactive. All the bonfires and unearthly shrieks (I suppose of joy) and such gave it this undulating glow. I mean, you’d of thought there was a bunch of pyro-crazed Brandybucks with lots of dry ice playing tag with banshees down there. I’m glad they won, but when you can hear the after-parties at ten-thousand feet, it’s really a bit much, you know.” The wights at the downs were unavailable or just too spooky for comment, but it’s generally assumed that they’re ecstatic about the end of the match, especially the phenomenal (ph)free kick made by Phantom in second half.
Across Middle-Earth in Gondor, celebrations got a little out of hand after the huge upset over Angband. The city guard reports, upon mustering to combat wonton tee-peeing of statues of Isildur in the first-circle, that one fourth of its reserves had been lost to the massive festivities. At least one suicide is reported in Minas Tirith by an Angbandian supporter, who, in utter despair, lit himself on fire and threw himself off the peak of Mindolluin. However, in Dol Amroth and Emyn Arnen the victory bashes were a little more sedate, though no less joyful. At the latter, huge green banners which read, “Show YOUR Quality”, in honor of the goal scored by town favorite Faramir, could be seen strung from wall to wall as people danced in the streets.
At Lothlorien, many mournful lays could be heard sung over the surprise defeat delt by Crickethollow. Lord Celeborn of Lorien, however, bore the loss with philosophy. “We have all eternity to analyse this one, learn from it, and come back. The hobbits? At the rate they eat, I doubt they have a fortnight. How long do those woodchucks live, anyway?” Supports of Crickethollow seemed unconcerned for their mortality, however, as drinking and dancing reached a peak sometime in the wee hours of the morning, when barmen had to call into Hobbiton for fresh supplies of spirits.
The festivities caused by Mordor’s pull-out victory over the Old Forest became so racous that it caused a company of Rangers to panic and mobilize at the crossroads. Mount Doom erupted in flame, and huge explosions of Orthanc fire could be seen being shot off from Minas Morgul as orcs and Olog-Hai celebrated. “We were very concerned,” Captain Malblung of the ranger company in question said. “We saw all that fire and heard so much screaming that we thought that it alone would rattle the black gate off its hinges. Some folk might poke fun at us marshalling over football results, but what if a company of drunken orcs decided to enjoy the win by beheading some tarks? It’s our job to be prepared for any type of violence and we take this sort of thing seriously.”
And in places bordering Tol-en-Gauroth, in the space of an hour earplugs became a hot commodity. A least four unfortunate villages have been completely wiped out due to post-match jubilation, reports indicate, and no one has any idea how many others have been damaged by the noise pollution from all the howling. The Tol-en-Gauroth team, lead by captain Sauron, were heard rile up the crowd exiting the stadium with the chant, “Takin’ it to the Misty Mountains, mortals!”, and lead to many rock piles being built up and subsequently smashed wherever supports of this wildly popular (and fast growing) club were celebrating.
Today's Fixtures
Game 1 - Moria vs. Rohan
Game 2 - Rivendell vs. Vinyamar
Game 3 - Valmar vs. Valimar
Game 4 - Mikrwoord vs. Erebor
Game 5 - Bree vs. Numenor
Game 6 - Doriath vs. Isengard
Game 7 - Fangorn vs. Alqualondë
Game 8 - Gondolin vs. Grey Havens
Tournament Happenings
Injuries - Thankfully none this week.
Cards -
Melkor (Angaband) recieved a red card and a 2 match suspension.
Dark Lord (Mordor) was given a yellow card.
Most Promising Player - Pippin (Shire) looked solid in the field and never failed to impress once he found his rhythm. After a shaky start he managed to find some motivation and propel his team to the lead.
Most Impressive Team - Both Gondor and Barrow-Downs have shown an excessive sense of team-work and both are in high spirits after their results of yesterdays matches. Though the chances of Gondor going through are minimal their win has definately left them with a feeling that they can go all the way. As for the home team, they were always a favorite.
Reader Response
We encourage our readers to send us letters about their favorite teams, players, matches, goals, referees or whatever else they think of.
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The results shall be up soon. Good job Valesse, Arctic, Rune, Firefoot and Hiriel, hope to see more from you. And if anybody else wishes to write for ME Footy Daily send me a message. Or you could always post random thoughts like the Phantom did. :)
Sleepy Ranger
11-14-2005, 04:48 AM
Todays results, live from Middle-Earth Mirth Stadium.
Moria 1-0 Rohan
Moria dominated this game right from the start but they couldn’t work as a team. Each player tried to outshine his team mate while all Rohan could do was watch on. Moria got near scoring many time but due to the obstinacy of their players they never passed. Bill the Balrog took his time to do flashy moves while Balin took it upon himself to steal the ball from Bill. Finally it was a team effort that won the game for Moria, a high cross to Balin from Bill was headed to Azog who hit it home with a bicycle kick in the 67th minute. Since then all Moria did was pass the ball around the Rohan players which led them around in circles.
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Rivendell 1-0 Vinyamar
This was a pretty even match. Vinyamar dominated the entire first have until Glorfindel went beserk and shot from way out and nearly scored! But Turgon managed to clear it for a corner. It took a twin effort after Elrond sent the corner into the box as a high cross, Elladen headed it but the goalie pushed it away only to have an Elrohir that tripped over his own feet knock it in. The next half was docile and saw Rivendell defend beautifully to make up for their keeper’s non-existant keeping skills. Unluckily for Vinyamar the referee ended the match when they found themselves within scoring range. Rivendell won a partly undeserved victory.
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Valmar 0-0 Valimar
This was a heated contest. The teams were obviously bitter rivals but they showed a great deal of sportsmanship. The crowd alas did not share the same feelings of sportsmanship and there were many fights in the crowd until security kicked out half the crowd after which the remaining spectators remained silent. In the second half Manwe and Varda got into a shuffle with the referee who handed them each yellow cards and sent them merrily on their way. Both teams defenses shut the other out and the match ended as it began 0-0.
After the match the teams demanded they settle it in a penalty shoot-out which ended 3-5 in Valimar’s favor. The result however was taken as a draw.
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Mirkwood 1-0 Erebor
This was another upset in the opening stages of the tournament. Everyon expected Erebor to crush Mirkwood but a mis-timed tackle by Thorin gave him a yellow card and Mirkwood a free-kick. Legolas took the kick with precision, shooting hard and fast along the ground. It knocked the post and went in for a goal in 41st minute. Erebor were unable to mount a comeback and the injury of their goalie, Smaug, will leave them in trouble for next match.
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Bree 0-0 Numenor
This was an aggressive match. Bill Ferny injured Tar-Enclime and got himself a red card which was immediately followed by Elros receiving a red card and Butterbur being injured. It seems both teams will be missing two top players in the next match.
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Doriath 4-2 Isengard
Saruman started of by getting himself a yellow card and giving Doriath their first chance from 23m out. Beleg sent a rocket straight into goal scoring the first of their many goals. After this early 2nd minute goal there was a long and heated mid-field battle with no side giving an inch but finally Ugluk managed to lose his marker and breakaway, in the 37th minute, and chip one over Melian’s head for the goal. Melian was visibly shocked at this since she was considered to be one of the best keeper’s in the tournament. The rest of the half was a back and forth contest with Melian pulling of an impossible save, diving from the far left to far right to knock the ball away. The next half started of with Saruman getting himself a second yellow card and this time giving away a penalty which Beleg converted into their second goal. Then in the 57th minute Beleg found himself in front of an open goal and walked in with the ball, much to Isengard’s annoyance. Thingol sealed the match with a 73rd minute goal from the edge of the box. Isengard managed to score again in the 86th minute but that was just a consolation goal.
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Fangorn 0-0 Alqualondë
This match was a clash of defenses. Neither defense let the other team get too many shots on the goal and the goalkeepers barely had a role in the match. Fangorn came close to scoring after Quickbeam rushed through the defense and found himself 1 on 1 with the keeper only to shoot over the goal. The team captain, Treebeard, was later seen telling him not to be hasty in shooting next time. Of course there was no next time and the match ended in a draw.
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Gondolin 5-0 Grey Havens
This one was over before it began. A two goal lead at half-time was followed up by another two in the second half and one last goal in injury time. The goal scoring was quite spread out with Turgon scoring two and Tuor, Glorfindel and Ecthelion each scoring a goal. This was the perfect start of Gondolin’s world cup campaign. Grey Havens will need to put this match behind them and concentrate on improving their defense if they want to keep any hopes of winning.
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Oh and for 'Reader Response', PM me your letters. You can sign it in whatever name you wish. ^_^ Also feel free to comment on what you thought of the matches and let us know which was your favorite.
Sleepy Ranger
11-14-2005, 09:40 AM
Alright, everyone whos been following the MEFWC I need some suggestions for you.
1) What do you think would be a suitable theme song for the MEFWC?
2) Who do you think should be the mascots?
3) Could you suggest some names for stadiums?
4) Who should we keep as referees?
PM me your answers so as not to spam the thread. Feel free to post your match opinions, reactions and stuff. But remember if you wish to write an article or interview or something else that isn't your OWN reaction. (Also if you have anything else in mind feel free to post it or talk to me on AIM or MSN) Send it to me so that I can organize it with the rest of MEFD, credit will go to your name for all you send in. Thanks. :)
The Saucepan Man
11-14-2005, 09:51 AM
The first in an occasional series - starting, naturally, with Group A.
Old Forest
Player Coach: Tom Bombadil
Key Players: Tom Bombadil aka the Master (capt, striker), Goldberry (striker), The Barrow-Wight (defender), Old Man Willow (goalkeeper)
The Old Forest’s player coach is as old as the hills themselves and played in the inaugural championship, long before the original Dark Lord first pulled on an Angbad team shirt. Known simply as “the Master”, he was the first winner of the “Yellow Boots” trophy for most prolific scorer in the competition, and it was in his honour that the trophy was named. But, despite being the Eldest, he has most certainly not hung up those yellow boots yet. He is as fit and nimble as ever. As his strike partner Goldberry says: “Tom just never stops going in a match. He just is”. Goldberry herself is as skilled in her control of the ball as she is in her control of the weather, although she is generally considered to be best suited to wet conditions.
The Barrow-Wight (no, not that one) is a defender who can strike fear into the most courageous opposition and his ferocious tackles have been known to chill opposing players to the bone. Many an attacking striker has been manhandled ruthlessly by the Wight into one of his barrows, never to emerge.
Other than these outstanding players, however, there is little talent to speak of in this team and the remaining members of the squad tend to be somewhat static, reacting slowly to the game and often, therefore, being caught out of position. Even their talented goalkeeper, Old Man Willow, can sometimes be caught standing immobile in his goalmouth while a well-struck shot whistles past his branches.
Saucepan’s verdict: It would be nice to see the team go all the way, if only to see the Master enjoy a last hurrah. But with a lack of pace and quality in key positions, they are unlikely to go far.
Mordor
Coach: Morgoth
Key Players: Dark Lord (capt, striker), The Witch King (striker), Gothmog (attacking midfielder), Khamul (central defender), The Mouth of Sauron (goalkeeper)
Mordor has provoked one of the great controversies of the competition, having chosen as their coach the player/coach of the Angbad team. Speculation is rife as to what will be the outcome should these two teams meet in the competition which, given the strength of each squad, is fairly likely. There is also a rumour (unconfirmed) that their captain, the Dark Lord, is moonlighting as the captain of the Taur-im-Gaurhoth team. One thing is for sure. Nothing should be taken for granted with the Mordor team. They are all capable of employing the lowest of tactics to win.
While the Dark Lord himself is a prolific scorer, his skill lies in manipulating the ball by the force of his will. Being, when all is said and done, merely a large fiery eye ( ;) ), he lacks the strength to hold the ball up and is prone to giving away possession in critical areas. Also, while he is a formidable captain, his first instinct is attack and he can often overlook defensive needs. Thus, his team often falls victim to diversionary tactics, allowing small agile players to sneak through with the ball and score. This may prove to be fatal should Mordor come up against a team like The Shire. However, he is ably supported in attack by the ruthless efficiency of the Witch King and the sheer brute strength of Gothmog (whose nature remain obscure).
The remainder of the first choice team is well-disciplined, being submissive to the will of their captain, although it is often said that their goalkeeper’s reputation is built on bluff and that he might well crumble when truly tested. Nevertheless, his alertness is amply supplemented by the strategic placement of Silent Watchers on either side of the goal mouth.
Saucepan’s verdict: While the team looks good on paper, it seriously lacks strength in depth. Other than the first choice players, the squad consists almost entirely of orcs, ill-disciplined at the best of times, and trolls, whose natural strength is counterbalanced by their compete inability to read a game. A few injuries or red cards (likely, given their tendency to employ underhand tactics) could spell disaster for this team.
Moria
Coach: Durin the Deathless
Key Players: Azog (striker), Balin (joint capt; midfielder), Bill the Balrog aka Durin’s Bane (joint capt; central defender), The Watcher in the Water (goalkeeper)
The media has already commented on the inherent racial tension in this team, consequent upon the coach’s decision to choose the best talent from the orcish, dwarvish and Balrog communities of Moria. Durin the Deathless, has attempted to address this issue by appointing Balin and Bill the Balrog as joint captains, but this has only served to mask the underlying problems and it looks like Bill could well live up to his title of Durin’s Bane as the competition progresses.
Azog is surprisingly well-disciplined for an orc, and a talented striker. But he is often hampered by his dwarvish team-mates’ reluctance to pass the ball to him. This, of course, is hardly suprising, given that Azog started out his career playing dwarf-ball in the back streets of Moria, an orcish variation of the game in which a severed dwarvish head is used instead of a football. Dynamic midfielder and joint captain, Balin, has managed to rise above this, but has as yet failed to instil the same team spirit in his fellow dwarves.
Saucepan’s verdict: Despite the barely concealed hatred between certain of its squad members, this team cannot be discounted. With the imposing Balrog Bill in central defence, spreading his shadow from one wing of the pitch to the other, and the talented and multi-tentacled Watcher in goal, they do not give away many goals.
Rohan
Coach: Eorl the Young
Key Players: Theoden (striker, capt), Eowyn aka Dernhelm (striker), Eomer (attacking midfielder), Elfhelm (midfielder), Wormtongue (winger), Erkenbrand (central defender), Gamling (central defender), Hama (goalkeeper)
Coach Eorl has mustered a tight and disciplined team in Rohan, well captained by the veteran striker Theoden. He, in turn, is ably assisted by Eowyn, who has a natural talent for unexpectedly appearing in great attacking positions and turning the tide with a well-placed shot. Eomer and Elfhelm contribute to a good attacking midfield, while the doughty Erkenbrand and Gamling provide a solid defence. One noted weakness, however, is their tendency to defend in the Deep, and they can be vulnerable when the opposing team gets players forward in numbers. Nevertheless, Hama “the Doorwarden” is a capable goalkeeper, known for his tenacity in refusing entry to even the most forceful of visitors to his goalmouth.
The team’s major vulnerability is the winger, Grima Wormtongue. Known for bad mouthing his team mates and with little talent at his disposal, questions have been asked how he earned his place in the team. It is rumoured that he has an unnatural hold over the captain and that his loyalties in fact lie elsewhere. Nevertheless, he can be a slippery customer and, despite his lack of strength and pace, has an ability to talk himself into dangerously influential positions.
Saucepan’s verdict: If they can make sure that Wormtongue is kept tightly under control, this team could be the surprise of the competition. When they are relieved of the need to concentrate on defending, they can certainly ride forth with great speed, sweeping all opposition before them. In any event, an attack-minded team that is exciting to watch.
Saucepan’s verdict on the Group: Despite Tom’s skill and verve, the Old Forest’s static mode of overall play means that they are unlikely to emerge from this group to progress further. And Moria, despite their miserly defence, will not be able to rise above inter-team disputes to make much headway. I see Rohan, with their exciting attacking line-up, scoring enough goals secure them second place in the group, with the formidable Mordor topping the table. Mordor, however, are unlikely to progress much further as their team becomes increasingly weakened through injury and sendings off, since they lack the necessary strength in depth.
The Saucepan Man
11-14-2005, 10:04 AM
Sleepy Ranger, I am keeping an eye on contenders for the Yellow Boots trophy. The tally so far is, I believe, as follows:
Beleg (Doriath): 3
Pippin (The Shire): 3?
Turgon (Gondolin): 2
Azog (Moria): 1
Dark Lord (Mordor): 1
Ecthelion (Gondolin): 1
Elrohir (Rivendell): 1
Faramir (Gondor): 1
Fatty Bolger (Crickhollow): 1
Glorfindel (Gondolin) : 1
Legolas (Mirkwood): 1
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 1
The Saucepan Man (Barrow Downs): 1
Thingol (Doriath): 1
Turin (Nargothrond): 1
Tuor (Gondolin): 1
Ugluk (Isengard): 1
Unknown (Arnor): 1
Unknown (Arnor): 1
Unknown (Arnor): 1
Unknown (Ephel Barandir): 1
Unknown (Isengard): 1
Are you able to shed any light on the unknowns? Also, did Pippin score a hat trick for The Shire, or were there others on the score sheet for that team in their opening game?
Rimbaud
11-14-2005, 10:10 AM
When will casting begin for the presenters of Match of the Day Will Come Again?
Sleepy Ranger
11-14-2005, 10:13 AM
Beleg (Doriath): 3
Pippin (The Shire): 2
Turgon (Gondolin): 2
Ugluk (Isengard): 2
Azog (Moria): 1
Merry (The Shire): 1
Dark Lord (Mordor): 1
Ecthelion (Gondolin): 1
Elrohir (Rivendell): 1
Faramir (Gondor): 1
Fatty Bolger (Crickhollow): 1
Glorfindel (Gondolin) : 1
Legolas (Mirkwood): 1
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 1
The Saucepan Man (Barrow Downs): 1
Thingol (Doriath): 1
Turin (Nargothrond): 1
Tuor (Gondolin): 1
Arvedui (Arnor): 1
Arathorn (Arnor): 1
Earnil (Arnor): 1
Brandir (Ephel Barandir): 1
Unknowns cleared. From now on I'll send you the list of people who score. :)
Thanks for your contributions Saucey!
When will casting begin for the presenters of Match of the Day Will Come Again?
All yours if you'd like the job, good sir!
Rimbaud
11-14-2005, 10:28 AM
Great. I'll play the suave, crisp-munching elvish presenter Gary Lin-e-dir, then.
"Welcome to another wind-swept night in Fangorn. This promises to be a cracker." *slight raise of the eyebrows* "Fangorn's wooden defence..." *cheeky smile* "..promises to keep Doriath at bay. Let's hope Melian doesn't girdle on the night eh? I've always had a bit of a Thingol for her." *lascivious wink*
Alan Harnson Gamgee: "Oh do be quiet. Now over to Jolly 'Cotton' Motson at the game."
Etc. Cue (gentle) British laughter and blank puzzlement from Stateside...
Sleepy Ranger
11-14-2005, 10:41 AM
If anyone wondered how Pippin reacted to scoring his second goal, wonder no more. :)
Hookbill the Goomba
11-14-2005, 03:11 PM
Well, Day two tables look a little like this.
Bergil
11-14-2005, 03:40 PM
There are some real "characters" in the teams, and the audiance. For example, at several games I have run into an ent yelling advice to both teams. when I asked him who he was, he said "Don Cherry".
Valesse
11-14-2005, 05:09 PM
Arwen reporting...
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Gauroth1.jpg
Rune Son of Bjarne
11-14-2005, 07:46 PM
I am looking foreward to the Barrow-Downs next game as I belive we have a real giftet team. . .
especially the attacing part of the team looks interesetin.
Sleepy with his pace and great indivdual skill.
Sauce a more expirienced striker with a great eye of making the right runs to split the defence and therby creating lots of space for him and Sleepy.
Phantom a very creative player who can score goals on his own, but his main force is hes great passing and eye of the game. (a player like Aimar)
Together I belive they will preform fantastic !
Sleepy Ranger
11-15-2005, 02:39 AM
Well my fellow dandies and dowdies and other such gentlemen and ladies, today's match was one to be seen! Oh course, we would all want to know about the riots on the field yesterday, but I'm afraid myself and the editor were seeing a wonderful performance of The Importantce of Being Ernest. On to the selected matches!
Moria vs. Rohan (1,0)
From watching this performance on the field, it seemed that Moria's players had a case of Dorian syndrome. Sad to say, they couldn't figure on who was to pass to whom. Rohan could only stand there with a case of Basil-like qualities, these poor fellows tried to play, but amongst the selfishness abound, it was rather a lost cause. In the end, Moria got itself together to make one goal between Bill the Balrog, Balin and Azog. Both were wearing Mithril and a flame proof underlining for Bill, to avoid scorches in the material. Azog was wearing a sort of funny number, something between vintage leather and Mithril, but in any cases he was there to make it a goal at 67 minutes with a bit of a bicycle kick with some lovely shoes. Let us just hope they have their Dorian syndrome undercontrol for any other future matches.
Rivendale vs. Vinyamar (1,0)
In this match there was no doubting Vinyamar's performance upon the field! That was until Glorfindel stepped up with his blue suede shoes and green uniform. He shot with the elegance of Baudelaire, but Turgon came in for a corner clearing. he by the way was wearing a rather Ulmo-inspired number, of silver silk and a deep blue velvet crest in the front. Elrond's performance could only be saved by that of those wonderfully handsome twins, Elladen and Elrohir. A surprise attack from the goalie was saved by Elrohir's clumbsy score. The match was as other would say 'undeserved' to Rivendale, but we all know that blue suede always wins...
Interviews
This is the portion of the sports review that I know you all love, the interviews! Today we've chosen three beings with some amazing talent, instead of just one or two. Our first interview is with the lovely Quickbeam. He was kind and hasty enough to grant us an interview about his performance on the field.
Titania: Well, well! For a rowan tree you certainly had speed upon the green!
Quickbeam: I know. I don't see why not anyways, we trees need to start stepping up to the challenge instead of all of this photosynthesizing business.
Titania: Of course! Though, it seems your team captain had a bit of a scuffle with your shot between the keeper...
Quickbeam: Treebeard is always doing that! But, like I said to him: " We didn't have any time left anyways! It was then or never!" Besides, that keeper had a clubbed foot and I could have made a goal into the box if it hadn't been for his little intervention...
Titania: Certianly you could say it was a clash of defense, but mind if I ask you some questions? They might help you blow off all of this steam.
Quickbeam: Certainly, anything to get Treebread's voice out of my head...
Titania: Thank you! Alright then, I understand that rowan trees are part of the rose family, Rosaceae. Are there any tips you might suggest to a green thub about growing roses or rowan trees?
Quickbeam: Well you should! That's why we have such wonderful flowers as trees, not like those sappy pines, who can just make a soap opera about it... Anyways, our flowers blossom after the leaves have appeared (of course!) usually in May or early June, and grow in dense clusters that contain up to 250 of them! Plus, they smell great which helps to attract bees and many other species of insects. At the end of summer, we can but out our characteristically wonderful red berries... Holly is just a late-blooming copycat. Also, we prefer peat-like soils that are not too dry and enjoy some sun, but not too much.
Titania: Thanks for the wonderful information! I'm sure our gardeners everywhere will enjoy your helpful tips. Good luck on the field and keep a clear head, it was a priviledge to speak to you.
Quickbeam: No problem, just be sure to keep the soil well-
Titania: Okay! Thanks for your time, it was a pleasure to speak with you...
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Okay, our next interviewers are a pair of twins that I know many of you are just dying of pre-raphaelite madness to hear from! Well, I was lucky enough to snag an interview with them before their father demanded some attention as well...
Titania: You two really saved the team out there!
Elladen&Elrohir (switching off at every few words): Yes, you could say that. We know our father meant well, but it seemed that he needed some help.
Titania: Oh, how thoughtful. You both are an impressive team, but may I ask something?
E&E (still ever few words): Of course...
Titania: Was it your intention to pull a trip-trick and knock the ball in?
Elladen: You might think it was a trick, but really, my brother is just that clumbsy. From as long as I can remember, he's always tripped over his own feet and managed to score at the same time... For anything.
Elrohir: Hey! She was asking me! Sorry, my brother is a bit of an attention-pig with these things. It's sort of a habit with him. I really didn't know I was going to score. I was there, out in the field watching a bird or two and seeing father almost put his back out with the ball, then suddenly the ball comes towards me and then i'm doing this tripping dance with the ball... Then, a goal!
Elladen: Wait! Not once did you mention my wonderful pass to you! If it wasn't for that you still would be standing there, waiting to fall on your face!
Elrohir: You are just jealous of my amazing tripping-goal scoring skills!
Titania: Both of you SHUT IT! Sorry, but I don't think the magazine has enough type-spacing for your arguement. Even though, it was rather wonderful.
E&E: Really?
Titania: Yes, but now onto other things. What do you think of the team as a whole and future games?
E&E: Well, we might have to get our keeper up to par and mix a few things here and there, but it's turned out better than we expected.
Titania: Wonderful! Well, I wish you two, the tripping-goal trick and the Riveldale Team the best out there.
E&E: Thanks for the support!
