Arda Cup Football 2011 [Archive] - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

the phantom

06-11-2011, 06:52 PM

FINAL ROSTERS TAKING SHAPE
Phantom, MESPN News

There are still quite a few things up in the air, but many teams are really taking shape at this point.

Angband
Everyone knows that Melkor is the leader here with the resources to sign anyone he wishes, and his team looks to be close to completion. Telvildo, Thuringwethil, and Ancalagon were early signings, and Ungoliant and Drauglin followed soon after. In a move that has many wondering whether Tilion has gone over permanently, the moon man has yet again signed with Melkor's squad.

It seems there are only a couple slots remaining on this squad, and rumor is Melkor's trying out his Balrogs to see which are the best fit for the positions.

Angfauglith
This is a squad that not many expected to exist, but it's official and the side is looking quite strong thus far. Huor and his wife Rían were at an event commemorating the 5th battle fought on the plains of Angfaulith when they happened to run into Azaghål, who also fought in that battle. As they were recalling how many great deeds had been done there and how many mighty beings had clashed, the idea came to Huor of forming a team.

None of the three were prepared to captain the team, especially if the team contained any of the outstanding battlers that they had been discussing, so they agreed to take the idea to Fingolfin and see if he'd captain, and he agreed. With him came another player, his war horse Rochallor, and he also swiftly gained the help of Gwindor, who so famously charged Angfauglith.

And just two days ago, Angfauglith made their biggest signing yet, as Fingolfin managed to coax Gothmog Lord of Balrogs and Ecthelion of Gondolin to join the squad. Separately the signings would not have been made, but Fingolfin knew the pair would likely be keen to play with one another, as they have shared a special bond ever since their joint death.

There are only three slots left here, and Fingolfin is doing all that he can to find the best players.

Barad-Dur
Last year's team was a mix of baddies and goodies, and this year is no different, only this time around it's Gil-galad that is more or less calling the shots with Sauron gone elsewhere. His friends Isildur and Cirdan are with him, as well as Isildur's brother Anarion and the faithful Ohtar.

The Mouth signed quite early, and Gil-galad immediately set him to work on recruiting some of his associates, and he has since convinced a Nazgul to join, as well as commander Gothmog II and the brutal Shagrat. Two slots remain open, but Gil-galad says that he has it narrowed down quite well already.

Beleriand
During the offseason brothers Angrod and Aegnor were giving thought to how much talent was spread throughout all of the Beleriand squads, and realized that merely by stealing a player or two here and there they could put together quite a decent squad, and so they drew up their papers to form team Beleriand.

Their first concern was finding a tall and powerful finisher to go up front, and this need was met nearly immediately when Marach announced his interest in joining. After that pieces began falling into place, with the skilled pair of dwarf craftsman, Gamil Zirak and Telchar, applying, and soon after Halmir and Handir agreed to shore up the defense.

More recently Doriath residents Daeron and Nellas were gladly received onto the team, leaving only two slots to be filled.

Doriath
After such a disappointing tournament last year, King Thingol did what any smart fellow would do in his position- bring the problem to his goddess wife. Soon after Thingol declared Melian co-captain and in charge of recruiting, with the belief that her more personal touch would more easily compel allies to join. And she has proved herself indeed!

First things first she asked her daughter and son-in-law to return to the wood, and they obliged, and for bargain price. And as a surprise bonus, with them came Huan who had apparently missed playing with them and wanted to give it another go. Faithful Mablung signed swiftly as well, putting Doriath well on their way.

In the meantime, Thingol tried to pull his weight by convincing Eol to join, praising his play for last year's champ Gondolin and reminding him how he had been granted Nan Elmoth by Thingol and Melian so long ago.

And then came a great surprise- Carcharoth asked to be let on! It turned out that he and Huan had chatted regularly during the off-season about the possibility of teaming up somewhere, and here he was to prove that it was more than idle talk.

Now there are only three spots open, and rumors are rampant that Melian has been in deep talks with Turin and Beleg, though doubtless it would cost a lot to sign the famous pair.

Dunharrow
The great hold of Helm's Deep often has a team, and so Aldor thought it was high time that the other great hold of Rohan be given a chance to prove its valor.

Many great leaders of Rohan flocked to the banner immediately, including Theoden, Brytta, Walda, and Thengel, and surprisingly Helm himself abandoned his castle and joined them, eager for a fresh start after last year's failing.

Aldor and company are now busy trying out various kings and great men of Rohan, attempting to pick out which players will mesh the best.

Eriador
The men of Arnor always put together a solid feisty squad, including last year's team that upset mighty Valimar in the playoffs. But this year captain Arvedui wanted a squad with more staying power, and more diversity to contend with various monster-laden squads, like last year's Utumno which so easily dismissed them.

To this end Arvedui recruited trolls Bert and Tom to join them, as well as the great Barrow-Wight himself. Evidently Barrow-Wight was through playing with Bombadil, as the cold ghost believed the Master was just not focused enough despite his talent and would never quite win it big.

After signing more familiar faces such as clutch scorer Araphor and the solid Argeleb and Valandur, Arvedui managed to entice King Aragorn to play up front for Eriador. Word is the squad will be completed and practicing by tomorrow.

Esgaroth
Girion is leading the way this year, and no surprise he was joined quickly by dwarves such as Thorin, Balin, and Dain, who have lent their spending weight to the team. Representing men are Bard and Brand, and Galion the elf has joined as well.

But it is the more recent signing of spider stars Attercop and Tomnoddy that has created the greatest stir- primarily it has infuriated the dwarves, once held captive by the spiders. Girion has insisted that in the absence of Smaug, Beorn, and other such beasts he really needed to bring in some more monster-like players to add the intimidation and different skill sets, but as of now the dwarves remain in opposition and refuse to open their pocket-books for additional signings until the spiders are gone.

Gondor
In the early stages of planning it looked likely that King Aragorn would captain the Gondor squad, but unexpectedly he left for Eriador and Queen Arwen was named in his place. She says that there are no problems between them, and that her husband merely has a need to travel and compete under various guises in various places.

It came as a surprise to no one that Eorl and his horse Felarof soon joined, as he has always been ready to ride to Gondor's aid. Gondorin mainstays such as Romendacil, Ostoher, and Eldacar were signed early on as well, and more recently Ecthelion II and Boromir I have joined, making the team nearly complete.

Himring
Maedhros and Fingon, those two legendary BFFs, are together again, co-captaining a squad at Maedhros's fortress. Various men pledged to the sons of Feanor have announced their intentions to sign, and Maedhros has confirmed that his brothers Maglor, Amrod, and Amras are also on board, and for less than might be expected in order to leave some room for potential last minute signings.

Hithlum
The great Hador was set on captaining a team of his own in Hithlum from the start, but signings were quite slow, until something unexpected happened.

Those two inseparable sons of Feanor, defensive stars Celegorm and Curufin, approached Hador with a proposition- allow them to play up front on offense for a change and they would sign with the team. Recognizing their talent and the potential to draw in others with the publicity they'd create, Hador agreed, and soon interested parties were showing up.

Since then Hador has signed Aradan, Imlach, Galdor, and others to his side, and things are really coming together for Hador and company.

Minas Morgul
After trying a year apart last season, Castamir and Beruthiel are back with the Witch King's Minas Morgul squad, and soon they were joined by familiar faces such as the King of the Dead, Earnur, Angamaite, and Sangahyando.

Word is The Witch King has been outbid for the services of his friend Khamul, but there are rumors that other Nazgul are looking to sign with Minas Morgul in his place.

Minas Tirith
This year's Minas Tirith squad is captained by Cirion. He hoped early on that Eorl would come to his aid as of old, but Queen Arwen nabbed him for Gondor instead. However, in his place came another ruler of Rohan- Eomer.

This started the pebbles falling, and soon he was joined by two of his generals Elfhelm and Grimbold, and then by his sister Eowyn and her husband Faramir, and then Eomer's father-in-law Imrahil. After a couple more signings this team will be ready to roll.

Mithrim
Tuor was asked to join Gondolin, Hithlum, and others, but he decided he would prove his mettle by forming his own squad this year. With few backers the attempt looked likely to fail, but his old friend Annael agreed to help immediately, and his relatives came to his aid as well- Morwen, Nienor, and Aerin.

Tuor is still working on finalizing his squad, but he isn't worried about gaining the necessary numbers.

Mordor
No one doubted that there would be a team Mordor once again, but no one ever stepped up to take the captaincy. In the meantime, mainstays such as various Nazgul, Grishnakh, and Shelob signed up to play with the officially non-existent squad.

In time the Arda Cup Committee decided that they would declare the team formed despite the lack of a captain, and soon the team was full. In an interesting move, Grishnakh suggested that the Silent Watcher be recruited to play as keeper, turning away shots with force of will. Everyone is anxious to see how that will turn out.

Nargothrond
With both Finrod and Orodreth gone to play in the Blessed Realm, Finduilas has taken over management of the guarded realm.

Elves Arminas, Gelmir, and Guillen signed early on, and Beor and members of his clan accepted contracts quite early as well. There appears to be one remaining spot on the squad, but Finduilas has refused to say why she has kept the spot open with so many wishing to be a part of Nargothrond.

Numenor
The formation of this team is a similar story to that of Mordor. With the usual captains gone to other squads, Numenor became a collection of unified talent. Ar Zimrathan, Ar Gimilzor, Tar Miriel, and others signed early, but they kept a handful of slots open just in case any of their great leaders had a change of heart. With recent developments in mind regarding team Westernesse however, it is expected that Numenor will soon round out their squad.

Shire-Bree United
Mayor Samwise was elected to lead the Shire squad, and he immediately sent a message to Breeland asking if they'd be interested in a joint squad. The Bree dwellers enthusiastically received the message, and Shire-Bree United was born.

His lifelong friends Frodo, Merry, and Pippin were with it immediately, as was Butterbur, Ferny, and Harry. There are only a couple of slots left now, and there has been much debate as to which hobbits or men will receive them now that it has been confirmed that Bombadil has a team of his own this time around.

The Downer
Some residents of Middle Earth have never been pleased with the inclusion of alternate universe Downers & Werewolves in the Arda Cup, and these folks now have yet another reason to be angry, as Arda Cup officials have allowed captain Hookbill and his band of cartoon minions a place in the tournament.

Armed with a huge bag of fake paper money, Hookbill has signed nearly all of The Downer's biggest stars, like Alien, Lalwende MP, John Fillis, Burnt Bert, Peter Hampton, and even the Soap Pope.

This team was put together top to bottom as early as any, but no one knows what to expect from them. We'll have to wait and see.

The Forest
Unbelievably Tom Bombadil has shown some real motivation this year. Usually he spends the off-season running about chasing rainbows and signs with someone late for little money, but this time around he said that he would be master of his own squad.

The Ents and Entwives requested to help him immediately, and Tom was happy to receive them, offering to sing them into shape in no time. Tom also signed Haleth of Brethil forest in the early going, as well as Saeros of Doriath after it became apparent that he wouldn't have a spot with his home squad.

Recently the team was filled up by gaining Thranduil of Mirkwood, who had little interest in other squads.

Tirion
Co-captains Finwe and Aule were determined to better last year's strong performance, but they've encountered a good deal of poor fortune.

As has been reported by AKM, annual scoring stars Miriel and Nerdanel have been lured away by team Valinor, and rumor is that Feanor is unlikely to return as well. But not all is bleak for Tirion, as Finrod and Orodreth signed to play for their grandfather only last week, and regulars Mahtan and Finarfin have signed as well.

More encouraging is the addition of Aredhel, who has been to three consecutive finals and won two of them. For the remaining spots, most believe Finwe is attempting to dig up some new talent from the Noldor's deep talent pool.

Tol Eressea
As touched upon by AKM, Ulmo is away from the rest of the Valar yet again- this time captaining the Tol Eressea squad. After his success with Vanyamar last season, why not try something similar again?

Many great lovers of the sea such as Tar Aldarion, Amandil, Earwen, and Elwing have joined Ulmo's Maia helpers Osse, Uinen, and Salmar to put together a loyal team, and Ulmo has already commenced full practices, focusing on defense first per last year's philosophy.

Wilderland
Disappointed by the performance of Barad-Dur last season, Sauron has ventured out into the wider expanse of Wilderland in an attempt to recruit a greater array of talent, and with his deep pockets it's no surprise that he's found plenty of willing help.

His pitch to Smaug and Scatha for playing side by side was received enthusiastically, and his recruitment of the Blue Wizards was swift and without complication as well. More recently he has managed to buy Khamul away from Minas Morgul and lure Bolg out of the mountains, and several sources say that deals with Radagast and Grimbeorn are in the works.

Boromir88

06-12-2011, 12:29 AM

LATEST ROSTER DEVELOPMENTS
BoroLXXXVIII, Two Towers Network (TTN)

Another Great River springs unity

This is something the Arda Cup prides itself on, football unites. It unites all the peoples and races of distant lands, and can bring old friends together. In an attempt to copy on the early sucesses of the Gelion in last years tournament, this year sees the formation of the Anduin.

Fram, Earnil II, and Beorn had become good drinking pals in past Arda Cups, so instead of only meeting up whenever the tournament was taking play, the three realized they all lived on the Anduin and thus could form their own team! It was decided immediately the three would return to their respective homes to begin recruitments. It was also decided, since this would be a diverse team, uniting the peoples populating the whole length of the Great River that Fram and Earnil II would be co-captains.

Beorn had no issues with this arrangement and has made a hard push to sign Grimbeorn. However, no confirmation as to where the Old Bear-Man will sign has come yet, since reports say Sauron is making a nice offer to Grimbeorn also.

Fram had little trouble recruiting Frumgar and Leod to the team, and they were the first to sign. From Gondor Earnil II, has brought one of it's great Ship-Kings, Falastur, and Telumehtar Conqueror of Umbar. Mysteriously Rumil and Orophin came looking for open spots, as rumor says they were feeling spurned by the direction Galadriel was leading Lothlorien in.

Long-time member of Moria, Durin, also approached Fram to sign with the Anduin. What reasons could have driven Durin out from under his mountain!? Fram was reluctant at first, since he has a rocky history with the dwarves, but was swayed by Beorn, who personally vouched for Durin.

The Spirit awakens in Caradhras

The Misty Mountains (and formerly Moria) has a history of fielding solid and the most brutal talent possible. However bitter tensions between dwarves and baddies often led to not only rows between Moria's fanbase, but lots of in-fighting with the team.

The Misty Mts wanted to stick with their hard-hitting and sinister personality, and it was decided that Saruman should come in to lead the team to better fortunes. Saruman has his only metal to prove after his past failures with Isengard, and most recent failure at Bywater. It was clear Saruman could no longer stomach the fool Gandalf, as 5 minutes after Bywater's loss to Mithrim in the first round of the playoffs last year, Saruman held a press conference ripping his former friend and fellow wizard: "Gandalf's love of the halfling's leaf has clearly been the main factor in his diminishing skills" and "He must have purchased boots a few sizes too big, as those were the worst passes I ever had the displeasure of trying to receive."

Once Saruman was placed as the new Head of the Misty Mts he went straight to work in a massive rebuilding effort in bringing in players, and pushing out those who did not fit the team mold, which is sure to be bruising, evil, and cunning. His first move was bringing back hometown-favorite Durin's Bane. The Balrog had loved Moria as his home much more than Angband. However, the problem of Durin still remained, as it was proven in 2009 that those two simply could not play together. This was not a difficult decision for Saruman, force Durin out and insert his Bane, that's a swap anyone would accept!

With Durin's Bane on the team, usual suspects Azog, Great Goblin, The Watcher, and William all agreed to stay on. Also surprisingly the eagles Meneldor and Landroval have stayed, trying to repay Azog for his defense of the eagles' unfair treatment by the refs.

Everyone knows Saruman's got a bag of tricks, but this may be the greatest secret he has ever unlocked. Yes, even greater than his breaking of white light. The Misty Mountains have been shaking and rumbling with a glorious and ferocious storm for weeks now. It is being reported that Saruman, with aid from Durin's Bane has discovered the infamous Spirit living within Caradhras! And he plans to put the powerful Mountain Spirit in the goal to turn away shots with swirling winds and harsh snow and ice.

The Elven-Nations strike back

Rivendell and Lothlorien have hit on hard times recently, and the fan discontent has been growing. Many have even called for the Lord Elrond and Lady Galadriel to step down and let more innovative minds run the respective teams. Elrond and Galadriel have become associated with the antiquated belief in defense-first. To prove the critics wrong Elrond and Galadriel have put a lot more effort and money into recruiting this year, and truly have been able to attract better talent.

Elrond has changed the team name to Eregion this year and he made sure to boost the offense first by signing Glorfindel back after Glorfindel's brief stint with Gondolin. And actually, Elrond addressed two problems with one move since the sturdy steed Asfaloth followed his master and will surely boost the defense. The defense was awarded another boost when Celebrimbor said he would join. Celebrimbor is truly a master defender and with the defense shored up premier goal scorer and father to Elrond, Earendil, was next to join.

The rest of the team is to be filled by various Elves and Men in the area, as we imagine Erestor, Elladan and Elrohir will all be back. However, there is one new addition, who we are told is making his first Arda Cup experience which has the Eregion fans (particularly the ladies) squeeing and crushing with excitement. Who this player could be we haven't got the slightest idea, but Elrond has tapped into a whole new fanbase of support for Eregion.

And across the mountains Galadriel was hard at work in fielding a competitive team. Fans were getting displeased with Galadriel's insistance on staying with the talent in her own realm and thus this year has gone for players far outside Lorien's borders. But we'll make note that Celeborn, Haldir, and Nimrodel have all stayed with the team.

A big move was made with Galadriel acquiring Gandalf and placing the wizard to head the defensive responsibilities. With Gandalf, also came another great defender from its years in Rohan, Shadowfax. Galadriel always had a mind for defense, but the biggest critiques have been Lothlorien's anemic offense and Galadriel's refusal to bolster it. So, while the two defensive signings were seen as big improvements, Lothlorien fans were still disappointed as the offensive woes were looking likely to continue.

Not so fast, with Gimli back with Lothlorien (and for a very cheap price), the dwarf managed to convince his friend and famed sharpshooter, Legolas to join the team. There are rumors also that Boromir II is planning to sign. Everyone wonders when he will return to one of his home Gondor teams, since it's been years since he's played for them. He has always wanted to play under Aragorn again, however once learning Aragorn would be heading to Eriador and not Minas Tirith, Boromir appears must yet again decide which Elf-ruler he wants to play under. At this point it is unlikely he returns with Rivendell, which leaves either Lothlorien or a possibility of finally returning to Minas Tirith eventhough it is ironically captained by another elf.

The biggest news which has JUST been confirmed in the last few hours. This is true and remember, you heard it from us first NOT AKM. In last years reports rumors were swirling Feanor had in his heart-of-hearts wanted on the Lothlorien team and would play if Galadriel merely gave him a lock of her hair. Galadriel refused and fans were irate. They could have had Feanor! It appears Galadriel has took to heart the storm of hate mail angry fans sent in after reading TTN's report, since Feanor was spotted at the Caras Galadhon training grounds in today's practice. Details of this deal have yet to be told, but both Galadriel and Feanor have agreed to hold a press conference by the weeks end.

Boromir88

06-14-2011, 11:01 AM

LOTHLORIEN PRESS CONFERENCE
BoroLXXXVIII, Two Towers Network

Amid all the offseason speculations of where Feanor would be signing this year, not even Elrond could have forseen this. Well, that's not entirely true since it was TTN last year which reported rumors Feanor had wanted to go to Lothlorien, and only for a lock of her hair, but Galadriel rejected him. Needless to say though, we were still shocked when Feanor was seen arriving at 'The Stadium in Golden Woods' a few days ago. Galadriel invited local reporters up to her talan to answer questions with their most recent signee, Feanor.

Galadriel: First order of business I'd like to answer now, it is true Feanor has been signed to our squad for a lock of my hair. And with that answered, we can start taking other questions.

The Dreamflower Journal: Boro, writer for TTN, reported last year Feanor essentially came to you with the same offer and you turned him down. First, was that true? Second, if so, what changed your mind this year?

Galadriel: Personally I don't pay attention to what people write and say outside of my realm and I won't answer any questions about last year or my past relationship with Feanor. The important thing now is, I understand the fan discontent with Lothlorien's past performances, and I believe signing a striker of Feanor's caliber will address the reasons we haven't fared well in previous tournaments.

The Dreamflower Journal: Ok then, same question to Feanor.

Feanor: The Lady Galadriel is right, all that's important is the present. I will say that 1 of 2 desires in my life has been fulfilled and I believe I'm about to achieve the other one.