(Elladen walks out of the interview without a problem, Elrohir trips over a mircrophone wire then jumps up and goes on his way...)
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Well, that is all for today dear lads and lasses, until later on when we will be reporting about the tomorrow's sure to be heated matches!
All credit to THE Ka for writing this. Excellent stuff.
Sleepy Ranger
11-15-2005, 04:02 AM
An Interview With Sauron (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Sauron1.jpg) - Drawn and Written by Valesse
SHOCKING DECISION
-Sleepy Ranger
Former player turned coach, Gandalf the Gray, made a shocking decision earlier today. As we know several teams have tried persistently to sign him on as their coach but for the past few years he has stuck to coaching the Shire until his contract ended just before the World Cup after which he retired. So hears some good news for all you old fans, Gandalf has decided to return to the Shire but not as coach. He has said that this time he'll be playing the field as offensive mid-fielder. The entire footballing world was stunned by his decision and he will certainly be a strong addition the Shire team but it has been a long while since he last played and people ask wether he will be able to live up to his old form or if age has finally caught up with him. He is scheduled to play in the first 11 in todays match against Rivendell. When our reporter Rune asked Gandalf what he had to say to the opposing teams, this was his reply, "I'm not a believer in luck but I do believe you need it."
The Result, The Reaction
-Hiriel
The excitement, and the need for more stringent law enforcement, builds as the first-ever Middle Earth Football Championship continued today in earnest.
In Rohan, however, precautions taken by the guard at Edoras seemed unnecessary following a loss to the Moria team that the horsemasters believed too conflicted to play successfully together. “We’ve only had one incident,” Marshal Erkenbrand reported late this evening. “Some kids were caught dragging a burning effigy of Bill the Balrog behind their ponies, which, given the dryness of the plains this time of year, we had to brake up. But quite frankly, I’d rather deal with the whole angry host of Isengaurd then have to watch the match-replay. We were a joke.” Expectations had been high in Rohan after Gondor’s sudden upset of Angband, and many harbored the hope that the team might sign star striker Thorongil to bolster Rohan’s already aggressive offense if they had won a decisive victory.
At Gondolin, however, the situation was surprisingly even quieter following the crushing five to nil victory over the Gray Havens. When asked about the lack of celebrations, mid-fielder Tuor pointed out, “Listen, we’re all really overjoyed about the win, but we can’t exactly go bonkers here. Angband right up the way and they’re P.O’d about losing their first match. I mean, really P.O’d. We get caught mooning somebody in drunken glee and we can say goodbye to our city.” Some other residents of Gondolin have added that the victory wasn’t at all unexpected, asking whether anybody besides ‘that fey dog, Cirdan’ have stayed in the Gray Havens long enough to be considered eligible for play.
Across the rest of Middle Earth, the post-match celebrations have been less sedate. Moria itself is reporting severe infistructure damage, especially bridges, following their win. Dwarves holidaying from Erebor are the suspected culprits, but no particular charges have been filed as yet. Doriath, too, was not without incident. An anonymous tip lead to soldiers having to break up what they described as “a hippie secondborn love fest.” Apparently, a large gathering of beautiful elven maidens were frolicking in the nude, singing and dancing with some human fans of the Doriath club out of Dorthonion. The humans apparently had the intention of playing, “Loose Melian’s girdle” all the way through the night, but have been turned out of the realm indefinitely.
And in Mirkwood, the hall of Thranduil will be in need of repair and washing after their upset over division rival, Erebor. Reports indicate that a great many spider webs were stolen to create a large message that read, “Leggy-Boopers and Proud!” which was strung rather haphazardly along the grand hall of the Mirkwood elves. At least seven web-related fatalities are confirmed among the spider population, as well as uncounted toe-nail polish related acts of vandalism and annoying games of ‘I Never’, played with apple juice.
Rivendell’s motto, however, following their close win against Vinyamar was, “Embrace the chaos.” Supporters of the Imladris club have said they weren’t altogether pleased with the performance, but any win was enough to endanger the Hall of Fire into becoming a literal reality. The rulers of Rivendell, to their credit, were able to turn such enthusiasm towards less arsonistic pursuits. Contests such as, ‘Outrun the Fords of Bruinen’ and ‘Sneak into Elrond’s Council’ were the order of the day along with massive amounts of drinking and bad poetry.
Exclusive Interview With The Barrow-Downs Team
Earlier today our staff managed to catch up with several members of the Barrow-Downs team and get their views on their upcoming match against Valmar. Our reporter first found the enigmatic mid-fielder The Phantom who had this to say, "I'm not worried at all about Valmar or Valimar. We could've blown out Woodhall in that first match, but instead we showed off most of the game, doing fancy dribbling and passing. That may not seem very smart, but I think it was good to show everyone what we could do- to intimidate them. I'm sure that free kick of mine that went completely out of the stadium scared the heck out of the goalies from Valmar and Valimar. They know that I could turn that power straight at their goal at any time. We're just going to go out and have fun in our next couple matches. We don't need to be all serious to beat the teams in our group. We'll save our serious play for the next round where we will likely be facing better teams."
Next we came across the Barrow-Downs mid-fielder and writer of the The Result, The Reaction column, Hiriel. This is what he said to us, "After the intense practices we've had all through the off season, to see everything come together for us in the opener, it was really amazing and gratifying. The important thing is that we don't lose our focus. We can deffinitely improve on our game and there's a lot of tough teams to beat out there."
The next was one of the 'Downs Defenders, Firefoot. "Valmar has some real power players, but a show of action from them is rare - the Valar are real passivists. As long as we come out hard I don't think we should have a lot of trouble with this team." is what she told us.
Another defender, Glirdan told us, "Well, let's just say that this is probably going to be a very interesting and difficult match. But I think we can handle it." and the mid-fielder Arcticstorm87 only said, "We will win." with an air of confidence around him.
After a lot of searching we finally found Gil-Galad in the lunchroom and this is what he told us about the match, "right, i think that they have a strong defense but very weak offense, so we can naturally just win cause you gotta have both...hi mom!" Of course we don't really know what he was talking about but we shall assume he meant the match.
Next up was Barrow-Downs newest signing and youngest player, Sleepy Ranger. He has felt the taste of cup victories before and upon being asked about the team and their next match this was his reply, "The Barrow-Downs is definately stronger than any other team I've played in. We have an excellent offense and defense and our mid-field takes no prisoners, I don't think we should have any problems qualifying. Valmar shouldn't be too hard and if we beat them by a big margin we'll be sending a clear message to the other teams, hope you get eliminated early so you don't have to face us."
Unfortunately The Saucepanman was mobbed by fans and unable to answer our question over the sound and Feanor of the Peredhil was away the whole day. As for the Barrow-Wight, he was too intimidating to approach for questioning. On the whole we wish the Barrow-Downs team luck and they definately look strong favorites.
What We Think - The Players and Managers have their say
Earlier today Rune caught up with some of the teams and their managers and got their thoughts on the tournament.
Faramir of Gondor - If we played like that every time we wouldn't be so inconsistent. Commenting on the 1-0 victory over Angaband.
Turgon of Vinyamar - We can't win at home, we can't win away. I just can't figure out where else to play. Commenting on his teams unlucky 1 goal loss to Rivendell.
Balin - Azog sliced the ball when he had it on a plate. For once he has something good to say on Azog, speaking of the goal scored by Azog at the end of their pinball play.
Saruman - Without being too harsh on Grima, he cost us the match. Speaking on his teams 4-2 loss against Doriath.
Frodo - My legs sort of disappeared from nowhere. What he had to say about a missed goal in the first half of their match against Arnor.
Now that we've seen what they had to say about their previous matches heres what they have to say about their upcoming matches.
Samwise - I honestly believe we can go all the way to the final unless somebody knocks us out. Sam showing us just how optimistic he is.
Elrond - I never predict anything, and I never will. Must be a fancy way of saying no comment.
Thingol - You've got to believe that you're going to win, and I believe that we'll win the World Cup until the final whistle blows and we're knocked out. I can't see that happening any time soon. Stick to your beliefs!
Todays Fixtures - The Odds and Evens
Game 1 - Old Forest vs. Moria
One team has just come off a goal loss and the other a goal win. One team has few quality players but excellent team work and the other has excellent talent but they have trouble getting along. This should be an interesting match.
Predicted Result - Draw
Game 2 - Shire vs. Rivendell
With the return of Gandalf the Shire definately looks a strong team but it remains to be seen wether or not Gandalf still has it in him. If he does then this should be a walk-over unless Rivendell is saved by luck but as always that is a trippy matter.
Predicted Result - Win for Shire
Game 3 - Barrow-Downs vs. Valmar
Barrow-Downs has the home team advantage in this match and the players are definately confident and prepared after their 1-0 win in the opening game. Valmar just came off a humiliating defeat (result taken as draw) against rivals Valimar in a penalty shootout. Though they are a good team it'll take something special to defeat the Barrow-Downs.
Predicted Result - Win for Barrow-Downs
Game 4 - Nargothrond vs. Mirkwood
Nargothrond have the better offense but often lack accuracy and play too aggressive. On the other hand Mirkwood has excellent accuracy and agile players with excellent dribbling ability but they may often find themselves running uphill against the hard as rock defense of Nargothrond. Nargothrond have an amazing offensive player in Turin and he will most likely win the match for them.
Predicted Result - Win for Nargothrond
Game 5 - Dale vs Bree
This match is a complete waste of time. Both teams managed to draw against two much stronger teams and now are up against each other. Trust me don't waste your money on these two. But Dale has a clear advantage since Bree is missing its two main players, one on a red card and the other injured.
Predicted Result - Win for Dale (Probably their only)
Game 6 - Goblin-Town vs. Doriath
Is this supposed to be funny? Because its not. Doriath will destroy Goblin-Town since they posess superior everything. This match will be a worth a watch only if you enjoy seeing squash matches.
Predicted Result - Win for Doriath
Game 7 - Lothlorien vs. Fangorn
This promises to be an exciting game and will be one of the better ones of the evening. Lothlorien lost to Crickhollow in a game where they were billed as favorites and Fangorn drew against Aqualonde. This will be an interesting match seeing how both teams have very good defenses though a somewhat shaky offense. This one will be close and I see Lorien gaining an early advantage but after an Ent-Moot at half-time I can see Fangorn making a come back but not doing enough to win.
Predicted Result - Draw
Game 8 - Gondor vs. Gondolin
This match will be a real clash of offenses. Gondor just came off a win against Angband while Gondolin demolished Grey Havens. I expect the goalies and forwards to play a major role in this match but Gondolin may edge the match away owing to a superior defense yet Gondor will make this match close and this will definately be one of the better matches in the tournament.
Predicted Result - Win for Gondolin
Tournament Happenings
Injuries -
Smaug (Erebor) will miss the next match because of a belly injury.
Tar-Enclime (Numenor) will miss the next match due to a broken nose.
Barliman Butterbur (Bree) will be out indefinately due to a hamstring injury.
Cards -
Melkor (Angaband) recieved a red card and a 2 match suspension.
Dark Lord (Mordor) was given a yellow card.
Manwe (Valmar) was given a yellow card.
Varda (Valimar) was given a yellow card.
Bill Ferny (Bree) recieved a red card and 2 match suspension.
Elros (Numenor) recieved a red card and 2 match suspension.
Saruman (Isengard) recieved a red card on two yellow cards but his match suspension was dropped after he appealed to the governing body.
Most Promising Player - Ugluk (Isengard) was a cut above the rest due to sheer determination and will-power alone. He played excellent and managed to keep the team under control even after their captain was sent off. He managed to score the teams only two goals under a lot of pressure and is a fan-favorite among orcs, uruk-hai and trolls alike. Once Saruman retires I see him taking charge of Isengard.
Most Impressive Team - Gondolin definately impressed on the field in their first match. A five goal romp over Gray Havens was enough to show their intent on winning this cup. This team will make it to the finals and probably win the cup as well if they can keep up this form of play. It will be interesting to see if they keep their current 3-4-3 formation or change to a more definsive one for their later matches.
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Thank you Valesse, Hiriel, THE Ka and Rune for your contributions. Hope to see more from you soon. Also thanks to the team for taking the time to respond to the interview. :)
Sleepy Ranger
11-15-2005, 05:38 AM
Todays matches are live from The Doriath Dome and will begin airing at 4:00pm EST (Elven Standard Time)
Old Forest 1-3 Moria
This match was all about missed penalties and hard tackles. The match started off with Balin blasting an early one straight at goal only to have it bounce back off the cross-bar, his next chance came in the 33rd minute when he found himself free and in the box but a slight fumble gave Old Man Willow all the time he needed to make the save. Due to that him and Bill had a falling out and both began to play rough after that with Bill giving away a penalty in the 39th minute. Alas, The Master went for high and hard only to have the ball sailing into the crowds. Even though Moria's coach talked to both Balin and Bill at half-time they couldn't settle their differences and continued their hatred in the second half.
Upon missing another goal, Bill started arguing with Balin which gave The Master the space he needed to charge in and score the opener in the 67th minute. The crowd though remained silent. Soon after the first goal the Moria supporters joined hands and began to chat, "UNITED WE STAND!" over and over causing Bill to attempt their pinball play again which Azog finished off with a diving header. Right after that Balin stole the ball in mid-field and charged down centre to blast in Moria's second goal. Master found himself in the box again and hit a hard shot but a goblin accidently touched the ball with his hand, giving Old Forest a chance to equalize with a penalty. Alas luck was against them and the ball went the wrong side of the post. Moria though had no such problem with penalties as Azog converted a 90th minute one into their third goal.
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Shire 2-0 Rivendell
It looks like Gandalf's return was what it took to set the Shire into action. Pippin, still in the same form as earlier, went on the offensive from the first whistle. He had many shots on the goal in the first few minutes but the Rivendell defense was able to keep their goal empty. Finally a long ball played by Gandalf was converted into a goal by Pippin in the 47th minute after which Shire went defensive and held off Rivendell until Sam found the ball at his feet near the goal, he shot it straight at the goalie who somehow managed to keep it out. Frodo passed the ball on to Merry who crossed it into the box for Pippin to score off a header.
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Barrow-Downs 2-1 Valmar
This match was a classic, one for the history books. Manwe managed to fight through the 'Downs defense and chip the ball over Barrow-Wight and into the goal in the 15th minute of the match after which this match turned into a heated battle with both teams taking several shots on the goal. Sleepy Ranger did manage to get one past the Valmar goalie in the 59th minute only to be called back for being offside. The replay however, showed that Sleepy was onside. It wasn't until the 90th minute that Valmar made a mistake and gave Phantom a free-kick from 22m out. Phantom shot the ball strong and hard but it seemed it would go over the goal, instead it struck the cross-bar and fell straight down and rolled into the goal. Immediatly after Sleepy stole the ball and made a determined run for goal, he was quickly surrounded and passed to Saucepan who immediatly shot only to have the ball turned away for a corner. Phantom took the corner masterfully, curving the ball in towards the box where Sleepy Ranger finished the job with a header. Barrow-Downs took the win without a second to spare.
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Nargothrond 2-2 Mirkwood
This match was another heated contest that saw Nargothrond take an early lead with a fantastic strike from way out by Turin. The ball rose high over the defense before dropping sharply through the goalkeeper's outstretched arms and into the goal prompting the crowd to begin a Black Sword! chant. Mirkwood managed to get past the Nargothrond defense by constantly passing the ball back and forth until Legolas shot it in the bottom right corner to equalize in the 56th minute. The mid-field didn't play much of a role in this match but Finrod Felagun, the offensive mid-fielder managed to curve a high shot into the goal to snatch a lead in the 78th minute. When the match looked all over a mis-timed tackle gave Legolas a Free-Kick from the edge of the box, which he converted into a goal.
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Dale 0-0 Bree
Neither team did much out there but Bree played well despite missing their top players. Nob put a scare into Dale when he charged down the flank but a sliding tackle by Bard ensured he would go no further. On the whole there wasn't much worth talking about in this match but the players out in a solid effort.
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Goblin-Town 0-3 Doriath
Beleg played a dominating role in this match and scored all 3 of Doriath's goals. His first was of a header from a Thingol corner in the 40th minute. The second came in the 70th, when he found himself free of his marker. He charged to the box and faked out the keeper and then nudged the ball into the goal. His third goal followed soon after, another Thingol corner but this time the keeper got a hand to it only to have Beleg knock it in. Goblin-Town were never given a chance to recover.
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Lothlorien 1-2 Fangorn
It seemed the predictions were right, Lothlorien took the lead agains a sleeping Fangorn defense and then managed to defend it for the first half but after the half Fangorn began to mount a come-back. Treebeard took his time and made it into the box before shooting the ball in along with the goalie, Celeborn, who hung on for the ride. Next was a fantastic effort by Quickbeam, where he rushed in and took a quick shot at goal and sunk in the winner for Fangorn. With 20 minutes to go Lothloriend attempted to score again but they were shut out by Fangorn's goalie and stiff defense.
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Gondor 6-1 Gondolin
Gondor won this match purely on their defensive abilities, proving the proverb, 'The best offense is a good defense.' true. The crowd was clearly in support of Gondor and this seemed to give them a huge boost in morale. Faramir scored the opening goal it the 23rd minute causing the crowd to go nuts and even more craziness followed when Aragorn blasted one in from close range minutes later. A short pass into the box from Faramir in the 33rd minute was converted into a goal by his brother, Boromir. The crowd could be heard chanting, "Power of Two". Minutes before the end of the half Imrahil netted in a header from a long pass to score Gondor's 4th goal, driving the crowd insane. This match seemed to be over at half-time with the score 4-0 but Aragorn had some unfinished buisness.
As soon as the half resumed, Turgon managed to decrease the biterness by scoring an easy goal but a superb long shot by Aragorn completely deflated whatever comeback Gondoling had begun. Aragorn then scored of a 72nd minute penalty causing the Gondor supporters to explode in cheers. For the rest of the match the crowd could be heard screaming, "Hail the King!" in honor of Aragorn.
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Today's results were certainly 'shocking'. What do you people have to say about them? It seems the teams in Group H are going to start an all-out war for the qualifying positions.
Morsul the Dark
11-15-2005, 10:08 AM
Go Moria!!!
the phantom
11-15-2005, 03:47 PM
My take on the results thus far...
Group A
Moria is playing well, but Mordor is still the strong favorite. Their starting line of Sauron+Nazgul+The Mouth cannot be matched by anyone in their group- or possibly even the entire tournament. Their talent is enough to beat most people, but then when you add the way they move together as a team they are pretty much unstoppable.
Also, I don't see any of them getting suspended. The Nazgul have no personality and so none of them will lose his temper and do something dumb. And Sauron, though he is known to be quite "evil", is extremely goal oriented. His old master, Melkor, was the crazy nihilistic one. Sauron, on the other hand, will not get himself disqualified. He is too dedicated to winning to mess up like that.
Group B
Despite Gandalf's move to the Shire team, Rivendell is still my pick. Gandalf will make the headlines for a few days, but he isn't enough to get the job done.
Every single member of the hobbit team (besides Gandalf) is smaller, slower, and weaker than Rivendell's players. I truly cannot understand how Rivendell lost.
Now, don't go spreading this around because I'm not certain yet, but I think Rivendell may have been poisoned before the tournament. I mean- one of the sons of Elrond "tripping"?! The team did a good job of playing it off, but I could tell that Elrond was suspicious.
Elrond and his sons are descended from the King of the Noldor, the King of the Teleri and Sindar, the King of Men, and an angelic being (Melian). All three of them are ridiculously gifted genetically and far above things like tripping. There is definitely something fishy going on. You can bet that Elrond is looking into it and will cure it soon, and when he does- look out! Rivendell will be back with a vengeance!
Look for Elrond to move back from offense and take the goalie position. I'm not sure why he hasn't been there all along. I predict he will bar the entrance to the goal as effectively as he bars the Bruinen ford. During the remaining games in Group B, Elrond will not allow a single goal. You can bet on it.
Group C
Yesterday I said that The Barrow-Downs would win this group, and they haven't given me a reason to say otherwise.
Group D
Though the race is tight right now, I still think Nargothrond will come through. None of the other teams have an answer for Turin, not to mention that Finrod, Orodreth, Gelmir, and Gwindor are also excellent players.
Group E
Umm, is anyone in this group going to score a goal?
Well, I still think Numenor is the strongest team in this group, but really it doesn't matter who comes out of this group because they aren't going to advance any further.
Group F
Doriath and Gauroth have both played well, as I expected. It will come down to those two teams. I personally believe Sauron and his wolves to have the edge, but only time will tell.
Group G
I don't care about this group much at all. Whoever wins it will not get any further anyway. Fangorn is playing decent so far.
Group H
This group has been weird. First, Gondor upsets Angband in a close match, then Gondolin looks strong and blows away Grey Havens, but then Gondor kills Gondolin! Angband will certainly win their next match against Grey Havens.
Angband is still the team to beat. Even without Melkor, Ancalagon's aerial scoring abilities, Glaurung's goal-keeping, and exceptional all-around play by the Balrogs should be enough to win. And when Melkor is back, they should be head and shoulders above the rest.
Sleepy Ranger
11-15-2005, 04:33 PM
Also, I don't see any of them getting suspended. The Nazgul have no personality and so none of them will lose his temper and do something dumb. And Sauron, though he is known to be quite "evil", is extremely goal oriented. His old master, Melkor, was the crazy nihilistic one. Sauron, on the other hand, will not get himself disqualified. He is too dedicated to winning to mess up like that.
Come now, he already has a yellow card. One more in the next match and he'll be out. Mordor will have to sacrifice a bit of their aggresivness.
Yesterday I said that The Barrow-Downs would win this group, and they haven't given me a reason to say otherwise.
Not even almost losing?
Though the race is tight right now, I still think Nargothrond will come through. None of the other teams have an answer for Turin, not to mention that Finrod, Orodreth, Gelmir, and Gwindor are also excellent players.
It will be a hard fight for the top spot but I see them qualifying. You seem to have forgotten, top two teams qualify. So we'll have the chart split after that. Just like in the real world cup...
QF--
------SF
QF--
-------------Playoff for Finals-----F------same as left
QF--
------SF
QF--
Umm, is anyone in this group going to score a goal?
That would be bad, we'd have nobody to qualify then.
Doriath and Gauroth have both played well, as I expected. It will come down to those two teams. I personally believe Sauron and his wolves to have the edge, but only time will tell.
I believe they both have excellent offenses but it will be decided by the team that manages to defend better on the day.
This group has been weird. First, Gondor upsets Angband in a close match, then Gondolin looks strong and blows away Grey Havens, but then Gondor kills Gondolin! Angband will certainly win their next match against Grey Havens.
I believe it will end with Angband vs. Gondolin for the final qualifying spot unless Grey Havens manages to win, which I doubt will happen.
The Saucepan Man
11-15-2005, 06:42 PM
Beleg (Doriath): 6
Pippin (The Shire): 4
Aragorn (Gondor): 3
Azog (Moria): 3
Legolas (Mirkwood): 3
Turgon (Gondolin): 3
Faramir (Gondor): 2
Turin (Nargothrond): 2
Ugluk (Isengard): 2
Arathorn (Arnor): 1
Arvedui (Arnor): 1
Balin: 1
Boromir (Gondor): 1
Brandir (Ephel Barandir): 1
Dark Lord (Mordor): 1
Earnil (Arnor): 1
Ecthelion (Gondolin): 1
Elrohir (Rivendell): 1
Fatty Bolger (Crickhollow): 1
Finrod (Nargothrond): 1
Glorfindel (Gondolin) : 1
Haldir (Lothlorien): 1
Imrahil (Gondor): 1
Manwe (Valmar): 1
Merry (The Shire): 1
Quickbeam (Fangorn): 1
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 1
Sleepy Ranger (Barrow Downs): 1
The phantom (Barrow Downs): 1
The Saucepan Man (Barrow Downs): 1
Thingol (Doriath): 1
Tom Bombadil Old Forest): 1
Treebeard (Fangorn): 1
Tuor (Gondolin): 1
Beleg "Strongboot" Cuthalion is looking the hot favourite so far, and it may stay that way if Doriath qualify from their Group, which looks likely. But he has hot competition from the impressive Peregrine "Pint-size" Took and the surprisingly adept Azog Dwarfheader, not to mention Legolas "Legoals" Greenleaf, Turgon of Gondolin and Aragorn Wingfoot.
Faramir and Turin cannot be discounted but Ugluk, despite his impressive form, is unlikely since Isengard look like they will have difficulty progressing to the next stage.
the phantom
11-15-2005, 11:01 PM
You seem to have forgotten, top two teams qualify.
I didn't forget- I never knew it to begin with. :p
I suppose that shows how careless I am when I speed-read threads.
he already has a yellow card. One more in the next match and he'll be out.
Sauron won't get himself disqualified. He's evil, not stupid. He wants to win much more than he wants to illegally tackle someone.
Yesterday I said that The Barrow-Downs would win this group, and they haven't given me a reason to say otherwise.
Not even almost losing?