The Dreamflower Journal: Can you be more specific about your...desires?

Feanor: Ha you act like I'm full of secrets and surprises. My heart has always been known, just unlike most, I don't fear taking risks to get what I want. I've desired the Arda Cup trophy again since winning it for Formenos in 2008. I want to be the best, and everyone knows the one with the most trophies is the best.

Laurelindorenan Herald: So, by your standards would you say the White Lady of Gondolin is the best player in Arda?

Feanor: Without question I think you have to admit Aredhel is in the discussion. I played with her at Formenos in our championship year, and she is a highly skilled player, definitely one of the best. But the number of championships is only one measurement, I'm just saying it's hard to be viewed as the best if your one championship came several years ago. So every move I make is because I feel it gives me the best opportunity to win a 2nd title.

Laurelindorenan Herald: Let's question some of your moves since your champions in '08. You fielded a team in Hithlum in '09, and lost to Armenolos in the title match. Then in '10 you went to play with your mom and dad in Tuna, and got knocked out in the Round of 8. How do you hope to win a 2nd, when you've come to a team that hasn't made it passed the group phase in any of those years?

Feanor: Listen, in 2009 and 2010 we lost to the most balanced teams in the tournament. Armenolos and Gondolin respectively, who both wound up champions. In both those years, our defenses collapsed in the final minutes. Armenolos and Gondolin had the better defenses, and as you all saw, our failure has been conceding late goals. There's no way you're going to win the title when your defense gives up 2late goals to Ar Pharazon, and 1 late goal to Glorfindel. I came to Lothlorien because Galadriel has already set in place a solid defense, and has always been defensively oriented.

The Celebrant Courier: That's what I wanted to get to. You two have a storied and complicated history with eachother? How will your differing philosophies and clearly different personalities work together now, when they haven't before?

Galadriel: As I've already said I won't get into questions about our past. Feanor and I have the same desires, and our philosophies aren't so dramatically different. Our failures to achieve our goals, we've learned from. I haven't changed my focus on defense, this should be proved since our signings of Gandalf and Shadowfax, two top quality defenders and the return of Gimli, the best defensive-midfielder. However, as Feanor alluded to, you also need to score goals. We will still be focused on the defense, but in the past the inexperience of our strikers meant I'd have to put more MFs forward than what I was willing to commit to create more goals. The problem with pushing the MFs forward is then you lose a step defensively.

Signing Feanor allows for much more flexibility. He can create offense on his own, and will only be more dangerous with continued support from Legolas and Boromir II. Also, signing better defenders allows me the latitude to commit more MFs if needed to get goals, but not lose anything defensively, simly because Gandalf and Shadowfax are better defenders then we've had in the past.

Feanor: I believe I answered this previously, but yes, we've both learned from past mistakes. You can't have a defense which conceded late goals and expect to win the Arda Cup. And if you remember, who captained the defense with Hithlum in 2009? Ulmo. Who captained the defense with Tirion in 2010? Aule. The fact is, the Vala do not want to admit their own fault in banning me, and thus they will do whatever is within their powers to stop me from winning another title. I came to play for a team that fits my philosophy, desires what I desire, and doesn't have a Vala captaining the defense.

The Celebrant Courier: Are you saying Ulmo and Aule purposefully tanked their defensive responsibilities just to stick it to you?

Feanor: What have I said about not conceding late goals? And who conceded those goals late that cost me the match? I rest my case. Believe what you see or not, I won't trust the Valar ever again.

Galadriel: Well, on this, I have to disagree with, but the bottomline is, I have done everything in my powers to make Lothlorien a champion this year. My record speaks for itself, every game I come ready with a determination and expectation to win. And I want players, who game in and game out, play with the same determination and leave it all out on the pitch.

Now, that is all the time we have for questions, as there are a few practices we need to begin.

Galadriel55

06-14-2011, 12:15 PM

With an exclusive interview!

There are questions raised about a former Midfielder of Gorgoroth, one called Gollum. We heard that a long time ago, when he was still called Sméagol, he used to play for Anduin. However, for frequent disappearances from practices, his strict grandmother – who also happened to be the coach and head of the team – kicked him out. He tried his luck at the Misty Mountains, but he did not make a good first impression to the Great Goblin, so he turned him down.

Since then he tried to sign on to a team, but without success. Finally, last year, team Gorgoroth agreed to take him. It wasn’t what Gollum expected, wretched creature. He did not like playing on the team and left as soon as he convinced the ferocious goalkeeper, Shelob, to let him leave. He might have regretted resigning this year, because he was not able to find another team that would take him.

With thanks to Aragorn the Ranger, who helped us find Gollum in the Wilderland, we are able to bring an exclusive interview with him!

Reporter: Which teams have you tried joining?

Gollum: Poor good Sméagol! No one likes him. No one wants him, yess, preciouss. They only kicks him and pokes him: Dwarves, Men, and Elves, terrible Elves with bright eyes, gollum!

Reporter: What experience from past years can you offer a team?

Gollum: Lost, lost! We lost, my preciouss! Losst!

Reporter: How have you preformed with Gorgoroth? What did you do?

Gollum: Ssneaking!!! O yess, my preciouss. We are a sneak.

Reporter: Can you tell me what are you planning to do now?

Gollum: We won’t! Not to you. Gollum, gollum! Don’t look at us! Go away! Go to sleep!

Kuruharan

06-14-2011, 12:21 PM

By: Kuruharan, son of Khoreth, Underground

Lorien -

The Arda Cup…an exciting extravaganza celebrating the way sport can bring the world together or a vehicle of debauchery for footballers and those who mooch off of them?

As many of you are no doubt completely unaware, the ravages of cultural rot in our society were set to new lows during the last Cup by such names as Coleen Balrog #4 (wife of Balrog #4), Cheryl Ancalagon (wife of Ancalagon), and the raunchy arch-diva herself Victoria “Rich Parsley” Sauron (who needs no introduction). But never fear, ladies and gentledwarves, The Underground is here and our cracked reporters have brought to light shocking allegations of uncontrolled shopping sprees, wild parties and unlicensed balloon stands that raged throughout the course of last year’s Cup.

Indeed, during last year’s Cup one alcohol fueled international shopping binge ultimately spanned 8 nations, cost 3 million gold, 5 dead and 26 wounded. Over the course of this spree The Underground has learned Coleen Balrog #4 bought a pair of sunglasses so large she toppled over when she put them on and Cheryl Ancalagon had to buy a handbag so enormous it required a dozen Haradrian slaves to carry…all for the purpose of holding Coleen’s sunglasses.

But most shocking of all is the charge that during last year’s championship match Victoria “Rich Parsley” Sauron ran a charity juice stand that cost so much money to operate her husband Sauron had to take out a mortgage on Cirith Ungol.

One of our reporters recently questioned Sauron regarding these allegations. He had this to say:

Sauron: Who are you and what are you talking about?! I’m not married! I’ve never heard of a “Rich Parsley” and I’ve never taken a mortgage out Cirith Ungol! You’ll be hearing from my lawyers!

Clearly a man hopelessly lost to love and in the deepest depths of denial about the costs of his wayward spouse’s wasteful lifestyle.

Will such decadence lead to Sauron and his Wilderland squad losing their chance at the Arda Cup? Only time will tell.

the phantom

06-14-2011, 12:42 PM

Groups

GROUP A
Doriath
Himring
Shire-Bree United
Tirion

GROUP B
Anduin
Esgaroth
Misty Mts
Wilderland

GROUP C
Angband
Angfauglith
Hithlum
The Downer

GROUP D
Barad-Dur
Eregion
Eriador
Gondor

GROUP E
Mordor
Nargothrond
The Forest
Tol In Gaurhoth

GROUP F
Mithrim
Numenor
Tol Eressea
Westernesse

GROUP G
Beleriand
Gondolin
Pelori
Valinor

GROUP H
Dunharrow
Lothlorien
Minas Morgul
Minas Tirith

Rosters

Anduin
GK Fram
DF Frumgar
DF Rumil
DF Orophin
MF Falastur
MF Calimehtar
MF Durin
MF Leód
MF *Beorn
FW Telumehtar
FW Earnil II

Angband
GK **Ungoliant
DF Drauglin
DF Balrog #1
DF *Balrog #2
DF **Morgoth
MF Balrog #3
MF Ulfang
MF *Tilion
FW Telvildo
FW Thuringwethil
FW *Ancalagon

Angfauglith
GK Huor
DF Rochallor
DF Balrog #4
DF *Balrog #5
DF **Fingolfin
MF Rían
MF Azaghål
MF Ecthelion
FW Gwindor
FW *Maeglin
FW *Gothmog

Barad-Dur
GK Ohtar
DF Fellbeast #1
DF Nazgul #1
DF Gothmog II
DF Anarion
MF Shagrat
MF Fellbeast #2
MF Mouth
MF Cirdan
MF *Gil-galad
FW Isildur

Beleriand
GK Halmir
DF Bregor
DF Daeron
DF Handir
DF Gamil Zirak
MF Nellas
MF Telchar
MF Aegnor
MF Belegund
MF Angrod
FW Marach

Doriath
GK **Huan
DF Carcharoth
DF Elwe
DF *Beren
DF **Melian
MF Mablung
MF Luthien
MF *Eol
MF *Hurin
FW Beleg
FW **Turin

Dunharrow
GK Aldor
DF Hama
DF Brego
DF Snowmane
DF Theoden
DF Walda
MF Folca
MF Thengel
MF Brytta
MF Theodred
FW Helm

Eregion
GK **Elrond
DF Asfaloth
DF Valandil
DF Erestor
DF *Celebrimbor
MF Lindir
MF Elladen
MF Figwit
MF Elrohir
MF *Glorfindel
FW *Earendil

Eriador
GK Arvedui
DF Tom
DF Valandur
DF Bert
DF Amlaith
MF Argeleb
MF Halbarad
MF Aranarth
MF Barrow-Wight
MF *Aragorn
FW Araphor

Esgaroth
GK Brand
DF Mayor
DF Balin
DF Thorin
MF Galion
MF Attercop
MF Bain
MF Tomnoddy
MF Girion
FW Dain
FW Bard

Gondolin
GK *Rog
DF Penlod
DF Galdor
DF Meleth
DF Thorondor
MF Elenwe
MF Salgant
MF Idril
MF *Turgon
FW Duilin
FW Egalmoth

Gondor
GK *Ecthelion II
DF Romendacil
DF Felarof
DF Boromir I
MF Folcwine
MF Narmacil
MF Ostoher
MF Turambar
MF *Arwen
FW Eldacar
FW Eorl

Himring
GK Maglor
DF Uldor
DF Amrod
DF Ulwarth
DF Amras
MF Borlach
MF Ulfast
MF Borthond
MF Bór
FW Fingon
FW *Maedhros

Hithlum
GK Imlach
DF Baragund
DF Lorgan
DF Algund
DF Galdor
MF Gloredhel
MF Gundor
MF Aradan
FW Celegorm
FW Curufin
FW Hador

Lothlorien
GK *Galadriel
DF Amroth
DF Shadowfax
DF Celeborn
DF **Gandalf
MF Gimli
MF Nimrodel
MF Haldir
MF Boromir II
MF Legolas
FW **Feanor

Minas Morgul
GK Earnur
DF Nazgul #2
DF Angamaite
DF Sangahyando
DF *Nazgul #3
MF Fuinur
MF Herumor
MF King Dead
FW Beruthiel
FW Castamir
FW *Witch King

Minas Tirith
GK Cirion
DF Grimbold
DF Firefoot
DF Denethor II
DF Beregond
MF Elfhelm
MF Imrahil
MF Eowyn
MF Faramir
FW Tarondor
FW Eomer

Misty Mts
GK Caradhras
DF Chief Wolf
DF Landroval
DF Meneldor
DF Watcher
MF Great Goblin
MF William
MF Narvi
MF Saruman
MF *Durin’s Bane
FW Azog

Mithrim
GK Tuor
DF Sador
DF Brodda
DF Gethron
DF Grithnir
DF Annael
MF Aerin
MF Morwen
MF Asgon
MF Nienor
FW Andróg

Mordor
GK Silent Watcher
DF Gollum
DF Nazgul #4
DF Radbug
DF *Nazgul #5
MF Gorbag
MF Snaga
MF Nazgul #6
MF Grishnakh
MF *Nazgul #7
FW Shelob

Nargothrond
GK Barahir
DF Baran
DF Guilen
DF Gelmir
DF Arminas
MF Mim
MF Gildor
MF Emeldir
MF *Glaurung
MF Finduilas
FW Beor

Numenor
GK Silmariën
DF Tar Meneldur
DF Tar Cirytan
DF Tar Calmacil
DF *Ar Zimrathan
MF Tar Elendil
MF Ar Gimilzor
MF Tar Ancalimon
MF Vardamir
MF *Tar Miriel
FW Tar Surion

Pelori
GK *Manwe
DF Gwaihir
DF Nahar
DF Nienna
DF *Namo
MF Vana
MF Orome
MF Irmo
MF Ilmare
MF *Varda
FW Eonwe

Shire-Bree United
GK Butterbur
DF Harry
DF Bill
DF Lumpkin
DF Ferny
MF Gerontius
MF Frodo
MF Samwise
MF Pippin
FW Bandobras
FW Merry

The Downer
GK King Bus
DF Soap Pope
DF Burnt Bert
DF Philip Hampton
MF John Fillis
MF Morsul
MF Lalwende MP
MF Saucepan Man
MF Peter Hampton
MF Hookbill
FW Alien

The Forest
GK Old Man Willow
DF Haleth
DF Fimbrethil
DF Treebeard
MF Goldberry
MF Quickbeam
MF Skinbark
MF River Woman
FW Saeros
FW Thranduil
FW *Bombadil

Tirion
GK Orodreth
DF Elemmakil
DF Elemmírë
DF Caranthir
DF *Aule
MF Enerdhil
MF Finarfin
MF Mahtan
MF *Finrod
FW Aredhel
FW Finwe

Tol Eressea
GK Amandil
DF Tar Aldarion
DF Osse
DF *Salmar
DF *Ulmo
MF Voronwe
MF Lindo
MF Eriol
MF Earwen
MF Elwing
FW Uinen

Tol In Gaurhoth
GK ShastaWolf
DF KuruWolf
DF NilpWolf
DF *SkipWolf
MF GaladWolf
MF SallyWolf
MF InzilWolf
MF *PhantomWolf
FW GwathWolf
FW NerWolf
FW *NogWolf

Valinor
GK Ingwe
DF Indis
DF Vaire
DF Tulkas
MF Nessa
MF Este
MF Yavanna
MF Olwe
FW Nerdanel
FW *Miriel
FW Arien

Westernesse
GK *Tar Atanamir
DF Tar Palantir
DF Elendil
DF Malbeth
DF **Tar Telperien
MF Hyarmendacil
MF Mardil
MF Ar Adunakhor
FW Tar Minastir
FW Elros
FW Ar Pharazon

Wilderland
GK Grimbeorn
DF Great Warg
DF Alatar
DF Oropher
DF *Pallando
MF Radagast
MF Bolg
MF Khamul
FW Smaug
FW *Sauron
FW Scatha

the phantom

06-14-2011, 12:43 PM

As always, all of the Arda Cup squads will be playing a few friendlies in order to get used to their new pieces and shake the rust off. The first round of friendlies-

Anduin vs Misty Mts
Angband vs Minas Morgul
Angfauglith vs Himring
Barad-Dur vs Westernesse
Beleriand vs Mithrim
Doriath vs The Forest
Dunharrow vs Mordor
Eregion vs Wilderland
Eriador vs Numenor
Esgaroth vs Shire-Bree United
Gondolin vs Hithlum
Gondor vs Minas Tirith
Lothlorien vs Valinor
Nargothrond vs The Downer
Pelori vs Tirion
Tol Eressea vs Tol In Gaurhoth

Nogrod

06-14-2011, 01:50 PM

Our star reporter Ugr Nogrendale has gone completely over the top now - unless he was that already. Now he wishes to be called Hunter U. Nogson. But the AKM wil grant him that so long as he can bring us the interviews with the stars.

Public disclaimer: the views expressed in all of Hunter U. Nogson's stories are not those of the AKM and the AKM bears no legal responsibilty for them. In any legal matters you should contact his lawyer and not us.

~*~

Halfwits with halflings by Hunter U. Nogson.

The food was crap and the service was slow. And it seemed that the crowd was straight from a flea-circus; ragged, tagged and bagged with age - stinking foul and drinking only to get drunk. The guys, and I mean it was mostly males there, had clearly already forgotten any other joys of life, like getting closer to the fairer but meaner sex... Heh, I merged in nicely with this bunch of losers.

But the ale saved my day. It is no hoax that there is indeed some wizardry in the Prancing Pony's beer. The foam was light and soft but had staying-power to beat any brew made in Edoras. The taste was hoppy and a bit crispy, nicely bitter, but still refreshing like any best labels from Eregion, ancient or contemporary. And it really kicked, like any the beorning master-brewers made on the hay-day of their art. It had all those qualities in a single brew. It was strong... and cheap.

And there the countdown to my fall started this time.

I had decided for good to make a professional interview this time as with some luck my agent had managed to deal a sit-down with none others but Frodo and Sam themselves, the heroes of the Middle-Earth - and exclusive to the AKM, by me! I had even prepared myself for it, looking for tough questions going through their personal histories and the history of football in these lost lands behind not only Valar's back, but behind any civilization's grasp whatsoever. But I was having my seventh pint when the duo finally arrived, sweating from their practises.

After the required "how do you do's" I decided to go straight to the bussiness while they were ordering some sausages and ham with Ithilien taters.

"It sure is remarkable, something the footballing Arda has been looking forwards; to see you four heroes of the M-E playing for the same team. It sure will be a commercial success and the stadiums will be sold out... and you'll be having fat wallets after all this is over, but do you really think you have qualities to compete in this year's competition for real? Is there any one team you could challenge for good?"

That was a worst starter anyone could have begun with. Let me tell any beginning journalists reading this story, what not to do when interviewing a decent hobbit.

a) Never make him understand you think he is doing something he loves for money, fame or vanity.
b) Never doubt his qualities: the hobbits have just gotten over the scorn of other nations disregarding them as insignificant little-men and they don't like to be reminded of that scorn.
c) Never, ever, doubt their personal integrity or honour (or the quickness of their temper underlying the jovial surface).

To my luck Frodo was the less offended of the two and he was able to pull Sam back from his bench as he was coming straight at me over the table. He would have beaten me for good, that I do allow him.

"You have your recorder on, Mr. Nogson?" Frodo asked after taming Sam, giving him a pint to mind.

I nodded, still shaky about the violent leap of master Samwise, reaching for my pint.

"Maybe you can edit your story when you're more sober... so I can answer your questions. I can see what you're hinting at with this being a lucrative deal, but trust me," and here he looked at me straight into the eye with the stare of an innocent hobbit, "that's not the case. We gathered together last autumn, the four of us, and reviewed our mediocre performances last year in different teams and we really came upon a strong urge to play together, for ourselves, and for our homeland. We really missed heart last year. Now our hearts beat together, and together we're strong. No friend left behind, you know?"

With Frodo's soothing voice recounting all those press-conference niceties I started to calm down and even my hands weren't trembling that much any more that I managed to take a long draught of my pint without spilling a lot of it to my breast. "Gandalf and Shadowfax were the single best players in team Bywater last year, and even with them the team was sad. Them signing off to Lothlorién you obviously can do nothing about - and I understand your ache for them when the powers - and money - talk. But you could have Maggott? He was basically the only player in the field to play on a quality-level! Why is he not in? Was he getting too self-conscious to you four comebacks? Do you have a inferiority complex with old Maggott Mr. Frodo?"

Now even Frodo seemed annoyed. "Look Mr. Nogson. If this is going to be an interview, you should watch your language! I will have none of it like this!"

"Well, maybe Mr. Samwise could tell our readers why you have dismissed the single best player of Bywater last year, namely the goalkeeper, your wife, Rosie Cotton? Why is she not tending the goal, why is she not playing at all? She was the clear MVP of the team Bywater last year and a quality-keeper in any M-E standards. And you're putting Butterbur between the poles instead? Are you guys freaking mad or is it because you don't want anyone to outshine you, not the least your wife?"

That was it. Sam jumped over the table and started pounding me with his fists, and Frodo seemed to be in no mood to stop him this time - nor were the other customers or the staff of that wretched inn with heavenly beer.

The next morning I woke up bruised in my bed where someone clearly had carried me. I remembered little of the night before but the recorder told me more I wished to hear. Now sitting on my bed I'm finishnig my report from the Prancing Pony.

Say whatever they say. The stats of the Fantastic Four from last year are sad to look at (Frodo / Ithilien -1, Sam / Ithilien +4, Merry / Rohan 0, Pippin / Minas Anor 0). But so am I.

Anyway. From last year's team Bree they have lost like 50 phantasypoints while the combined phantasypoints of the Fabulous Four they brought in is 3 points...

So let me express my doubts as to Shire-Bree Utd.'s success this year. I do not make this verdict totally ignoring the ache in my jaw and sides, but I still am sincere - even if not totally sober yet.

Hunter U. Nogson

Boromir88

06-14-2011, 02:15 PM

FRIENDLIES - ROUND 1 PREDICTIONS
Two Towers Network

As is customary, I love making predictions and for new phantasy members we've added matches called friendlies last year, and I'm pleased to see them again this year. Friendlies don't effect the tournament, and I'll caution they aren't always indicative of a teams success when the tournament begins. Think of the friendlies as warm-ups.

There is no way to tell what will happen when the tournament begins and when all the teams are giving max effort, as during the friendlies the teams won't be playing at full speed or urgency. However, the 4 rounds of friendly matches will let you get a sense of how the teams will play, what strategy they will use to win, and you can begin picking out individual players for your phantasy teams.

And as the friendlies are warm-up matches for the teams to get practice, so they all begin the Arda Cup playing their best. The friendlies offer to me warm-ups to start making predictions, since I have a reputation to uphold. :p I'll predict the scores of Round 1, but only have commentary on a few of them. When the tournament begins, all matches wil have top of the line analysis that you won't get anywhere else.

Some of the matches TTN will be covering and other interesting match ups.

Anduin vs. Misty Mts
Two teams I'm curious to see are facing right at the start. Anduin is newly formed and the diversity of the team will mean it can adjust to different opponents. But the diversity also means it will take some time before all the players are on the same page.

Misty Mts is not new, but they have a lot of new pieces and old faces that need to play together. They are traditionally a very card-heavy team (which means negative phantasy points), but Saruman may bring a bit of cunning that means his defenders may more easily miss the eye of the ref instead of just ramming their shoulders into opponents to bang them up. Also, Caradhras at goal, I want to see how this gamble works for the old wizard.

Esgaroth vs. Shire-Bree United
Smaug has left his former team in ashes, just like he did so many years ago and has departed to play with Sauron and join another formidable dragon, Scatha. How will Esgaroth deal with the loss of their star? Brand's a solid GK and Girion is pretty good. But I don't see much else Dale fans should be thrilled about. Bard and Dain are trying out the FW position for the first time.

I anticipate Shire-Bree United to be one of the interesting teams to keep an eye on. Unusual, yes, because I normally call the hobbits talentless bums. However, with all the Fellowship hobbits gathered together, plus the infusion of Bree players, I anticipate this gathering to play exciting, attacking football. How many goals they get, and how well they do? Only time will tell.

Gondolin vs. Hithlum
Last years champions, Gondolin, have been blown up and seem to be in rebuilding. It's a solid line up, with legendary names, I'm just questioning their firepower. Part of their success was an ability to score goals when they needed, and it came relatively easy with strikers like Maeglin and Aredhel. Those two are gone (so is one of the best MFs - Eol) and they've been replaced by untested players. Also, Turgon's been accused in the past, to play a boring negative style.

Hithlum will be dangerous, don't let the lack of stars fool you. Celegorm and Curufin are normally defenders, but even as defenders they scored goals. Hador is also a goal scoring machine.

Gondor vs. Minas Tirith
I wouldn't have my job anymore if I didn't analyze this match. :rolleyes:

In all seriousness it should be just a fun match to witness, and truly live up to the name of "friendly." Gondor has the more legendary talent, but the Minas Tirith players are very familiar with eachother. Neither team will need to practice on chemistry and playing together, which means you'll likely get treated to some good football. Especially with the MF of Minas Tirith: Eowyn, Imrahil, Faramir...not great individually, but together that makes a formidable MF.

PREDICTIONS
Anduin 1 - 2 Misty Mts
Angband 2 - 1 Minas Morgul
Angfauglith 1 - 1 Himring
Barad-Dur 0 - 2 Westernesse
Beleriand 1 - 0 Mithrim
Doriath 3 - 1 The Forest
Dunharrow 1 - 1 Mordor
Eregion 1 - 1 Wilderland
Eriador 1 - 2 Numenor
Esgaroth 1 - 3 Shire-Bree United
Gondolin 1 - 2 Hithlum
Gondor 2 - 2 Minas Tirith
Lothlorien 1 - 2 Valinor
Nargothrond 1 - 0 The Downer
Pelori 0 - 2 Tirion
Tol Eressea 1 - 3 Tol In Gaurhoth

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-14-2011, 10:46 PM

Sports enthusiasts all over Menel and Cemen are once again abuzz with the upcoming Arda Cup 2011. Here at ArdaCup.com Stats Report we bring you nothing but the numbers and the stats the discerning fan needs to know.

The rosters and the groups have just been released, and so for now ArdaCup.com Stats Report shall content itself with predicting the group winners by counting the stars.

(DISCLAIMER: ArdaCup.com Stats Reports is not in any way affiliated with astrologers. Except when we have no stats. Which we don't have for now.)

Group A:
Doriath and Tirion to advance as first and second, respectively.

Group B:
Wilderland will advance as group leader. Since Anduin and Misty Mountains both have one star, our totally-scientific-and-not-random-at-all coin flip predicts that Misty Mountains will advance as runner-up.

Group C:
Angband and Anfauglith to advance as first and second, respectively.

Group D:
Eregion and Gondor to advance as first and second, respectively.

Group E:
Tol-in-Gaurhoth and Mordor to advance as first and second, respectively.

Group F:
Westernesse will advance as group leader. Since Númenor and Tol Eressëa both have two stars, our totally unbiased writer predicts that Tar-Míriel and Númenor will advance as runner-up.

Group G:
Pelóri and Gondolin to advance as first and second, respectively.

Group H:
Lothlórien and Minas Morgul to advance as first and second, respectively.

Watch out for the next ArdaCup.com Stats Report; we may actually have stats by then.
_____
(This ArdaCup.com Stats Reports has been brought to you by our sponsor Athvelas™. Suffering from headaches due to reading lies, damned lies, and statistics? Take aran-recommended Athvelas™! If symptoms persist consult the Houses of Healing.)

Nogrod

06-15-2011, 11:48 AM

Pelori vs. Tirion

The friendlies are called friendlies for the fact that there is not as much at stake as the teams are not playing for points or qualification, but merely testing their squads and different tactics. That said, the footballing community has learned to expect some level of competition from the friendly games as well, but when Pelori and Tirion met in their first match of the season it was not only “friendly” but at times looked more like a two team joint practice-session.

At times the spectators could see Manwë and Varda chatting with Aulë and Finwë in the center of the field and then adjusting their team’s play according to a plan worked out on the spot. It’s hard to know what the exact deals were, but it was clear to the eyes of any informed onlooker that Aulë had asked Manwë not to send forwards his full force as the Tirion defences are quite inexperienced and need time to adjust to the game. Also it was clear that Pelori turned on their suffocating defence for the second half as to give Tirion’s seasoned but new to the team talent some challenging testing.

As much as the game was walked through in a practice-mode, it was clear that Pelori were a step ahead all the time and were the stronger team overall. Losing the powerhouse trio Miriel, Nerdanel and Fëanor is clearly a mighty blow to team Tirion and Aulë’s decision to leave his post at the goal doesn’t look like the best move he has made as Orodreth didn’t seem to be at home at the goal. But there’s still time before the tournament begins…

Pelori 2-1 Tirion
tot shots 13-13
on target 6-6
GOALS:
*35, 1-0 Varda (Irmo)
*44, 1-1 Aredhel (Finwe)
*72, 2-1 Eonwe (Vana)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Pelori- Nienna, Irmo
*Tirion- Elemmire, Caranthir

Barad Dûr vs. Westernesse

The opposite interpretation of the concept of a friendly game was seen when Barad Dûr and Westernesse clashed in their first game of the season. The proud kings of men left nothing for second-guessing and showed how lonely the Last Alliance boys are at the beginning of the tournament.

Westernesse was more aggressive, more physical, meaner and tougher, and more efficient by a wide margin. They totally dominated the first half an hour and only let the Barad Dûr team breathe after they had scored twice. But unlike many would have guessed, they came to the second half yet again with full force and scored a third goal in less than fifteen minutes. After that they seemed satiated with goals and pulled back to make a rehersal on total team defence taking Barad Dûr out of any space and time in the field freezing their opponents quite sovereignily.

Team Westernesse looks just as formidable a team in reality as it looks on paper. Barad Dûr on the other hand seems to have a difficult road ahead, even if it plays in one of the lousiest groups of this year’s tournament. .

Barad-Dur 0-3 Westernesse
tot shots 7-16
on target 3-8
GOALS:
*14, 0-1 Elros (Mardil)
*29, 0-2 Ar Adunakhor (Hyarmendacil)
*58, 0-3 Ar Pharazon (Ar Adunakhor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Fellbeast #1, Shagrat, Gothmog II
*Westernesse- Hyarmendacil, Ar Pharazon, Elendil

Anfauglith vs. Himring

Anfauglith and Himring met in an amicable athmosphere, the Balrog’s of course play it quite rough every time they are released to the field, but even they didn’t seem to be in the liking of butchering their enemies. But even if most of the players were clearly in the gentleman-mode, there was no question about which team was calling the shots in the field.

Maedhros had decided to try and make his defenders mark the star-scorers of Anfauglith man to man. In general opinion that was thought equaling with throwing them to the wolves – and that was also the end-result with Maeglin scoring twice, Gwindor once and Gothmog only near missing it a few times. With the defence-material he has at his disposal Maedhros would do well to opt for other tactics, at least against strong scoring teams.

But the match also proved that Himring has potential. Managing to make 10(5) shots and one goal against a defence built on the cream of the last year’s defences of Gondolin and Utumno and Huor on goal is no small feat.

Angfauglith 3-1 Himring
tot shots 15-10
on target 7-5
GOALS:
*21, 1-0 Maeglin (Ecthelion)
*42, 2-0 Gwindor (Gothmog)
*61, 2-1 Maedhros (Borthond)
*82, 3-1 Maeglin (Fingolfin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfauglith- Balrog #4, Azaghal
*Himring- Ulfast

Beleriand vs. Mithrim

There is not a lot to report from the sunny afternoon game between Beleriand and Mithrim. The game was quite friendly and fairly even unlike the numbers would let one understand. The greatest difference between the teams was in the efficiency of their shooting where Beleriand managed to put seven shots in between the posts from the twelve attempts it had while Mithrim only got four to the target.

Beleriand wasn’t exactly pressing to gain twice the two goal lead it did as Marach made it 2-0 after a corner and Angrod could thank the Mithrim defence for his 3-1 as he got totally free against Maglor when Uldor as the lowest defender tripped down.

Neither team made an impression and it’s hard to say whether the high number of shots both were able to produce were because of the goodness of their forwards or the sloppiness of their defences. The next friendlies should make us wiser on that issue.

Beleriand 3-1 Mithrim
tot shots 12-12
on target 7-4
GOALS:
*38, 1-0 Telchar (Gamil Zirak)
*64, 2-0 Marach (Aegnor)
*71, 2-1 Nienor (Annael)
*78, 3-1 Angrod (Nellas)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Beleriand- Daeron, Gamil Zirak
*Mithrim- Grithnir, Asgon

Doriath vs. The Forest

There’s nothing new under the sun one could say after watching the friendly between Doriath and Forest. The fabulous trio of Túrin, Beleg and Húrin is just as dangerous as it has always been and now backed by the magnificient Eöl we can easily speak about one of the most dangerous attacks this year’s tournament will see. It’s also no news that Tom Bombadill goes with the wind and that the rest of the team just lacks stamina and spirit.

Doriath possessed the ball sovereignily and their passing was admirable. So they more or less had the control of the game throughout. Only at the last fifteen minutes, when Doriath seemed happy to the result and Bombadill had a flurry to play at last, did The Forest create few dangerous opportunities at Doriath’s goal. But then Huan had a chance to show his qualities and made a few spectacular saves.

Doriath will be strong this year but The Forest needs to pull their act together if they wish to advance from the group-stage.

Doriath 3-0 The Forest
tot shots 14-7
on target 9-3
GOALS:
*29, 1-0 Hurin (Turin)
*40, 2-0 Eol (Turin)
*74, 3-0 Beleg (Mablung)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Carcharoth
*The Forest- Saeros, Haleth

Gondolin vs. Hithlum

The meeting of the two totally renewed teams raised a lot of curiosity beforehand and so the stadium was almost full for the first friendly between Gondolin and Hithlum. It tells something of the tradition of football in the great city of Gondolin that when they lost the core of their championship team from last year King Turgon ran to their aid and brought the core of last year’s number two team Vinyamar with him. But Hithlum isn’t bad this year either including some hot names from two well performed teams last year aka. Mithrim and Eithel Sirion. The most watched pair in the field was of course Hithlum’s dynamic duo Celegorm and Curufin who were the undoubtedly best defenders of last year’s tournament – but now they were going to play forwards, on their own request.

The game was very amiable and the teams seemed to be more or less in agreement on letting each other try pressing forwards in turns. Or was it just Turgon’s Gondolin calling the pace being happy to let the others try after they had scored to go ahead? Supporting that conclusion would be the fact that it looked quite clear that Turgon had decided not to commit to the defence fully, thus testing his backlines.

After Hithlum’s equalizer to two goals each, it seemed Turgon decided to press for a winner but then Imlach started showing his qualities at the goal and denied the Gondolinians from a victory that hung in the air the last twenty minutes.

Even if Celegorm scored one goal and Curufin pulled two assists, they seemed quite upset after the game complaining that they were not fed with enough with the ball to make a difference. Hador needs to walk the balance of keeping his stars happy without frustrating the rest of the team.

Gondolin 2-2 Hithlum
tot shots 17-11
on target 8-6
GOALS:
*22, 1-0 Turgon (Duilin)
*37, 1-1 Hador (Curufin)
*55, 2-1 Egalmoth (Idril)
*63, 2-2 Celegorm (Curufin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondolin- Salgant
*Hithlum- Gundor, Curufin, Lorgan

Lothlorien vs. Valinor

It can be announced that Galadriel’s steal of Fëanor to play for Lothlorien was one of the hottest news in this year’s trading, but even a player like Fëanor can’t win the games alone if no one feeds him the ball. Used to be fed by players like Miriel, Nerdanel and Finwë last year it is easy to see him getting frustrated this season unless something changes dramatically with team Lothlorien. The seriousness of the situation is nicely marked by the fact that the only decent opportunity Lothlorien had at scoring came from Fëanor outrunning the field by himself on a long ball from defence. Galadriel’s team really needs to practice building attacks, and Legolas and Boromir need to do some target-practise...

Valinor on the contrary seemed confident and they moved the ball effortlessly up and down the field letting the ball do the work for them. Miriel and Nerdanel scored one each making a good start for their season. With that kind of team behind them it’s relatively easy to predict these ladies to end up in the top ten of scorers this year, once again.

Lothlorien 0-2 Valinor
tot shots 7-11
on target 2-6
GOALS:
*39, 0-1 Nerdanel (Miriel)
*75, 0-2 Miriel (Yavanna)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Lothlorien- Shadowfax, Boromir II, Feanor
*Valinor- Arien

Nargothrond vs. The Downer

The Downer is the odd team for everyone following the games this year – but it seems also their playing style is very odd. When any reasonable team would have backed down they rushed forwards and vice versa. They were also very physical, and not always within the limits of the rules (see the five bookings they earned, in a friendly game!).

The weird style of the team took Nargothrond by surprise and actually led to both of their goals – and conversely to the final equalizer by Finduilas. It will be interesting to see both whether they will continue this carnevalistic game of theirs and how other teams will adjust their game to play them.

On other news it is to be reported that after leading the disasterous defence of Thangorodrim last year resulting in total failure, Glaurung seems to be much more happy & alive back in a more attacking role this year. The bad news for Thangoridrim is Barahir’s performance at the goal. The Downer managed three shots on goal and scored twice letting Barahir to save only one shot! With that level of goaltending there is no chance for the team whatsoever even if the second place in their group is up for grabbing to any decent team.

Nargothrond 2-2 The Downer
tot shots 12-13
on target 5-3
GOALS:
*21, 1-0 Glaurung (Emeldir)
*38, 1-1 Saucepan Man (Peter Hampton)
*61, 1-2 Hookbill (John Fillis)
*77, 2-2 Finduilas (Gildor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Nargothrond- Arminas, Mim, Guilen
*Downer- Soap Pope, Morsul, Lalwende, Philip Hampton, Alien

Boromir88

06-15-2011, 11:56 AM

*Note: The match reports for the tournament will be far more narrational and in-depth. You'll pretty much get every goal scored and all the juicy, fun stories through the duration of the game.

For the friendlies, expect shorter, and more general summaries like how the teams played against eachother, what parts of their team were they working on, and of course some of the players who performed the best (or not so well).

Friendlies - Round 1

Anduin vs. Misty Mts

This was a pretty standard friendly as both teams tested out some of their new pieces, and also because these two are in the same group. Misty Mts were clearly holding back on their defensive aggression (3 yellows is low for them!)While Anduin did push the attack, and score 2 goals, you'd have to say the Misty Mts let Anduin take their cracks on goal so they could measure the new keeper, Caradhras.

The Misty Mts offense looks to be clicking well already. They only pushed forward after falling behind both times, and had a relatively easy time generating offense whenever they wanted. Proven by Durin's Bane and Saruman's ability to equalize scoring within 10 minutes, after falling behind both times.

Anduin 2-2 Misty Mts
tot shots 14-9
on target 7-6
GOALS:
*25, 1-0 Telumehtar (Durin)
*29, 1-1 DBane (Saruman)
*63, 2-1 Beorn (Leod)
*70, 2-2 Saruman (Azog)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Durin, Orophin, Frumgar
*Misty Mts- Great Goblin, Azog, Watcher

Angband vs. Minas Morgul

Minas Morgul played the more attacking game, but to no avail as they could not capitilize the attacking football with goals. Melkor had his defense playing at a high level, surprising to see in a friendly match, and the Witch-King was unwilling to commit greater effort to get better shots at this stage of the tournament. Despite playing the more aggressive game, Minas Morgul had a difficult time finding the proper space or time in the congested Angband box. Most of team Morgul's shots were forced off target and those that were at goal, the quality goal keeper Ungoliant had no trouble swallowing up. When Angband did have possession they revolved the attack around their star-FW Ancalagon. He was a tank in the center-FW position, getting 2 goals and causing big match up problems for the Minas Morgul defenders.

Angband 3-0 Minas Morgul
tot shots 11-13
on target 6-4
GOALS:
*14, 1-0 Ancalagon (Tilion)
*36, 2-0 Thuringwethil (Telvildo)
*62, 3-0 Ancalagon (Telvildo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Balrog #2, Ulfang
*Minas Morgul- Herumor, Angamaite, Witch King

Eriador vs. Numenor

Neither team played this match with much spirit or emphasis. Even though Bert did get sent off it was a rather poor decision by the ref, if I say so myself. The refs, and to no fault of their own, have always kept a careful eye on the trolls. Although, Bert's 2nd yellow, it probably would have been better if the ref just kept it in his pocket, to let the teams finish off the remaining minutes at full strength. There was nothing particularly sinister with Bert's attempt to push Tar Surion off the ball.

Numenor was the sharper team, as to be expected since the Numenoreans like to involve all 11 of their players in a single concerted team effort. Their style translates to friendly wins, without having to spend a great amount of energy to do so. Arvedui's teams have a tendancy to relax more than most do at this stage, and then raise their game on the big primetime occassions. The trolls definitely looked confused and out of their element, trying to adjust to Arvedui's orders to tone down their normal bruising defensive style.

Eriador 1-2 Numenor
tot shots 11-9
on target 5-6
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Tar Ancalimon (Tar Miriel)
*26, 0-2 Tar Surion (Vardamir)
*65, 1-2 Barrow-Wight (Araphor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eriador- Bert, Halbarad
*Numenor- Tar Elendil, Tar Cirytan
RED CARDS:
*Eriador- Bert (84, second yellow)

Gondor vs. Minas Tirith

As it was believed when this match was announced, it would be a "friendly" in all meanings of the word. Both teams played extremely polite, having long time friends on the opposing team. The first half the attending crowd was disappointed, as the game looked like something you'd have in your backyard, at a party, with friends. Arwen and Eowyn were assigned to guard eachother, but they were more often seen casually jogging next to eachother gabbing. About hair products? Moisturizing lotion? Griping about their husbands? Who knows what?