The team they played, Valmar, is one of the top ten teams in the field. Also, Valmar threw everything they had at The Downs. I mean- Manwe scoring a goal? Since when has he been an offensive chap? Valmar tried every trick they could to cross up The BD team but The Downs withstood the assault and showed their skills at the end to win the game. Also, remember what the phantom said in his interview. It doesn't sound like The Downers were planning on playing their hardest in that match- and I don't think they did. They haven't hit their top gear yet. When they do, it just might carry The Downs into the tournament finals.
Now, since I have received multiple requests for it, I will publish power rankings of the top teams.
For all of you College Football (American) fans (Boro, TORE, Oro ;) ), you are used to turning to the AP and BCS polls for rankings. Well, did you know they also rated Middle-Earth soccer?
Here are the rankings-
AP/BCS Poll (Ask Phantom/Bull Crap Slanted Poll)
1. Mordor
2. Angband
3. The Barrow-Downs
4. Tol-In-Gauroth
5. Valmar
6. Valimar
7. Rivendell
8. Gondolin
9. Doriath
10. Nargothrond
11. Moria
Explanations-
Mordor- Sauron and his minions have by far and away the best teamwork. They cover for each other extremely well and help each other on defense. On offense they always know where their teammates are and where they are headed. Their passing is astounding. They also have excellent speed across the board, making use of their winged steeds. In addition, they posses a quality goalkeeper.
Angband- Angband is well-above average all the way across the board. Their offense, led by Melkor and Ancalagon, is strong, but their defense is particularly good- the best of any team in the field. Gothmog and his six bruising Balrog buddies are nearly impenetrable, and if you make it past them you must contend with a fine goalkeeper, Glaurung. It is this defense that caused me to rank them ahead of The Downs.
The Barrow-Downs- The Downs has the most talented goal scorers in the tournament, and one of the best goalkeepers. They are solid in the other departments, such as defense and speed.
Tol-In-Gauroth- Sauron is always dangerous, and his wolves should not be underestimated. They run at a fast trot most of the time, but when the opportunity arises they suddenly disappear in a blur of speed. They are the only team with the across the board speed to match Mordor. A player with the ball shuffling along through a wide open space can find himself surrounded by three or four wolf defenders before he knows what's going on. They are a scary team.
Valmar & Valimar- These teams are nearly identical. They have fine offensive weapons like Tulkas, Orome, and Eonwe, but their timid midfielders barely ever get the ball ahead to their scorers. Their goalkeeping is good and their defense is decent, but the teams really depend on their front men to do everything. Last season, every goal they scored except one resulted from one of their offensive weapons stealing the ball and then taking it all the way himself. Maybe they will be able to for a while, but after three games Orome, Tulkas, and Eonwe will be awfully tired.
Rivendell- Rivendell is simply a solid team with no obvious weaknesses. They aren't as fast as Mordor, but they are fast. They don't play defense as well as Angband, but they play well. They can't score like The Downs, but they can score. And, to top it off, they have perhaps the best goalie in the tournament- Elrond.
Gondolin- Gondolin is very similar to Rivendell. They are one of the best scoring teams, but their goalkeeping is not as good as the teams above them.
Doriath- Doriath is another team in the same mold- solid with no glaring weaknesses. Their offense is particularly good, though in other categories they are just a shade behind Gondolin and Rivendell.
Nargothrond- This is the last of the "elvish quartet", as I call them. They are just a notch below Doriath in most categories.
Moria- This was just supposed to be a top ten list, but I included Moria at number eleven. Why? Because I believe that if their team unity gets better they will easily be able to compete with the four teams above them. Azog and Bill the Balrog are a fine scoring duo, and with improved team chemistry Moria could really make use of the wide variety of talents that different members of the team posses.
Boromir88
11-16-2005, 06:29 AM
Well sir Phantom, I'd like to know the mathematical formula you used to come up with that poll? I'm rather stumped. See, just by polling the Referrees Union Poll(which goes by strength of schedule, quality wins (Outscore opponent by 3 goals or more), and record...
1) The Barrow-downs (2-0)- Strong team, schedule isn't as hard as some. Most likely to go all the way.
2) Gondor (2-0)- Strong schedule, 1 quality win over Gondolin, they look good right now.
3) Doriath (2-0)- Pretty weak Division compared to others. Yet they've been tearing it up offensively.
4) Angband (0-1)- Despite 0-1 record they faced a tough Godnor team and should win their next two games.
5) Tol-in-Gauroth (1-0)- Hasn't played a strong opponent yet, but they should win their Group.
6) Shire (1-0-1)- Tying with Arnor and beating Rivendell, two good games played by the little halflings.
7) Rivendell (1-1)- The Shire surpasses them because of their loss to The Shire. Yet they will make it to the next round.
8) Mordor (1-0)- They will win their grouping.
9) Moria (2-0)- Reason Moria is below Mordor is because of the weak teams Moria has played. Plus Mordor is the better team and will beat them. If Moria wants to jump passed Mordor they got to beat them first.
10) Gondolin (1-1)- One good win, one big whipping.
Sleepy Ranger
11-16-2005, 08:12 AM
Quickbeam Interview (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Quickbeam1.jpg) - Drawn and written by Valesse
Shire Press Confrence
After yesterdays game, The Shire held a press confrence in which we had a chance to ask questions from their coach, Bilbo Baggins and many of their players. Recent signing, Gandalf, was also available for questioning. Here is what we managed to pick up.
SR- This a question for you Bilbo. You took over after Gandalf left, you made some drastic changes and many new signings and the team has improved since. Could you tell us what you did?
BB- Why most certainly young lad. You see Gandalf had led the team under a stern and strict rule, they were too uptight to play any good. When I took over I cut down on training, held group relaxation therapies and had the team together for most meals so as to improve our relationship.
SR- It seems to have worked, your boys certainly seem to be enjoying themselves on the field and I also noted that you played many of the younger players and thus found an excellent striker in Pippin. What made you think he could do it?
BB- Pippin? Oh he was only put in because I had a bet with him. I had bet that I could out drink him and if I lost I'd have to play him. Now I don't think I shall make any more bets with him nor shall I remove him from the First 11 unless I have to.
SR- Er, Very interesting. Now Frodo, you're playing defense and your team doesn't really have the best of defenses in this tournament yet you're an excellent defender. How does it feel in the back?
FB- It really is infruriating sometimes. Its like I'm the only player back there... You could say I'm carrying a burden all the time. Our defenders may not be the best but I must say that they have heart and sometimes that is all it takes to get through and I know that they can't share my burden but I also know they will try their best to make it easier for me.
SR- Hmm, alright. Now Pippin, you're an excellent striker and also very young. You most certainly have a bright future ahead of you, I hear this is your first exposure in the international scene and before this you've only played in Club games. What are the differences you've noticed between the two forms of play?
PT- Well they're very different. Just like day and night. My club team are big rivals of Merry's and we're never afraid of roughing each other up and try to out-play the other yet here it doesn't matter who is playing better. We're all a big family, supporting each other at every step. There is a lot of pride at stake here and and we plan to give it our all. At the end of the day it doesn't matter who scored the most, in the end it all depends on the team effort and chemistry. And believe me, we make no mistakes in that.
SR- Indeed! And I have a question for you, Gandalf. How does it feel to be back on the field? Do you think you can help Shire win the Cup?
GG- It feels wonderful to be back in action. I feel re-born, if you will. And I believe Shire has a strong team and we will be able to go all the way to the finals and maybe even win it.
SR- Thank you for your time.
T-I-G vs. Isengard: Shoe-in?
-Firefoot
In the upcoming match between Tol-in-Gaurhoth (1-0-0) and Isengard (0-1-0), T-I-G is the heavy favorite to win. However, there are some who think that Isengard may have a chance, among them many of the Isengard players.
When questioned, Isengard’s captain Saruman responded, “The Tol-in-Gaurhoth team has been continually projected as the team to win this group, maybe go on further. I wouldn’t put it past Sauron to become cocky, underestimate us. They don’t know what we’re made of - I think we can win.” When further pressed for his opinion about the T-I-G team, he answered, “The only really good player on that team is Sauron. His werewolves are all fine and good, but none of them really stand out. Rabble like that just isn’t any match for us.” He refused comment about his team’s previous loss and his being carded – twice.
Isengard has another rising star in the making – Ugluk, named Most Promising Player after his performance in Isengard’s game against Doriath. Critics have commented on his leadership abilities in the team; when asked about this, he simply responded: “I am Ugluk. I command.” He was firm about his team’s chances of winning the upcoming game: “Saruman can’t do anything stupid; we need all of our strength. We are the fighting Uruk-hai. We do not admit defeat before we have lost. Tol-in-Gaurhoth can be beaten. Sauron will likely be carded, and that leaves them without their strongest player. We are the fighting Uruk-hai.”
Sauron, captain of the Tol-in-Gaurhoth team, has other ideas: “Isengard is little more than a fly to be crushed. Saruman is a cunning spider trapped in a web of his own devising. His Uruk-hai are no match for my Werewolves. We are the faster, stronger, better team. I have little doubt that we will win our group.” A group of werewolves were asked whether they thought Isengard had a chance; their answer was derisive laughter, though not, perhaps, without reason: in the past, their style has not been merely victory, but obliteration. They have historically left teams devastated in their wake – albeit teams of somewhat lesser quality than those in the cup.
As the previous opponents of these teams, the captains of Doriath and Goblin Town were also asked of their opinions of these teams. Thingol, Doriath’s captain, admitted “Isengard has some good players, but I don’t think they’ll get anywhere unless the Tol-in-Gaurhoth team makes some huge blunders. The team just isn’t developed enough.” The Goblin Town team had little to say in intelligent terms, but their frustration with the T-I-G team and scorn for Isengard were evident.
So while T-I-G remains the heavy favorite, Isengard is priming for an upset. And whatever the result, it will likely be a rough physical match – between T-I-G’s obliterating tendencies and the fighting Uruk-hai’s vicious nature, the game has the potential to quickly become violent. To say nothing of their captains.
A quick glimpse on group H- Was the burden of being favourites too heavy?
-Gothmog
Yes, that’s the question many creatures in Middle Earth and beyond is asking themselves. Before the Cup began, group H was considered one of the toughest. There were teams like 1st age winners Angband, the new upcomer Gondor with a strong season behind them and Gondolin, always disguising their true form.
Gondor has a young team and has developed into one of the world’s best in a quite short time. Their youth might be an advantage as they have quick and strong players, but do they have the experience it takes to go all the way? And in this group? Well, it actually looks like that after their first won game vs Angband and then the strong 6-1 win against Gondolin.
Gondolin on the other hand has experience and strong players that has been playing for a long time now. As printed in an excellent article by the phantom earlier, they’re offence is strong with Turgon in the centre and Glorfindel and Echtelion at the flanks. The new generation is present with the midfielder Tuor, an excellent player with offensive qualities. As always the team has been training in their home arena in Gondolin, closed to all visitors. They haven’t participated in any matches before the Cup, so it’s hard to tell how good they are. A comforting win against the weak Grey Havens in the first game gave the fans hope, but what happened against Gondor? A total collapse for sure.
But now to the greatest topic throughout Arda: what has happened to Angband, one of the favourites for the title? With Gondolin and Gondor playing as they do, it will be hard to come back and win this group. If they don’t win the next match against Grey Haven, one of the greatest flops of modern time is a fact. Now their captain and star of the team: Melkor is suspended so this will be though. But what is wrong? We asked the captain himself:
Gothmog the interviewing Balrog: So Melkor (or do you prefer Morgoth?) do you have any explanations to your first loss?
Melkor: I actually prefer Melkor, but thank you for asking! I really have no idea. We’ve done everything right before the Cup and the preparatins couldn’t been better. We’ve won every game before this, with the exception of a unsignificant game vs Valmar. So I don’t know!
G: Is it possible that the role of favourites didn't fit you?
M: No, I don't think that mattered when we played. It was one bad game, that's all. We're going to win this!
G: Self-confident I hear. That's good! So what are you going to do now?
M: I'll do as always. Give the boys a few lashes with the whip, torture the ones that played worst. Let them build some muscles in the mines, all the usual stuff... Threatening always works great.
G: Ohh.... You don’t think that’s a bit rough?
M: Are you questioning my technics?
G: Of course not! I just..oh forget it. So, who will take over after you as captain?
M: Probably Gothmog. He can handle pressure and can force the others to perform. Sauron starts whining when it gets tough and don’t have the others’ confidence.
G: OK. Thank you and good luck!
M: Thank you!
So Gothmog probably takes over as captain. But can he make the team work as...well, a team? There’s some strong individual players in team, like the defence of Balrogs, the quick right midfielder Ancalagon (look like he’s flying when he sprints) and the clever playmaker Glaurung in a central midfielder position. What seems a bit disturbing right now is the defensive Balrogs’ obvious problems with the Gondolin attackers Echtelion and Glorfindel, but that will be a later problem. Now thay have to deal with Grey havens...
Moria's Key to it's Early Success:
-Boromir88
Moria has been a surprising team so far, getting out to a quick 2-0 record. Sure, they have good talent but they can never seem to get along. There's been one major key in Moria's wins so far and may propell them to make a deep run in the MEFWC.
Moria plays an agressive and even sometimes dirty game. They batter and bruise up their opponents with hard sliding tackles. This has an effect in the long run against opponents of Moria. As it gets late in the game Moria's "dirty tactics" pay off and their opponents are sore from the rough physical play of Moria. Especially against a team like Rohan who believes in honor and chivalry and that the game should be played like gentlemen.
The Moria/Mordor match to see who's the top dog in Group A should be a great one to see as both teams play hard physical games. Surely, it will come down to the more physical team in this one.
Today's Fixtures - The Odds And Evens
Game 1 - Mordor vs. Rohan
Mordor is definately the better team in this match up. Mordor will have the advantage on their side and will make use of it. Rohan, though a good team just don't have what it takes to compete against the likes of Mordor. I see this match ending in Mordor's favor.
Predicted Result - Win for Mordor
Game 2 - Arnor vs. Vinyamar
This will be a big battle for dominance. Arnor coming in from a 3-3 draw and Vinyamar hoping to come back from a bad start. Vinyamar may have the stronger team but Arnor are more unified. This will be a close match with Arnor staying close to a win but unfortunatel will not reach.
Predicted Result - Draw
Game 3 - Woodhall vs. Valimar
I can see Woodhall winning but not today. Valimar will easily best them. They shall be defeated, humiliated, crushed, have their baggage stolen and sent home. For their best intrests they should concede the match and not show up.
Predicted Result - Win for Valimar (By a big margin)
Game 4 - Ephel Brandir vs. Erebor
Ephel Brandir managed a draw against Nargothrond and Erebor are currently goalieless. I don't see Erebor posing much of a threat but they will put a fight early on before sucummbing to Ephel Brandir in the closing minutes.
Predicted Result - Win for Ephel Brandir
Game 5 - Belegost vs. Numenor
Numenor is a strong team but they are missing two of their top players. Belegost will have the advantage in this match but many times we've seen teams lose despite having a major advantage. Will Numenor manage to win? Or will Belegost play their advantage right? I honestly believe they will draw since all this group does is draw.
Predicted Result - Draw
Game 6 - Tol-In-Gauroth vs. Isengard
This will be one of the more exciting matches this evening. Both teams are more or less the same but Tol-In-Gauroth does have a slight edge over Isengard. This one will be a close match, in fact its too close to call but I think I'll go out on a limb here and say that Isengard will manage to defeat Tol-In-Gauroth.
Predicted Result - Win for Isengard
Game 7 - Crickhollow vs. Alqualondë
Alqualondë will win this match. Crickhollow don't stand a chance. However they did manage to beat Lothlorien while Alqualondë drew against Fangorn. It may start off as a close match but Alqualondë will begin to dominate before long.
Predicted Result - Win for Alqualondë
Special Preview - Angband vs. Grey Havens
Drawn into what is being called the 'Most Controversial Group' Angband started off as strong favorites. But they lost their first match to Gondor, many people now wonder wether they'll actually be able to come back now that they're missing their captain as well though many people believe that Angband have it in them to go through despite the loss.
Winning this match however will just be the first step, their next and final group match which is against Gondolin will decide which team goes and which team stays. Even if they draw here, or by a slip of fate lose, a win over Gondolin will see them through. However the chances of Angband losing today are non-existant. Angband has swapped its usual 4-4-2 for a more conservative 5-4-1 formation. Grey Havens however have decided to play a 3-6-1 formation in hopes of smothering Angband's mid-field. Wether this will be a succesful move or not is yet to be seen but many people believe it to be silly.
Angand's captain, Melkor was unavailable for comment. He has been replaced by Gothomg for the next two matches due to a red card. If Angband get eliminated it will be largely due to their loss of Melkor. Tonight however they will go out as winners and come back as winners.
Predicted Result - Win for Angband
Tournament Happenings
Injuries -
Smaug (Erebor) will miss the next match because of a belly injury.
Tar-Enclime (Numenor) will miss the next match due to a broken nose.
Barliman Butterbur (Bree) will be out indefinately due to a hamstring injury.
Cards -
Melkor (Angaband) recieved a red card and a 2 match suspension.
Dark Lord (Mordor) was given a yellow card.
Varda (Valimar) was given a yellow card.
Bill Ferny (Bree) recieved a red card and 1 match suspension.
Elros (Numenor) recieved a red card and 2 match suspension.
Most Promising Player - Both Aragorn and Beleg scored hat-tricks in their matches and though Aragorn's was far more spectacular and against a much better team both these players showed off a lot of skill. Both their teams look set to qualify and they definately promise us a lot more exciting football in the future.
Most Impressive Team - Barrow-Downs was the most impressive team though people may argue that Gondor did a better job. Barrow-Downs managed to come back when all host had been lost, if they can keep pulling out mirculous wins nothing will be able to hold them back.
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Thanks to Firefoot, Gothmog and Boromir88 for their articles and Valesse for her zany comic. Hiriel said he would send in something but I haven't recieved anything from him yet. I will add it in when I recieve it. The results will be up later tonight, feel free to discuss your predictions and argue mine until then.
The Saucepan Man
11-16-2005, 01:16 PM
Gothmog and his six bruising Balrog buddies are nearly impenetrable, and if you make it past them you must contend with a fine goalkeeper, Glaurung.I think you'll find that Angband play their Balrogs as wingers - for obvious reasons ... :p ;)
Sleepy Ranger
11-16-2005, 01:37 PM
I think you'll find that Angband play their Balrogs as wingers - for obvious reasons ... :p ;)
Yup, they do! Results will be up within the hour. New pic by Valesse is up as well.
Anguirel
11-16-2005, 01:56 PM
Good one, Saucie...
The Grey Havens can't be expected to keep up morale with such an utter deprivation of coverage! We don't even know any of their player's names, though I expect Galdor's Captain and Cirdan's coach...I must remedy this situation. The voice of the Grey Havens will be heard!
Galdor has been located at his reclusive seaside training stadium. He agreed to speak to freelance, or technically freesword, interviewer Anguirel for what he described as "an ineffably precious and yet melancholy half-hour."
ANGUIREL: Many commentators have been quick to disparage your team's chances, and the bookmaker's up at the Pony are offering 3000-1 odds on your victory. How do you and you teammates react to that?
GALDOR: Well, to be frank, old chap, personally I think those odds are pretty accurate.
ANGUIREL: Are you disappointed in your team's conspicuous lack of distinction so far?
GALDOR: Not really. Here at Mithlond we think winning matches rather vulgar. Our attitude is one of self-preservation.
ANGUIREL: You mean, you play a defensive game, denying as many goals to your opponents as possible?
GALDOR: Dear me, no! Didn't you see our match against Gondolin? On the contrary, what I mean is that we concentrate on self-preservation by transferring all our best players by sea to Alqualonde, where they have a chance of a vibrant and dynamic career, and putting up a squad systematically recruited from the worst players currently resident at the Havens.
ANGUIREL: Ah. An...interesting tactic.
GALDOR: But you know, I'm actually quite worried we might win our next match, thereby ruining our carefully cultivated aura of glamorous, Romantic, but ultimately doomed resistance.
ANGUIREL: (trying not to laugh) You think you're going to beat Angband?
GALDOR: Certainly, it looks disturbingly likely. Their Captain's stuck in the Void, poor chap, and several of the players from the Barrow-Downs told me in confidence that their wingers do not in fact have wings.
ANGUIREL: Well, that's a bit controversial actually. And if you do defeat Gothmog's hardened players, where will you go from there?
GALDOR: Oh, darling, the shame will be unbearable. Personally I'll be hard put to stop myself hurling myself into the sea.
ANGUIREL: Any parting words?
GALDOR: Right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.
ANGUIREL: Yeah, right. Anyway, Galdor, thankyou for your time.
GALDOR: The pleasure was all mine.
Sleepy Ranger
11-16-2005, 03:26 PM
Live from Old Forest (10 Points if you guess its real life counterpart.) First match starts at 6:30pm EST.
Mordor 2-0 Rohan
Though Rohan put a valiant effort they weren't able to withstand the might of Mordor. The first half was rather bland without many incidents. Though it seemed that Mordor would be the team to get carded it was in fact Theoden of Rohan who went beserk in the early stages of the second half and took down Dark Lord in a dangerous tackle in the box to earn himself a red card and give away a penalty. The Rohan team could only watch helplessly as their keeper dove the opposite direction from which Dark Lord kicked the ball. The second goal was an excellent solo effort from Nazgul#7, he charged down the flank and lobbed the ball high and then rushed in to finish of the job himself.
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Arnor 1-0 Vinyamar
Vinyamar had this match under their control but a corner given away in the 50th minute was converted to a goal by Arvedui. After that the match was reduced to a mid-field battle with a few breakaways now and then put nothing resulted in another goal. Vinyamar were infuriated at the loss while Arnor were in high spirits knowing that they were a step closer to qualifying.
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Woodhall 0-3 Valimar
*No Comment*
12th- Varda (FK)
43rd- Varda (High powered into top right corner)
57th- Yavanna (Header of a corner)
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Ephel Brandir 0-1 Erebor
This was a heated battle for supremacy, one that Erebor won but just barely. It seemed they would be struggling without Smaug and at many a time they were and the defense had to work over time. Ephel Brandir sunk in a goal in the 47th minute which was dis-allowed by Boromir88 because the ball touched their forward's hand. After this Erebor did the most shocking thing ever, they subbed out their goalie and put in an injured Smaug. It didn't really matter much because Ephel Brandir didn't get many chances after that and a deflection into the goal by Thorin won the match for Erebor.
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Belegost 0-2 Numenor
Despite the absence of both their forwards, Numenor were carried to a two goal win by Tar-Meneldur. Belegost was out-classed in every possible way and had no hopes of even getting into Numenor's half. It was as Phantom said, Belegost is ages better than Dale and Bree put together and Numenor is as better than Belegost as Belegost is than Bree and Dale.
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Crickhollow 0-1 Alqualondë
Fatty came close to scoring in the opening few minutes but he shot wide of the goal. Alqualonde immediatly followed that up with a long free kick and direct cross into the box which was knocked in for the winner by Olwe. This match was rather disappointing because after the first goal it slowed to a crawl, all Alqualonde did was waste time.
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Tol-In-Gauroth 3-1 Isengard
The match started of with Sauron getting close to goal and passing to a wolf instead of shooting. The wolf shot and missed, killing the chance Sauron had so easily created. It didn't matter though as Sauron managed to sneak in a shot just before the end of the half to take the score to 1-0. Immediatly after the whistle, Saruman and Ugluk played a passing game to the box where Saruman gave the ball to Ugluk who netted in an equalizer. It was then a frantic and rather rough battle which saw several players go down and several substitutions but (luckily) no injuries or cardings. It was an unlucky moment for Isengard when Grima accidently kicked the ball into his own goal in an attempt to clear. Only moments later Sauron scored the third after recieving a through the legs pass from the edge of the box.
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Angband 4-0 Grey Havens
In this match Angband showed us why they were the favorites. Even without their captain and star striker they demolished Grey Havens 4-0 and made them the first confirmed departure from the World Cup. The first goal was a safely hit low shot at an open goal by Ancalagon which was followed up by a powerful strike that knocked the keeper in as well by Gothmog. Back in the dressing room with a two goal lead at half-time it seemed as if Angband had the match in their pocket. Two strikes in rapid succession after the interval put them up 4-0 after which the fell back to defending. The Angband players seemed to be confident that they were going to go all the way now.
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Hope you enjoyed today's matches. I'm sorry for not writing the Valimar vs. Woodhall match but nothing important happened in it. As usual if anyone has an articles, interviews or such send them to me. Feel free to contact me any way you want to.
The Saucepan Man
11-16-2005, 06:45 PM
Beleg (Doriath): 6
Pippin (The Shire): 4
Aragorn (Gondor): 3
Azog (Moria): 3
Legolas (Mirkwood): 3
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 3
Turgon (Gondolin): 3
Ugluk (Isengard): 3
Ancalagon the Black (Angband): 2
Arvedui (Arnor): 2
Dark Lord (Mordor): 2
Faramir (Gondor): 2
Gothmog (Angband): 2
Tar-Meneldur (Numenor): 2
Turin (Nargothrond): 2
Varda (Valimar): 2
*To save space, only those who have scored more than 1 goal are included on the leaderboard.*
Beleg's lead has not really been threatened by the scorers in the latest matches, although if the trophy rules didn't specify that players be recorded by team Sauron/Dark Lord would be chasing him with 5 goals.