The politeness remained in the 2nd half, but it was far more competitve and pleasing to watch. The crowd was able to witness 4 goals and some good football as the teams decided it was a good idea to get their passing and timing in sync. And when the game was tied, both teams upped their effort to try to gain a lead. Eldacar in particular looked on top form, being involved in all 3 of Gondor's goals, with 2 goals and 1 assist. The squads exited the pitch together, pleased with their play, offering tips and will wishes to their future successes in the tournament.

Gondor 3-2 Minas Tirith
tot shots 15-14
on target 7-6
GOALS:
*36, 0-1 Eomer (Imrahil)
*56, 1-1 Eldacar (Turambar)
*68, 2-1 Arwen (Eldacar)
*77, 2-2 Tarondor (Elfhelm)
*87, 3-2 Eldacar (Eorl)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Narmacil
*Minas Tirith- Eowyn, Denethor II

Kuruharan

06-15-2011, 12:32 PM

By: Chrysophalax Dives, Underground

Umbar-

The Underground recently sat down with the phantom to discuss the upcoming Cup...and some other stuff.

Underground: Thank you for meeting with us today.

the phantom: You're welcome. I am excited to have a new means of sharing myself with my fans!

Underground: How do you feel about your team’s chances in this year’s Cup?

the phantom I feel great! Obviously our fans need have no concerns about my performance on the pitch as I am the living, breathing definition of the word “awesome.”

Underground: What about the rest of your squad?

the phantom: Who? Ha-ha! Just kidding. I have a great supporting cast starting with NogWolf’s ability to argue the opposing defenders into an intellectual corner leaving them befuddled on the pitch and helpless to interfere with his goal scoring. Behind me I have SkipWolf’s ability to utterly bog down the opposing strikers and KuruWolf’s ability to bribe them into being offside.

Underground: You are on record as saying you believe Gandalf’s tactic of uncloaking at the drop of a hat is the most effective offensive tactic ever conceived. Will Tol-in-Gaurhoth be employing this tactic during this year’s Cup?

the phantom: I’m afraid I’m not going to get into specifics of our planned tactics this year. However, everyone can rest assured that our performance will be eye-opening!

Underground: Keeping on the Gandalf theme, isn’t it true that during the offseason, you and Gandalf discussed with each other the possibility of you two playing for the same team?

the phantom: I talk to all kinds of people as I am amazingly popular.

Underground: Isn’t it also true that in spite of your public commitments to never leave the Tol-in-Gaurhoth side, as a result of your chats with Gandalf, you entered into negotiations with Lorien to sign with them?

the phantom: I categorically deny that!

Underground: Which is unfortunate because we have a record of a conversation you had with Galadriel where she said to you, “I do not deny that my heart has greatly desired to ask what you offer.”

the phantom: .........she wasn’t necessarily talking about my signing with her team…

Underground: Can you confirm that your own negotiations to join her fell through when Gimli agreed to sign up, ironically enough, for a lock of hair?

the phantom: No comment.

Underground: Can you confirm or deny rumors that Galadriel has now paid so many players with locks of her hair that she is now, for all intents and purposes, bald?

the phantom: That’s it! This interview is over!

Boromir88

06-15-2011, 02:02 PM

Final set of results for the Round 1 Friendlies!

Dunharrow vs. Mordor

This match was pretty sloppy and slow moving. Both teams seemed content to have a kick around and just practice against an opponent. The shooting was particularly poor from both. There was not much effort to build a sustained attack, but settle for taking long distance snipes on goal, and thus more often then not surrendering possession to the other team. The only difference in this game was the person (or well...thing?) in between the posts. The Silent Watcher's strong will stopped every shot, though any viewer would say the quality of the shots was quite poor, and we'll see if its will is strong enough to stop rockets from the better FWs. Aldor had quite a bit of trouble and whenever the Nazgul were around looked quite nervous in the goal. He may needed to just shake off some rust, because saving 50% will not get the job done in the tournament.

Dunharrow 0-2 Mordor
tot shots 9-10
on target 4-4
GOALS:
*40, 0-1 Grishnakh (Nazgul #7)
*72, 0-2 Nazgul #6 (Nazgul #7)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dunharrow- Brego, Brytta
*Mordor- Shelob, Gorbag, Radbug

Eregion vs. Wilderland

Both teams again looked to be having a practice on the pitch. Sauron was definitely lacking his usual intensity, as he took more to watching and commanding his troops (as he had done from Barad-dur many ages ago), and Celebrimbor wasted his time being assigned to guard him.

The positive news for Wilderland is they look extremely deadly on set pieces, as both goals were scored from corner kicks. Khamul has the leg and accuracy to deliver excellent corners and the two dragons make large targets.

Eregion 1-2 Wilderland
tot shots 10-13
on target 5-7
GOALS:
*13, 1-0 Glorfindel (Elrohir)
*54, 1-1 Smaug (Khamul)
*83, 1-2 Scatha (Khamul)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eregion- Elladan, Valandil
*Wilderland- Scatha, Bolg, Alatar

Esgaroth vs. Shire-Bree United

Another friendly in the sense that the teams were joking and laughing as they were playing against eachother. The fans saw a lot of goals, which is always exciting, but none of them were what I would call "great" goals. Either because the goal keepers were sloppy, or the defenses were uninterested and lackluster, or probably a lot of both.

You can see both teams liked to shoot, and Shire-Bree United a bit more so, but with far less accuracy as they peppered shots from every direction and angle, no matter how unlikely it was to go on target. Esgaroth worked with a better direction to their attacks, instead of everyone just kicking the ball from wherever, you could tell Girion was more methodical by being able to deliver good passes to Bard and Dain.

Esgaroth 3-3 Shire-Bree United
tot shots 13-16
on target 6-7
GOALS:
*11, 1-0 Bard (Girion)
*29, 1-1 Bandobras (Frodo)
*42, 2-1 Bard (Tomnoddy)
*61, 2-2 Frodo (Pippin)
*69, 3-2 Dain (Girion)
*83, 3-3 Merry (Samwise)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Esgaroth- Attercop, Thorin
Shire-Bree- Bandobras, Lumpkin, Ferny

Tol Eressea vs. Tol In Gaurhoth

Both teams, and in particular Tol in Gaurhoth, are known for clever trickery and deception, but this match they played it straight forward. My guess is they are saving the deception for when the games mean more and did not want to tip their hands too much.

With that said Tol In Gaurhoth had simply overwhelmed Tol Eressea by the wolves superior athleticism. Ulmo likes to build the attack from the defenders forward, but Tol Eressea simply could not do that against the werewolves who were running all around, harassing the Eressea players. This game could have been a lot uglier had Amandil not made some truly nice saves or had Phantomwolf shown that he cared at all. He was quoted post match saying, "psh - it's just the friendlies."

Tol Eressea 0-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
tot shots 6-13
on target 2-8
GOALS:
*32, 0-1 InzilWolf (GwathWolf)
*64, 0-2 NogWolf (GwathWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Tol Eressea- Osse, Uinen
*Tol In Gaurhoth- GaladWolf, NilpWolf, GwathWolf

Nogrod

06-15-2011, 03:20 PM

Pay heed to these performances after the first round of friendlies...

Goalkeepers:

The Silent Watcher of Mordor
- saved four shots and kept the goal clean.

Manwë of Pelori
- conceded only one goal from six shots against him.

Defences:

T-I-G defence
-let the opponents only to shoot 2(6)

Midfield:

Nazgul #7 of Mordor
- 0+2 and a shut-out

Saruman of Misty Mts. & Frodo of Shire-Bree Utd.
- 1+1 but not too happy to defend...

Forwards:

Eldacar of Gondor
- 2+1

Ancalagon of Angband, Maeglin of Anfauglith and Bard of Esgaroth
- 2+0

Boromir88

06-16-2011, 12:27 PM

FRIENDLIES - ROUND 2 PREDICTIONS
BoroLXXXVIII, Two Towers Network

It appears the players are not the only ones who need to shake off some rust, as my scores were woefully off. But by the time the tournament kicks off, I assure my esteemed readers all the rust will be gone.

Anduin (0-1-0) vs Wilderland (1-0-0)
Anduin comes into Round 2 with a draw against the Misty Mts and Wilderland beat Eregion. Anduin doesn't look like they will be pushovers in this tournament, but an uninterested Sauron still managed to beat Eregion and they should have the same success against Anduin.
Wilderland wins 3-1

Angband (1-0-0) vs Minas Tirith (0-0-1)
Angband's defense came out on fire against Minas Morgul, it'll be interesting to see if Melkor wishes to continue flexing his defensive might in the friendlies or after shutting down the effective Minas Morgul attack if he relaxes.
Angband wins 2-0

Angfauglith (1-0-0) vs Gondolin (0-1-0)
This would be an excellent match if it took place in the tournament. Anfauglith has the better athletes but I think Turgon will continue attacking more and letting the defense stand up on it's own.
Draw 2-2

Barad-Dur (0-0-1) vs The Downer (0-1-0)
I have no idea what The Downer team is going to do for this match, or not to mention what they are going to do 5 minutes from now. There seems to be no rhyme or reason, but that's worked to their benefit since no one else knows what they're going to do either.
The Downer wins 3-2

Beleriand (1-0-0) vs Tol Eressea (0-0-1)
With Ulmo expect Tol Eressea to remain defensive. Now that Angrod and Aegnor and some great dwarven smiths have joined Beleriand, I'm still not sure what to expect. They're in a tough group for sure, but should be better to watch than last years team.
Draw 1-1

Doriath (1-0-0) vs Hithlum (0-1-0)
Doriath is the more expensive team as Thingol really has emptied his pocket book this year. Also they're pretty relaxed under Melian's calm demeanor. Hador already struggling with unhappiness from his stars does not bode well for their chances this year. Still on talent alone, this will be a close game.
Doriath wins 3-2

Dunharrow (0-0-1) vs Eregion (0-0-1)
Both teams come in with a loss, but Eregion at this stage looks like the much better team as Dunharrow still has a lot of practicing to do.
Eregion wins 2-0

Eriador (0-0-1) vs Tol In Gaurhoth (1-0-0)
Eriador's had a tough go getting Numenor and now Tol in Gaurhoth, who looks to play just as aggressive as werewolves past, but much more intelligent.
T-I-G wins 3-1

Esgaroth (0-1-0) vs Lothlorien (0-0-1)
It appears the much talked about purchase of Feanor has signs of backfiring for the Golden Woods. I can't explain it other than Galadriel trying to show this is still her team and thus they will play her style. Where the Lothlorien players may fear going out of their Lady's favour the Esgaroth team is playing very care free.
Draw 2-2

Gondor (1-0-0) vs Westernesse (1-0-0)
I can't imagine Westernesse playing with the same gusto they did against Barad-dur. These are their younger brothers and with former Gondorians like Mardil and Hyarmendacil on team Westernesse they will look kindly upon their kin. While the Gondorians will be awed by the majesty and royalty of the Numenoreans and hope one day to achieve their same glory.
Westernesse wins 2-1

Himring (0-0-1) vs Nargothrond (0-1-0)
Not sure what to make of Himring yet, there's definitely talent with the friendship of Maedhros and Fingon. However, would Maedhros have been better trying to attract better talent instead of relying on the loyalty of Men and the "pledged" loyalty of Uldor's clan? If it's true that Glaurung is happy to be back in Nargothrond, where he can be an attacking MF, this bodes good for them.
Nargothrond wins 2-1

Minas Morgul (0-0-1) vs Mordor (1-0-0)
I can see this match being some pre arranged deal where the teams won't go hard against eachother but will still try to get their practice round in. This one has the makings of a...
Draw 2-2

Misty Mts (0-1-0) vs Pelori (1-0-0)
Pelori tends to have greater motivation against the baddie teams and they are overall better than the Misty Mts. The score won't be a blowout, because Manwe's teams like to eak out "kindly" wins, but the numbers will be heavily scewed in favor of Pelori.
Pelori wins 1-0

Mithrim (0-0-1)vs Tirion (0-0-1)
Tuor's a good keeper, but I can't see this team he's put together working. Sorry, I can't. Androg was good at one time, under Turin's guidance, but he had to be begged out of retirement and I can't see them scoring enough goals. Even if Tirion's lost a lot with the departure of Miriel and Nerdanel, Finwe, Aredhel, and Finrod make a quality attack and should not be taken lightly.
Tirion wins 3-1

Numenor (1-0-0) vs Valinor (1-0-0)
Tulkas has put together a dangerous team (and deadly trio of FWs). I wonder how happy Manwe is with the decension of his Valar? Oh well, doesn't matter because Tulkas will take Valinor farther than Manwe will take Pelori. You can go to the bank with that one.
Valinor wins 2-0

Shire-Bree United (0-1-0) vs The Forest (0-0-1)
This should be an entertaining game as both teams approach to the friendlies is loose and relaxed. Both teams have a history of collapsing under pressure, but when there are no pressures to perform well they're a lot of fun to watch.
The Forest wins 4-2

Boromir88

06-17-2011, 05:45 AM

Friendlies - Round 2 Results

Angband vs. Minas Tirith

The teams came out quick and competitive, with Angband having the clear advantage. When Tilion blasted in a long strike, making the score 1-0, you'd have to say Angband came out controlling possession and deserved it. This is the 3rd consecutive year Tilion has signed with Morgoth, and he will have to be a big part for Angband's success.

After grabbing the lead Morgoth focused all efforts on a suffocating team defense and the Minas Tirith players tried hopelessly to break the Angband back line. You'd have to give credit to the White City's defenders though, who also did a good job cutting off the legs of the Angband attack. They did not allow Angband to hold possession for long and the only other score came on Morgoth intercepting a pass and booming the ball downfield to the 3 rushing FWs. It was 3 on 3 break and with the skill of the Angband trio, you knew they would win that battle, even before Ancalagon smashed it in for the 2-0 Angband victory.

Angband 2-0 Minas Tirith
tot shots 11-8
on target 5-3
GOALS:
*17, 1-0 Tilion (Balrog #3)
*62, 2-0 Ancalagon (Telvildo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Thuringwethil
*MTirith- Eowyn, Grimbold

Dunharrow vs. Eregion

An extremely friendly game that only had 1 yellow card handed out, and that was because the field was still soggy from the morning rain. Thengel was guarding Figwit, and when he slipped he accidentally took out Figwit in the process of falling down. The ref had no choice but to give a yellow. The small crowd of new Eregion fans, sporting bright colored Figwit jerseys looked frightened since their favorite player had went down awkwardly. However, Figwit got up quick, shook hands with Thengel, and to the cheers of the lovesick fans, walked off any soreness.

Even if the defenses were superb on both teams, you'd have to say the offenses still had a lot of work before being tournament ready. Lots of sloppy passing, badly struck corner kicks, and just not accurate shooting. Eregion had the better of it, but their 1 goal came on a low roller that Aldor couldn't pick up because somehow Glorfindel managed to sneak it through the mess of Dunharrow defenders in the box.

Dunharrow 0-1 Eregion
tot shots 7-10
on target 2-6
GOALS:
*34, 0-1 Glorfindel (Figwit)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dunharrow- Thengel
*Eregion-

Esgaroth vs. Lothlorien

Lothlorien came out uninspired and their heads not in the match, which showed in the first 10 minutes. Even without their star-striker, Smaug, Esgaroth are great executors and it came to no one's surprise they took advantage of Lothlorien's uninspired team. It also looks like the Lothlorien defenders need more time playing together since Celeborn and newly acquired Shadowfax took eachother out of the game, freeing up Girion for the early Esgaroth goal. After falling behind, Galadriel was irate and demanded her entire team to withdraw back and play lockdown defense. Even Feanor was held back in Lothlorien's half of the pitch.

At the start of the 2nd, Galadriel was convinced her gameplan to play lockdown defense and counter-attacks would pay off, and pay off it did! The 1st counter took Esgaroth completely by surprise as Legolas and Feanor outran the defenders for a 2 on 1 break against the keeper. The 2nd happened when Galadriel snatched a shot by Bard, tossed it out quickly to Gandalf and soon the entire Lothlorien team was pushing forward. The Lothlorien players overwhelmed the Esgaroth defenders, and Boromir headed it in for a 2-1 lead. Then the 3rd and final counter was just a sick display of individual skill. Gandalf took the ball away and sent a long, looping pass down field. Feanor outran everyone (including the help coming from Legolas and Boromir) and easily beat Brand for a 3-1 Lothlorien win.

Esgaroth 1-3 Lothlorien
tot shots 9-12
on target 5-6
GOALS:
*9, 1-0 Girion (Dain)
*47, 1-1 Feanor (Legolas)
*54, 1-2 Boromir II (Haldir)
*59, 1-3 Feanor (Gandalf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Esgaroth- Attercop, Bain, Mayor
*Lothlorien- Shadowfax, Celeborn, Boromir II

Gondor vs. Westernesse

Westernesse came into this game far less aggressive, most likely since they were playing against friends and kin. Despite the 2-2 outcome Westernesse showed they were the better athletes, by for the most part, keeping control of the game and the better shots. Afterwards, the teams paid eachother their respects for the good game, but Westernesse was clearly disappointed in their defense and goalie breaking down to let Gondor equalize both times.

Gondor 2-2 Westernesse
tot shots 11-14
on target 5-8
GOALS:
*16, 0-1 Mardil (Tar Minastir)
*40, 1-1 Eldacar (Arwen)
*65, 1-2 Elros (Ar Pharazon)
*81, 2-2 Eorl (Narmacil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Folcwine
*Westernesse- Hyarmendacil

Nogrod

06-17-2011, 12:19 PM

Angfauglith - Gondolin

Packing into the stadium Gondolians were having some really mixed feelings. The field would be filled up with their heroes but many of their champions from last year would carry the colors of team Angfauglith while their own team was bursting with names from the silvermedalists team Vinyamar. When the teams entered the field there were individual yells calling for “traitors” and “deserters”, but most of the crowds seemed to cheer for all players congenially.

As soon as the game began it became clear both teams had paid heed to the possible contempt of the Gondolinians and they were giving the audience their best while maintaining a well-humoured and gentlemanlike attitude towards the game and to each other. So instead of hard tackling and merciless fighting from each ball the audience was entertained with some of the tournament’s hottest players delivering ball tricks and trying out clever passing combinations; at time it looked like the Angfaughlith midfielders had put up a fun competition over who could score from the greatest distance.

With all the talent and skill on the field it was more than fitting that the only goal made was an absolute beauty by Gwindor: from a rebound of Ecthelion’s power-shot from almost forty meters that hit the post, Gwindor made an outstanding volley off the bounce and hit it just under the crossbar with such force Rôg was totally disarmed.

So even if the game was more like looking at friends playing at the park than following competitive football, the crowds were pleased and entertained in the end. And there is good news for team Gondolin; after a more or less mediocre performance in the first friendly game, Rôg seems to be gearing up again at the goal.

Angfauglith 1-0 Gondolin
tot shots 11-6
on target 8-2
GOALS:
*49, 1-0 Gwindor (Ecthelion)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfauglith- Balrog #4
*Gondolin- Thorondor

Doriath - Hithlum

The mood of the game between Doriath and Hithlum could have been quite congenial as well, was there not the clear tension between Celegorm and Curufin on the one side and Eöl, Beren and Luthien on the other; they didn’t even shake hands in the beginning of the game ceremonies. In-game Eöl got booked from tripping Curufin and Celegorm from roughing Beren. And if looks could kill, there sure would have been five dead players in the field. But all in all, Melian and Hador managed to keep their players more or less in order and the overall athmosphere of the game was friendly.

But even playing a friendly game doesn’t mean that Doriath would play lazily. They scored twice in less than twenty minutes in to the game ripping Hithlum’s defence apart like a tornado. After gaining a two goal lead they eased their pressure somewhat and the game became a bit more even. Before the end of the first half Curufin narrowed the score with a brilliant individual performance outrunning Doriath’s defence.

On the second half Doriath took the reins again playing a very well balanced possession game leaving team Hithlum time and time again without the ball or room to make a play with it. Unlike against Gondolin in the first match, Imlach looked just the mortal man he is and was forced to surrender two more times.

Like after the first game, brothers Celegorm and Curufin were complaining the lack of feeding. “Natural born scorers do score, but only if they get the ball to do it!” Curufin is told to have yelled at Hador. Hador’s greatest problem of course is that Curufin is right.

Doriath 4-1 Hithlum
tot shots 15-8
on target 9-4
GOALS:
*8, 1-0 Hurin (Turin)
*17, 2-0 Turin (Luthien)
*37, 2-1 Curufin (Aradan)
*51, 3-1 Eol (Beleg)
*65, 4-1 Mablung (Hurin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Elwe, Eol
*Hithlum- Lorgan, Galdor, Celegorm

Minas Morgul - Mordor

The game between Minas Morgul and Mordor could have been labeled the reunion of last year’s team Gorgoroth – and it was as an amicable meeting baddies can pull off.

Mordor team was more than proud of showing off the new impassable goalkeeper to their Morgul friends. Unlike most others, the Witch King remained unimpressed and proved his point by hammering in a shot behind The Silent Watcher’s back when only 22 minutes had been played.

Finally team Mordor left the field as winners but neither team actually shined. Minas Morgul does have an active attack and they produce a decent number of shots every game but so far Castamir and Beruthiel have mainly concentrated in shooting far and wide off the mark. And they really have a goalkeeping problem with Earnür: if half of the shots on target go in, they’ll have long and laborious journey towards winning games. On the other hand, Mordor hasn’t left an impression either: the team is clearly missing Sauron’s leadership and a little bit too much seems to be laying on Nazgul #7’s shoulders.

Minas Morgul 1-2 Mordor
tot shots 13-9
on target 5-4
GOALS:
*15, 0-1, Nazgul #7 (Gorbag)
*22, 1-1 Witch King (King Dead)
*39, 1-2 Shelob (Grishnakh)
YELLOW CARDS:
*MMorgul- Fuinur, Witch King
*Mordor- Snaga, Radbug, Nazgul #5

Mithrim - Tirion

After the practice-session with Pelori (where Pelori were clearly the better team) Aulë led his team Tirion into the field finally going for it. And the team looked good indeed: Aredhel is always dangerous, but also Finrod Felagund and especially grandfather Finwë showed their qualities. Yet their game was not only about stars scoring, but also their defensive game was a delight to watch – and very effective. But in earnest it must be said that even if Tirion didn’t play with full throttle all the game it was also the mistakes of the Mithrim defense that led into the ugly numbers on the board in the end (especially the last goal where Grithnir passed the ball straight into Felagund’s feet who immediately released Aredhel totally forgotten by Brodda).

Which leads one to speculate whether Tuor would have made a wiser move joining Gondolin when asked. Now it just seems there is talent so thinly spread in team Mithrim that it will not survive the group-stage and last year’s silvermedalist Tuor needs to watch the play-offs from the tv.

Mithrim 0-4 Tirion
tot shots 7-15
on target 3-9
GOALS:
*10, 0-1 Finwe (Finarfin)
*23, 0-2 Mahtan (Aule)
*65, 0-3 Finwe (Finrod)
*83, 0-4 Aredhel (Finrod)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mithrim- Aerin, Nienor
*Tirion- Elemmire

Numenor - Valinor

After the first friendly against Eriador the loyal fans of team Numenor were seeing positive marks in the air: maybe losing a bunch of the cream of their players to Westernesse was not so bad after all, maybe they were having once more a competitive team? Those hopes were not totally crushed in the game against Valinor, but a strong doubt was cast over their aspirations – so far behind their team was from their opponents at this point of the tournament.

On the first half both teams seemed content to just practice passing the ball – Valinor even started sending the ball back from the offence after getting it there just for the sake of practicing. Happily for the crowds both teams decided to make it tad more competitive on the second half. Valinor had no problems scoring twice and, like against Lothlorien, their defence allowed only two shots on their own goal.

Valinor’s game looks easy; clean and quick, and effective. It is clear Tulkas has managed to form a team that will go far in this year’s tournament. But how far?

Numenor 0-2 Valinor
tot shots 6-14
on target 2-6
GOALS:
*54, 0-1 Nerdanel (Arien)
*73, 0-2 Yavanna (Miriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Numenor- Ar Zimrathan, Tar Ancalimon, Tar Surion
*Valinor- Este

Shire-Bree Utd. - The Forest

The match between Shire-Bree Utd. and The Forest was actually quite an entertaining one but it did tell little about how the teams would fare in the actual tournament. There were two totally different phases in the game which could be called before and after Bombadill decided to do something about the game.

On the first half and through the early minutes of the second it seemed that the ents were more fascinated in watching and following the hobbits they seemed to think a curious kind of creatures than they were interested in the ball. As someone from MESPN commented on the media-balcony, their game looked stiff and “treeish”.

But after the hobbits had thanked their opponents by scoring twice sprinting between the slow ents laughing as they went, Bombadill finally decided it was time to do something. And he did start singing thus awakening the ents. And the scales were turned around in a snap; now it was the hobbits’ turn to stand in awe as the ents started moving and creating chances.

After awakening the ents Tom Bombadill had left the field for the near meadow to pick some flowers to his dearest. But when he came back to the stadium about ten minutes before full time and realized how inefficient the entish attacks had been (mostly shooting high and wide the mark), and that their team was still two goals behind, he decided to concentrate for a moment. In four minutes he equalized the game and then read some poems to Goldberry for the last ten minutes.

Both teams seemed happy with the draw.

Shire-Bree United 2-2 The Forest
tot shots 14-11
on target 6-6
GOALS:
*36, 1-0 Samwise (Frodo)
*51, 2-0 Bandobras (Lumpkin)
*78, 2-1 Bombadil (Skinbark)
*82, 2-2 Bombadil (Thranduil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*SBUnited- Ferny, Pippin, Bill
*Forest- Quickbeam, Haleth

the phantom

06-17-2011, 04:10 PM

Anduin 1-3 Wilderland
tot shots 10-14
on target 5-8
GOALS:
*22, 0-1 Khamul (Sauron)
*35, 0-2 Scatha (Sauron)
*68, 0-3 Smaug (Bolg)
*81, 1-3 Earnil II (Leod)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Orophin, Beorn
*Wilderland- Great Warg, Bolg, Scatha

In the first friendly Sauron was strictly an observer and coach, but he actually got into the action a bit in this contest. He didn't go full speed, do any long runs, or shoot even, but he distributed beautifully and controlled the offense which really performed well. On the other end Anduin gained some decent chances, as Wilderland’s defense was caught unorganized and slow a couple times, but most of the chances were wiped away nicely by Grimbeorn.
After the match there could have been an incident with Scatha calling out Fram and rubbing it in that he'd scored against him, but Fram took it in stride saying, "Yes, I need to find my top form quickly, though I think that goal would've been tough for anyone to stop. You were too free and too close."

Barad-Dur 2-2 The Downer
tot shots 10-13
on target 5-6
GOALS:
*16, 1-0 Cirdan (Shagrat)
*34, 1-1 Saucepan Man (Hookbill)
*60, 2-1 Mouth (Gil-galad)
*76, 2-2 Alien
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Shagrat, Gothmog II, Fellbeast #1
*Downer- Alien, Morsul, Peter Hampton, John Fillis

Gil-galad and Barad-Dur definitely approached this match as a friendly and consequently were quite turned off by the unsteady style and underhanded play from The Downer. The rough play got The Downer into trouble early however, as Morsul was caught grabbing Isildur by the hair to slow down his run, and the resulting free-kick led to a jumbled pinballing that ended with the ball in the net. The Downer equalized though, as his teammates cleared a space for Saucepan Man to boom one in from distance.
In the second half Barad Dur came out harder, but they shut it down a bit once they got their goal, which allowed The Downer to exert some pressure. The equalizer from Alien came on a penalty kick, which may not have been fair as Fellbeast's foul against Alien was only a reaction to Alien vomiting acid onto his tail when the refs weren't looking.

Beleriand 1-0 Tol Eressea
tot shots 9-12
on target 3-7
GOALS:
*33, 1-0 Aegnor (Telchar)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Beleriand- Aegnor
*Tol Eressea- Osse

Both teams tried whipping the ball around the field and running a bit more than usual just to improve passing and stamina, but it wasn’t really their thing and play was generally sloppy. It was in fact a botched attempt at a one-touch pass that led to Beleriand's goal, as Telchar was first to it and Aegnor, seeing his man would have it, timed his sprint perfectly and came free behind the defense and put it in.
Between the posts at the other end was Halmir, and he had an outstanding game, stopping all seven shots that came his way- some of them not particularly easy ones.

Eriador 2-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
tot shots 11-12
on target 6-5
GOALS:
*36, 1-0 Aragorn (Halbarad)
*53, 1-1 NerWolf (SallyWolf)
*58, 1-2 GwathWolf (InzilWolf)
*82, 2-2 Barrow-Wight (Araphor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eriador- Bert, Aranarth, Barrow-Wight, Araphor
*TIG- SkipWolf, InzilWolf

This time it wasn’t just PhantomWolf that disappeared for a friendly. The entire first half the wolves all played tentatively and unorganized, constantly distracted by Eriador's Barrow-Wight. Believe it or not the Werewolves actually looked intimidated!
And so even playing a more relaxed friendly style Eriador found openings to score it and capitalized 36 minutes in.
For the second half the Wolves came out and did their best to ignore the Wight and played at a rather frenzied pace. Surprised, plus not willing to up their speed and effort, Eriador quickly conceded two goals to the forwards of Tol In Gaurhoth. But directly after GwathWolf put it in, Barrow-Wight harshly tackled the Werewolf and the ref said nothing of it. Fearful that the ref was in BW's pocket and worried about wounding, many of the Wolves lost their swagger. With GwathWolf hobbled, PhantomWolf chatting with fans (as usual), and everyone else disorganized, Eriador managed some good pressure and at the last BW himself put it past ShastaWolf for the tie.

Himring 1-1 Nargothrond
tot shots 11-10
on target 4-4
GOALS:
*30, 1-0 Maedhros (Fingon)
*61, 1-1 Glaurung (Gildor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Himring- Ulfast, Ulwarth
*Nargothrond- Baran, Guilen

Much of this game was quite a snooze. Himring was somewhat exciting to watch at first, but once they managed a joint goal by the two captains they shut down the offense. Nargothrond tried to equalize from then on, but Himring’s defense just made a muddy mess of things. Finally a booming strike from Glaurung made it square and after that both teams just kicked it around. Some of the spectators booed them afterwards, feeling that the teams should've at least looked like they were trying to win it near the end.

Misty Mts 0-1 Pelori
tot shots 9-10
on target 5-4
GOALS:
*74, 0-1 Varda (Irmo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Misty Mts- Meneldor, Azog, Watcher
*Pelori- Nahar, Orome

This match started off surprisingly cordial, with Saruman and Durin's Bane chatting with some of their old friends from the blessed realm and the eagles from opposite sides soaring together for a bit. Namo was particularly interested in the work Saruman had done to put Caradhras in goal.
As the second half wore on however Caradhras stirred things up with a bit of trash talk, whispering in the wind that he was a superior peak to Taniquetil, and soon they were arguing over which mountain range was better based upon height, expanse, varied topography, rock formations, canyons, etc. Soon the pair of squads was trying to gain the lead vigorously. DBane and Azog both made some great efforts, but Manwe was locked in and stopped them. The lone goal was scored by Varda, who did most of the work herself, though it's debatable as to whether or not her counter-spell against Caradhras was legal.
"I'm going to lodge a complaint immediately," said Saruman after the match. "Of course we don't care about this result much, but we can't have that happening in the tournament! Our keeper's only means of stopping players from scoring is blowing wind, snow, and lightning, and thus using a powerful spell to clear and quiet the atmosphere temporarily is entirely unfair!"

Nogrod

06-17-2011, 04:53 PM

The AKM brings you a general analysis of the teams and their groups in two parts now as the teams have played two friendlies. After the last round of friendlies the AKM will provide its readers with a full analysis backed up with a host of statistics for anyone wishing to bet on the Phantasy Tournament..

GROUP A
Doriath
Himring H
Shire-Bree United
Tirion

Doriath looks the single contestant to take the peak position in this group. The trio Húrin, Túrin and Beleg supported by Eöl in offence; Beren, Luthien and Mablung hanging in between and defense having Melian and Thingol join Carcaroth and Huan looking like finding his shape again looks like a deadly combination to any team they’ll meet. Even if their opponents haven’t been the toughest around the goal difference 7-1 in only two games just talks for itself.

Group H second (whichever it is) will be a snack to them in the way to quarterfinals where going might get rougher.

Tirion looks like the other one team to go through to the play-offs. Aulë’s team has both scoring potential and more or less solid defense. Finwë, Finrod and Aredhel are a threat to any team around in offence, but even if they have sacked the disasterous defense of last year the new one is a questionmark, like Orodreth in goal.

Of the two other teams the Shire-Bree Utd. has a slight chance to qualify, but especially their defense and goaltending need to step up to the occasion if they wish that. The Fabulous Four sure seem to play better together than on their own, but it’s not only the fans who are missing Rosie Cotton in the goal. Old Maggott from the midfield is missed by many as well.

Himring seems to be the weakest side of this group, but one should not forget that they’ve had one of the toughest opposition in the friendlies thus far. But will a draw with Nargothrond be merit enough on the real games? Maedhros and Fingon need to find a new gear and Maglor needs to pull his act together at the goal for them to have any chances.

GROUP B
Anduin
Esgaroth
Misty Mts
Wilderland H

Like in Group A, there seems to be a sole favourite to win this group, and that is Wilderland. The attack led by Sauron and two dragons (Scatha and Smaug) are a formidable bunch, while snatching Khamûl and the wizards was a jackpot to Sauron solidifying his midfield and defense. Many were suspicious of Grimbeorn’s qualities as a keeper for a team that would go far, but his saving-percentage of 80% is on the top quarter of the goalies thus far. Sauron scarcely takes a losing side but unless miracles happen Wilderland will not be seen in the finals (number two from Group G will be a tough enough challenge to them)…

Of the other teams it is hard to say who will crushed by the Valar on the first round of the play-offs.

Misty Mts. has faced decently strong opponents thus far and especially Caradhras has performed quite well in the goal while Saruman and Durin’s Bane have not yet warmed up enough in the offence. Esgaroth seems to be having the strongest forwards of the three (Bard, Daín, Girion), but Brand is one of the poorest goalies in the tournament and it’s hard to see a team going far with such level of goaltending. To make things more puzzling, Anduin has managed to draw with Misty Mts. and goes in between the stats in regards to the other two contenders for the second place.

GROUP C
Angband
Angfauglith H
Hithlum
The Downer

Group C boasts with two real contenders to win the Arda Cup 2011, one real oddball and an unpredictable bunch of players who could either fly or fall depending on how they’ll get their act together.

Angband has moved from Utumno retaining most of their players and with the first friendlies Morgoth and his crew strengthened with Ancalagon the Black as the striker looks a formidable side indeed. And as Ungoliant has continued her great performances in the goal we got used to the last season it looks like this team will be really hard to beat for anyone.

But the newly-formed team Angfaughlith is no push-over either. Echtelion, Gwindor, Maeglin and Gothmog form a really dangerous offence and Huor keeps on catching the balls with great percentages downstairs. Two balrogs and the High King Fingolfin takes care the defense in front of Huor holds.

The team Downer is the real questionmark here. Their unorthodox style of play, their odd tactics and physicality that leads to many cards being distributed, but which can also unsettle the opponent, makes them the odd one out. No one knows what to anticipate of them or how to play them. Thus far they have performed remarkably well but there is a clear weakness in their goaltending as King Bus seems not to be on the level of his collagues in teams Angband and Angfaughlith.

A decent better might indeed lay his money on Hithlum rather than the Downer for the third place. And if the brothers Celegorm and Curufin have it their way and the team tactics are changed, who knows if they can even challenge the top two of the group – but that would require remarkable changes and bringing forth some untapped talent in the team.

A real giant-killer will be seen on the first rounds of the play-offs when either Angband or Angfaughlith takes on Westernesse…

GROUP D
Barad-Dur
Eregion H
Eriador
Gondor

Group D looks like a fairly even one and hard to predict. On the basis of pre-tournament speculation and the first two rounds of friendlies it might look like Gondor would be the favorites to win the group, but Eregion and Eriador are breathing closely behind them – and no one should underestimate the men of the Last Alliance even if they look like being a bit lonely.

But if the AKM would have to bet right now, it would put its money on Eregion to win the group, the edge being on Elrond in the goal and Glorfindel in the front (and just waiting for Eärendil to wake up). But as the team Eriador boasts a host of the former members of team Norbury from last year, one should not downplay their chances either – although especially Araphor has been wandering in the shadows thus far leaving the scoring to the Barrow Wight who truly underperformed the last year.

Barad Dûr will be the fourth team of the group unless there are some miracles working in there. It was understandable Gil-Galad and Isildur teamed with Sauron last year to make what team Anfaughlith has done this year, but as Sauron left it has been the constant question why the last alliance boys stayed with the baddies and did not sign into other teams. And on what loyalty does Cirdan play there? With the two humans one can blame pride and vanity, but with Cirdan?

Whatever the result of this group is, the two teams from group E will drop them easily in the first round of play-offs – at least the runner-up will have a cold ride.

Part two to follow tomorrow...

Nogrod

06-18-2011, 05:34 AM

GROUP E
Mordor
Nargothrond
The Forest H
Tol In Gaurhoth

A stranger to the Arda football might think Mordor being the favourites of this group if only looking at the stats of the friendlies, but we here in the AKM know better. It is quite clear the T-I-G team will wake up as the real games begin. For example the veterans Phantomwolf (0+0) and Nogwolf (1+0) have obviously just been stretching their muscles thus far. The question T-I-G faces every year is their goaltending. Last year Eomerwarg was playing very bad in the friendlies but got a level or two better in the tournament itself. Let’s hope Shastawolf will perform a similar kind of feat this year as the beginning hasn’t been the best one. Gwathwolf has played promisingly in the first two games.

Even if Glaurung seems to be enjoying his game once again, he will not be able to keep team Nargothrond going all by himself. With little support for him Nargothrond will be the last of this group.

That leaves Mordor and The Forest to fight over the second place in the play-offs. Mordor’s stats look a bit better at this moment and Silent Watcher looks like a formidable keeper indeed. But then again Mordor has had a class inferior opponents thus far than The Forest.

On the Forest’s side there is the eternal questionmark with a name of Tom Bombadill. When interested in the game Bombadill is one of the best forwards in the whole tournament, if not even the single best one. Focused on the game he can win games singlehandedly. But that is, when he happens to be interested in playing. Without him the team Forest is more or less an average one.

GROUP F
Mithrim
Numenor H
Tol Eressea
Westernesse

The numenorians will advance to the play-offs from this group. Westernesse is one of the serious contesters to win the whole tournament this year and team Numenor will be proud enough not to lose to the two bottom teams of this group.

Ar Pharazon and High king Elros seem to be in good shape once again and they have a strong support in offence with Tar Minastir, Ar Adunakhor, Mardil and Hyermendacil. and the defence led by the great Tar Telperien herself will be one of the toughest to crack as the real games begin. The only possible questionmark in the team Westernesse is the fitness of their goalkeeper Tar Atanamir. He has been a trustworthy goalie for years and he has been playing quite well thus far also this year, but he has not been flashing or magnificent yet. Tournament-winners will need that kind of goalie.

Before the friendlies started many laid bets on both Tulkas and Ulmo outshining their big brother, but even if Tulkas most probably will do it with team Valinor, Ulmo’s Tol Erëssea looks just pathetic. It’s quite telling that their only stats from two games is three yellow cards. On the positive note one could say though that Amandil is a decent keeper.

But if possible, Mithrim is even a sorrier case. Their goal difference of 1-7 tells it all – even if they’ve had a bit stronger opponents than some other teams thus far. Tuor himself could have had glorious moments scoring for Gondolin but setting himself to the goal of his own team with just a wee bit over 50% savings-percentage seems like a very silly move indeed. He has one decent defender (Annael), one midfielder (Morwen) and Andróg is a pretty good forward, but having four quality players just isn’t enough in a tournament of this level.

GROUP G
Beleriand
Gondolin
Pelori
Valinor H

Group G is definitively the “group of death” this time around. All four teams would qualify easily in whichever group – with the possible exception of Beleriand and group C with two top-quality teams already in the group.

So, Beleriand is clearly the weakest link in this group and the only one that can be predicted probably not to qualify. Beleriand has not played badly, but the team clearly lacks both drive and stamina. Although it must be noted that Halmir has proved to be one of the top goalies of the tournament thus far and the other teams will find it hard to get the ball past him: with the saving-percentage of 90% Halmir would shine brightly in any group. But in this group he is only the third best! That tells something of the quality this group has.

Gondolin will most probably be the other team to fall this time around. Sadly the champions of last year with more or less totally new team consisting mostly of players from last year’s runners up Vinyamar has had tough luck in the drawing of the groups. Valinor and Pelori are just too tough for them. Unless Rôg comes back to his level of play in the goal and Turgon manages to beat Idril and his two forwards, former Vinyamar midfielders Duilin and Egalmoth into superb performances.