Ancalagon, Gothmog, Tar-Meneldur and Varda all appear on the table for the first time.
Ugluk's impressive goalscoring form continues, although his team look unlikely to progress, so the Yellow Boots are probably out of his reach.
Sleepy Ranger
11-17-2005, 01:35 PM
DOZEN BALLS MISSING!
-Feanor of the Peredhil
A break-in was reported today by the Elves of Rivendell, those keepers of the MEFWC official artifacts. It appears that twelve regulation game balls have been stolen from the keepers. Top suspects in the robbery are as follows:
the phantom: already convicted with the criming of stealing ladies' hearts, he seems to be more interested in these games than strictly necessary. A confidential source has told us under threat of torture that she witnessed the phantom slinking through the halls of Elrond's home. Some time later, he was seen leaving the premesis looking suspiciously lumpy.
The Saucepan Man (charged with protection of the Golden Boots Award): armed with knowledge and a large amount of kitchenware, citizens are advised to avoid this man unless prepared to duck the large cans of worms that he has been witnessed throwing around. It is unknown if he cooks with these worms or not, but they are dangerous to preconceived notions and should be avoided at all costs should you desire to remain a cognitive miser. Responsible for the prestigious Golden Boots Award, it is speculated that The Saucepan Man intends to usurp the award and add to it the soon-to-be collectors items and auction them off on ME-bay.
Firefoot: suspected with the destruction of multiple footballs already, due to flaming feet, rumours abound that Firefoot has the balls in her possession and intends to play a good tough game of football with them, thereby burning them to cinder as she dribbles, should her demands not be met. Word has not yet reached us as to the nature of these demands, but given the credibility of our anonoymous tip, we cannot yet be certain that the lass even has anything to do with the game. However the public should keep in mind that if she is guilty, we should be very worried and perhaps lynch her, but if innocent, her cool logic will help us to track down the criminals.
Could Arwen be another suspect? (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Frodo1.jpg) - Drawn and written by Valesse
Stakes High for Erebor and Nargothrond
-Firefoot
If either of these teams wants to be guaranteed to continue in the cup, they must win in this match - unless Ephel Brandir pulls an upset in their upcoming game with Mirkwood, Mirkwood will be one of the teams advancing from this group, leaving Nargothrond and Erebor to fight for the qualifying spot.
Both Nargothrond (0-0-2) and Erebor (1-1-0) are confident, though not cocky. Nargothrond’s captain, Turin, said, “This is a quality group – arguably, the most evenly-matched. We haven’t won any games yet, but we have tied both and I think that proves that we’re up to the competition. Where we have tied, Erebor has won one but also lost one. We just have to put it all together, and I think we can beat the Erebor team. It will be a hard game, yes, but we’re up to it.”
Finrod Felagund, Nargothrond’s offensive midfielder, was also questioned. “I’d hesitate to make a prediction. Do I think we could win? Certainly. Could they? Of course. The teams are pretty evenly skilled; I think it will come down to teamwork and desire. The team that wants it more will win. And I’d say that we certainly want to win – the whole team has put a lot of work into this.”
Erebor’s captain, Thorin, showed just as much and more confidence in his team: “We’ve been playing together for a long time; even when I was a young lad – when Thror was King under the Mountain, that is – we used to take the ball out and kick it around. I think it’s time for that hard work to start paying off. We had a couple of bad breaks in our game against Mirkwood, but I think we really are the best team in our group. We should be able to win, now that Smaug is back in action. And, quite honestly, we don’t even have to win this game to advance – a tie would also do the trick.”
Smaug, the goalie injured in the team’s first game, was also interviewed. “It feels good to be back in action. The game won’t be easy, but I think we will win. We have a lot of talented players, and we’ve been playing well together.” When asked how it felt to be the only dragon on an otherwise all-Dwarf team, he simply responded, “I think it’s a mark of our quality that we haven’t had the same problems as, say, the Moria team.”
No Longer Rioting
-Arcticstorm87
After their humiliating loss to Gondor on day one, many people thought that Angband was going to go down with little resistance. When the moral of the team is down, usually they will keep on losing. But even without their star player/coach, Angband showed the entire middle earthen community that they are still a force to be reckoned with. With their impressive 4-0 win over Cirdan and the havens yesterday, they are now second in their group and able to quite possibly move on. I talked to Gothmog yesterday after the game and he seemed to still view them as having a chance to get into the finals, even without their star player. But one thing that he was not too sure about was when I asked him whether or not the shadow extending from him was in actuality a pair of wings. It will be interesting to see how this squad does in the days ahead.
The H-group supervision continued
-Gothmog
Called the “Most Controversial Group” group H demands a bit of extra attention, and we’re going to give it to you!
Finally Angband is back in old shape, as we’re used to see them. A comfortable win against a Grey Havens with enormous problem. It really do look like they brought together the worst players they could get, as stated by Galdor in an interview earlier this week.
Angbands two scorers, Gothmog and Ancalagon, is now featured in the Yellow Boot list, a great honour according to Ancalagon (see interview below). The absence of their captain, Melkor, didn’t stop their team from performing, as was expected. Instead, a lot of players seemed to feel much more responsibility towards the team and they all did their share of work, and more than that. They played like a team. And if this play will continue and they make it to the quarter finals, they’re going to be awfully strong with their captain back on the pitch.
After the game was finished we found a breathless Ancalagon and changed a few words with him:
Gothmog the interviewing Balrog: Congratulations, and welcome back to the tournament if I may say so!
Ancalagon: Thank you. That was an easy win, but I’m not in the shape I once was...
G: No, you were one of the first players in the Angband team, right? I mean, the first of your kind?
A: That’s right. I was the first in a new generation focusing on the air-play and swift, sweeping attacks. But even if one is getting to old for this, it’s just too fun to quit.
G: I understand. The performance today was something totally different from your last game. How come?
A: Well, we got a massive dressing-down by our captain/coach efter the last game and that made us realize that we must work harder. I was also nice too see more players stepping forward and filling the empty space behind a dominating player like Melkor. I must say that Gothmog did an excellent work out there today.
G: Yes, it looked like you played like a team all the way. A last question before you go to the changing room: you scored two goals today. The leader of the Yellow Boot trophy list (Beleg) only has 6. Is that something you think about, the possibility to win the title?
A: No, not at all. I play for the team and it doesn’t really matter who scores. Of course it’s good for the self-esteem, but it’s not like I’m going for the trophy.
G: Thank you and good luck!
Next game for Angband will be against Gondolin, not the easiest of opponents. They played really good in their opening game, but collapsed in their game versus Gondor. As Gondor will be playing Grey Havens, a secure victory if nothing extreme happens, they’ll probably win this group. The final game between Gondolin and Angband will decide who ends up second and makes it to the quarters. Expect an exciting game with two hungry teams with their aim at the title as Middle Earth Champions.
Today's Fixtures - The Odds And Evens
Game 1 - Old Forest vs. Rohan
Rohan though an excellent team have been struggling for form in this tournament while Old Forest haven't been much better, in fact I daresay they were worse. Either way I just don't see Rohan winning and I definately don't see Old Forest winning. This one will be a draw. But whatever happens neither of these teams are going to qualify.
Predicted Result - Draw
Game 2 - Shire vs. Vinyamar
If this was the start of the tournament I wouldn't have given Shire any hope but seeing how well they've been playing I think they'll win this as well. With a young star in Pippin and a veteran in Gandalf, this team is solid. Young, experienced and just fantastic. I don't see Vinyamar coming close to winning this game. Shire will only need a draw here to ensure their qualification.
Predicted Result - Shire
Game 3 - Barrow-Downs vs. Valimar
The Barrow-Downs has won all their games so far and has already qualified even if Valimar beat them here they won't be in any danger. I believe the Barrow-Downs will rest some of their players and take this match easy and perhaps settle for just a draw.
Preditced Result - Draw
Game 4 - Nargothrond vs. Erebor
This will be a very hard match with both teams looking for a win, anything else could be bad. If they draw, Nargothrond will go through on goal difference so Erebor has the harder task in this game. Despite the odds I believe Turin will make all the difference and win this match for Nargothrond.
Predicted Result - Win for Nargothrond
Game 5 - Dale vs. Numenor
This group has made no sense yet but I believe Numenor will win this match, even if they draw they're through. If they lose however, things could get a bit... 'sticky'. Anyway if Numenor don't win this match I don't believe them worthy to lift the cup.
Predicted Result - Win for Numenor
Game 6 - Goblin-Town vs. Isengard
This will be the match for third place and I believe it will be Isengard's only win of the season. No matter what happens in Tol-In-Gauroth vs. Doriath, neither of these two will qualify.
Predicted Result - Win for Isengard
Game 7 - Lothlorien vs. Alqualondë
If Alqualondë win this match they will have a chance to go through however if they lose or even draw then they will not make it through. So for their sake they better hope they win, however I see Lorien hanging on for a draw game.
Predicted Result - Draw
game 8 - Gondor vs. Grey Havens
This match has been cancelled due to Grey Havens admitting that they fixed the results. Gondor will be given 3 points which ensures them a berth in the Quarter-Finals.
Tournament Happenings
Injuries -
Barliman Butterbur (Bree) will be out indefinately due to a hamstring injury.
Cards -
Melkor (Angaband) recieved a red card and a 1 match suspension.
Bill Ferny (Bree) recieved a red card and 1 match suspension.
Elros (Numenor) recieved a red card and 1 match suspension.
Most Promising Player - Gothmog (Angband) impressed us all with his firey performance. He burned up the field and lit up the crowd, and when he blazed towards the goal it sure did get hot. Other than being a good person to make pun of Gothmog is also an excellent player. He played a crucial role in Angand's 4-0 win but that match was fixed but still its nice to see them back in form.
Most Impressive Team - Angband, after a humiliating 1 goal loss to Gondor they came back, knocked on our door, ran it down when we didn't answer and showed us why they're still favorites. Even without their captain they managed to destroy Grey Havens and pull off an amazing win. I believe they will go all the way, hats off to them.
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Thank you Firefoot, Gothmog, Fea, Valesse and Arctic. Special thanks to Fea and Arctic for coming up with something on such short notice. Rimbaud and Boro said they'd get me something as well but I haven't recieved anything as of yet, if I do it will be edited in with the rest of the article. The results will be up late today, mayhap later than yesterday because I'm going out for dinner. If I can't get them up before that then after it. Sorry.
Sleepy Ranger
11-17-2005, 04:00 PM
Today's results are live from The Closed Top Moria Stadium, nicknamed, Ring of Fire. All matches are 3:00pm DST (Dwarwen Standard Time)
Old Forest 2-0 Rohan
It looks like The Master had something to cheer about at the end of the tournament. His team managed to make their sending off a bit more bearable by beating Rohan 2-0. Both goals were scored by The Master and Rohan were unable to make a comeback against this determined team. Master scored the first one of an easy shot where he was alone with the keeper and the next one came in the 90th minute where Rohan ceded a penalty. The crowd could be heard chanting, "Miss! Miss! Miss!" but Master kept his cool and knocked in his second goal. After the match he recieved a standing ovation but this win was as meaningless as it was a loss for Rohan.
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Shire 1-0 Vinyamar
It seemed that Pippin had started taking all the hype to his head. He missed an awful lot of chances in this match but in the end a talk-through by Gandalf was enough to get him back on track. Pippin scored the winner for the Shire in the 57th minute and after that they took it easy, knowing they had already qualified. The Hobbits had a huge party under the Party Tree after the match to celebrate Shire's unbeaten run so far.
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Barrow-Downs 4-1 Valimar
The Barrow-Downs finally decided to kick into top gear and burn down the other team. They won a massive victory over Valimar and have surely scilenced all their critics. It was Saucepanman who opened scoring with a well placed header and this was followed up moments later by a low powered strike from Sleepy Ranger that took Barrow-Downs to 2-0. After that a Phantom corner was deflected in by Saucepanman to lift up Barrow-Downs to 3-0 and an 81st minute penalty, and red card for Yavanna, ended with another one in the back of the net, this time by Sleepy. The Barrow-Downs team was cheered on through the whole match by the Forum members and Valimar scored their only goal in the 47th minute when Barrow-Wight was busy working up the crowd and telling off a kid for littering. He said something along the lines of, "Stop spamming noob."
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Nargothrond 3-1 Erebor
Erebor opened scoring when Thorin sunk a powerful volley into the net. They led the game for the entire first half with both teams playing dangerously well. It was in the 55th minute that Turin charged through the entire Erebor defense and blasted one past Smaug to equalize. The two teams then battled in this deadlocked till injury time where Turin found himself in scoring distance again. He did what hes best at and scored again to break the deadlock. He scored again off a corner, which he headed in to complete his hat-trick and win Nargothrond the match. The crowd could not be restrained and they rushed onto the field to celebrate with the team.
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Dale 0-1 Numenor
The returning Tar-Enclime sunk in an early goal to win the match for Numenor. Dale were never in the competition and Numenor have just booked their spot in the Quarter-Finals. It will be interesting to see which team will qualify with them.
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Goblin-Town 0-3 Isengard
Ugluk spat out goals as Isengard crushed Goblin-Town, however its too late to actually mean anything for them. Ugluk scored a hat-trick and secured the win in the first half. In the second half Goblin-Town went nuts and kicked the ball all over, eventually Boromir88 got fed up and red carded Goblin-Town's forward. Not even a single Isengard supporter came to watch this match and the stadium was packed with orcs and wargs that were in favor of the losing side.
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Lothlorien 1-0 Alqualondë
Lorien did the unexpected and won this match thanks to a goal by Haldir. The determined young mid-fielder managed to score of a low kept and well powered shot to win Lorien the match in the closing moments. Despite their win the only way Lorien can qualify is if Crickhollow lose their match by 3 goals. There is a rather strong possibility of that but we shall see how it goes tomorrow.
Hope you enjoyed today. Tomorrow will be the last of the Group Stages and I'd like everyone who has been following the World Cup to leave a message on what they thought of the Group Stages, the teams, the results and the players or anything else you'd like. I'd really appreciate it if people left their thoughts. Also, Phantom, I was wondering if you'd like to give us a summary of what you think will happen in the Knockout stages. Of course after tomorrows matches unless you're certain you know who will qualify. ;)
The Saucepan Man
11-17-2005, 08:02 PM
Beleg (Doriath): 6
Ugluk (Isengard): 6
Pippin (The Shire): 5
Turin (Nargothrond): 5
Aragorn (Gondor): 3
Azog (Moria): 3
Legolas (Mirkwood): 3
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 3
Sleepy Ranger (Barrow Downs): 3
The Saucepan Man (Barrow Downs): 3
Tom Bombadil Old Forest): 3
Turgon (Gondolin): 3
Varda (Valimar): 3
Ancalagon the Black (Angband): 2
Arvedui (Arnor): 2
Dark Lord (Mordor): 2
Faramir (Gondor): 2
Gothmog (Angband): 2
Haldir (Lothlorien): 2
Tar-Meneldur (Numenor): 2
Thorin (Erebor): 2
Finally, some real competition for Beleg. Ugluk is out of the running as his team have failed to qualify from the Group, which is a shame as he has become something of a goal machine. But another goal from the young Took sensation keeps him well in contention, and Turin's hat trick has rocketed him up the table. He may not have mastered his fate, but his superb mastery of the ball is paying dividends for him and his team.
But none on the leaderboard can be discounted, especially not the Barrow Downs star pairing, Saucepan and Sleepy. With an unbeaten record and an impressive display in their most recent match, the Downs team look like living up to their status as favourites for the cup and more goals can certainly be expected from these two.
Edit: Sleepy since Yavanna was sent off I have assumed that Varda scored Valimar's goal, but please let me know if I am wrong.
*******************************
IMPROPMTU PRESS CONFERENCE WITH DOWNS STRIKER THE SAUCEPAN MAN IN RESPONSE TO RECENT PRESS RUMOURS
Responsible for the prestigious Golden Boots Award, it is speculated that The Saucepan Man intends to usurp the award and add to it the soon-to-be collectors items and auction them off on ME-bay.Slander! At the end of the day, I intend to win the trophy fairly and squarely. It's a game of two halves and a competition of three, er, four rounds and, as the man above said, I'm certainly in the running. In fact, I think that I may have to pull rank and relieve Sleepy of penalty duty ...
*nudge from team coach, Mister Underhill*
... er, but of course, at the end of the day, it's results that count and I'm just happy to be contributing to our team's success.
Now, if you'll excuse me, some guy from a kitchenwear company wants to talk to me about their ad campaign.
the phantom
11-17-2005, 10:53 PM
There is one more round of games left. Let's look at who is playing and what the possible outcomes are.
Mordor versus Moria
This game does not matter. Both Mordor and Moria are advancing.
In these sort of situations some teams rest key players. Other teams prefer to play all out and go for bragging rights. I expect Moria, the weaker team, to rest all of their best players in hopes of making a solid run in the next round. Mordor will also let lots of non-starters play, but they will probably rotate the Nazgul in a few at a time just for practice. The Nazgul don't really get worn out and are not prone to injury the way normal beings are, so there isn't much of a need to rest them.
So, given this, I predict a meaningless win for Mordor. If Moria puts out a particularly weak line, look for The Dark Lord to jump into the game and score a quick goal. He is always ready to pad his stats. And trust that if he hops in quick for something like that, he will be extra careful not to get a card. That happened to him once and he learned his lesson. In addition, there isn't an orc in Moria that can injure Sauron even if he tried, so there's no danger of that happening.
Mordor wins.
Rivendell versus Arnor
Whoever wins this game will advance. If they tie, Arnor will advance.
But there's not going to be a tie.
It turns out my sources were telling the truth- Rivendell was indeed drugged before the tournament. Elrond inspected all of their water jugs and such they had brought on the trip, and every one of them had been compromised. But now that the problem has been taken care of, look for Rivendell to return to their usual form- very good.
The great Elven knights Elladen, Elrohir, and Glorfindel will score goals, and Elrond will stop Arnor from scoring. Rivendell has never failed to advance to the round of 16 before, and they won't fail now.
Rivendell wins.
Valmar versus Woodhall
This game does not matter. The Barrow-Downs and Valimar have already advanced (I assume, Sleepy, that since Valimar beat Valmar in the end of the game shootout that they own the tie-breaker over Valmar should both end up with four points).
Will Valmar and Woodhall try to win for pride's sake, or will they both be apathetic and depressed knowing that they're already going home? I don't know, and I won't try to guess, but I think I'll have to pick Valmar to win just because of their superior talent.
Valmar wins.
Mirkwood versus Ephel Brandir
The winner of this game will advance. Should they tie, Mirkwood will advance.
I'm not sure who to pick in this one. They are fairly evenly matched. However, Mirkwood is prone to mental breakdowns. Last year Mirkwood's goalie, Galion the butler, chose to drink strong wine at halftime instead of water, which resulted in him allowing fourteen balls to roll through the door during the second half. Did he learn his lesson? Probably so, but I'm still not sure Mirkwood can win. Then again, I can't see Ephel Brandir winning it either. Their players can kick hard but aren't very accurate, which is why everyone calls them "the clubfooted team".
I think this one ends in a draw.
Belegost versus Bree
The winner of this match advances. If they tie, Belegost will advance.
Bree is missing Barliman and Ferny. Barliman is a leader on the field, and Ferny, though a trouble maker, is a fine athlete. I don't think Bree can overcome being without those two players. Even with them I would probably take Belegost.
Belegost wins.
Tol-In-Gaurhoth versus Doriath
This game is meaningless. Both teams have already qualified.
So, what will these teams do? Rest their best players? Go all out and try to remain undefeated?
If the teams rest their players, look for Tol-In-Gaurhoth to slaughter Doriath. There is considerable drop-off from Beleg-Mablung-Thingol-Saeros-Melian down to the second line. Gaurhoth's drop is not that extreme. Sauron, Draugluin, and Thuringwethil are certainly Gaurhoth's top players, but after those three there is almost no difference whatsoever between the next 30 players. So, if both teams rest, Gaurhoth will win. Their defense is extremely good, so Doriath won't score, and I can see them putting two goals or three past Doriath's second and third liners.
If both teams play full strength, I will still pick Gaurhoth, but in a closer contest. Despite Gaurhoth's tough D, Doriath has an exceptional offense and will put up a goal or two, but Doriath's comparably weaker defense will allow Gaurhoth to score at least two goals between Drauglin's craftiness, Thuringwethil's quickness and aerial abilities, and Sauron's typical off-the-charts play.
Tol-In-Gaurhoth wins.
Fangorn versus Crickhollow
If Fangorn wins then Fangorn and Alqualonde advance.
If they tie then Fangorn and Alqualonde advance.
If Crickhollow wins then they will advance, but I'm not sure who will advance with them- Fangorn or Alqualonde. They tied in their head to head match up and I don't remember seeing anything about an end of the game shootout so I don't know who owns the tie-breaker between the two.
This game all depends on Fangorn. If they show up looking Entish, then go with them. If they show up looking treeish, pick Crickhollow. I personally think they'll be someplace between the two, and no one will score resulting in a tie.
Fangorn and Crickhollow tie. Fangorn advances.
Gondolin versus Angband
Whoever wins this match will advance.
It's really unfortunate that one of these teams has to be eliminated. They are both top-ten teams and I would've liked to see both of them in the next round. But alas, in a strong group someone must go before their time, and that someone is Gondolin.
Gondolin is a crowd favorite and certainly a good team, but they simply do not stack up against Angband. Gondolin has one of the best offenses in the tournament, but Angband has the best defense by far. Their Balrog defenders will neutralize Gondolin's attack. They will not score more than one goal, despite their talent.
Angband, on the other hand, will score more than once. Gondolin's defense is simply not up to the challenge of facing a very motivated Ancalagon and Gothmog.
Angband wins.
Tomorrow I will give my take on the next round.
Valesse
11-17-2005, 11:49 PM
Due to the "cancelation of a group interview" the much awaited interrogation will be busted into individual conversations with our greatest dear (and fear) Movie-Arwen.
(In other words I couldn't fit everyone on the same page :( )
Roa_Aoife
11-18-2005, 12:12 AM
I have to say I'm cheering for the Downs, but I am looking favorably at the Shire, mostly because I can't help but love the under-dog. Hey, they've made some bold moves in the past! Don't underestimate them- that's how Rings of Power get destroyed.
Did someone mention Mascots?
Old Forest- Goldberry!
Mordor- How bout a guy in a Mount Doom costume?
Moria- They could be crual and use a dwarf
Rohan- A horse, duh :rolleyes:
Shire- That's a hard one, but what about a Green Dragon?
Rivendell- Another hard one, but it should probably be an Elf. Really, what else would they have?
Barrow Downs- We should all vote on this. I suggest a poll after suggestions come in. Of course, with BW as a player, the obvious answer is out. How bout a ghost?
Valmar/Valimar- They practically are thier own mascots!
Goblin-Town- A Jack-o-lantern!
Isen Guard- Grima?
Fangorn- See Valimar
Gondor- A ranger!
Angbad- Literally, Iron-hell, so whatever it is, this theme should be incorporated
Can I be a commentator at the finals? It's my goal in life! Just read my sig!
The Saucepan Man
11-18-2005, 03:30 AM
This game does not matter. Both Mordor and Moria are advancing.Actually, this game (and others like it) are not entirely meaningless. Quite apart from the kudos of winning the Group, if we are following the usual World Cup rules, Group winners will play Group runners-up. So winning the Group usually means playing the weaker of the two qualifiers from another Group.
(I assume, Sleepy, that since Valimar beat Valmar in the end of the game shootout that they own the tie-breaker over Valmar should both end up with four points).No, that penalty shoot-out was meaningless. In the event of two teams being tied, it goes on goal difference (goals for minus goals against). If goal difference is the same, I am not sure what happens, although I am sure that there is some desperately complicated formula.
Sleepy Ranger
11-18-2005, 03:38 AM
Actually, this game (and others like it) are not entirely meaningless. Quite apart from the kudos of winning the Group, if we are following the usual World Cup rules, Group winners will play Group runners-up. So winning the Group usually means playing the weaker of the two qualifiers from another Group.
Yea, you're right about that but I planned on doing random draws for the K.O stages but I may go by the actual rules now, we'll see.
No, that penalty shoot-out was meaningless. In the event of two teams being tied, it goes on goal difference (goals for minus goals against). If goal difference is the same, I am not sure what happens, although I am sure that there is some desperately complicated formula.
As per the actual rules if the goal difference is equal then the recent performances of both teams agains each other are taken into view, if they are similar on that then it is decided by a coin toss.
Not really complicated now, is it? Anyway since we don't really have any past results it will be Valimar that qualifies due to the penalty shoot out if they end with the same points and goal difference by which Valimar is currently ahead.