Between Valinor and Pelori it will be interesting to see which one takes the number one position.

Valinor could be said to be the slight favourites though. With Miriel and Nerdanel sharing the forward position alongside Arien the Valinor attack is one of the best in the whole tournament. But their quality doesn’t end there. With Valier-laden midfield and defence, led by Tulkas himself, the team is strong on every level. In average they allow the opponents to shoot half the shots most other teams do; and in two games their opponents have managed to shoot towards goal only four times. To keep those rare shots at bay Ingwë is an elf in place in between the posts.

Pelori seems to play like they did last year: avoiding to humiliate their opponents winning them with small numbers – but still winning consistently. There is a lot of skill and experience in the team. Especially Manwë has shown to be a quality-keeper and his spouse, the lady of the stars, seems to be at home on the top of the midfield scoring twice in two matches, and Lórien is in a good shape this year as well. They can dominate the matches against most opponents with just pure willpower, but how will they fare against teams as mighty as they are, like Valinor for starters?

GROUP H
Dunharrow H
Lothlorien
Minas Morgul
Minas Tirith

After the flash and awe of group G, group H looks pretty thin in talent. Of the teams here only Lothlórien has some chances of surviving the first round of the play-offs. But that requires that team gets the pieces of its game into place both on tactical and individual level. They need to get the ball more to Fëanor in front to be able to use his talent in full, but also Boromir and Legolas need to step up their game. Gandalf and Shadowfa seem to be still searching for their game and Galadriel hasn’t been on her top level as yet. If these few things start to work Lothlórien has chances to go far in this tournament. But there’s a big if there.

Both Towers have serious problems in defense, especially in their goalkeeping. Earnur has a pitiful saving-percentage of 50% and Cirion stays well under 60% as well. The Witch King is a dread to any opponent but somehow he has been quite invisible thus far – although they have only played against baddie teams. Maybe they will only get on full steam when they start meeting the goodies they despise? Be it as it may, they need to really pull themselves together if they wish to qualify.

Minas tirith has also problems with scoring but Dunharrow is just the bottom of the club: the overall stats show only three yellow cards, like with Tol Erëssea. But whereas Tol Erëssea clearly has potential it’s hard to see it emerging from team Dunharrow. But unlike the towerteams Dunharrow has somewhat decent defense which might keep them fighting for the place in the play-offs. Although that would be quite a surprise.

Kuruharan

06-18-2011, 02:38 PM

By: Ugluk, Underground

Lugburz-

Much attention has been paid to the flashier more ego-centric teams in the lead up to this year's Arda Cup. But what about some of the lesser known teams? Some of them inevitably kick a few of the more heavily favored teams to the curb and make a deep run in the tournament. One such possible dark felbeast contender is Mordor. Some say Mordor might be one of the favorites in Group E, but can you remember more than three players from this squad without looking?

Thought not.

We here at The Underground are dedicated to bringing you a comprehensive picture of everything that happens at this year's Cup. In light of this I recently spoke to Grishnakh, one of the players from Mordor you probably forgot was in this year's Cup.

Ugluk: Thank you for doing this interview.

Grishnakh: You're welcome, ape!

Ugluk: First off, how do feel about your squad this year?

Grishnakh: I feel great about it! The Watcher is proving itself well in the goal and Herself is an absolute beast on the field. The...umm...others...whoever they are...are doing fine as well.

Ugluk: What do you say to those who think the supposedly star Nazgul on your squad are not performing nearly as well as they make out?

Grishnakh: They speak of what is deep beyond the reach of their muddy dreams! One day they will wish they had not said that!

Ugluk: Your squad has performed comparatively well in the friendlies and yet there are those who are already assigning that group to T-I-G saying T-I-G will wake up once the real competition begins and the level of competition your squad has faced thus far is a poor measure of your actual abilities.

Grishnakh: I Grishnakh say this: They are fools, but the Great Eye is watching them!

Ugluk: The Great Eye is not on your squad this year...

Grishnakh: Yeah well...you didn't even make a team this year!

Ugluk: Am I sensing some resentment of the fact your precious master has rarely played on a squad from his own land?

Grishnakh: Ugluk u bagronk sha push-dug...

*abrupt end of interview*

Boromir88

06-20-2011, 10:44 AM

FRIENDLIES - ROUND 3 PREDICTIONS
BoroLXXXVIII, Two Towers Network

After a terrible Round 1, Round 2 was a definite improvement getting several of the scores and winners correct. AKM laughs at the attempt to predict friendly matches, but now you know part of the secret, I need warming up like all the teams. Which is why AKM may be superior in their statistical analysis, but TTN is light years ahead with their prediction maker department. :)

This round sees a lot of great match ups (and it wouldn't surprise me if some of these teams met again deep into the tournament. Which will make a lot of these friendlies hard to predict since teams may be holding back their full arsenal of tricks.

Anduin (0-1-1) vs Dunharrow (0-0-2)
Dunharrow can't get goals because they can't create enough quality chances. With that said Anduin's surrendered at least 2 per game because Fram's been a sub par keeper at best. So Dunharrow should be able to pick up at least 1, for if they don't their is truly terrible. Can Anduin get 2 then? Not with the limitted chances Dunharrow's defense allows, and Aldor has shaken off the cobwebs.
Draw 1-1

Angband (2-0-0) vs Pelori (2-0-0)
Age old enemies meet in the friendlies, but it should be tamer (at least more tame than if these two meet in the playoffs!) In past years Melkor showed the wisdom to put on a fair cloak and play with the Valar, but we'll see how much like Morgoth he has truly become now. Will either of these teams have the drive to beat their rival? Angband perhaps a bit more, hoping to beat the team that knocked them out of the group stage last year.
Angband wins 2-1

Angfauglith (2-0-0) vs Doriath (2-0-0)
This is ridiculously hard to predict, because so far Doriath has shown inspiration to put good effort into their friendlies. However, after their 2 convincing wins Doriath may think they're ready with all kinks worked out and choose to relax in the final 2 friendlies. Basically the same story for Angfauglith, 2 solid wins they should also relax in effort. Hopefully they will meet in the playoffs, so we could fully apprciate a match for the ages.
Draw 2-2

Barad-dur (0-1-1) vs Minas Morgul (0-0-2)
Minas Morgul has done a good job outshooting both their opponents, but this hasn't led to more goals. And it has a lot to do with Earnur who couldn't stop a bagel from somehow toasting in a freezer right now. Minas Morgul should continue outshooting their opponents, especially a weaker one like Barad-dur, and it will finally pay off in goals since Ohtar isn't much better than Earnur
Minas Morgul wins 4-2

Beleriand (2-0-0) vs Numenor (1-0-1)
2 decent wins by Beleriand, but I still can't see how they can keep up the success. It relies far too much on Halmir, who I can't see keeping up the ridiculous 90.9 save%. You give up as many attempts that Beleriand surrenders, the numbers will average out in the end and even if Halmir continues playing like Superman, even Superman is beatable between the posts.
Numenor wins 1-0

Eregion (1-0-1) vs Lothlorien (1-0-1)
This will be interesting and quite friendly, so I imagine quite boring, since both will want to sit back and defend. Lothlorien probably has the better offensive ability, but the problem is Galadriel refuses to do anything but defend and then counter attack. I say problem, because Eregion is simply impossible to play counter-attack football again, their defense is too good. Also, to beat Elrond you have to keep the shots firing in, and even then he's almost impossible to beat. Could end in a draw but I'll say
Eregion wins 1-0

Eriador (0-1-1) vs Shire-Bree United (0-2-0)
Despite only getting 2 draws no one can deny the hobbits have not been exciting to watch. Normally they're just amusing because they get run over, but then even seeing that all the time became boring. Arvedui will likely let the hobbits play confidentally, since the Rangers, being long time guardians of the Shire, will likely let them take their cracks on goal
Draw 2-2

Esgaroth (0-1-1) vs Misty Mts (0-1-1)
Esgaroth has performed better than the Dale team last year (getting rid of the ravens on defense looks to have been a better move for them), but still not sure how dangerous they really are without Smaug. This could be a key game in measuring how Esgaroth will fare in the tournament. Misty Mts draw with Anduin doesn't look great now, but the 0-1 to defeat against Pelori does, especially since Misty Mts wasn't statistically dominated.
Misty Mts wins 2-1

Gondolin (0-1-1) vs Nargothrond (0-2-0)
Nargothrond are the draw specialists so far, but they can't keep it up with only Glaurung doing the scoring. Gondolin's lost a lot from their championship last year but they're still proving difficult to beat as well. Turgon knows how to win.
Gondlin wins 2-1

Gondor (1-1-0) vs Mordor (2-0-0)
Another game of bitter rivals and both have played good friendlies. Gondor looks even improved from last year's team under Arwen's leadership. And the Silent Watcher has shown the ability to stand up to some decent attacks (but still not strikers of the Witch-King's quality). Gondor however, doesn't have anyone of that quality.
Draw 1-1

Himring (0-1-1) vs The Forest (0-1-1)
Maedhros and Fingon seem to be the only real threats for Himring, especially with Maglor's performance being declined from last year. Although, Maedhros and Fingon can be a match for many teams. There appears to be no dissent on The Forest team, as they have all come together to play for Bomadil (or for the concept of preservation maybe?) Whatever reasons The Forest have joined together, more than Bombadil will have to start pulling their weight (looks at Thranduil and Saeros)
Himring wins 3-2

Hithlum (0-1-1) vs Mithrim (0-0-2)
Hithlum just doesn't seem to be working right now and the purchase of Celegorm and Curufin is coming back to bite Hador. With that said Mithrim looks to be in even worse shape as Tuor's gamble seems to have really failed.
Hithlum wins 2-0

Minas Tirith (0-0-2) vs The Downer (0-2-0)
The Downer has so far outshot both their opponents, even though the matches ended in a draw. Minas Tirith has been outshot by their opponents in both matches so far. The Downer's unconventional play is taking the Arda Cup teams by surprise and it will continue paying off (at least until one team finally figures out the rationale behind their irrationality). It won't happen yet and it won't be Minas Tirith.
The Downer wins 3-2

Tirion (1-0-1) vs Tol Eressea (0-0-2)
Tol Eressea's attack is just as bad as Dunharrow's right now and Ulmo is really playing quarter-heartedly. However, even last year, playing the friendlies completely uninspired, Ulmo managed 4 draws with Vinyamar. Not so with Tol Eressea this friendly year.
Tirion wins 1-0

Tol in Gaurhoth (1-1-0) vs Wilderland (2-0-0)
This is interesting as a bunch of cunning baddies meet on the pitch for a brutal game. Sauron having prior allegiances with Tol in Gaurhoth will likely try to keep things tame, and since it's still the friendlies, at least some of the wolves *ahem*phantomwolf*endahem* just won't play at all. I still say dragons make meaner foes than werewolves.
Wilderland wins 3-1

Valinor (2-0-0) vs Westernesse (1-1-0)
Another match I'd like to see played in the playoffs, and not just the friendlies. It still should be pretty entertaining with these two rivals, but still not as exciting as what could be if they meet in the tournament. Valinor looks to be the more complete team as Westernesse has had some most unusual defensive and goal keeping breakdowns.
Valinor wins 2-1

Nogrod

06-20-2011, 02:16 PM

Angband vs. Pelori

The air was thick with anticipation as Manwë’s and Morgoth’s teams would clash on round 3 of the friendlies. To all those looking forwards to aggressive fighting for every ball, dirty tricks and sheer force when the greatest powers of Arda would be settling the matters for real, the game sure was a disappointment. But the first half was a disappointment to any football fan as both teams played it very carefully not willing to take the initiative. There is a good chance the teams will meet again in the play-offs and that would be a game of life and death, not this one.

Happily the game started to become alive on the second half as little by little, after a few close calls on both ends, it seemed neither team was actually willing to lose the game to their nemesis. So in the end the crowds enjoyed some top quality football.

Both defenses played well but the sheer talent in both teams’ offence tested also the goalies. And in the end the game was decided by the quality of the goalies: while Manwë managed to frustrate Ancalagon with a couple of beautiful saves, Ungoliant was forced to surrender to Eonwë’s tough header following a corner by Oromë.

Finding themselves one goal behind with twenty minutes to go Morgoth did ramp up his attack to go for an equalizer, but Manwë called Pelori to go into high gear lockdown mode thus managing to keep the waves of attack at bay and securing the win.

Angband 0-1 Pelori
tot shots 14-9
on target 5-5
GOALS:
*69, 0-1 Eonwë (Oromë)
YELLOW CARDS:
* Angband – Balrog#1, Ulfang, Tevildo
* Pelori – Gwaihir, Nahar

Beleriand vs. Numenor

Beleriand and Numenor made it quite a walking-paced match between what looked like two more or less equal teams, and both seemed pretty happy with the draw. Numenor was a bit sharper on the first period while Beleriand had a slight edge on the second.

Beleriand is in such a tough group that it looks clear it has no chances of advancing into the play-offs with this kind of game – even if it is quite decent. But looking at how Tol Eressëa and even Mithrim are clearly making some progress as the friendlies go on one must make a little questionmark also after Numenor’s name as one to qualify from their group.

Beleriand 1-1 Numenor
tot shots 11-8
on target 5-3
GOALS:
*36, 0-1 Tar Miriel (Tar Ancalimon)
*60, 1-1 Marach (Aegnor)
YELLOW CARDS:
* Beleriand – Gamil Zirak, Belegund
* Numenor – Tar Ciryatan

Gondolin vs. Nargothrond

Two hidden realms, great deeds and tragic fates… and both teams have suffered a lot in the exchange-market this year losing many of their most illustrious players to other teams. Looking at both teams’ performances thus far in the friendlies it has looked like Nargothrond has taken the heavier blow of the two – and this game was no different. But due to the very different level of the groups the two teams play in, one could say that Nargothrond is nearer to qualification this year. Although it needs to play really well to do that.

The game was friendly but in no way bad or slow, actually both teams made an effort to win – even if they avoided rough play and any unnecessary injuries. After Gondolin had taken a two goal lead Nargothrond really went for it but in the end it was Rôg in Gondolin’s goal who secured the win for Gondolin picking up seven shots from eight. At the same time he seems to be showing the football community why he was the best (well, shared best with Ungoliant) goalie in last year’s tournament – and even if his first game this year wasn’t that flashing, he’s warming up just in time for the real games. Sadly in such a strong group.

Gondolin 2-1 Nargothrond
tot shots 15-13
on target 6-8
GOALS:
*18, 1-0 Duilin (Idril)
*35, 2-0 Turgon (Egalmoth)
*74, 2-1 Emeldir (Finduilas)
YELLOW CARDS:
* Gondolin – Turgon, Meleth
* Nargothrond – Glaurung, Mîm, Gelmir

Hithlum vs. Mithrim

Hithlum’s start has not been the most promising one thus far for a team with ambitions. And the star-players openly whining after the matches that the rest of the team playing lousily and that the captain is choosing the wrong tactics has not looked like a mark of a team that is pulling its act together. But lo and behold. What has happened in their locker-room or practice-field no one knows, but there was a totally new look to team Hithlum – and the brothers were on fire!

This time Hitlum was sending the ball up from every chance they got and Celegorm (2+0) and Curufin (1+2) showed why that is indeed good tactics with them in a team. At the same time the Fëanor’s sons cut off the emerging speculation that they would be great players only in defense.

Looking at Hithlum’s situation for the group stage their newly found joy of the game and efficiency in scoring is promising. Sadly they’re still having a bit sloppy defense (letting the opponent shoot a bit too much in every game) and Imlach may just not be the man for the job of taking them to the play-offs.

Much has been talked about Tuor and his decision to run his own team Mithrim, especially the poor performance of the team and the wisdom of Tuor letting down an offer to play for Gondolin as a goalscorer. It might be said that Mithrim has had on average a bit tougher opponents than some other teams, but now as Mithrim’s offence shows some signs of awakening, the heart of their problems shines even brighter. Their defense is full of holes and Tuor is one of the worst goalies in these games so far letting the opponents to score almost every other shot on target they take. Mithrim has allowed eleven goals in three matches. There’s no way to qualify with those numbers, even if they had forwads of solid gold – which they haven’t.

Hithlum 4-2 Mithrim
tot shots 18-15
on target 10-6
GOALS:
*6, 1-0 Celegorm (Curifin)
*24, 2-0 Hador (Aradan)
*40, 2-1 Nienor (Annael)
*47, 3-1 Curufin (Gloredhel)
*55, 3-2 Androg (Morwen)
*79, 4-2 Celegorm (Curufin)
YELLOW CARDS:
* Hithlum – Lorgan, Baragund
* Mithrim – Asgon,Brodda

Tirion vs. Tol Eressëa

In any other arena but the Arda Cup a match-up between Aulë and the great elves against Ulmo and his gang would have been the event of the year the whole Arda would have followed holding their breath. But in Arda Cup friendlies it was just one event and far from being the most interesting one of the round. Although there is one interesting thing to remark on, and that is that Ulmo’s Tol Eressëa is gearing up to fight for the second place with Numenor in their group.

It was a decent game, fair and friendly, but played seriously enough to provide real excitement. It was also a game of totally opposing strategies: while Tirion was going dashingly forwards all the time, Tol Eressëa was pulling their attacks down trying to use the few chances it created itself to its advantage.

And Tol Eressëa was rewarded on 65th minute when Uinen managed to put the ball behind Orodreth from a nice steal by Eärwen who immediately passed it to Elwing who in turn noticed Uinen’s clever run towards the goal. After taking the lead Tol Eressëa tried a real lockdown but Tirion’s strong push brought them the equalizer ten minutes after the lead-goal. Neither team was willing to press it after that.

Tirion 1-1 Tol Eressëa
tot shots 12-7
on target 6-3
GOALS:
*65, 1-0 Uinen (Elwing)
*76, 1-1 Finrod (Finwë)
YELLOW CARDS:
* Tirion – Aredhel
* Tol Eressëa – Eriol

Valinor vs. Westernesse

One of the most looked for games on this round of friendlies was naturally the meeting of the mighty Numenorians under the banner of Westernesse and team Valinor led by Tulkas united in more attacking and aggressive football Manwë’s teams had allowed. And even with seeing only one goal in the whole game the crowds were given value for their money.

It was clear that many influential members of both teams had memories of clashing together in different circumstances – and adding to that the high possibility the teams would meet later in the tournament in a “life and death” –match – they both seemed to hide their cards as to systems of offence or defense. So it was a game of just individual skill all around as the players were ordered to just play as well as they could but without an organized playing-system. And they made it both an interesting match as both sides really tried to win, but the freedom also made room for some dashing shows of individual talent, as well as nice combinations between players who were more used to each others’ company.

The main reason for the low score was once and for all the quality of the defenders and the goalkeepers. The only goal of the game was actually more or less an accident. Ar Pharazôn made a pass to Tar Minastir inside the box but it was a bit too high and Tar Minastir couldn’t take control of it but the ball deflected from his shin and took a totally unexpected direction heading to the other end of the goal from where Ingwë was rushing towards to save a quality shot from Tar Minastir. The ball hit just inside the far post and swerved inside to the goal.

Against all expectations Tulkas didn’t call his team to a full frontal organized attack to even the game whatever the cost, but it was still clear Valinor tried a bit more seriously to even the game the last twenty minutes, but Westernesse held their lead to the end, not the least honours for that going to Tar Atanamir at the goal who saved a few tough shots in the end.

Valinor 0-1 Westernesse
tot shots 11-11
on target 7-5
GOALS:
*68, Tar Minastir (Ar Pharazôn)
YELLOW CARDS:
* Valinor – Nessa, Arien, Vairë
* Westernesse – Ar Adunakhôr

Boromir88

06-20-2011, 08:00 PM

Friendlies - Round 3 Results

Barad-Dur vs Minas Morgul

This was one of the harder fought friendlies of the year since neither team liked eachother that much. The Last Alliance companions were hoping to improve on their draw against The Downer, while Minas Morgul was just hoping their ability to consistantly outshoot their opponents would finally get them a deserved victory.

It turns out to be the same tale for Minas Morgul, outshooting and getting better shots than Barad-dur but losing yet again 3-1. Just when everyone thought surely Earnur's save percentage had bottomed out, it got plummeted even lower, now well below 50%. The first goal he gave up, was a clear mistake on Earnur's part. Shagrat hit a weak roller that Earnur had covered, but it rolled up, bouncing off his chest, right to The Mouth who put it in the back of the net. There's no question Earnur should have held on to that one and afterwards his confidence was broken, or was he just telling the Witch-King he wants traded? Surely it can't dip below 40%...can it?

Barad-Dur 3-1 Minas Morgul
tot shots 11-16
on target 4-9
GOALS:
*29, 1-0 Mouth (Shagrat)
*41, 2-0 Gil-galad (Isildur)
*63, 2-1 Beruthiel (Witch King)
*81, 3-1 Mouth (Isildur)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Fellbeast #1, Gothmog II
*MMorgul- Castamir, Nazgul #2, Herumor

Eregion vs Lothlorien

An extremely kind and boring game. The only goal came from Earendil who was turned away from the goal, but spun around and shot blindly. He looked surprised as it went sailing past Galadriel into the goal, as if he didn't even mean, or particularly want to score. Galadriel was angry about her lax defenders on the goal, but Lothlorien fans will start becoming more angry if Galadriel doesn't show a change of tactics. The only shots came off Feanor's attempt, who yet again was often the lone attacker. He created a few great chances, but a keeper of Elrond's caliber, you have to be flawless to put it passed him.

After the game Feanor was hot and tempered, he went straight to the locker room and did not answer any questions from the media. Signing with Lothlorien is looking like a decision Feanor is going to regret.

Eregion 1-0 Lothlorien
tot shots 9-7
on target 4-3
GOALS:
*53, 1-0 Earendil (Elrohir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eregion-
*Lothlorien- Shadowfax, Feanor

Eriador vs Shire-Bree United

This was an overall, exciting and fun game to behold. Aragorn and his ranger companions were happy to play with the hobbits who looked upon the rangers as big brothers. They were the hobbits' protectors and like normal big brothers, they were clearly stronger and more athletic, but they did not want to make the hobbits feel bad, so they were kindly and relaxed after grabbing the 3-1 lead with a little of 20 minutes remaining.

The Hobbits took advantage of Eriador's kindness with Bandobras pulling SB United 1 goal closer in the 86th minute. Even when getting it 3-2 the rangers let the hobbits have possession to try for a thrilling equalizing goal in stoppage time. However, Arvedui was not going to purposefully tank the game just to give the hobbits some confidence, if there was going to be an equalizer, he made sure they would deserve it on a good goal. Alas it was not so, but both teams left happy with the results.

Aragorn in particular, after the game had some high praise for SB United: "I'm pleased they were able to make it only a 1 goal difference. They know how to play attacking football and honestly gave our defense fits several times. I think they have a great chance to shock the world by making it out of their difficult Group A."

Eriador 3-2 Shire-Bree United
tot shots 13-15
on target 8-6
GOALS:
*10, 1-0 Aragorn (BWight)
*32, 2-0 Aranarth (Amlaith)
*61, 2-1 Samwise (Merry)
*67, 3-1 Araphor (Halbarad)
*86, 3-2 Bandobras (Frodo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eriador- Bert, Amlaith
*SBUnited- Harry, Bill

Gondor vs Mordor

Like Barad-dur and Minas Morgul this was a match between rivals and it was hardly fought. Both teams went for the win all 90 minutes and Gondor proved the better. Even after getting up 2-0 in the 1st half Gondor game outin the 2nd trying to get a quick 3rd goal and make this a true embarrasment for their enemies. But the Silent Watcher corrects his problems from the 1st half and locked down the goal in the 2nd. Mordor was able to score on a quick counter orchestrated by none other than their team of Nazgul. Mordor will have to get more production from their other players if they wish to advance from the group stage. While Gondor has shown they can beat their friends and their enemies, and play even with their ancestors.

Gondor 2-1 Mordor
tot shots 11-11
on target 5-4
GOALS:
*19, 1-0 Eldacar (Ostoher)
*39, 2-0 Eorl (Arwen)
*77, 2-1 Nazgul #7 (Nazgul #6)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Turambar, Folcwine, Romendacil
*Mordor- Shelob, Gollum, Snaga

Tol In Gaurhoth vs Wilderland

Tol In Gaurhoth came out inspired looking to prove to their former boss, Sauron, that they had grown much stronger and faster than in 2008. The Phantomwolf, to no one's surprise came out most anxious to show Sauron what he's capable of, as those two were once the deadliest MF-FW duo in Arda. Sauron had his team well prepared for T-I-G's tricks, but was slightly surprised by their committed effort which allowed the werewolves to get a quick goal. Sauron then ramped up his efforts, as he would not let his former servants have an easy time with the game.

The dragons then began exerting their will and power against the WW defenders, and the dragons both scored giving Wilderland a 2-1 lead. Phantomwolf would not accept a defeat today, as yet again he was involved in a goal, placing a perfect pace to Gwathwolf, perhaps trying to show Sauron it was he who used to receive those excellent passes? The teams left content with the result though, since they both had a beneficial work out having been pushed by their opponents.

Tol In Gaurhoth 2-2 Wilderland
tot shots 14-12
on target 7-8
GOALS:
*12, 1-0 PhantomWolf (GaladWolf)
*64, 1-1 Smaug (Sauron)
*71, 1-2 Scatha (Radagast)
*81, 2-2 GwathWolf (PhantomWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*TIG- SkipWolf, InzilWolf, NerWolf
*Wilderland- Alatar, Oropher

the phantom

06-20-2011, 11:15 PM

Anduin 2-2 Dunharrow
tot shots 14-14
on target 9-5
GOALS:
*22, 1-0 Beorn (Durin)
*44, 1-1 Thengel (Theodred)
*60, 2-1 Earnil II (Telumehtar)
*85, 2-2 Helm (Theodred)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Rumil, Beorn
*Dunharrow- Folca

As most people expected this match was a very cordial one, each team giving the other chances to work out some kinks. Since many of them are friends and relatives it made sense. The score ended in a nice tie, but only because Aldor had a notably strong game in goal for Dunharrow.

Angfauglith 2-3 Doriath
tot shots 15-16
on target 8-8
GOALS:
*37, 0-1 Mablung (Eol)
*40, 1-1 Gothmog (Gwindor)
*63, 2-1 Gothmog (Maeglin)
*65, 2-2 Turin (Beleg)
*85, 2-3 Hurin (Luthien)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfauglith- Azaghal, Maeglin
*Doriath- Carcharoth, Eol

This was a very fun match, with both squads playing competitively but good-natured. There was a good deal of beautiful movement on the pitch, especially helped by the fact that the defenses were trying to play hands-off and very clean. The defenses held for the first half hour, but they couldn't keep the highly talented skill players off the board forever. Mablung of Doriath was first to draw blood with a booming drive, as he and Eol came up in support of the attack. Gothmog of Angfauglith struck back before the half off a nice cross from Gwindor.

He scored again to begin the second half, only this time it was Maeglin sucking the defense over before giving it up to the Balrog lord. But Doriath evened things up just two minutes later, the familiar duo of Turin and Beleg doing the damage. Both squads went for the win, but it was Doriath that got it with five minutes left, as Hurin managed to sneak inside on the left side and Luthien expertly found him for the header.

Esgaroth 0-3 Misty Mts
tot shots 7-14
on target 3-8
GOALS:
*52, 0-1 Saruman (DBane)
*58, 0-2 Azog (Saruman)
*74, 0-3 Great Goblin (Meneldor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Esgaroth- Dain, Thorin, Tomnoddy, Mayor, Attercop
*Misty Mts- Landroval, William, Chief Wolf

Both squads played at half speed during the first period but turned it up a bit for the second, which is when Misty Mts suddenly put the ball in. They pulled up after 2-0, but they scored again anyway as Esgaroth pushed everyone forward and Galion booted an awful pass inexplicably right to Meneldor, and he sent it straight up the field to Great Goblin who took it the rest of the way.

Himring 0-2 The Forest
tot shots 8-14
on target 3-7
GOALS:
*43, 0-1 Thranduil (River Woman)
*57, 0-2 Bombadil (Skinbark)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Himring- Uldor, Borlach
*Forest- Quickbeam, Saeros

The trees were curiously roused for this one, possibly due to Bombadil actually showing up, and the defense of Himring was hard pressed to get the ball moving forward up to Fingon and Maedhros, who had few opportunities to impact the score. After the contest Maedhros insisted that his defense and midfield were simply unfamiliar with Ents and that they'd perform much better next time around.

Minas Tirith 2-3 The Downer
tot shots 14-16
on target 7-7
GOALS:
*12, 1-0 Faramir (Eomer)
*43, 1-1 Alien (Peter Hampton)
*50, 2-1 Imrahil (Faramir)
*68, 2-2 Saucepan Man (Hookbill)
*86, 2-3 Saucepan Man (Lalwende)
YELLOW CARDS:
*MTirith- Eowyn
*Downer- Lalwende, Philip Hampton, Hookbill, Burnt Bert

The Downer was quite intense from the start, but Minas Tirith took it in stride and matched it, scoring quite soon. After that they were content to sit back and see what Downer had to offer. After getting ahead in the second half they did the same thing, only this time The Downer not only responded but unexpectedly grabbed the lead on a quick counter as time was ticking down. Minas Tirith was irritated as they had just planned on staying tied and didn’t realize Downer was going to gun for the win.

Nogrod

06-21-2011, 12:42 PM

The latest rumours from the AKM!

Eärnur’s revenge?

With Eärnur the line of kings of Gondor came to an end. Now it looks like he is finishing any hopes of success for Minas Morgul in this year’s tournament as well. So, is he claiming a revenge for his betrayal after all these years? It seems like the only possible explanation as the savings percentage of 42,9% is otherwise totally incomprehensible. He is letting the opponents score three shots from every five on target!

People wailed when he rode to Minas Morgul never to be seen again, but it is more or less clear those inhabiting Minas Morgul are not that keen on seeing him anymore.

AKM’s hint to the Witch King. Boot Eärnur off your team and hire Rosie Cotton who is a free agent right now – and actually a decent goalie (look at last year’s stats). With the move you could at the same time annoy Samvais Gamgee, just for the fun of it.

A striker going on strike?

Fëanor and giving up seem like oil and water, just indissoluble entities. But it looks like Fëanor is getting his cup full pretty fast. And the worst thing for Fëanor is that he has brought this fall upon him himself. He could have played for any team he wished and he knew Galadriel’s playing style and what her feelings to him were. So it seems he’s trapped in a team that couldn’t care less of him, and it is finally dawning to him there’s nothing he can do about it unless Galadriel gives up. And that is, to be honest, quite unlikely.

The hottest rumors have Fëanor complaining to a few trusted ears that “she might have been the only female to stand tall in those days long time ago, but now she is a but dwarf she seems to adore so much.”

Some independent new agencies have raised tough question as to what is behind all this. Is Galadriel just willing to humble Fëanor even with the cost of her team not qualifying? Does Galadriel understand nothing about football – and should she then listen to those who do understand it? Is Fëanor becoming rusty – or is the closeness of Galadriel just making him nervous? Is there a plot led by Celeborn not to lend the ball to Fëanor to make him look bad in the eyes of Galadriel?

Some say Fëanor is considering going on strike if he will not be given more support in the offence. His sons got it their way in Hithlum and the results were just fabulous. Maybe Galadriel should learn from that?

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-21-2011, 07:52 PM

The friendly matches preliminary to the Arda Cup tournament proper are three-fourths done, and the ArdaCup.com Stats report is here to bring you the numbers and the analysis of the first three rounds of the friendlies.

The Undefeated:

Doriath and Pelóri are the only teams to have won three of their friendly matches thus far, and they are doing it in slightly different ways.

Doriath has won its first two games against The Forest and Hithlum by being stingy, allowing only 1 goal in 7 attempts on target [14.3%], well below the opposing teams's shooting percentages (25.0% for The Forest and 35.0% for Hithlum). But their offence has not been slacking, making 7 goals in 18 attempts on target [38.9%]. In their third match against fellow powerhouse Anfauglith it was this balance that won them that close game--both teams got off 8 attempts on target, but Doriath was able to convert 3 of them, compared to Anfauglith's 2.

Huan boasts a 80% save rate, 9th among goalkeepers so far, saving 12 shots out of the 15 sent his way.

Doriath's balance in offence, not relying on any one player to score, is proven by the stats: Hûrin has 3 goals and 1 assist, his son Tûrin has 2 goals and 3 assists, and Mablung has 2 goals and 1 assist. Their potent attack has sent 26 shots on target, the highest so far, giving the opposing goalkeeper a lot to worry about.

Pelóri has won all its three games against Tirion, Misty Mts, and powerhouse Angband through its niggardly defence: 1 goal allowed in 16 attempts on target could be no fluke. Manwë is ranked first in save percentage, a staggering 93.7% against teams that usually convert over a fourth of their attempts on goal into a score.

Their offence is not bad--4 goals (split between Varda and Eönwë) in 15 attempts on target is not the worst offensive percentage we've seen--, but clearly it's their defence, anchored by Manwë between the goalposts, that would take them far in the Arda Cup.

Power Ranking:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup-pr-2206.png

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking--the lower the aggregate, the higher the rank. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss-record; b) goal differential; and c) goals scored.

The offensive ranking is based on the goals scored throughout the friendly matches. Ties are broken by a) greater number of shots made on target; and b) greater number of shots made.

The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed throughout the friendly matches. Ties are broken by a) least number of shots allowed on target; and b) least amount of shots allowed.

Please note that the above ranking is based on the four rounds of friendly matches played by the teams, and does not reflect actual tournament performance.

Phantasy Numbers:

GOALS + ASSISTS
4+1
Eldacar (Gondor)

4+0
Saucepan Man (The Downer)

3+1
Hûrin (Doriath)

3+0
Ancalagon (Angband)
Bandobras (Shire-Bree Utd)
Bombadil (The Forest)
Celegorm (Hithlum)
Mouth (Barad-dûr)
Scatha (Wilderland)
Smaug (Wilderland)

2+4
Curufin (Hithlum)

2+3
Tûrin (Doriath)

2+2
Finwë (Tirion)
Girion (Esgaroth)
GwathWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Nazgûl #7 (Mordor)
Saruman (Misty Mts)

2+1
Barrow-Wight (Eriador)
Dáin (Esgaroth)
Eorl (Gondor)
Gil-galad (Barad-dûr)
Gothmog (Anfauglith)
Gwindor (Anfauglith)
Mablung (Doriath)
Maeglin (Anfauglith)

1+3
Frodo (Shire-Bree Utd)

1+2
Aegnor (Beleriand)
Araphor (Eriador)
Ar-Pharazôn (Westernesse)
Arwen (Gondor)
Beleg (Doriath)
Finrod (Tirion)
Hookbill (The Downer)
Khamûl (Wilderland)
Míriel (Valinor)

0+3
Sauron (Wilderland)
Tevildo (Angband)

GOALKEEPER - SAVES
18 saves
Rog (Gondolin) 18/22 – 81.8%

17 saves
Ohtar (Barad-dûr) 17/23 – 73.9%

15 saves
Manwë (Pelóri) 15/16 – 93.7%
Imlach (Hithlum) 15/23 – 65.2%
Tuor (Mithrim) 15/26 – 57.7%

GOALKEEPER - SAVE %
Manwë (Pelóri) 15/16 – 93.7%
Ungoliant (Angband) 11/12 – 91.7%
Ingwë (Valinor) 8/9 – 88.9%
Tar-Atanamir (Westernesse) 13/15 – 86.7%
Halmir (Beleriand) 12/14 – 85.7%

YELLOW CARDS
4 yellow cards
Bert (Eriador)

3 yellow cards
Attercop (Esgaroth)
Éowyn (Minas Tirith)
Fellbeast #1 (Barad-dûr)
Gothmog II (Barad-dûr)
Lorgan (Hithlum)
Shadowfax (Lothlórien)

Boromir88

06-22-2011, 06:32 PM

FRIENDLIES - ROUND 4 PREDICTIONS
BoroLXXXVIII Two Towers Network

Final round of friendlies before the tournament and I don't think I ever had as woeful of a round as last one's. My days of mediocrity are dead and buried, from this point on you will want to tune into TTN to get all the best Arda Cup reporting.

Anduin (0-2-1) vs Lothlorien (1-0-2)
Rumors are saying Feanor is angry in Lothlorien, but an angry Feanor usually doesn't bode well for the opponent. Even if it is just a friendly, if Lothlorien doesn't win confidentally they may not make it out of their group, and that would be a huge failure to all the new players Galadriel brought in.
Lothlorien wins 2-1

Angband (2-0-1) vs Beleriand (2-1-0)
Beleriand's performed well but Angband is miles better and if Angband shows half the effort they should win this one relatively easy.
Angband wins 2-0

Angfauglith (2-0-1) vs Mithrim (0-0-3)
Mithrim's in a tailspin having the worst goal differential so far (-8). Tuor is having a difficult time keeping his goal clean and his defenders are having trouble clearing the ball out of their box.
Angfauglith wins 3-0

Barad-dur (1-1-1) vs Gondor (2-1-0)
This should be an interesting and fairly competitive match. You would think it would be pretty tame with Isildur, Gil-Galad, and Cirdan on Barad-dur, but relations between Gondor and Isildur are pretty tense recently. It was one thing to forsake the realm of his father to play for Arnor a few years ago, but it's a completely different story to join and stay on a team with your bitter enemies. It looks like a slap in the face to all loyal Gondorians.
Draw 2-2

Doriath (3-0-0) vs Nargothrond (0-2-1)
Doriath is going to continue chugging along convincingly in the friendlies. Will they be worn out later on in the tournament? Only time will tell, but they will coast into the tournament undefeated and with the best goal differential. Despite Nargothrond's decline in previous years they're still a very hard team to embarass off the pitch. It'll be one of the tougher games Doriath will play.
Doriath wins 2-1

Dunharrow (0-1-2) vs Wilderland (2-1-0)
Dunharrow will likely approach the final friendly as all others, just having a fun practice kick-around. Sauron will undoubtedly match the same intensity and get a close, but convincing win, simply because Wilderland's talent is that much better.
Wilderland wins 2-1

Eregion (2-0-1) vs Eriador (1-1-1)
This is interesting as both will meet in Group D and I can see both of these teams just laying back playing a boring game. They're all friends, and it won't be the same story when they match up again, but for a 4th round friendly? Don't bother watching this one.
Draw 0-0

Esgaroth (0-1-2) vs Valinor (2-0-1)
Just when I complimented Esgaroth for playing better than last years pathetic Dale squad, they go and lay a stinking, ugly 0-3 loss to Misty Mts. Valinor is an even better team, but Esgaroth's luck is I can't see Valinor being as ramped up for this match. Still, Valinor is that talented...
Valinor wins 3-2

Gondolin (1-1-1) vs Himring (0-1-2)
One of the harder ones of round 4 to predict. Gondolin's played about as well as expected and Himring has been a bit of a disappointment. Himring will have to get the act together or they could easily finish in the cellar of Group A (which I would have given that dishonor to the hobbit conglomeration before the friendlies). While Gondolin will be in contention in Group G, but Group G is the group of death this year. It'll be close.
Draw 1-1

Hithlum (1-1-1) vs Tirion (1-1-1)
Both boast some of the stronger attacks and they're probably pretty even in this regard. The difference is Tirion is an improved defensive team from previous years, and Hithlum's defense on its best day, is still full of leaks.
Tirion wins 3-2

Minas Morgul (0-0-3) vs Minas Tirith (0-0-3)
Two of the winless squads square off and despite both teams being pretty garbage in the friendlies this will be one of the better ones to watch for a few reasons: 1. They hate eachother, always makes for the best games. 2. They're in the same group and what better way to build some momentum going into the tournament then not only getting a win but sending your most hated enemy away winless? Talk about a stabbing someone in the heart with a rusty knife, that's the chance before both these teams. Who wouldn't enjoy this deathmatch?
Minas Morgul wins 3-2

Misty Mts (1-1-1) vs The Forest (1-1-1)
Not sure what to expect with this one because it all depends on whether Bombadil wants to show up and put in the effort. Misty Mts could win in a snorefest, or it could be an entertaining treat with multiple goals.
Draw 2-2

Mordor (2-0-1) vs Westernesse (2-1-0)
Mordor's going to be in trouble in this one, Westernesse might have dealt shadily by secretly putting their team together and snubbing many of their fellow Numenoreans, but they're dangerous and even more so not being seen as one of the favorites.
Westernesse wins 2-0

Pelori (3-0-0) vs The Downer (1-2-0)
Manwe's going to be confused that's for sure. His teams tend to have added inspiration defeating the baddies, but are The Downer players qualified as baddies? They play the dirtiest football any team has seen before, but for some reason when in a discussion about "evil" you can't include them in the same breath with Morgoth and Angband...can you?
Draw 1-1

Shire-Bree United (0-2-1) vs Tol In Gaurhoth (1-2-0)
There isn't much love the TIG players have for hobbits and Breeland loafers, but there also isn't much respect. I can see TIG starting the game over confident and allowing SB United to get ahead early. Then realizing it would be completely embarassing to lose to the bums and putting them away easily.
TIG wins 4-2

--------------

*Edit:* Due to an editting error in this report we have seemed to have left out the Numenor-Tol Eressea match. Our staff didn't realize the error until after all the results came in, therefor it would be improper and unfair to make any prediction on that match. I will say, however, that match probably would have been better to not have been played at all, so maybe TTN not having a prediction for it, was a subliminal message to tell fans don't waste their money on Numenor vs. Tol Eressea. We still apologize to all our fans and readers for any inconvenience. (Even if we've probably only offended the 3 combined people who root for those teams. We value everyone of our readers.)