Sleepy Ranger
11-18-2005, 03:25 PM
I'm sorry but its impossible for me to get results up today. I'll have them up tomorrow though. :)
Sorry about that I know many people can't wait for the Gondolin-Angband match up but I can't get it up today. Again I'm really sorry but I'll have them early tomorrow. :)
Gothmog
11-18-2005, 03:53 PM
It's OK. No really, it is! I might hold a grudge towards you a year or ten, but it's OK! ;)
Actually I'll use this time to make a prediction of the result of this tournament. If they don't have to meet each other before, I think my two favourite teams; Shire and Angband will meet in the final. With Pippin in his present form and Gandalf in the team, Shire can't loose. Especially not if they have a green dragon as mascot! And Angband will win against Gondolin with 3-1 and then crush the other opponents on their way to final.
But what about Shire vs Angband? Well, it will be a match to remember. Two great teams in a final battle for the honour and the title. But Angband will come out as the stronger team, perheps not until injury time, but they will prevail in the end. An even match with two teams with both strong defense and effective offense, oh I', looking forward to it already!
Hey Sleepy, you said something about movies of the games. Is it maybe possible to present highlights from the more important matches from now on? If it's not too much trouble, that would be great!
Sleepy Ranger
11-19-2005, 03:21 PM
MAEGLIN PLANS ANGBAND TRANSFER
Exclusive scoop by Anguirel
Friends of Gondolin FC midfielder Lomion Eolion, known as "Maeglin Sharpboot" to his fans, say that the star is dissatisfied with his captain Turgon's tactics and is contemplating a switch to Angband United.
Salgant, a close friend of the half-Sindar star, told me: "Lomion's really dissatisfied with the way Turgon and his pet Tuor hug all the glory for themselves.
"While Tuor is put in offensive midfield, Turgon makes Lomion hang back and defend. He was even fielded as left defence in the recent match against Gondor.
"Lomion sees this as a real waste of his potential. He knows he's a natural striker, and Morgoth up at Angband has promised to allow him to exploit his talents to their fullest as a centre forward.
"Lomion wants to stress that this a professional disagreement with no personal ramifications."
Among Gondolin players and fans reactions were less sympathetic. "He's just a jealous traitor," Tuor, Maeglin's main rival, is on record as saying. "He's bitter because my bird doesn't like him." Followers of Gondolin chanted "Mangle Maeglin! Mangle Maeglin!"
"Maeglin" enjoyed a better season than any other Gondolin player last year in the Nirnaeth Championship, but since being replaced as offensive midfielder by Tuor he has yet to score. The transfer will be agreed on before the upcoming, keenly awaited Angband-Gondolin match. Angband United are reportedly paying a vast sum of 800 elven captives to get "Sharpboot" onside.
Today's Fixtures - The Odds And Evens
Game 1 - Mordor vs. Moria
I predict that this match will be a hard fought battle, an all out war, many cardings, few goals and a few deaths wouldn't surprise me at all. I believe it would be in the best intrests of Boromir88 to call in sick today. In the end Mordor will outplay Moria and end their lucky spree.
Predicted Result - Win for Mordor
Game 2 - Rivendell vs. Arnor
Arnor seem to be a strong team and so far have played rather well. A 3-3 Draw against the Shire and a 1-0 win over Vinyamar. Rivendell on the other hand has one a match and a lost a match. If we go by figures Arnor have the advantage, a tie game is all they need to qualify and thats what I see happening.
Predicted Result - Draw
Game 3 - Valmar vs. Woodhall
Valmar needs to win by about three goals to qualify. I can see them winning but not scoring three goals, definately not. I expect a Valmar win and their exit from the World Cup.
Predicted Result - Win for Valmar
Game 4 - Mirkwood vs. Ephel Brandir
Mirkwood has been in solid form so far but Ephel Brandir have been no slouches either. This will be a close match and I believe it will be a draw unless Brandir concede a free kick, in which case Legolas will score the winner.
Predicted Result - Draw
Game 5 - Belegost vs. Bree
Winner advances in this match-up, something tells me Bree don't stand even a remote chance of winning today. Belegost will win and head on to the Quarter-Final's.
Predicted Result - Win for Belegost
Game 6 - Tol-In-Gauroth vs. Doriath
Both teams qualify no matter what the result. As with the Mirkwood/Ephel Brandir match up a free kick could decide this match. How ever if Gauroth play a slow and easy game they'll win easy.
Predicted Result - Win for Tol-In-Gauroth
Game 7 - Fangorn vs. Crickhollow
Apparently if Crickhollow wins a lot of confusing things happen so I'd hope that Fangorn win, in fact I'm certain they will. Crickhollow may have beaten Lorien but Lorien lost to everyone, well except Alqualondë and the only way they qualify is if Crickhollow lose by three goals.
Predicted Result - Win for Fangorn
game 8 - Gondolin vs. Angband
We're not even in the knockout stages and we've already got a huge match on our hands, with very high stakes. Gondolin vs. Angband, winner qualifies. A draw means Angband goes through on goal difference. I believe Gondolin has what it takes but since Tuor swapped teams and Melkor returned early after a succesful appeal to the Middle-Earth Football Federation, the odds are heavily against Gondolin.
Predicted Result - Win for Angband
Tournament Happenings
Injuries -
Barliman Butterbur (Bree) will be out indefinately due to a hamstring injury.
Cards -
Bill Ferny (Bree) recieved a red card and 1 match suspension.
Most Promising Player - Ugluk (Isengard) played an excellent match and scored three superb goals, its a pity his team didn't qualify and we won't get to see more playing from this bright young forward. The competition for the Golden Boots would have been more intense with him but I guess thats how the lembas crumbles.
Most Impressive Team - Nargothrond played a really good match to earn themselves a qualification spot. Beating Erebor 3-1 was just the start off the tournament as per captain Finrod Felagund. Let us see who they end up facing in the next round. I believe they can make it all the way and have definately a lot to offer.
---
I'm sorry that MEFD wasn't so good today. I just got one submission and real life has been too messy for me to do any writing of my own but things will get better once we reach the K.O. And since I now have my cam back, expect video highlights as well. :) And another thing the K.O Stages will take some time to start because my next two exams need a lot of studying for. :(
Sleepy Ranger
11-19-2005, 04:32 PM
Live from The Alqualondë Sea Dome at 3:30pm EST.
Mordor 2-2 Moria
This match wasn't as good as people expected it to be. Both teams rested their top players and it was The Witch-King who struck twice for Mordor, both the times off corners. Moria however played Azog as lone forward and he came through once and the other goal was a flamboyant header by Gothmog that blasted through a defender to enter goal.
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Rivendell 1-2 Arnor
Rivendell outplayed Arnor but still managed to lose. An early goal by Glorfindel had them in the lead till Elrond gave away a penalty in the 78th minute of which Arathorn scored superbly. He followed up this goal with another in the 82nd minute, snatching the win for Arnor. Rivendell will be sent home as Arnor qualify from this group.
---
Valmar 1-0 Woodhall
Valmar weren't really motivated in this match and Woodhall looked just plain beat. This match wasn't really entertaining with Valmar scoring the only goal and both teams being eliminated. Despite winning Valmar didn't really gain anything.
---
Mirkwood 1-0 Ephel Brandir
This match was largely dominated by Mirkwood who came close to scoring in the early minutes but were turned away by a determined Ephel Brandir. The match was a hard fought battle that turned into a mid-field battle at half time. A 53rd minute Legolas penalty sealed the game for Mirkwood who are now through to the next stage.
---
Belegost 0-0 Bree
This match was another disappointment. Many people expected Belegost to cruise past Bree but instead they ended up drawing the match in a lacklustre show. It doesn't matter though since they're into the next round. Good luck to them.
---
Tol-In-Gauroth 2-1 Doriath
This was one of the finer matches of the evening. Doriath left a big gap in their defense and made a lot of mistakes but still managed to open scoring after Thingol crossed a long one into the box where Beleg finished the job. In the next half Sauron put an iron fist around Doriath and knocked in a beauty to equalize only to knock in another one minutes later for the win. Tol-In-Gauroth was perfectly unified and outclassed Doriath's excellent defense.
---
Fangorn 2-0 Crickhollow
It was a well played win by Fangron, Quickbeam opened scoring in the 21st minute after recieving a low pass from Treebeard which he blasted into the righ corner. In the 49th minute Treebeard just pushed the ball in to double their score and secure the match. Fangron were pleased that they qualified and seemed to be in no hurry to leave the field. In fact we believe they stayed there the whole night to celebrate (?).
---
Gondolin 4-5 Angband
You want an amazing match? This was an amazing match. Both teams gave it their all but for Gondolin their all wasn't good enough. Angband opened scoring but Gondolin immediatly replied with a goal of their own. Each time Angband knocked one in Gondolin equalized immediatly. This went on until Melkor broke away and scored a fifth goal for Angband and after that they just barely managed to keep their head above the water. Its a pity Gondolin was eliminated, this was an excellent match.
Goals-
Melkor (23rd)(Angband) 1-0
Glorfindel (27th)(Gondolin) 1-1
Maeglin (47th)(Angband) 2-1
Glorfindel (50th)(Gondolin) 2-2
Gothmog (57th)(Angband) 3-2
Ecthelion (63rd)(Gondolin) 3-3
Melkor (70th)(Angband) 4-3
Glorfindel (75th)(Gondolin) 4-4
Melkor (84th)(Angband) 5-4
---
My apologies if you found the results to be somewhat lame. :(
Gothmog
11-19-2005, 06:34 PM
Mordor 2-2 Moria
This match wasn't as good as people expected it to be. Both teams rested their top players and it was The Witch-King who struck twice for Mordor, both the times off corners. Moria however played Azog as lone forward and he came through once and the other goal was a flamboyant header by Gothmog that blasted through a defender to enter goal. Just a question. Was Gothmog playing for Moria? Or did you mean Durin's Bane? Or is there some sort of mistake? Or is it me being stupid?
:confused: :(
Valesse
11-19-2005, 06:38 PM
An interview with the Saucepan Man (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Sauce1.jpg)
Complete with a public service announcement.
Valesse
11-19-2005, 11:01 PM
Movie-Arwen: "...And here with me is Sleepy Ranger, who likes to call himself 'Sleepy-Wan Rangeobi' (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Sleepy1.jpg)"
Sleepy Ranger
11-20-2005, 05:01 AM
Just a question. Was Gothmog playing for Moria? Or did you mean Durin's Bane? Or is there some sort of mistake? Or is it me being stupid?
Yes I meant Bill. My mistake.
The Saucepan Man
11-20-2005, 06:58 AM
Beleg (Doriath): 7
Ugluk (Isengard): 6
Glorfindel (Gondolin): 5
Pippin (The Shire): 5
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 5
Turin (Nargothrond): 5
Azog (Moria): 4
Legolas (Mirkwood): 4
Aragorn (Gondor): 3
Arathorn (Arnor): 3
Gothmog (Angband): 3
Melkor (Angband): 3
Sleepy Ranger (Barrow Downs): 3
The Saucepan Man (Barrow Downs): 3
Tom Bombadil Old Forest): 3
Turgon (Gondolin): 3
Varda (Valimar): 3
Ancalagon the Black (Angband): 2
Arvedui (Arnor): 2
Dark Lord (Mordor): 2
Ecthelion (Gondolin): 2
Faramir (Gondor): 2
Haldir (Lothlorien): 2
Manwe (Valmar): 2 (assuming Manwe scored Valmar's goal in their last game)
Quickbeam (Fangorn): 2
Tar-Meneldur (Numenor): 2
Thorin (Erebor): 2
Treebeard (Fangorn): 2
Witch King of Angmar (Mordor): 2
*NB - this assumes that Manwe scored Valmar's goal in their last game - please correct me if I am wrong, Sleepy*
With another goal, Beleg Strongboot maintains his position at the top of the table. As already noted, Ugluk is unfortunately out of the running with his team's exit from the competition, as is Glorfindel of Gondolin.
Other than the determined Saucepan Man ( ;) ), Beleg's main rivals for the trophy as things stand are Pippin and Sauron. Don't discount any of those Angband players, though, as that team looks set to go all the way. Melkor must be a contender, along with Gothmog.
Hookbill the Goomba
11-20-2005, 07:54 AM
Sorry I've not posted the tables for a while. I've been a little busy recently as it was my grandfather's funeral on Friday. I'll try and get some up as soon as possible! :( Don't kill me!
P.s. Sleepy, you may have to watch out that Gandalf doesn’t run onto the pitch... uncloaked of course. :rolleyes:
Sleepy Ranger
11-21-2005, 10:02 AM
...I was wondering wether you wanted the matches to be on video or not. Because if you do you'll have to wait till Wednesday for them to be uploaded, if you want them written I can have them up by tonight or tomorrow morning.
Hookbill the Goomba
11-21-2005, 10:08 AM
Why not both? :P
Either is good. I'm just conscious of people with little hard-drive left. Will they be downloaded or streaming?
Sleepy Ranger
11-21-2005, 10:45 AM
Streaming, provided I can find somewhere to upload the files. Don't worry though, I'll still have short descriptions of the matches. :)
I just meant that if you want the videos you'll get it ALL on Wednesday so as not to spoil the match.
The Saucepan Man
11-21-2005, 12:16 PM
Sleepy - I think that a short delay will be in order, so as to give people an opportunity to comment on the upcoming quarter-final matches.
A final group table, plus draws for the quarter-finals would be good in the meantime, though.
Valesse
11-21-2005, 12:39 PM
Movie-Arwen finds interferance during her interview with Rune Son of Bjarne (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Rune1.jpg).
If you're wondering what order these are being posted in, I've been following the order of response. I will admit to having many delays ranging from shaking down a tree (it was already dead, mind) to scholastics: one thing is for sure-- I'm working on them RIGHT NOW so keep patient.
Hookbill the Goomba
11-21-2005, 03:17 PM
The Groups! The Final tables!
Those whose points are in bold have a greater goal difference.
Sleepy Ranger
11-21-2005, 04:48 PM
Finally, after much anticipation here are the Quarter-Final's matches.
Mirkwood Numenor
vs. vs.
Valimar Angband
Gondor Nargothrond
vs. vs.
Bree Moria
Doriath Tol-In-Gauroth
vs. vs.
Shire Arnor
Mordor Alqualonde
vs. vs.
Fangorn Barrow-Downs
Bergil
11-21-2005, 06:22 PM
Mirkwood: An O.K. team, though Legolas' ability is often over-rated. Their unique training method of taking practice shots at spiders (usually followed by a run) may pay off.
Valimar: An old favorite, but their field presence is declining. Their coaching, however, is only improving and I have heard several fans saying that coach Eru is God.
Gondor: A newer team, but they have potential. Chants of "Gondor rocks" are becoming more and more common.
Bree: This team has never, in all its long years on the league, made an impact, and whith their best players out, this trend will likely continue.
Doriath: Another old favorite, but they have a real chance. Some fans remember the time Melian removed her girdle in the middle of a game.
Shire: Something has sparked this unassuming little team, and the return of Gandalf has only incresed their chance. They could definetly go all the way.
Mordor: A team whith a bad reputation for trying to weaken the other teams. If they aren't disqualified, they could do well.
Fangorn: wooden you know it, these old guys will succeed in anything they get around to doing.
Numenor: some say the second-age finals were there downfall, and they certinly over-reach themselves often enough.
Angband: Known for playing dirty. romored to have secret dealings with Mordor and Tol-In Gaurhoth. Can win honestly. Generally considered the favorite to win.
Narogothrond: Definitely a threat, but they may be neglecting their defence.
Moria: If their players are ever convinced to co-operate, they could be unbeatable. However, they are not unbeatible now.
Tol-In-Gaurhoth: Another team plagued by rumers. Apperantly, they have the other teams' cobblers on the take.
Arnor: some say this team is gone, I say otherwise.
Alqualonde: Generally considered to be full of players the other teams don't want.
Barrow-Downs: This team exemplifies the hocky saying "it's not enough to score goals, you have to be able to talk about it". They're serious contenders.
the phantom
11-21-2005, 09:36 PM
A very quick look at the next round...
Mirkwood versus Valimar
Despite shortcomings such as an unwillingness to act and poor judgement, Valimar simply has too much talent to lose to a less than spectacular Mirkwood team.
Gondor versus Bree
Remind me- how did Bree get this far? I think it goes without saying that a fairly talented and pretty solid Gondor team is more than a match for Bree.
Doriath versus The Shire
Pippin will not continue his scoring binge. You can bet that Doriath will assign one of their players to stay with him at all times, and frankly, Pippin will not be able to get away from the defender. The elf will be faster, taller, more agile, and have better vision. If Pippin scores a goal then you can bet your life that someone did something illegal, like slipped tranquilizer into Doriath's drinking water. Gandalf will be the only person for the Shire capable of scoring, and he could very well score a goal, but I doubt he can score much more than that, because he's not going to get many chances. The vast majority of the time the ball is going to be on the other end of the field, being controlled by Doriath's extremely potent offense. The Shire will not be able to stop the Beleg-Mablung-Thingol combination from putting up two or three goals- or maybe more.
Mordor versus Fangorn
You have to go with Mordor in this one. Their talent and teamwork cannot be overcome by the Ents. Sauron's team is the most likely in this half of the draw to make the finals.
----------------
Numenor versus Angband
Numenor certainly has some talented men, but they do not have the ability to stop Ancalagon, Gothmog, and Melkor from scoring, nor do they have the talent to work the ball up the field consistently against Angband's Balrog defenders. And even if they get the ball past the Balrogs, there is still Glaurung the Golden Goalie to contend with.
Nargothrond versus Moria
Finally, a match that could go either way!
Moria's Azog has been playing very well, and Bill the Balrog is always tough to defend, but on the other hand it is doubful that Moria can stop Turin from scoring. And if they focus on him too much, he's good enough to get the ball to the open man (er, elf, actually), and Gwindor and Finrod are certainly talented enough to finish the job and get the ball in the net.
This match could go either way.
Tol-In-Gaurhoth versus Arnor
Arnor will have a difficult time matching up with Sauron's strong, speedy wolves, and surely an impossible time stopping Sauron himself. Though Arnor is a good team, Gaurhoth is a cut above.
Alqualonde versus The Barrow-Downs
The Barrow-Downs shouldn't have a problem with the Teleri. The Downs has solid defense and goalkeeping, and a scary offense. That is more than enough to win, but then add to that the fact that two of the Down's players, Fea and Gil, are Noldorin. We know how elves from Alqualonde tend to get killed when they come up against the Noldor.
The Barrow-Downs will dominate Alqualonde.
Boromir88
11-22-2005, 06:01 AM
Ok, so we have
Mirkwood vs. Valimar-
Sure Mirkwood has played well, but really who have they beat? Valimar is the more talented team by far.
Valimar wins 4-2.
Gondor vs. Bree-
This games going to be a blowout. Gondor has already had impressive victories over Angband and Gondolin. However, some may think the forfeited match against the Grey Havens may cause Gondor to come out of the gates slow. They will come out of the gates slow, because of excessive partying in the streets this past weekend, but they still take care of Bree pretty easily.
Gondor wins 3-0
Doriath vs. The Shire-
I think this game is going to be closer than a lot of people think. The Shire has been one of the more impressive teams so far, but Doriath has been lighting it up on the scoreboard. This one comes down to a shootout(!!) and I'll pick The Shire for the upset. (5-4)
Mordor vs. Fangorn-
This will be another pretty close game. It appears that Mordor has the advantage in their matchup against the Ents. But, don't forget these are the ents, and the sight of thousands of Orcs filling the stands should cause the Ents to get into a quite fearsome rage. Watch out Mordor.
Fangorn wins 2-1.
___________________________
Numenor vs. Angband-
Numenor is talented, but with Melkor back, plus Gothmog and Ancalagon Angband is just a way too tough a team for Numenor to handle.
Angband wins 4-1.
Nargothrond vs. Moria-
Surely is a tough game to decide. And since "ties" are now over this one will make it into OT, and the only goal of the game will be scored by Turin in OT. Nargothrond wins.
Tol-in-Gaurhoth vs. Arnor
Arnor is in it's decline, Tol-in-Gaurhoth and the wolves are thriving right now...enough said.
T-I-G wins pretty easily. 2-0
Alqualonde vs. Barrowdowns-
Another easy match to decide the Downs will dominate every offensive and defensive category and control this game. They get the shut out 5-love.
Anguirel
11-22-2005, 08:57 AM
Mirkwood vs. Valimar-or, Clash of the Hippies
This game may be pretty slow starting as both sides will be eager to avoid damaging the grass on the pitch.
However, once Mirkwood get onto form, there will be no stopping them. They embody the wild spirit of Faerie, while the ethos of the Valier is just too mixed. They're in a Celto-Norse-Hellenic muddle, which will lead to a disordered atmosphere in contrast with Mirkwood's dynamism and determination.
Winner: Close victory to Mirkwood
Likely Scorers: Legolas, Thranduil, Varda, Yavanna.
Gondor vs. Bree-or, Epic Pub Crawl
Bree have scraped through so far by the skin of their yellowed teeth. They lack Barliman Butterbur, a vital morale-raiser, and the crafty Bill Ferny. Gondor is on peak form. The question is whether Bree will be able to humiliate its conqueror by penetrating its defence even once.
Winner: Walkover to Gondor
Likely Scorers: Aragorn, Boromir, Faramir, Imrahil, Harry Goatleaf
Doriath vs. The Shire-or, Under the Greenwood Tree
Gandalf is full of surprises, but he'll have to be on top form if he hopes to take on Thingol's star-scattered Sindar. The Shire's talent base is too narrow to be efficiently exploited against such a versatile opponent; other Hobbits than Pippin are going to have to show their quality. Bar a radical improvement in performances of key players like Frodo Baggins, Doriath will storm this one...
Winner: Solid win to Doriath
Likely Scorers: Beleg "Strongboot", Thingol, Mablung "Heavyfooted", Saeros, Pippin, Gandalf
Mordor vs. Fangorn-or, Slash n' Burn
Remember the Brown Lands Cup Final? The Dark Lord led his Mordor diehards against a solid Entwives United opposition and slaughtered them so heavily that their team had to be disbanded-the survivors went out east and took up netball. Now there's only the males to deal with, though they'll put up a stiff resistance.
Winner: Mordor will defeat Fangorn. Many injuries on both sides.
Likely Scorers: The Dark Lord, the Witch-king, Khamul the Easterling, Ringwraith No. 7, Treebeard, Quickbeam
Numenor vs. Angband-or "His name is Melkor, the Giver of Freedom"
Numenor famously caves in against Melkor's mere apprentice Sauron. The host of Angband, it might be said, is rather too much for them. But brute force is what Numenor excells in opposing. Provided Ar-Pharazon is positioned as centre-forward, the Numenoreans will have a slim chance of humbling the pride of He Who Arises In Might. In such a situation the subtle tactics of new striker Maeglin may prove more useful than the brute force of Gothmog or Ancalagon.
Winner: Narrow victory for Angband
Likely Scorers: Melkor, Maeglin, Gothmog, Ancalagon, Ar-Pharazon, Ar-Zimraphel, Tar-Ancalime
Nargothrond vs. Moria-or, Claustrophobia
This struggle for the caves can only have one victor! Nargothrond has dealt with a Petty-Dwarven team in the past which should easily prepare it for Balin, and friendlies with Angband have made this team more than used to Orcs and Balrogs. If the rumours that Nargothrond are planning to transfer Edrahil and Orodreth in exchange for Celegorm and Curufin prove true, the defeat of Moria will be still more pronounced.
Winner: Solid win for Nargothrond.
Likely Scorers: Turin, Finrod Felagund, (Celegorm and Curufin-to be confirmed), Bill the Balrog, Azog
Tol-in-Gaurhoth vs. Arnor-or, Who's the Ranger?
Tol-in-Gaurhoth have been tipped to romp through this one, but Arnor have a tendency to overturn predictions-they are, we must remember, fresh from knocking out Rivendell against the expectations of the phantom. With so many Rangers in their ranks, the dirty lynching tactics of Tol-in-Gaurhoth will be consistently thwarted; but expect the wolves, bitter at their loss, to aim to injure Arnor's star players towards the end.
Winner: Arnor will win, just
Likely Scorers: Arvedui, Arathorn, Halbarad, Sauron, Draugluin, Thuringwethil
Alqualonde vs. Barrowdowns-or, The Gulls Are Crying
Here I must cohere with previous expectations. Unless Alqualonde signs Tom Bombadil at the last minute, a somewhat unlikely course of action for these haughty Elves, they will go down. Into the barrow. Ha ha!
Winner: the Barrow-Downs will win with usual elegance and contempt for its piffling opponent.
Likely Scorers: the Saucepan Man, Sleepy Ranger, Olwe
Sleepy Ranger
11-23-2005, 02:36 PM
Middle-Earth World Cup Poster (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/WorldCup1.jpg ) - Done by Valesse
I'm sorry but the results will NOT be up today because of a problem with video settings. (Yea, I messed up >_<) SORRY!
The Saucepan Man
11-24-2005, 12:06 PM
The second in a (very) occasional series.
Mirkwood v Valimar
A difficult one to predict this. Neither team have been particularly prodigious scorers.
Mirkwood have Legolas, whose keen eye and deadly accuracy have netted him four goals in the tournament so far. But he is their only real source of goals. Thranduil has teamed up magnificently with his son in the past, but he currently seems to be out of form. Moreover their coach, Oropher, is prone to throwing his team forward with little thought to strategy and the overall shape of the game, meaning that they can be badly caught out of position when playing stronger sides. It is only goalkeeper Attercob’s skill in weaving webs across the goal that has saved them from conceding more so far.
Valimar have not scored many goals in the tournament yet either, with Varda being their main source. She has formed a good partnership with Yavanna, but the midfield is weak. Este is far to gentle, and thus prone to being muscled off the ball, while Nienna spends too much time grieving over her team’s errors to focus sufficiently on the game at hand.
Nevertheless, I see the game going to Valimar, on account of Mirkwood’s defensive frailties.
Gondor v Bree
Anyone for an upset? I would love to see Bree progress against all expectations but I just can’t see it happening. As has already been noted, they are missing key players and cannot simply rely on (gate) keeper Harry Goatleaf to keep out the goals. Particularly not against the likes of Faramir, Boromir and Aragorn, all of whom are in fine goal-scoring form. Faramir and Boromir have formed a very strong partnership up front, while Aragorn times his great striding runs into the box to perfection. Bree’s only hope is Gondor coach Denethor’s uneasy relationship with his son and star striker, Faramir, which has led to speculation that he might take him off so as to allow Boromir to snatch all the glory. But even if that happens, I can’t see Bree pulling a shock out of the hat here.
So I’ll go with the flow. Easy Gondor win.
Doriath v The Shire
I predict that this will be a cracker of a match, possibly the pick of the quarter-finals, with goals galore. Beleg’s scoring streak seems unstoppable and he is bound to score a few against the diminutive Shire defenders. Key central defender Gaffer Gamgee is not the player he once was and he has an uneasy relationship with his defensive partner, Ted Sandyman. On the other hand, Pippin is in fine form too and I believe that this game will finally see other key players, such as Merry, Frodo and Sam, shoulder their responsibilities in attack. Midfield pair Frodo and Sam are known for sneaking into dangerous positions, while Gandalf’s trickery is renowned. If anyone holds the key to unlocking Melian’s tight defensive girdle, it is him.
Lots of goals here, but I’m going to go with my heart and predict a Shire win.
Mordor v Fangorn
This will be a tough match for Mordor. Fangorn’s players are implacable once roused and the beckoning semi-final place should be incentive enough to bring out their finest form. Defensively, the Ents are difficult to break down. If they stand firm, I can see Mordor resorting to sneaky tactics and most probably incurring the referee’s displeasure. Disciplined they may be, but Mordor’s dirty tactics are well-known and star referee, Boromir88, will be keeping a close eye on their players. A few not-too-hasty counter-attacks by Treebeard and Quickbeam could then see Fangorn go ahead.
So I’ll go for the upset and predict a Fangorn win.
Numenor v Angband
With Melkor back in the line-up and Maeglin on board, I can’t see anything but an Angband win here. With Maeglin’s arrival, Ancalagon has been moved to the wing position, where he has proved very effective. Numenor, on the other hand, have been woefully lacking in the goal department, despite the best efforts of Tar-Ancalime. Quite simply, fellow striker Ar-Pharazon has not been pulling his weight in the team. And with Melkor and Maeglin mocking his mortality, his concentration will be lacking, so I don’t see that changing. In such a frame of mind, anything he tries is likely to end in disaster.
I predict an easy Angband win here.
Nargothrond v Moria
My but this one is evenly matched. Moria seem to have overcome their inter-team rivalries and have produced some stunning football. Azog, in particular, has shone in the tournament so far, amply supplied by Balin from midfield and Durin’s Bane on the wing. His strike partner and son, Bolg, has yet to get on the score sheet but talent clearly runs in this family, so it’s only a matter of time.
On the other hand, we have a very strong attacking team in Nargothrond. Turin, in particular, can be deadly. However, his neglect of defensive duties could allow Moria in on the counter-attack.
Slim Moria win, possibly on penalties.
Taur-in-Gaurhoth v Arnor
If there’s one team that can defeat Sauron’s Wolves, it’s Arnor. They are expert defenders, but also not averse to coming forward and Arvedui and Arathorn in particular have impressed. And, while the Wolves are deadly in attack, being adept at turning up unexpectedly in dangerous positions and capitalising on accurate crosses from Thuringwethil on the wing, they can be weak in defence. Carcharoth Red Maw is one of the weaker goalkeepers in the competition. It’s not his natural position since Wolves are, by nature, attackers and he can be easily distracted.
I predict a narrow win for Arnor.
Alqualonde v The Barrow-Downs
Are you kidding? Can anyone name an Alqualonde player other than Olwe? Their natural sport is yachting and they are yet to prove themselves as a force in football. I really don’t know how they got this far. The Barrow-Downs simply has too much firepower for them.
Easy win for the Barrow-Downs.
Anguirel
11-24-2005, 12:14 PM
As part-time PR manager and image consultant (and full-time sword) for the new Angband striker, I would like to gently clarify that his name is
Lomion Eolion, a.k.a. Maeglin or Sharpboot
not Maedhros, Tuor, or any other variant! Just avoiding confusion. And there is the fact that if slighted my client can get quite angry. I wouldn't want any of you to get run through...
The Saucepan Man
11-24-2005, 12:22 PM
As part-time PR manager and image consultant (and full-time sword) for the new Angband striker, I would like to gently clarify that his name is
Lomion Eolion, a.k.a. Maeglin or SharpbootComments duly noted and amended in the second edition.
I always get those two confused. :rolleyes:
Sleepy Ranger
11-25-2005, 02:28 PM
Er, sorry about getting it so late. I just haven't had my mind on things lately. Anyway it isn't really good quality its a pretty big file (18mb) so I wouldn't really suggest watching it unless you really want to. I'm trying my best to improve video quality, the next match should be of better quality if I can figure out what I'm doing. >_<
Anyway heres the results for those who decide NOT to watch the match. I'm afraid I can only do one tonight, the rest seven will be up tomorrow with a lot of random write-ups. (Blame the after-exam partying for not having it up till now)!
Mirkwood (1)0 - 0(4) Valimar
Valimar win 4-1 on penalties.
Valimar - Goal! (1-0)
Mirkwood - Saved! (1-0)
Valimar - Goal! (2-0)
Mirkwood - Saved! (2-0)
Valimar - Goal! (3-0)
Mirkwood - Goal! (3-1)
Valimar - Goal! (4-1)
Yours Whateverwayingly,
Sleepy Ranger
Mirkwood vs. Valimar (http://rapidshare.de/files/8154539/Mirkwood_vs._Valimar.wmv.html)
Mrikwood - Portugal
Valimar - Croatia
The Saucepan Man
11-26-2005, 08:36 AM
Sleepy, who scoed the penalties?
Sleepy Ranger
11-26-2005, 11:04 AM
Sleepy, who scoed the penalties?
Saucey! Saucey! Saucey! it doesn't matter who scoed the penalties. They don't count towards the overall goal tally because they're scoed when the ball is out of play. Only a penalty within normal (or extra time) counts as a goal! But if you still want a list I guess I could make one for you!
The Saucepan Man
11-26-2005, 11:42 AM
Oh, I thought that they counted. Fair enough then, no need to give the scorers.
Btw, it occurred to me that we are not in the quarter-finals, but round 2. The quarter-finals are the next round, when we are down to 8 teams.
Sleepy Ranger
11-26-2005, 11:45 AM
Btw, it occurred to me that we are not in the quarter-finals, but round 2. The quarter-finals are the next round, when we are down to 8 teams.
It is the Quarter-Finals. The tournament is divided into two halves. A left half and a right half, each follow their own pattern from QF, SF, F and then the actual Finals with the two second placed teams in each half playing off for third place. So this is indeed the Quarter-Finals. Didn't I post a link with the World Cup Format?
The Saucepan Man
11-27-2005, 10:55 AM
The tournament is divided into two halves. A left half and a right half, each follow their own pattern from QF, SF, F and then the actual Finals with the two second placed teams in each half playing off for third place. So this is indeed the Quarter-Finals.Not according to this list of World Cup formats (http://216.239.59.104/search?q=cache:tpMdC5ZnuLoJ:fifaworldcup.yahoo.com/releases/en/fwc_formats_en.pdf+world+cup+finals+rounds&hl=en&start=2&ie=UTF-8). Look at the format for the 1998, 2002 and 2006 tournaments, which give it as follows:
Eight groups of four teams (top two in each group qualify for the knock-out stage in the second
round)
- Second round (knock-out stage, winners proceed to quarter-finals - in a case of a draw after extra
time penalty shoot-outs will used to decide)
- Quarter-finals (knock-out stage)
- Semi-finals
- Third-place play-off
- Final
According to this, we are in the Second Round, in which the winners proceed to the Quarter-Finals.
Hookbill the Goomba
11-27-2005, 11:24 AM
I think this is what the Ladder should look like:
Valesse
11-28-2005, 09:28 AM
Movie-Arwen is back! This time with Feanor of the Peredhil (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Feanor1.jpg).
Sleepy Ranger
11-30-2005, 09:28 AM
FINALLY! I have figured out the best video configuration! :D
Anyway, expect regular updates now unless school gets in the way.
Expect Numenor vs. Angband soon.
Here, I'll relase their teams early-
Numenor - Czech Republic
Angband - Argentina
And thanks for pointing that out Saucey, my bad.
Sleepy Ranger
11-30-2005, 10:36 AM
This match was awesome. It went into penalties and I don't plan to spoil the results. If you're unable to download the file, PM me for the results.
Numenor vs. Angband (http://rapidshare.de/files/8387645/Numenor_vs._Angband.wmv.html)
Valesse
11-30-2005, 12:01 PM
Movie-Arwen spends the day chatting it up with arcticstorm (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/arctic1.jpg).
Sleepy Ranger
11-30-2005, 01:01 PM
Be prepared to be shocked...
Bree vs. Gondor (http://rapidshare.de/files/8389683/Gondor_vs._Bree.wmv.html)
Roa_Aoife
11-30-2005, 04:22 PM
Uh.... which teams are which?
The Saucepan Man
11-30-2005, 06:30 PM
Sleepy, I think it's great that you are providing links to the games to build up the suspense. But for those of us who don't always have the time to sit through them would you mind posting the results (and the goal scorers) once people have had an opportunity to view the games? It's also quite difficult to make some of the game details from the clips.
On another note, it's great to see a few upsets, even though they go against my predictions (which, I suppose, is in the nature of upsets :rolleyes: ). However, fingers crossed that our game doesn't follow the same pattern, eh? :eek:
Anguirel
12-01-2005, 01:20 AM
Also, Sleepy, I think in future saying which colours are which might be more useful than saying which countries are which, as it's pretty hard to read on the video...
Sleepy Ranger
12-02-2005, 03:53 AM
Yea, I realize that though the videos are great, they are an inconvenience (even to me) for people. So I've decided that only big matches will be taped. I plan to go back to the original format because then I can have the matches longer which makes them more exciting on the whole and keeps from too many upsets. If people want I'll re-do the entire Round of 16 or I'll continue from where we are. I'll leave it up to you to decide. :)
Anguirel
12-02-2005, 05:02 AM
You mean videoing the matches makes upsets more likely?!
That would explain rather a lot!
Sleepy Ranger
12-02-2005, 05:30 AM
You mean videoing the matches makes upsets more likely?!
That would explain rather a lot!
No, I mean when I make the videos I have to do shorter matches that kinda screws up play, won't you say?
The longer the matches the less likely a major upset would be. Taking Gondor vs. Bree for example, Bree scored the only goal and didn't have to hang on for long had it been a 10 minute a half match I daresay we'd see Gondor win by a big margin.
When I was experimenting with the vidoes, the Valimar vs. Mirkwood match went 4-1 in Valimar's favor with 10 minutes a half but that was a 60mb match so I had to cut down on time to record videos.
The Saucepan Man
12-02-2005, 06:07 AM
While I enjoy upsets, I would be in favour of re-doing the matches, in order that the "lifelike" nature of the competition is maintained.
It seems rather unfair that major contenders should go out as a result of the shortening of the matches, particularly if you are to revert to the original format for the remainder of the second round matches.
Although it would, of course, give the Barrow-Downs team an advantage ... ;)
The Saucepan Man
12-02-2005, 10:22 AM
The official Barrow-Downs MEFWC Anthem (to the tune of Three Lions by Baddiel Skinner and the Lightning Seeds)
It's coming HoME, it's coming HoME, it's coming, football's coming HoME
It's coming HoME, it's coming HoME, it's coming, football's coming HoME
It's coming HoME, it's coming HoME, it's coming, football's coming HoME
It's coming HoME, it's coming HoME, it's coming, football's coming HoME
Everyone seems to know the score, they've seen it on the for - a
They just know, they're so sure
That all we do is chatter away, that discussion’s our way
But I know we can play
'Cos I’m a Downer
Green sword on the shirt
Yellow boots are gleaming
Talking ‘bout Middle-earth
Keeps us all still dreaming
So many posts, so many clicks
Without a ball being kicked
On the Downs, through the years
But I can see Barrow-Wight standing tall
and when Sleepy R scored, phantom belting the ball
and Saucepan dancing
Green sword on the shirt
Yellow boots are gleaming
Talking ‘bout Middle-earth
Keeps us all still dreaming
All that talking Tolkien - ‘s gonna help us to win
It's coming HoME, it's coming HoME, it's coming, football's coming HoME
It's coming HoME, it's coming HoME, it's coming, football's coming HoME
It's coming HoME, it's coming HoME, it's coming, football's coming HoME
It's coming HoME, it's coming HoME, it's coming, football's coming HoME
*Repeat to fade*
Gothmog
12-03-2005, 06:16 AM
Me, too, prefer results that reflect the true performance of the teams. If we have to sacrifice the videos, so be it (downloading my first right now).
And Saucy: Great song! I don't know the original, but your lyric is great!
The Saucepan Man
12-03-2005, 07:40 AM
For those who don't know the original song:
Three lions lyrics (http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.hart/lyricsb/baddiel.html)
It was the England Football Team anthem for the 1996 European Championships, and has become somewhat of a standard among fans. It is also a great song.
Sleepy Ranger
12-04-2005, 01:51 PM
and I'm your host, Sleepy Wan-Rangeobi. We have quite an exciting line up of matches for you today but first we have some important announcements to make.
-The young Barrow-Downs striker, Sleepy Ranger will miss the next match due to an injury sustained during a practice session.
-Shire's star player, Pippin Took has been getting into hot water with team's management and new captain, Gandalf. As a result the team has suffered a significant drop in morale.
-A decision that shocked the entire football world, Bree's captain, Barliman Butterbur has decided to retire from every stage of the game. Despite being cleared for play for their upcoming game against Gondor, Butterbur stated that age has finally caught up with him and he plans to take a behind the scenes job. He also said that their current run of luck wouldn't last forever and a win against Gondor was highly doubtful.
Thats all the news for now, football fans. Today will be the beginning of the knockout stages, which will start at 4pm EST. Please tune in next time for more updates on the World Cup.
Sleepy Ranger
12-04-2005, 08:48 PM
Match 1
Live from Greenwood's Park
Mirkwood 2 - 4 Valimar
This match was a heated competition in the beggining but after the first few goals Mirkwood seemed to be out of it. Varda opened scoring with a low kept shot in the 31st minute which was followed up by an own goal due to a mistake by Thranduil. Ending the half at 2-0, Mirkwood seemed to be out of form. In the early minutes of the second half, Yavanna scored a header from a well taken corner, taking the score to 3-0. Mirkwood's first goal came in the 67th minute, when Legoals found himself with the ball in front of an open goal, their comeback however was short-lived as Varda slotted in a penalty in the 71st minute, effectively stealing the match. Legoals scored a second in the closing stages of the match but this served little purpose other than saving face.
Overall, it was a comfortable win for Valimar.
Match 2
Live from The Dark Grounds
Numenor (4)0 - 0(5) Angband
This was a close fought match with ended in favor of the favorites in penalties. What was thought to be a very physical contest ended up in being a slow paced and defensive game for the first 45 minutes at least. Both teams were reluctant to move front in the first half. The second half however was an entirely different story, there were several sliding tackles, several falls and almost a fight on the ground. However, there were very few shots at all. The match was deadlocked all the way through extra time and surprisingly neither team had been carded or injured. The match went 5-4 in favor of Angband in the penalties.
At the end of the day I'd say Angband earned a well deserved victory and may pat themselves on the back if they can still move their arms.
Match 3
Live from The Citadel
Gondor 2 - 0 Bree
A comfortable two goal walk-over by Gondor though it seemed Bree would take the match, their inability to convert any of their chances led to another Gondor victory. The first goal was scored by Bormor who pulled off a spectacular bycycle kick which left the crowd in awe. The Gondor fans were rather loud and rash and kept security on their toes tonight. A complaint has been lodged against such behaviour and a reply from the Middle-Earth Football Association is awaited. Gondor's second goal was by fan-favorite Faramir who knocked in a high, chipped shot over the keeper's head. The Bree team were down after the retirement of their captain and this effected their performance on the field.
Gondor is still maintaining its hold as one of the top teams in the tournament and doesn't seem to be about to drop that place any time soon.
---
Nargothrond vs. Moria shall be up later today
Sleepy Ranger
12-06-2005, 12:58 AM
Match 4
Live from Khazad-Dum
Nargothrond (7)3 - 3(6) Moria
This was a very narrow match and was snatched away by Nargothrond in penalties. Nargothrond opened strongly and took the lead thanks to Finrod in the 5th minute after which they shifted to a defensive mode of play. The managed to hold of many brave plays by Moria until the 87th minute when Azog recieved a long pass from Balin to equalize. The two teams went into extra time at 1-1 and Moria continued to take the game to Nargothrond, a beautiful shot by Balin from 30m out sailed over the keeper's head and into the back of the net. After this an attempted pinball play backfired when a defender go in the way and cleared the ball which was picked up by Turin who ran in unopposed to level the score again. After this Moria began to slip, a hard challenge on Finrod in the box resulted in a red card for Gothmog and a penalty for Nargothrond. Turin took an easy shot to take the game 3-2 but in the close minutes of the second half of extra time Azog managed to break free and shoot an easy goal past Nargothrond's keeper.
The score was 3-3 after Extra Time and this match went into penalties. After several saves and misses the match went 7-6 in Nargothrond's favor.
Overall, this was a very hard-fought contest and both the teams played well. Its really a pity only one could win.
---
Doing the rest of the matches now
The Saucepan Man
12-09-2005, 06:47 PM
Sleepy?
Sleepy Ranger
12-09-2005, 08:54 PM
Sleepy?
Yes, I'm here. Sorry school has been keeping me busy. The next week is relatively easy on my schedule so we'll have some updates.
Sleepy Ranger
12-10-2005, 12:10 PM
Match 5
Live from The Girdle
Doriath 3 - 4 Shire
This match was always going to be a close one with many goals scored and when Shire was asked to perform they answered. Merry shot in a lucky strike to open scoring in the early stages of the match, which went 1-0 into half time and towards the end it seemed Shire would go through 1-0 but a long shot by Beleg ensured that Shire would have to fight for the win, minutes from closing time Thingol scored of a header from a high cross putting Doriath ahead 2-1. The match seemed all but over and it seemed that Shire's run of luck had finally ended but a masterful interception by Gandalf was converted into a solo goal by him to level the two teams again.
It was Shire who took incentive in extra time as Pippin scored a hard and low kept goal. Not long after, Shire gave away a free kick which Beleg converted into another goal and once again put the teams into deadlock. It looked like it would end in penalties but a slip up by Doriath's defense gave Shire a penalty. Pippin had no intention of missing and scored the winner, the fans could not be held back after Shire's amazing win and they were all over the field. Shire looks set for another night of partying.
Match 6
Live from Imladris
Tol-In-Gauroth 0 - 1 Arnor
This match was held on a neutral ground for security reasons and surprisingly the fans were well behaved through out the game. Nothing note worthy really happened in the match, Arnor got ahead due to a slip up in TIG's defense which led to an own goal by one of the wolves. Arnor's attack never really looked stable but their defense more than made up for it. They managed to hold of several advances made by Sauron to see them through to the next round.
Overall, this was a rather disappointing match and I daresay Arnor got lucky. Tol-In-Gauroth always looked the better team.
Match 7
Live from The Black Gate
Mordor 2 - 0 Fangorn
Surprisingly the first 90 minutes didn't see any action at all. Both teams were on the defensive and normal time ended 0-0 with only five shots taken between both teams. Mordor was recieving boos from its own supporters as they left the field but they certainly gave them something to cheer about in extra time. Dark Lord played a fantastic game and managed two knock in two succesive goals to lift Mordor to a 2-0 win, showing Middle-Earth why they're favorites.
Overall, Mordor showed us that they can stay back and play a clean match if needed. They definately seem to be an excellent all round team, I can see them lifting the cup at the end of all things.
Match 8
Live from Middle-Earth Mirth
Barrow-Downs 3 - 0 Alqualonde
A solid win for Barrow-Downs even though they were missing one of their main players. The first half went relatively well, with the 'Downs getting several chances but they failed to convert them. The second half started off with a free kick for the Barrow-Downs, the phantom chose to send a grounded pass to Gil-Galad rather than shoot. Gil took a hard shot but the keeper managed to push it away only to have Firefoot come out of nowhere and poke it in. The next goal was scored courtesy of Saucepanman, he went on a long run and sent a high cross to phantom who headed it back to him and Suacey completed the motion with a bycycle kick.
The third goal was another fantastic effort by fan favorite, Saucepanman. He found himself in perfect situation to take advantage when Alqualonde's goalie ended up outside the box after a mix-up. Rather than gloating Saucey shot in a beauty to take the game 3-0.
Overall, this was a solid win for the Barrow-Downs and just like Mordor I can see them going all the way as well.
---
Alright, I need people to send in stuff for the MEFD! I'll have some stuff up myself since I'm free. As soon as I get enough articles and stuff (hoping for 4 from others) I'll have the results up. I request you get them in soon because we're running behind schedule and I'd certainly like to get this done before Christams.
The Saucepan Man
12-11-2005, 06:23 AM
Go Barrow Downs! :D
Following the Second Round matches, the Yellow Boots table stands as follows:
Beleg (Doriath): 9
Pippin (The Shire): 7
Turin (Nargothrond): 7
Azog (Moria): 6
Legolas (Mirkwood): 6
Ugluk (Isengard): 6
Glorfindel (Gondolin): 5
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 5
The Saucepan Man (Barrow Downs): 5
Varda (Valimar): 5
Dark Lord (Mordor): 4
Aragorn (Gondor): 3
Arathorn (Arnor): 3
Faramir (Gondor): 3
Gothmog (Angband): 3
Melkor (Angband): 3
Sleepy Ranger (Barrow Downs): 3
Tom Bombadil (Old Forest): 3
Turgon (Gondolin): 3
Ancalagon the Black (Angband): 2
Arvedui (Arnor): 2
Balin (Moria): 2
Boromir (Gondor): 2
Ecthelion (Gondolin): 2
Finrod (Nargothrond): 2
Haldir (Lothlorien): 2
Manwe (Valmar): 2
Merry (The Shire): 2
Quickbeam (Fangorn): 2
Tar-Meneldur (Numenor): 2
Thingol (Doriath): 2
Thorin (Erebor): 2
Treebeard (Fangorn): 2
Witch King of Angmar (Mordor): 2
Yavanna (Valimar): 2
Beleg Strongboot is still the clear leader but, with Doriath knocked out by The Shire, his place is under serious threat from the Took wonderkid and the sensational Turin. Many of the chasing pack are from teams that have already been knocked out, but Varda, The Saucepan Man (yay!) and Dark Lord are solid contenders.
Looking forward to the Quarter Final draw ... :smokin:
Sleepy Ranger
12-11-2005, 01:34 PM
Match 1
Valimar vs. Angband
Match 2
Barrow-Downs vs. Arnor
Match 3
Gondor vs. Nargothrond
Match 4
Shire vs. Mordor
---
And I'd like to know how many people are actually following the MEFWC.
At the moment the only people I know for certain are-
Saucepanman, Fainu and Arcticstorm
Anguirel
12-11-2005, 03:31 PM
I am, I assure you. I'll get some more analysis and journalism out there soon...
Formendacil
12-11-2005, 04:48 PM
And I'd like to know how many people are actually following the MEFWC.
At the moment the only people I know for certain are-
Saucepanman, Fainu and Arcticstorm
I'm reading it- albeit bemusedly...
I just have NO grounding in football (be it the American, British, or Gondorian versions) to make any suitable pithy comments for your edification.
The Saucepan Man
12-11-2005, 07:18 PM
Fantastic! Great draw for the home team. :smokin:
The Shire v Mordor match should be an interesting one. If anyone can beat the Dark Lord's team, it's the Hobbits. I can see Frodo and Sam sneaking one or two in. :D
Glirdan
12-11-2005, 09:30 PM
Wel of course I'm following it. I'm part of it. I'm just not good with whole posting something about stuff with football. But I'm still following it.
Roa_Aoife
12-11-2005, 10:32 PM
I'm following it! This is too much fun reading to pass up.
Anguirel
12-12-2005, 12:05 PM
Valimar vs Angband-or, the War of Wrath
Naturally, I'll be supporting Angband here. They deserve it-they've faced far tougher opposition than Valimar to reach this level, their tactics have been innovative, and with Melkor, Gothmog, Maeglin and Ancalagon their offensive line up is more than solid.
However, I fear I'll be disappointed. One-to-one, Valimar captain Varda has a history of dealing with Melkor; she alone represents Valimar's star quality (ouch) but she's an extremely powerful asset. Valimar striker Yavanna has reported that the team is feeling confident, and I expect, annoyingly, they're right to be.
Winner: Epic match, but Valimar
Likely Scorers: May go to penalties. Otherwise Varda, Yavanna, Melkor, Gothmog, maybe Maeglin.
Barrowdowns vs Arnor-or, Cold be Heart and Hand and Bone
Arnor's a decent team and I have respect for it; it was below par last match and can do much better. As the clear underdog, I will be supporting it for this match.
However, against its traditional nemesis, which has showed exceptional skill this season, I don't think Arnor have much hope, even with new striker fresh from Angle United Halbarad. Barrow-Downs will probably romp through this one to the semis.
Winner: Solid victory to Barrow-Downs
Likely Scorers: Saucepanman, Sleepy Ranger, Arvedui, Arathorn, maybe Halbarad
Gondor vs. Nargothrond-or, Vanished Glory
Again I find myself sympathising with the likely loser. Gondor has beaten Angband itself early on, so the last Elven team in the championship are going to have a hard time of it. They do have the living legend Turin and the superb Finrod, but Gondor's forward combination of Aragorn, Faramir and Boromir has not yet seen defeat.
If Nargothrond succeed in signing the famous Heart of Himlad duo Celegorm and Curufin-a deal coach Finrod has high hopes of as Celegorm was the original captain of Nargothrond City-things may be closer. But the Sons of Feanor charge an extortionate fee that may be beyond the team's resources.
Winner: Close victory to Gondor
Likely Scorers: Aragorn, Faramir, Boromir, Turin, Finrod
Shire vs Mordor-or, A Fool's Hope
Come now, Saucie must have been joking or drunk. How can mere Hobbits dream of defeating the Dark Lord? What a ludicrous idea...
Winner: Isn't it obvious?
Likely Scorers: Everyone on the Mordor team. Three times each. Honestly, let's hope the Halflings have made their wills, ha ha ha...
The Saucepan Man
12-12-2005, 12:40 PM
Arnor's a decent team and I have respect for it; it was below par last match and can do much better. As the clear underdog, I will be supporting it for this match.Shame on you for not supporting your local team! :( ;)
How can mere Hobbits dream of defeating the Dark Lord? What a ludicrous idea...Stranger things have been known to happen ... ;)
The Dark Lord may be supremely confident, but that may yet prove his undoing, since it carries with it the risk of over-confidence. If he makes the mistake of under-estimating the Hobbit lads, his team could be in serious trouble. And there is Gandalf to consider. He is quite capable of creating a diversion in midfield, feigning vulnerability and tempting Mordor to come forward in numbers. Merry and Pippin may even hold back to create the impression that they are playing a defensive game. If that happens, Mordor will be vulnerable at the back to counter-attack by the elusive Halfling midfield duo who, I believe, hold the key to the Dark Lord's undoing.
Roa_Aoife
12-12-2005, 12:44 PM
Shire vs Mordor-or, A Fool's Hope
Come now, Saucie must have been joking or drunk. How can mere Hobbits dream of defeating the Dark Lord? What a ludicrous idea...
Winner: Isn't it obvious?
Likely Scorers: Everyone on the Mordor team. Three times each. Honestly, let's hope the Halflings have made their wills, ha ha ha...
I don't know, Anguirel, the Shire has been the cuase of quite a few upsets this season. We started counting them out in the first round, but they've made it the Quarter Finals already. With Pippin being such a strong forward, and now Gandalf on the team, I'd say they do stand a chance of victory. It wouldn't be the first time a few halfings out smarted the Dark Lord. I'm sure they can do it again.
Sleepy Ranger
12-12-2005, 12:45 PM
Sorry Saucey but I'm siding with Anguirel in this matter. Mordor is a skilled team and the Hobbits are lucky. Lets see which force is greater, skill or luck?
Anguirel
12-12-2005, 12:48 PM
Lets see which force is greater, skill or luck?
Or satire!
Sleepy Ranger
12-12-2005, 01:02 PM
...And heres your host Sleepy-Wan Rangeobi!
Why hello there ladies, gentlement, ladybits, gentle-hobbits, ladielves, gentle-elves, lorcs, gentle-orcs and whatever else may be out there!
First up we have some good news for Barrow-Downs supporters Sleepy Ranger has been cleared for play and will be back with the squad for the match against Arnor.
There were some really amazing matches in the 1/8th Finals and some really good and competitive teams were knocked out. Good job all the teams that made it till there and good luck to the surviviors, Valinor knows they'll need it.
Now then, lets have a look at the Quarter-Final match ups.
Match 1
Valimar vs. Angband
Theres a lot of hate in this match, you can sense it all the way from here. There'll be a lot of red on the field, in the form of cards and blood, this will certainly be a rough match. These teams have a history and despite obviously being the better team Angband has struggled against Valimar in the past. Unfortunately tickets to this match have already been sold out so if you didn't pre-order yours then you'll have to be content with watching it on TV but either way you do not want to miss this match.
Match 2
Barrow-Downs vs. Arnor
Arnor are a good team but their performance in the past week has been lacking. Unless they can pull themselves together this match will be a walk over for the Barrow-Downs who have come to this point undefeated and the return of Sleepy Ranger will definately motivate the 'Downs. I expect them to win even if Arnor pull themselves together.
Match 3
Gondor vs. Nargothrond
Both teams have just one goal in mind and thats 'Score as many goals as we can and win the World Cup'. This should be an interesting match and I doubt there'll be more than five minutes without an attempt on goal. I can see both teams winning so I really don't know who to choose, guess I'll just see how it turns out. If I had to however, I would put my money on Nargothrond. At the end of the day experience beats out raw offense.
Match 4
Shire vs. Mordor
People seem to be of split opinions on this match up but I firmly believe that Mordor will win this one. They're just too good to lose. Shire have performed well but Mordor are ages better. Maybe in a few years Shire will have a more experienced team that will actually have the quality of play to deserve winning the cup.
Orominuialwen
12-12-2005, 05:26 PM
And I'd like to know how many people are actually following the MEFWC.
At the moment the only people I know for certain are-
Saucepanman, Fainu and Arcticstorm
I'm reading and enjoying this very much, I just don't have much to contribute because I know absolutely nothing about non-American football.
Bergil
12-12-2005, 05:57 PM
so am I
Boromir88
12-12-2005, 06:00 PM
I picked the Shire to defeat Doriath, so I'll go with Sauce and pick 'em again over Mordor.
Sleepy Ranger
12-13-2005, 04:09 PM
Match 1
Live from Tol Eressa
Valimar 0 - 2 Angband
Surprisingly Valimar didn't really put on much of a match here as Angband seemed to cruise past them to book a spot in the semi-finals. Continuing on in their cocky manner Melkor scored late in the first half on his first chance. Angaband's second goal came in the form of a mis-timed pass which found its way to Melkor's feet, who crossed it into the box for Gothmog to head it in.
If Angband left us any doubts after their match against Numenor they certainly cleared them after this match. Still strong favorites and they have strong chances of winning the cup.
Match 2
Live from Quoteable-Quotes
Barrow-Downs 6 - 3 Arnor
Sleepy Ranger marked his return to the 'Downs team with a hat-trick and a 90th minute goal to save the match. The crowd was behind Sleepy all the way seeing as the match was at his domestic team's stadium. Arnor started off the match rather strongly going for goal right away. In the first half Arnor scored two goals courtesy of Arathorn but the second half saw the 'Downs fighting back as Sleepy Ranger receieved a long ball sent out from the back by Glirdan and took a rather long shot that bounced off the post and into the goal to pull Arnor back one.
But it didn't take Arnor long to re-consolidate its lead after a low shot by Arvedui found its mark. At 3-1 Barrow-Downs seemed to be in deep trouble but a 67th minute goal by Saucepanman began to make things seem brighter for the World Cup hosts. The Barrow-Downs hard fought effort payed off in the closing minutes when a Fea corner was converted into a goal by Sleepy Ranger. Level on 3 - 3 the two teams headed into extra time where by a reversal of fate the 'Downs stole the match.
Saucepanman scored the first goal of extra time after recieving a pass from the phantom and it was the phantom who scored the fifth goal of a well taken free-kick. The home boy and fan favorite Sleepy Ranger signed the match with a hard curving kick from the edge of the box, it seemed to be headed high and wide but a sudden curve and drop saw it safely past the goalkeeper and into the goal.
Heres a classic example of coming back from a bad start, though it may have seemed at more than one point that this was not going to be the Barrow-Downs night, they managed to pull through. I can see them lifting the cup at the end of it all.
Match 3
Live from Dol Amroth
Gondor 1 - 2 Nargothrond
Well this certainly wasn't much of a match. Faramir sunk in an early goal but Nargothrond sealed it thanks to a double by Turin in the opening stages of the second half. Gondor's superb offense seemed to lack in this match and they were just outplayed by a far superior team. Its goodbye to Gondor and lets see just how far Nargothrond can actually get.
Nargothrond are a good team but I doubt they can make it to the finals.
Match 4
Live from Hobbiton
Shire 3 - 0 Mordor
What an upset, what an expected upset. Shire's mid-field totally out-classed Mordor and Mordor's defense couldn't touch Gondor's offense. Merry and Pippin started of by passing the ball around before a high cross to Gandalf seemed to be the first goal however it was give off-side. It didn't matter since the free kick was poorly taken and Merry scored from hardly 10m out. Not a minute later Pippin scored off a wild shot that didn't seem to be going in even for a second but somehow ended up in the back of the net. The third goal was scored by Pippin when Merry was taken down by an awkward tackle in the box. The penalty was picture perfect, the goalie dived and the ball went straight past him.
A [surprising] win for the Shire and one they can be proud of. The may make it to the finals but thats to be seen. The semi-finals draw will be tough and it remains to be seen which team has what it takes.
The Saucepan Man
12-13-2005, 06:58 PM
Here's to a Barrow-Downs v Shire Final! :D
And now the important matter of the Yellow Boots Trophy. Current state of play (full list):
Beleg (Doriath): 9
Pippin (The Shire): 9
Turin (Nargothrond): 9
Sleepy Ranger (Barrow Downs): 7
The Saucepan Man (Barrow Downs): 7
Azog (Moria): 6
Legolas (Mirkwood): 6
Ugluk (Isengard): 6
Arathorn (Arnor): 5
Glorfindel (Gondolin): 5
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 5
Varda (Valimar): 5
Dark Lord (Mordor): 4
Faramir (Gondor): 4
Gothmog (Angband): 4
Melkor (Angband): 4
Aragorn (Gondor): 3
Arvedui (Arnor): 3
Merry (The Shire): 3
Tom Bombadil (Old Forest): 3
Turgon (Gondolin): 3
Ancalagon the Black (Angband): 2
Balin (Moria): 2
Boromir (Gondor): 2
Ecthelion (Gondolin): 2
Finrod (Nargothrond): 2
Haldir (Lothlorien): 2
Manwe (Valmar): 2
Quickbeam (Fangorn): 2
Tar-Meneldur (Numenor): 2
The phantom (Barrow Downs): 2
Thingol (Doriath): 2
Thorin (Erebor): 2
Treebeard (Fangorn): 2
Witch King of Angmar (Mordor): 2
Yavanna (Valimar): 2
Brandir (Ephel Barandir): 1
Durin's Bane (Moria): 1
Earnil (Arnor): 1
Elrohir (Rivendell): 1
Fatty Bolger (Crickhollow): 1
Firefoot (Barrow Downs): 1
Gandalf (The Shire): 1
Imrahil (Gondor): 1
Maeglin (Angband): 1
Nazgul #7 (Mordor): 1
Olwe (Alqualonde): 1
Tar-Ancalime (Numenor): 1
Tuor (Gondolin): 1
With Doriath out, it looks like it's between four players. My money's on that there Saucepan Man. ;)
Roa_Aoife
12-13-2005, 07:04 PM
Go Shire! I knew the little guys to do it!
And another victory for the home team! I'm going out to celebrate. :cool:
Glirdan
12-13-2005, 09:30 PM
Who got an assisst? Oh, that's right!!! Go defense!! Go defense!!! I to am rooting for a Down's vs. Shire match. But we'll take it all. I know it!! With the great goalie, forwards and defense that we have. We're sure to win!!!
Captain Grishnahk
12-13-2005, 09:51 PM
Could i join in ?... yall guysss are geniusesss ;)
Gothmog
12-14-2005, 02:21 AM
Originally Posted by Sleepy Ranger
And I'd like to know how many people are actually following the MEFWC.
At the moment the only people I know for certain are-
Saucepanman, Fainu and Arcticstorm
I follow it, be sure of that. But, alas (oh I LOVE that word) I haven't got much time, as I don't have access to any computer other than in daytime, and then I'm busy. A quick glimpse on today's latest posts is all I have time for.
But this tournament is getting exciting! I've been a fan of BD, the Shire and Angband from the start, and look at the teams left now! Of course I hope for Barrow Downs, but I must say that my heart also belong to Angband. Mostly because of their main scorerer, the great and mighty Gothmog ;)
BD and Angband to the Grande Finale! :D
Oroaranion
12-15-2005, 03:27 AM
Two questions -
When is the final?
and
Why are using FIFA 2k6?
EA's FIFA 06 is a much better game, and far more accurate in player ratings and team and player licensing. Just a thought, sorry for any negative feedback.
Also, I would like the Downs to win, but I was hoping on a different final.
What countries represent the two teams on FIFA 2k6 perchance?
Sleepy Ranger
12-15-2005, 03:39 AM
Two questions -
When is the final?
and
Why are using FIFA 2k6?
EA's FIFA 06 is a much better game, and far more accurate in player ratings and team and player licensing. Just a thought, sorry for any negative feedback.
Also, I would like the Downs to win, but I was hoping on a different final.
What countries represent the two teams on FIFA 2k6 perchance?
Well the finals will be sometime after the semi-finals, probably this Sunday.
Second, lets have a look at the games-
Fifa 2k6 could be expanded to Fifa 2006 and as you probably know EA owns the patent to Fifa games hence Fifa 2006 is by EA.
And now second, lets expand EA's Fifa 06, again it can be expanded to Fifa 2006 and its made by EA...
Ahem, in other words you just asked me why I'm not using the same game instead of the same game...
And in all honest Pro-Evolution/Winning Eleven is a far better football game. Fifa is just a fans game but Fifa puts on far more enetertaining simmed matches hence I decided to go with that and in all honesty who cares about licensing for a ME tournament? Its not like they actually put in ME teams... ;)
Heh, the finals haven't been decided yet... I haven't even put up the Semi-Final Card yet. And for the Finals no matter which two teams the finalists were represented by it shall be-
Class XI vs. World XI
Just to make it an epic match. And yes I will have a video of it up along with written highlights. However the video will be the entire 20 minutes (or longer) so don't donwload it unless you have a high-speed connection.
Semi-Finals Card will be up presently.
Sleepy Ranger
12-15-2005, 04:00 AM
The Middle-Earth Football World Cup
Match 1
Angband
vs.
Nargothrond
Match 2
The Barrow-Downs
vs.
The Shire
Well now, it seems that a Shire vs. 'Downs final has been ruled out. One of the two teams will have to settle for a battle for third place. I don't know wether Shire's run of luck will continue but for the Barrow-Downs sake I hope not.
Angband vs. Nargothrond should be an easy win for Angaband. Nargothrond are a good team but I have my doubts on them surviving Angband unless Turin can pull off something sepcial.
Tune in later today for our special World Cup show.
Sleepy Ranger
12-16-2005, 06:40 AM
Hello and welcome to the first ever Semi-Finals of the first ever Middle-Earth Football World Cup. After a long and hard contest which began on the 13th of Novemeber. Hosted at the Barrow-Downs, with the opening match being between the 'Downs and Woodhall which the home team won 1-0.
The final four teams have gone through a lot of intense physical and emotional competition in the last month and now they're ready to reap in the rewards. Each of these four teams has a chance of winning the cup. Many teams have had their fair shares of ups and downs and there have been many surprises and maybe a few more soon.
Lets have a look at the highlights of the World Cup so far,
Nominees for the Best Moment
13th November, Barrow-Downs vs. Woodhall - Phantom's out of the stadium free-kick.
13th November, Lothlorien vs. Crickhollow - Fatty charging down the wings.
14th November, Moria vs. Rohan - The Pinball Play
14th November, Rivendell vs. Vinyamar - Elrohir's tripping goal.
17th November, Ephel Brandir vs. Erebor - Smaug playing injured.
18th November, Old Forest vs. Rohan - The standing ovation given to Tom Bombadil.
18th November, Nargothrond vs. Erebor - Crowd running onto the field after the match.
20th November, Fangorn vs. Crickhollow - Fangorn staying on the field the whole night to celebrate (?).
Nominees for the Best Goal
14th November, Rivendell vs. Vinyamar - Elladan's trip goal.
15th November, Barrow-Downs vs. Valmar - Phantom's free kick.
15th November, Nargothrond vs. Mirkwood - Turin's long, high ball.
15th November, Goblin-Town vs. Doriath - Beleg's fake shot goal.
17th November, Mordor vs. Rohan - Nazgul#7's high pass to himself header.
5th December, Gondor vs. Bree - Boromir's bycycle kick.
10th December, Barrow-Downs vs. Alqualonde - Firefoot's poke goal.
Saucepanman's bycycle kick.
14th December, Barrow-Downs vs. Arnor - Sleepy Ranger's high & wide, curve & drop shot.
14th December, Shire vs. Mordor - Pippin's wild goal.
Nominees for the Best Match
11th November, Shire vs. Arnor
14th November, Valimar vs. Valmar
15th November, Barrow-Downs vs. Valmar
15th November, Nargothrond vs. Mirkwood
15th November, Gondor vs. Gondolin
20th November, Gondolin vs. Angband
6th December, Nargothrond vs. Moria
10th December, Shire vs. Doriath
14th December, Barrow-Downs vs. Arnor
Send in your votes by PM or IM, to Sleepy Ranger before the Finals. (No, the Semi-Finals and the Finals will not count towards these awards.)
And we now leave for a commercial but don't go anywhere we'll be right back.
---
Sorry for cutting short but I have to leave. I'll finish it later. Vote for one in each category, send them in by PM with the subject 'Votes'.
Valesse
12-16-2005, 04:58 PM
After a long absence, Movie-Arwen is back... this time with Firefoot (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Firefoot1.jpg)!
Sleepy Ranger
12-17-2005, 02:58 AM
Hello and welcome back to the rest of our show. We'd like to apologize for the delay since we had some technical difficulties and now onto the rest of the show.
First lets have a look at the Semi-Finals and the teams qualified for them.
Angaband vs. Nargothrond
The Barrow-Downs vs. The Shire
Now for a look at the performance of the teams-
Angband
Group - H
Group Standing - 2nd, 6 points (2-1)
Biggest Win - Grey Havens, 4-0
Biggest Loss - Gondor, 1-0
Top Scorer - Gothmog and Melkor (4)
Home Stadium - Fortress of Angband
Captain - Melkor
Coach - Coach
Win/Loss Record - 4/1/0
Key Players - Melkor, Gothmog
Nargothrond
Group - D
Group Standing - 2nd, 5 points
Biggest Win - Erebor, 3-1
Biggest Loss - n/a
Top Scorer - Turin (9)
Home Stadium - Nargothrond
Captain - Finrod Felagund
Coach - Finrod
Win/Loss Record - 3/0/2
Key Players - Turin, Finrod Felagund
The Barrow-Downs
Group - C
Group Standing - 1st, 9 points
Biggest Win - Arnor, 6-3
Biggest Loss - n/a
Top Scorer - Saucepnman and Sleepy Ranger (7)
Home Stadium - Middle-Earth Mirth
Captain - The Barrow-Wight
Coach - Mr. Underhill
Win/Loss Record - 5/0/0
Key Players - Saucepanman, Sleepy Ranger, the phantom
The Shire
Group - B
Group Standing - 1st, 7 ponts
Biggest Win - Mordor, 3-0
Biggest Loss - n/a
Top Scorer - Pippin (9)
Home Stadium - Hobbiton
Captain - Gandalf the Grey
Coach - Bilbo Baggins
Win/Loss Record - 4/0/1
Key Players - Pippin, Gandalf, Merry
Match Predictions
We're down that stage of the tournament where one mistake could end it all. None of the four teams seems to have any plans of backing out now. They're going to give it their all but only two will advance to the finals.
Angband vs. Nargothrond
This has the makings of a good match. Expect to see a lot of goals scored by both sides and unless Angband slips up and makes a mistake they should have an easy win. Nargothrond will be on the search for that one mistake, that one moment where they'll be able to turn the tide in their favor and if it comes around you can be sure they'll grab it. It could go either way but Angband seem to be the favorites to win tonight.
The Barrow-Downs vs. The Shire
This one promises to blow the roof of the stadium, I guess we're lucky its being played in an open roof stadium. It'll be a solid back and forth match, these are after all two of the top teams in the tournaments. Both will give a 100% but in the the team that goes the 101 will steal the win and I can see The Barrow-Downs edging out The Shire for this win. The 'Downs have a superior defense than that of The Shire and both teams have strong offenses. I expect a win for the 'Downs.
Sleepy Ranger
12-17-2005, 04:38 AM
Match 1
Live from The Fortress
Angband (3)5 - 5(2) Nargothrond
When I said this match would be high scoring I wasn't talking fifteen goals but this sensational match produced just that, fifteen beautiful goals. This match was the beautiful game at its finest. Though Nargothrond may have lost they have a lot to be proud of, they went up against what may be the best team in the tournament and gave them a run for the money till the bitter end and even put a scare into them every so often.
Angaband held the reigns in the first half after both Gothmog and Melkor scored. Gothomg's goal was lackluster and he didn't seem to really have put much effort into it but [luckily] it rolled into the net. Angband look strong early on in the second half but Turin stole the ball from an Angband corner and broke away to score Nargothrond's first goal. This was followed up moments later by a penalty for Nargothrond which Turin managed to convert into a goal. The two teams kept picking at each other after that and both managed to score another goal each, thanks to Gothmog and Finrod.
Both teams resumed the match in extra time with slightly altered formations and line ups. Angaband played dangerously well but it was Nargothrond that drew first blood, a free kick by Finrod flew true and sailed past Ancalagon to take Nargothrond one up. The fans erupted at this and several supporters burst into tears of joy it was short lived however as Nargothrond got lazy and let Melkor get past them to slot in an equalizer which was followed up by another goal for him after a few minutes. Turin found himself in scoring range towards the end of the match and with a cry of desperation he took a powerful shot only to be denied by the goalie but all was not lost, Finrod took an excellent rebound leaving the keeper helpless. Extra time ended with the scores 5 - 5, it would be penalties.
N - Score! (0-1)
A - Score! (1-1)
N - Miss! (1-1)
A - Score! (2-1)
N - Score! (2-2)
A - Score! (3-2)
N - Saved! (3-2)
A - Miss! (3-2)
N - MISS! (3-2)
Angaband win a hard fought contest in penalties. Nargothrond had a chance but a poorly taken penalty was their downfall.
We hope you enjoyed the match, tune in later for The Barrow-Downs vs. The Shire, which we hope will be just as enjoyable.
---
Inspired by Hookbill I decided to check what percentage of posts in this thread were by me. It seems 37% of the posts in this thread were by me. :eek:
Valesse
12-17-2005, 02:01 PM
Movie-Arwen catches up with The Phantom (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Phantom1.jpg) before Match 2: Barrowdowns versus The Shire.
Sleepy Ranger
12-17-2005, 02:30 PM
Match 2
Live from Hobbiton
The Shire 2 - 3 The Barrow-Downs
This match may not have been as high scoring as the other but it definately wasn't lacking any of its own. The Shire did dominate early on but they found it hard to keep up with The Barrow-Downs and in the end it was neither Sleepy Ranger nor The Saucepanman and not even the phantom who won the match for the 'Downs though they did play a part. Though it seemed that Pippin would score early on it was Merry who scored the opener. A fake shot sent Barrow-Wight diving in the wrong direction and gave Merry the chance he needed to score the first in just the 15th minute.
The 'Downs however replied in the form of a Sleepy Ranger goal in the 37th minute which was followed up by a Saucepanman goal in the 43rd minute. The two teams started the second half with the 'Downs ahead by one and it wasn't till the 72nd minute that Pippin found himself in range and blasted in a beautiful volley to draw the teams again. They went into extra-time at two goals each and battled out a hard match till the final minute where the phantom sent a hard pass to Sleepy Ranger who manage to swerve past a few defenders and shoot but the keeper knocked it away only to have Saucepanman attempt a shot which was deflected by a defender but then who else but The Barrow-Wight himself decides to rush in all the way from goal and knock in the winner.
Truly a great win for the 'Downs. Congratulations to all the teams that played and the losers shouldn't be dis-appointed, they still have third place to claim.
The Saucepan Man
12-18-2005, 05:00 AM
Wow! Should be a great final. I would have preferred that the Downs meet the Shire in the final, but it is fitting, I suppose, that the two who have proved themselves the best should meet in the final. This will be a challenging game for the Downs, but (at the end of the day) I think we have enough to prevail over Melkor's boys.
The semi-final matches leave the Yellow Boots table in the following state (full list):
Turin (Nargothrond): 12
Pippin (The Shire): 10
Beleg (Doriath): 9
Sleepy Ranger (Barrow Downs): 8
The Saucepan Man (Barrow Downs): 8
Melkor (Angband): 7
Azog (Moria): 6
Legolas (Mirkwood): 6
Gothmog (Angband): 6
Ugluk (Isengard): 6
Arathorn (Arnor): 5
Glorfindel (Gondolin): 5
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 5
Varda (Valimar): 5
Dark Lord (Mordor): 4
Faramir (Gondor): 4
Finrod (Nargothrond): 4
Merry (The Shire): 4
Aragorn (Gondor): 3
Arvedui (Arnor): 3
Tom Bombadil (Old Forest): 3
Turgon (Gondolin): 3
Ancalagon the Black (Angband): 2
Balin (Moria): 2
Boromir (Gondor): 2
Ecthelion (Gondolin): 2
Haldir (Lothlorien): 2
Manwe (Valmar): 2
Quickbeam (Fangorn): 2
Tar-Meneldur (Numenor): 2
The phantom (Barrow Downs): 2
Thingol (Doriath): 2
Thorin (Erebor): 2
Treebeard (Fangorn): 2
Witch King of Angmar (Mordor): 2
Yavanna (Valimar): 2
Brandir (Ephel Barandir): 1
Durin's Bane (Moria): 1
Earnil (Arnor): 1
Elrohir (Rivendell): 1
Fatty Bolger (Crickhollow): 1
Firefoot (Barrow Downs): 1
Gandalf (The Shire): 1
Imrahil (Gondor): 1
Maeglin (Angband): 1
Nazgul #7 (Mordor): 1
Olwe (Alqualonde): 1
Tar-Ancalime (Numenor): 1
The Barrow-Wight (Barrow Downs): 1
Tuor (Gondolin): 1
Can anyone reach Turin's total? Sleepy Ranger, The Saucepan Man, Melkor and (conceivably) Gothmog are the only ones in with a chance. Let's hope for a plethora of Downs goals in the final, so we can bring home both the ME Cup and the Yellow Boots Trophy. :D
Sleepy Ranger
12-18-2005, 05:12 AM
Let's hope for a plethora of Downs goals in the final, so we can bring home both the ME Cup and the Yellow Boots Trophy.
Hate to break to you Saucey but Nargothrond still have a third place match against The Shire and I don't think Turin plans on not scoring so I daresay the Yellow Boots are as good as his.
The Saucepan Man
12-18-2005, 05:35 AM
Hate to break to you Saucey but Nargothrond still have a third place match against The Shire and I don't think Turin plans on not scoring so I daresay the Yellow Boots are as good as his.Er - good point. I had forgotten the third place play-off, although such matches often tend to be rather dull. Nevertheless, it leaves Turin firm favourite and gives Pippin an outside chance.
Sleepy Ranger
12-18-2005, 02:15 PM
Live From The Books
Nargothrond 0 - 1 The Shire
Not really much in this match. Shire take third place thanks to a goal by Pippin.
---
Well there you go. Lackluster and boring is the only way to describe the third place match lets hope for solider finals. Speaking of finals I have no intention of postiing the results till I get a fair amount of votes in. Even if you don't know the sport how hard is it to determine your favorite moment...
On a sidenote I love Suacepnaman! ^_^ (Well as much as I may without Ka killing him...)
Morai
12-19-2005, 11:38 AM
Wow, congratulations everyone. You have officially have me interested in something sports related, even if it is theorectical. Too bad one of the teams I was cheering for got knocked out. I still have two left though. :p
Sleepy Ranger
12-20-2005, 06:18 AM
No, you don't get them yet... So far I've just recieved four votes and to be honest I'm dis-appointed. I thought more people actually wanted to see this happen but well guess I was wrong. Anyway, if I don't get more votes soon I'm not going to give you the finals. I'll PM the results to those who voted because seriously if you can't spare five minutes to respond I really don't see why I should bother. Its really dis-heartening. Back in the beginning when people used to respond I used to enjoy doing this now to be honest its boring. Theres just no interaction, it seems I'm forcing you to read (except Saucepanman who has been a great hand throughout the tournamnet. So I say thank ya Saucey!).
Well now then if you do want to see it then give it some time! I mean the announcement of the finals hasn't generated any excitement at all. I understand if you're busy or maybe I don't but either way seeing no intrest at all from anyone just plain hurts. :'(
</rant>
No, I'm not going to apologize for my rant. If you really want to see this happen then show me you do otherwise I'm afraid only a few people will now how this ends. And yea, I'm trusting those few not to leak the results if they do then well... I dunno, guess I can't really do anything.
So yea, all I can say is I'm dis-appointed. I cut off MEFD because nobody was making any contributions but I thought that people are probably just too busy and writing that stuff takes time but to see that they can't spare five minutes or so is really dis-heartening.
Well ok I guess my rant wasn't quite over so I'll end it now before it gets out of hand.
Good Day,
Sleepy Ranger
WaynetheGoblin
12-20-2005, 06:34 AM
i really like this thread it is cool i will give you rep sleepy.
Sleepy Ranger
12-21-2005, 04:31 AM
Alright so I got votes from two more people. I'll be travelling today and tomorrow (Mayhap day after as well) and I should get access to a computer by around Friday and since I've already done the match and written it out I'll PM the results after Christmas, 26th or 27th unless I do get a fair amount in by then in which case I'll post them as usual but bear in mind anything said after the 27th won't be taken into consideration. As I oft say, "Fairs do."
Heres the people who'll currently recieve the finals (if you should be on the list but aren't notify me)-
Saucepan man
Valesse
Rune
Arcticstorm87
Morai
Roa
Glirdan
Wayne
And thank you everyone who contributed to the tournament at whatever stage. You helped make it as succesful as it could be. And not I'm not being sarcastic. :)
Bergil
12-21-2005, 04:28 PM
If you do not post the finals I will....errr...ummmm...I will...DO SOMeTHING.
Sleepy Ranger
12-21-2005, 04:43 PM
If you do not post the finals I will....errr...ummmm...I will...DO SOMeTHING.
Go read my rants again! :D
Sleepy Ranger
12-24-2005, 07:12 AM
Alright just three more days to go before I start sending out results. I got in a few more votes since posting my rants. Also got a couple of neg rep threats if I don't post them (you know who you are...). I replied to all of a them the same way by saying that I ought to neg rep them for not voting and still demanding results. If they have enough time to waste to send in neg rep threats I don't see why they can't vote.
I'll take this chance to wish all of you a Merry Christmas. Enjoy yourself! And I hope all of you (who'll get them) enjoy the finals as well. 'Twas a truly spectacular match! :D
PS- I'm waiting for the neg reps from you lot! :)
The Saucepan Man
12-24-2005, 09:24 AM
Is it really that much bother for people to vote so that the final can be posted here? :rolleyes:
Sleepy Ranger
12-25-2005, 12:32 AM
Oh you lucky people, you! It seems people wanted to see the results after all! :D
Well here are the results for the Highlights and yes, I shall post the finals on the 'Downs and I better see some buzz then or else its going to be off with your heads...!
Best Moment
18th November, Old Forest vs. Rohan - The standing ovation given to Tom Bombadil.
Best Goal
17th November, Mordor vs. Rohan - Nazgul#7's high pass to himself header.
Best Match
This was a tie between-
11th November, Shire vs. Arnor
and
14th December, Barrow-Downs vs. Arnor
In light of these events we have decided to award Arnor with the most entertaining team award!
Sleepy Ranger
12-27-2005, 05:00 AM
Well ladies and gents, its time for the finals...
Since lifes about drama lets see how long I can hold them back without getting killed! :D
Just kidding, I'll have them up soon.
Sleepy Ranger
12-27-2005, 08:24 AM
The Finals
Live From Middle-Earth Mirth
The Barrow-Downs 6 - 1 Angband
This was a decisive victory for the ‘Downs and truly showed their dominance over the world. With such a big win over one of the best, if not the best team in the world in such an important match really shows you just how good they are. The atmosphere was tense as the two teams stepped out for the finals of the first ever Middle-Earth Football World Cup, the stadium was packed with supporters cheering their team on. Everyone knew that only one team would leave tonight as the champion but a win of such proportions was completely unexpected. Both teams had said they’d give it their all in a pre-match interview and it seems the ‘Downs all was better than Angband’s.
The night did not start in the ‘Downs favor and instead Angband was given an early corner which Melkor easily converted into a goal in the sixth minute. Angband supporters exploded (the balrog’s literally) into cheers as Angband went one up in the match where it counted the most. Their early lead was threatened moments later when the ‘Downs received a corner but Saucepan man messed up big time, sending the ball over the crossbar. The Barrow-Downs received their next chance in the 18th minute which Sleepy Ranger converted into a goal and equalized the teams causing the ‘Downs supporters to cheer. Gil-Galad struck in the 27th minute and gave the ‘Downs a 2-1 lead at half-time.
The two teams resumed the match with the Barrow-Downs just ahead but the phantom seemed determined to change that however he was intercepted half way through and the ball was passed long to Melkor who seemed to have a clear run at goal but Rune managed to come in out of nowhere and get the ball off Melkor. He sent a long pass to Gil-Galad who gave a short through pass to Sleepy Ranger. It seemed he would score but a harsh tackle resulted in the ‘Downs receiving a free-kick instead, the phantom took an excellent kick however to his disappointment the ball struck the post and rolled out of play. In the 53rd minute Saucepan man took his second shot on goal only to be denied but Sleepy Ranger was right there and shot the rebound only to have Ancalagon manage to push it away, the phantom however had no intention of passing up this opportunity and knocked in the goal to take the ‘Downs 3-1.
Third time proved the charm for Saucepan man as he knocked in a goal on his third attempt to lift the score to 4-1 in the 62nd minute. After this goal there was plenty of back and forth action with Angband coming close to scoring on several occasions only to be denied by The Barrow-Wight who played a really spectacular game. It wasn’t till the 84th minute that Sleepy Ranger once again found himself within scoring range and took a high and angled shot to take the ‘Downs to an unassailable 5-1. Saucepan man however believed that they hadn’t scored enough goals and signed the ending with an 89th minute goal. A spectacular win for the ‘Downs, one that sets them far above the rest of the teams in this tournament. Out of all the teams in this tournament the ‘Downs proved that they are the best. And with a score line like 6-1, who can argue?
---
And congratulations to Turin who won the Golden Boots this World Cup! Wonderful effort by all the teams but in the end only one could win and that was the 'Downs!
Standings
Champion - The Barrow-Downs
Runner-Up - Angband
Third Place - The Shire
Fourth Place - Nargothrond
Now everyone post something! I don't care what, just do it!
Hookbill the Goomba
12-27-2005, 08:35 AM
And there did come to pass, much rejoicing in the streets and hills of the Barrow Downs, for his victory was to stir up much drinking of wine!
Good for the Downs to win. Newspaper headlines:
From 'The Daily Dead': "Downers go Down in history!"
From 'The Guardian of the Gates': "Barrow Boys bomb Angband!"
From 'The Hobbit Herald': "Wights rout wronged witches”
From 'The Angband Times': "It was a Fix!"
The Saucepan Man
12-28-2005, 12:07 PM
Turin Turambar of Nargothrond.
Final rankings:
Turin (Nargothrond): 12
Pippin (The Shire): 11
Sleepy Ranger (Barrow Downs): 10
The Saucepan Man (Barrow Downs): 10
Beleg (Doriath): 9
Melkor (Angband): 8
Azog (Moria): 6
Legolas (Mirkwood): 6
Gothmog (Angband): 6
Ugluk (Isengard): 6
Arathorn (Arnor): 5
Glorfindel (Gondolin): 5
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 5
Varda (Valimar): 5
Dark Lord (Mordor): 4
Faramir (Gondor): 4
Finrod (Nargothrond): 4
Merry (The Shire): 4
Aragorn (Gondor): 3
Arvedui (Arnor): 3
The phantom (Barrow Downs): 3
Tom Bombadil (Old Forest): 3
Turgon (Gondolin): 3
Ancalagon the Black (Angband): 2
Balin (Moria): 2
Boromir (Gondor): 2
Ecthelion (Gondolin): 2
Haldir (Lothlorien): 2
Manwe (Valmar): 2
Quickbeam (Fangorn): 2
Tar-Meneldur (Numenor): 2
Thingol (Doriath): 2
Thorin (Erebor): 2
Treebeard (Fangorn): 2
Witch King of Angmar (Mordor): 2
Yavanna (Valimar): 2
Brandir (Ephel Barandir): 1
Durin's Bane (Moria): 1
Earnil (Arnor): 1
Elrohir (Rivendell): 1
Fatty Bolger (Crickhollow): 1
Firefoot (Barrow Downs): 1
Gandalf (The Shire): 1
Gil-Galad (Barrow Downs): 1
Imrahil (Gondor): 1
Maeglin (Angband): 1
Nazgul #7 (Mordor): 1
Olwe (Alqualonde): 1
Tar-Ancalime (Numenor): 1
The Barrow-Wight (Barrow Downs): 1
Tuor (Gondolin): 1
Despite a Downs goal fest in the final, the goals were evenly spread and Sleepy Ranger and The Saucepan Man could only manage joint third. Second place goes to the surprise find of the tournament, Peregrine Took. But congratulations to the sensational goal-machine, Turin Turamabar, for taking the coveted trophy.
:smokin: http://forum.barrowdowns.com/ubb/icons/icon3.gif
**************************
The result was, of course, the only one imaginable, given the strength in depth of the Barrow Downs team. Congratulations to my team-mates and, in time-honoured fashion, we shall now join together in a rousing chorus of:
Champione! Champione!
:D
Btw:
... the ‘Downs received a corner but Saucepan man messed up big time, sending the ball over the crossbar.Hey! I was merely biding my time ... :rolleyes:
Sleepy Ranger
12-28-2005, 12:12 PM
Hey! I was merely biding my time... :rolleyes:
While you were busy biding your time I was busy saving the team ;)
The Saucepan Man
12-28-2005, 12:13 PM
While you were busy biding your time I was busy saving the teamYou mean you were worried? I always thought the result a foregone conclusion ... :p ;)
Sleepy Ranger
12-28-2005, 12:16 PM
You mean you were worried? I always thought the result a foregone conclusion ... :p ;)
Not if we left it to you... then it would have been murder... :p
The Saucepan Man
12-28-2005, 12:34 PM
Not if we left it to you... Need I remind you that my two goals alone would have been sufficient to bring the cup home ... :p
I was just trying to make the game a little bit more exciting by waiting before unleashing the full power of my right foot. :rolleyes: ;)
Sleepy Ranger
12-28-2005, 12:38 PM
Need I remind you that my two goals alone would have been sufficient to bring the cup home ... :p
Pfft... you scored when Angband was demoralized! We were beating them 3-1, can you honestly say that if we hadn't scored those goals our team would have had the same spirit in their fight? I admit we're an awesome team but being tied down by a single goal in the finals of the World Cup can be frustrating enough to cause a team to make mistakes. (Your corner was a perfect example of this ;))
Hookbill the Goomba
12-28-2005, 12:59 PM
How do you think I feel? I didn't even get on the pitch! Let alone score any goals. :(
I was too busy sawing the sub bench up and making it into an attractive dinner jacket.
:D
Rune Son of Bjarne
12-28-2005, 08:35 PM
For some reason Saucepan and Sleepy think that it was them that won this trophy for the Barrow Downs. Do I realy need to explain you guys that this is a team sport. If not our defence had been solid and had our midfield not fed you guys with brilliant passes we would have gotten nowhere.
A man once said: A great striker can win the mach for you, but a great defence can win you the championship. (or something like that)
Lets selebrate this great team effort and not argue about who killed who. . . eeh I mean who scored the most important goals.
Glirdan
12-31-2005, 06:50 PM
Need I remind both Sleepy and SpM that if it weren't for the great defense we had, we would have lost way back at the beginning? Not to mention the best goalie ever!!!!
The Saucepan Man
12-31-2005, 08:41 PM
Do I realy need to explain you guys that this is a team sport. If not our defence had been solid and had our midfield not fed you guys with brilliant passes we would have gotten nowhere.
Need I remind both Sleepy and SpM that if it weren't for the great defense we had, we would have lost way back at the beginning? Not to mention the best goalie ever!!!!Quite so. I was merely grumping at our organiser/commentator's description of my - er - "relaxed" playing style. :D
Now, let's hear it for those unsung heroes at the back. To paraphrase some French bloke, where would we be without our Water Carriers? Well done you, chaps and chapesses ... ;)
Sleepy Ranger
01-01-2006, 12:00 AM
Heh, I've decided since I like you guys so much I may as well do another sport.
Heres your options-
Hockey,
Cricket,
F1,
Wrestling,
Basketball (Not Sure so if you pick this keep a second option as well),
Baseball
Right then what are you waiting for? Get picking!
Bergil
01-01-2006, 01:16 PM
and so I vote Hockey
Gil-Galad
01-01-2006, 01:30 PM
Sincei myself am a Hockey player, Hockey has my vote
Morai
01-01-2006, 02:57 PM
Well, since baseball is the only sport I really understand, I'll pick that one. Though hockey would be an interesting one as well.
Formendacil
01-01-2006, 09:39 PM
How about some Hockey, eh? ;) :p :D
Sleepy Ranger
01-01-2006, 09:46 PM
Looks like it will be a MEHT but theres still a week till I get back so votings open till then. :D
Glirdan
01-01-2006, 10:03 PM
I two am Canadian, so, my vote is...
++HOCKEY
Speaking of voting, just letting everyone know that The Hobbit Survivor is up and running again. So, get over there and vote people!!!!!!!!
The Saucepan Man
01-02-2006, 11:26 AM
ME F1 would be interesting, with circuits in locations around Middle-earth and constructors representing the various races/nations. Although it might have the old Professor spinning in his grave ... :D
Otherwise, it's cricket for me. None of the others listed can possibly be regarded as proper sports. :p ;)
Orominuialwen
01-03-2006, 01:46 PM
I suppose American football isn't an option... so I'd pick basketball, with baseball as a second choice.
Gil-Galad
01-03-2006, 03:42 PM
kidna late, but heres me as a crazy soccer player
http://www.ocremix.org/images/template/ocr4_mascot135.jpg
Sleepy Ranger
01-04-2006, 05:50 AM
I suppose American football isn't an option... so I'd pick basketball, with baseball as a second choice.
Nope, American Football isn't an option since I don't have any games of it...
But I'll need somebodys help for doing a Hockey Tourney (since I have no idea about formats and such). And since it seems like we'll be having a hockey tournament it'll be a good idea for somebody to send me a sample format of a hockey tournament.
As for the current standings-
Hockey - 4
Cricket - 1
F1 - 2
Wrestling - 1
Basketball - 1
Baseball - 1
And yea, a few people gave me their prefrences on MSN or AIM. :)
EDIT: Post #1,100! Lets celebrate! ^_^
Roa_Aoife
01-09-2006, 08:06 PM
Ack! Sorry about the long absence- my 'puter got sick.
Go DOWNS! I knew we could do it! *does victory dance*
No American Football? That's a shame. Oh well, I vote for baseball then. It would make my history professor happy.
Sleepy Ranger
01-09-2006, 11:46 PM
Well it seems that MEHT will have to be cancelled because nobody seems ready to help...
Leaves us with-
Cricket - 1
F1 - 2
Wrestling - 1
Basketball - 1
Baseball - 2
Its a tie between F1 and Baseball but the vote goes in favor of F1 because I'd need help with baseball and even if someone does come forward F1 was Saucepanman's second choice. So unless something happens by Sunday it'll be F1. :)
Hookbill the Goomba
01-10-2006, 12:43 AM
As an Englishman, I can't let this pass by without voting:
++ Cricket!
Just needed to get that off my chest. :D
Formendacil
01-10-2006, 01:49 AM
Well it seems that MEHT will have to be cancelled because nobody seems ready to help...
Perhaps it's a general lack of understanding that keeps the Canadian masses from offering up their hockey expertise... I, for one, have no idea- really- want sort of help you were looking for.
Provided it wasn't too computer-skillsy or very fine rules of hockey-ish, I might be available. Or someone else might be tempted...
There simply wasn't enough to go on.
Gil-Galad
01-10-2006, 08:16 AM
woah woah woah, i can help with hockey, you never asked me! and probably if you ask the people that voted hockey they can help too, don't rule it out seesh
Glirdan
01-10-2006, 09:27 PM
I don't play hockey, but I've watched it all my life until last year so I know most of the rules and regulations for you. I could help you out, just tell me what you need.
Gil-Galad
01-10-2006, 09:31 PM
Sleepy, probably if you go to www.Nhl.com you could get an idea with the Playoofs there, or i'll try to find you some other ideas, i'll look around for tourneys here in calgary...
or i could explain it...
basically for the playoffs, its East Conferance Vs West Confernace, so either we divide by Misty Mountains or good and evil, the winner of each of these conference goes to the finals. each game is best out of 7, and whoever wins 4 games first wins the round and moves up. The Seventh game, if each team has 3 wins and the game is tied when the 3rd period is finished, it goes into overtime which ends when the first goal is scored. after 2 overtimes and there is no goal, then it goes to a shoot off, which i could explain later if needed.
so basically it depends if we go right into playoffs or play regular season, in reg season, a win gives the team 3 points, a loss gives it 1 point, and a tie 2 points. if we go by regular, the top 8 teams on each side go to the playoffs, which is random(drawn by numbers and such) then it goes into best out of 7, even for the finals, best out of 7.
Morai
01-10-2006, 10:39 PM
If in the slight chance that you do baseball, I could probably help, though I have no idea how to calculate batting averages and stuff. I did play 'little league' baseball long long ago in a field far far away. ;)
Sleepy Ranger
01-11-2006, 06:53 AM
Due to a sudden burst of helpfulness hockey gets to be a choice again BUT I plan to leave voting open for a few days more due to the sudden and accidental entry of American Football. Yes, American Football is now an option as well. Feel free to change your vote-
Hockey - 4
Cricket - 2
F1 - 2
Wrestling - 1
Basketball - 1
Baseball - 2
American Football - 0
Valesse
01-11-2006, 08:19 PM
Oh goodness I'm so far behind.
I still have two comics coming (Glirdan and Barrow-Wight) before I call it quits on Arwen's intervews.
Whats really sad is that I have the art part on Glirdan's done... just not the... joke... Oddly enough its the complete opposite for BWs. Hah. Isn't that just life?
Morai
01-11-2006, 09:04 PM
Interesting how Baseball and Cricket have the same amount of votes at the moment. My vote remains the same, American football doesn't excite me all that much.
Roa_Aoife
01-11-2006, 09:38 PM
I'm SO changing to American Football!
Sleepy Ranger
01-12-2006, 01:32 AM
Hockey - 4
Cricket - 2
F1 - 2
Wrestling - 1
Basketball - 1
Baseball - 1
American Football - 1
Hockey still in the lead by quite a lot
arcticstorm
01-12-2006, 06:43 AM
there is only two sports on the list worth watching. as car racing is not a sport, baseball is too slow and from that i infir that cricket must also be too slow. I do not like American football, even though i am from Virginia, as the action stops between plays. Ans pro wrestling is just a bunch of actors and not really a sport either. Therefore
++Basketball with ++hocky as my reserve option
Sleepy Ranger
01-12-2006, 11:18 AM
Ans pro wrestling is just a bunch of actors and not really a sport either.
It may be scripted but it takes a great deal of athleticism and it has a higher risk than other sports. Just being scripted doesn't not make it a sport however I won't pursue on that here.
Hockey - 5
Cricket - 2
F1 - 2
Wrestling - 1
Basketball - 2
Baseball - 1
American Football - 1
Valesse
01-20-2006, 07:46 PM
Glirdan (http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c185/ArdaSports/Glirdan1.jpg) is an amazing sport who waited far too long for this ;)
Still to come: Gil's and BW's.
Morai
01-21-2006, 11:59 AM
Glirdan is an amazing sport who waited far too long for this
In my opinion it was worth the wait. Thanks Val! :D
Glirdan
01-21-2006, 12:13 PM
YES!!! :D That just made my day!!! I can't stop laughing!!! :D Thanks a lot Valesse!!! That is the best thing I've seen all day!! :D
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