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-23-2011, 09:16 AM

We interrupt this mindless blathering about numbers and fractions done by old men in a stuffy room* to bring you a true sports fan--or so he claims.
_____
* This statement is directed at the reports of the sogenannte ArdaCup.com Stats Report, and not the other journalists who have posted alongside it. Unless you feel offended, in which case it means you, too.

~*~

Hi! This is the Felagundion's sports blog, here to bring you true sports journalism--none of the stats and all of the fanaticism. We'll not be doing reports on the friendlies because, quite frankly, who cares about them? True sports fan watch games where something's on the line--not some happy campfire sing-along with a football.

Now let's start with the group stages: who's most likely to get in, who might make it with luck and effort, and who gets to watch the rest of the games from the television in their hotel rooms.

GROUP A
Advance: Tirion, Doriath
Dark Horse: Himring
Out: Shire-Bree United

This is where the dream starts! Finrod, his father, grandfather and brother begin their quest for the Arda Cup by defeating the overrated Sindarin in a glorious match, and then disposing of their less talented brethren from Himring. The hobbits and men of SBU will need more than a pint after the humiliation they'll be subjected to in this group.

GROUP B
Advance: Wilderland, Misty Mountains
Dark Horse: Anduin
Out: Esgaroth

Quite frankly I can't be bovvered with this group. Fodder in the bracket stage. Next please.

GROUP C
Advance: Anfauglith, Angband
Dark Horse: Hithlum, The Downer

I don't know why they've let Balrogs join their team, but anyway, Fingolfin and company will put the fear of Eru in Morgoth and his ilk, who'll bully everyone else. Hard to judge though, since everyone has a fighting chance, even them strange ones who attract yellow cards like Nilp attracts lynchings.

GROUP D
Advance: Eregion, Gondor
Dark Horse: Eriador
Out: Barad-dûr

Another one of those fodderweight groups, I'm afraid. Only Eregion has a chance out of the group stages, should they finally find that shooting touch.

GROUP E
Advance: Tol-in-Gaurhoth, The Forest
Dark Horse: Mordor, Nargothrond

Really? You let a dragon in your team? You could have had tried harder to get Tûrin, for crying out loud! Ai, laurië lantar lassi súrinen . . .

In other news, Tom Bombadil could be the greatest player ever, or the greatest waste of player slots. But you probably already know that.

GROUP F
Advance: Númenor, Westernesse
Out: Tol Eressëa, Mithrim

In an ideal world, Tar-Míriel will get her comeuppance against her unspeakable excuse of a cousin, even if it's just in the football pitch. And to the other teams: there's this little thing called a goal. You should try getting some.

GROUP G
Advance: Valinor, Gondolin
Dark Horse: Pelóri, Beleriand

The Group of Death, as they say. But if there's one thing you can take to the bank, it's for Manwë to choke some time or another.

GROUP H
Advance: Lothlórien, Minas Tirith
Dark Horse: Minas Morgul
Out: Dunharrow

Rather boring group, unless that kinslaying chap steps up. Good wins over evil, at least in this realm, so the Tower of the Guard will defeat the Tower of Black Ghouls to come in second. (Lack of Arda-class talent will, however, lose to both good and evil. Sorry, Dunharrow)

And now for predictions on the first round of group matches:

GROUP A:
Doriath vs Tirion
Himring vs Shire-Bree United

That might be your championship match, right there! (Not the one with the Halflings, of course.)

GROUP B:
Esgaroth vs Misty Mountains
Anduin vs Wilderland

Might be exciting matches, considering the skill gaps.

GROUP C:
Angband vs Hithlum
Anfauglith vs The Downer

The bullies and their conquerors-to-be should take their games.

GROUP D:
Barad-dûr vs Eriador
Eregion vs Gondor

Will Eregion's shooters wake up in time?

GROUP E:
Mordor vs Nargothrond
The Forest vs Tol-in-Gaurhoth

Will we see Tom Bombadil? Or will we see ten players on the pitch against the Werewolves? In other news, zzz . . .

GROUP F:
Mithrim vs Westernesse
Númenor vs Tol Eressëa

Them Second Children over the First and the before-the-First, easy.

GROUP G:
Beleriand vs Pelóri
Gondolin vs Valinor

A scoreless draw, followed by a dominating performance by Valinor.

GROUP H:
Lothlórien vs Minas Morgul
Dunharrow vs Minas Tirith

Only Galadriel could turn a team with Arda-class talent into a team that might not make it out of the group stages. Had they been in a stronger group, that is.

_____
DISCLAIMER: The Felagundion may be a raving lunatic--reader discretion is recommended.

Nogrod

06-23-2011, 09:33 AM

Angband vs. Beleriand

Both Angband and Beleriand played very controlled game on the first half, even slow. But to the joy of the audiences the game came alive on the second when Angband started to play it harder and really went for a second goal. Beleriand showed some guts kicking it up a notch after getting two goals behind, and for about twenty-five minutes the crowds were served with really good football.

Finarfin’s sons actually brought Beleriand only one goal behind and they were pushing hard for an equaliser when Morgoth and Thuringwethil ended their efforts making it 3-1 just ten minutes before the final whistle. With that both teams pulled back and just kicked the ball around for the last ten minutes.

Angband had the game in their control ending their impressive series of friendlies into a nice win. But it must be also noted that Beleriand showed again that when really going for it they are a formidable team that should not be taken lightly even by the Big Teams. Sadly they’re facing two Big Teams (Pelori and Valinor) already in the group-phase – and when the fourth team of the group is the always dangerous side of Gondolin, the chances of Beleriand to qualify aren’t too high. But they’re not nonexistent.

Angband 3-1 Beleriand
tot shots 13-10
on target 7-4
GOALS:
*25, 1-0 Thuringwethil (Ulfant)
*54, 2-0 Ancalagon (Telvildo)
*78, 2-1 Aegnor (Angrod)
*80, 3-1 Thuringwethil (Morgoth)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Morgoth, Ancalagon, Balrog #3
*Beleriand- Daeron, Aegnor

Anfaughlith vs. Mithrim

There’s not much to tell one’s grandchildren of the friendly between Anfaughlith and Mithrim. The difference in the relative quality of the teams was clear and as there were many good friends and relatives in the field on both sides they played quite clean and easy.

No one in their right minds is going to bet on behalf of team Mithrim to qualify from their tough group F. Tuor just hasn’t enough talent around him to build a team that could compete at this level. Anfaughlith on the other hand is looking very strong and looks like qualifying from group C – but teams Hithlum and Downer are no push-overs so that is left to be seen.

Anfaughlith 2-0 Mithrim
tot shots 13-8
on target 7-4
GOALS:
*18, 1-0 Maeglin (Gothmog)
*31, 2-0 Maeglin (Ecthelion)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfauglith- Rochallor, Azaghal
*Mithrim- Morwen, Grithnir, Brodda

Dorriath vs. Nargothrond

Even if it was a friendly game between teams Doriath and Nargothrond most people talked about it as a “rematch” between Túrin and Glaurung. But surprisingly Glaurung obeyed Finduilas’ orders not to get into it with Túrin – and on the other side Melian and Thingol had persuaded Beleg and Húrin to talk sense to Túrin as to take it cool. And to a great disappointment of many, there was no clash between the two – even if they both got booked from unsportsmanlike conduct using unsuitable language calling each other with some pretty harsh terms not suitable for this kind of a family-friendly site. Seeing their star-players were accepting not to run for each others’ throats (or bellies), the feelings relaxed and the two teams played a very friendly game indeed.

Doriath took a clean two-goal lead on the first half and then fell back playing low-effort team defense for the second half, but somehow it seemed Finduilas was not into making an effort to even the game. Being asked after the game about their reluctance to go for full attack when their opponents fell back on the second half Finduilas only said that they were already concentrating on the group-phase and needed to conserve energy to those matches.

Sadly one doesn’t qualify from the group-phase with concentration in the future only.

Doriath 2-0 Nargothrond
tot shots 13-7
on target 8-3
GOALS:
*27, 1-0 Eol (Melian)
*42, 2-0 Turin (Hurin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Mablung, Turin
*Nargothrond- Glaurung, Baran

Esgaroth vs. Valinor

Esgaroth hasn’t been the worst team what comes to scoring (even if it hasn’t been flashing either), but they have a real problem keeping their own sheet clean. The friendly game against Valinor was no different. Knowing it was their final tune-up both teams played straight up during the first half and went to their lockers for half time the scoreboard showing numbers 3-1 to Valinor.

The game practically over both teams eased up their game and more or less just kicked the ball around almost practice-style willing to avoid injuries and conserving their energies to the first games of the group-phase.

A clean win to Valinor from a side a few levels weaker: nothing flashing in their performance, but a good game. Arien’s and Yavanna’s good performances must have delighted Tulkas as thus far the scoring has been too much the responsibility of Miriel and Nerdanel alone.

As for Esgaroth, they really need to find a solution to their classless defense. Being able to score once in every game is not going to help if you give up three goals.

Esgaroth 1-4 Valinor
tot shots 6-17
on target 3-10
GOALS:
*16, 0-1 Olwe (Nerdanel)
*23, 1-1 Girion (Bard)
*33, 1-2 Miriel (Yavanna)
*38, 1-3 Arien (Nerdanel)
*79, 1-4 Arien (Yavanna)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Esgaroth- Galion, Mayor
*Valinor- Olwe

Gondolin vs. Himring

Brothers Turgon and Fingon agreed that going into the tournament their teams ought to have a real test, so they played the game in near tournament form from beginning to end. And in that game Himring reminded the whole footballing crowds of Arda that it would be very unwise to forget them when doing betting on the results.

Fingon the Valiant aided by four sons of Fëanor led by Maedhros and supported by a bunch of easterlings showed some real quality football and took an earned victory. Why is it that big deal? Well, it is still worth reminding that the team Gondolin consist of half the team Vinyamar, last season’s silver-medalists, a few champion’s from last year’s team Gondolin added with Turgon himself. So it was no small feat, even if Gondolin has been somewhat underperformers in the friendlies thus far.

Gondolin 1-2 Himring
tot shots 13-11
on target 7-6
GOALS:
*36, 0-1 Maedhros (Fingon)
*52, 0-2 Bor (Maedhros)
*73, 1-2 Turgon (Thorondor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondolin- Thorondor, Egalmoth
*Himring- Uldor, Ulfast

Hithlum vs. Tirion

It seemed clear both teams had agreed on giving their offenses and keepers some real practice and thus both teams concentrated on attack – and what great fun it was for the crowds to watch six beautiful goals made in one game – and that despite the keepers performing actually pretty well.

Curufin and Celegorm were on top shape once again as Hithlum played in an offensive fashion. But Aredhel and Granpa’ Finwë shined as brightly, the latter showing his grandchildren that the old bones are still working.
Hithlum seems to have found a truly effective way to attack after the disasters of the first two games, but when they go on full forward their defenses suffer considerably. Somehow Hador should find a balance there if they wish to contest for a place in the play-offs.

Hithlum 3-3 Tirion
tot shots 16-18
on target 8-11
GOALS:
*8, 1-0 Curufin (Algund)
*12, 1-1 Aredhel (Finwe)
*15, 1-2 Finwe (Finrod)
*26, 2-2 Hador (Celegorm)
*43, 3-2 Curufin (Gundor)
*60, 3-3 Aredhel (Finarfin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Hithlum- Aradan, Gundor
*Tirion- Caranthir, Mahtan

Mordor vs. Westernesse

Everyone knows the relationship between Mordor and the Men of the West… and it did show. Even if officially named as one, this was no friendly game. Far from it.

Mordor went for it very aggressively from the beginning trying to rough their way through and scare their Dúnedain rivals. But that tactics was totally counterproductive as Westernesse played both a focused and disciplined game showing no fear whatsoever. More or less blinded by their wrath team Mordor wasn’t getting anything done while Westernesse put up three well-executed goals on the first half.

The intensity of the game did fall a notch for the second period until Grishnak roughed Elendil down in quite an ugly manner. Grishnak got his second yellow from that and was shown the red card. Westernesse retaliated the smart way pressing forwards the last minutes producing one more goal to them.

With one more sovereign performance on their belt team Westernesse looks even stronger than earlier while team Mordor clearly has a leadership-problem: they’d need someone to organize them and focus on playing the game. As said earlier, it seems Nazgul #7 seems not ready to fill the boots of Sauron and Shelob and Watcher are no team-minded persons anyway to take the lead.

Mordor 0-4 Westernesse
tot shots 6-16
on target 2-9
GOALS:
*19, 0-1 Ar Pharazon (Elros)
*31, 0-2 Ar Adunakhor (Tar Minastir)
*35, 0-3 Ar Pharazon (Tar Telperien)
*83, 0-4 Elros (Hyarmendacil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mordor- Gorbag, Grishnakh, Nazgul #4, Snaga, Nazgul #6
*Westernesse- Hyarmendacil, Elendil
RED CARDS:
*Mordor- Grishnakh (76, second yellow)

the phantom

06-23-2011, 11:51 AM

The men of Rohan have no love for Sauron, and so it was that from the beginning Dunharrow appeared to be trying to rough up Sauron and his Wilderland squad. Unfortunately, all it did was arouse the wrath of a quality side that was planning on just kicking it around.

After getting serious and putting up two goals Wilderland played ball control through the rest of the half. To start the second half Wilderland pushed again and gained a third goal. After that Dunharrow actually stopped with the bruising attempts and played some offense, but the Wilderland defense staved them off.

Dunharrow 0-3 Wilderland
tot shots 7-14
on target 2-9
GOALS:
*7, 0-1 Sauron
*22, 0-2 Smaug (Bolg)
*55, 0-3 Khamul (Radagast)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dunharrow- Theoden, Snowmane, Helm, Walda
*Wilderland- Khamul, Smaug, Great Warg

The matchup of the sea-realms was an absolute snoozer for scoring fans. The Dunedain and the Lonely Isle both were keen to save their energy for group play and didn’t wish to reveal any set plays, and that combined with their stellar defensive talent and teamwork made for a no-goal game.

Numenor 0-0 Tol Eressea
tot shots 7-9
on target 3-4
GOALS:
YELLOW CARDS:
*Numenor- Tar Elendil
*TolEressea- Osse, Voronwe

Pelori came in prepared to kick it around and get on to the tournament, but The Downer went after them and thanks to a successful box-swarming took the lead. In the second half Pelori did a fine job of building attacks carefully with some nice passing and pulled even with The Downer, and they also started pushed back against the underhanded Downers, and The Downer seemed a bit cowed by their display of power. Soon Pelori had the lead, and Manwe called off the dogs and ran the clock down.

Pelori 2-1 The Downer
tot shots 10-9
on target 5-6
GOALS:
*24, 0-1 Peter Hampton (Lalwende)
*58, 1-1 Eonwe (Ilmare)
*77, 2-1 Varda (Irmo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Pelori- Irmo, Nahar, Varda
*Downer- Morsul, Alien, Soap Pope, Peter Hampton

Neither the hobbits nor the Werewolves came in giving full effort, but Werewolves are just a nightmare match-up for hobbits and Tol In Gaurhoth found themselves an easy three goal lead by the half.

In half #2 the Shire-Bree defense thought they’d get a bit grab-happy and throw in some sly tripping. NogWolf encouraged the team to just put up with it as they were easily tough enough to take it, but the football diva PhantomWolf demanded another score as punishment, as he was most displeased with having his jersey grabbed and stretched. "They aren't showing me proper respect!"

Most of the Wolves were sporting enough not to give him the ball, but SallyWolf was completely on the same page and made a successful run with him to give a four goal lead, and to add injury to insult both drew cards soon after for hard fouls against Bill the donkey.

Shire-Bree suddenly retreated into their shells soon after, leaving many fans puzzled, but after the contest rumors emerged that PhantomWolf threatened to eat Bill the donkey if Shire-Bree didn’t fold. Investigations are pending.

Shire-Bree United 0-4 Tol In Gaurhoth
tot shots 5-15
on target 2-9
GOALS:
*9, 0-1 NerWolf (InzilWolf)
*15, 0-2 GwathWolf (SkipWolf)
*41, 0-3 NerWolf (GaladWolf)
*58, 0-4 PhantomWolf (SallyWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*SBUnited- Ferny, Lumpkin, Harry
*TIG- GwathWolf, SallyWolf, PhantomWolf

Boromir88

06-23-2011, 02:27 PM

Friendlies - Round 4 Results

Anduin vs Lothlorien

In the 1st half both teams pretty much as to be expected, and at least fans saw a fairly good first 45. Anduin held the majority of possession but they had no space to shoot, or whenever they did it was from an unfriendly angle. It appears after 4 friendlies the Lothlorien defenders have finally become accustomed playing together and stopped all Anduin's attacks before anything formed. Lothlorien's first half goal came from none other a quick counter started by Feanor and finished by the precise boot of Legolas. After the goal Galadriel really pulled back her team and even stopped going for counters.

There is no story for the 2nd half as the teams decided there wasn't much else they could accomplish before the tournament and decided it was better to save energy.

Anduin 0-1 Lothlorien
tot shots 7-9
on target 3-5
GOALS:
*31, 0-1 Legolas (Feanor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Beorn, Rumil, Orophin
*Lothlorien- Boromir II, Amroth

Barad-Dur vs Gondor

This was a peculiar game, even if the Gondorian fans were frustrated Isildur chose to stay on with Gondor's enemies, the Gondor players would still be cordial and respectful to one of their forefathers (and his friends). Although there wasn't much love they held for The Mouth and his cronies. At first Gondor was content with the half time score and just planned to coast the rest of the way.

However Gondor became increasingly annoyed with The Mouth's trash talking and once the trash talking turned into hard fouls (on the Nazgul #1's foul he accused Arwen - or "she-elf" as he addressed her - of flopping). But Eorl decided to respond to the unsporty play by rallying everyone behind Gondor's Queen, and he was able to make the score line 3-1. The Mouth attempted to taunt even more and beat his cronies into mounting a comeback, but much to The Mouth's dislike, Gil Galad ordered his friends to remain back.

Barad-Dur 1-3 Gondor
tot shots 10-17
on target 4-7
GOALS:
*19, 0-1 Eldacar (Ostoher)
*36, 1-1 Gil-galad (Shagrat)
*43, 1-2 Turambar (Arwen)
*64, 1-3 Eorl
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Nazgul #1, Fellbeast #1, Cirdan
*Gondor- Narmacil, Arwen

Eregion vs Eriador

At kick-off Elrond and Aragorn were very pleased to see eachother again and embraced at mid circle. The game began slow as the squads looked like they were in a warm up and stretching, which is what you would see BEFORE a game, not during one. The match did pick up in the 2nd half but once the teams traded goals they called it a day, lazily running out the clock.

Bert received another yellow card, but like previous ones it was a strange way to get a card. Bert was literally stretching his leg out as Earendil was trying to make a run, and just outside the penalty area Earendil accidentally tripped over Bert's foot. After the game a confused Bert tried to explain what he was doing: "Cap'n Arvedui says to play defence for 'im I can't just squash em into jelly. 'E says you 'ave to be limber an' always stay be'ind the ball. I wus tryin' to stay limber, because Cap'n says I don wanna pull a muscle or sumfin'. I don get 'is defence, I get yellows for bashin' people and I get yellows for not bashin' people. If I'm gettin' yellows both ways, I'd rather get em by bashin' people."

Eregion 1-1 Eriador
tot shots 10-11
on target 5-5
GOALS:
*50, 1-0 Elrohir (Glorfindel)
*76, 1-1 Aragorn (Halbarad)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eregion- Glorfindel, Lindir
*Eriador- Barrow-Wight, Bert

MMorgul vs MTirith

This was perhaps one of the more brutal friendlies of all the rounds. These teams don't like eachother and if this friendly saw 8 total cards (and a horse sent off), just imagine the carnage when they meet in Group H.

Minas Morgul benefitted more from the chaos, as that was their style and clearly Minas Tirith was playing out of their element. Instead of the normal controlled, minimizing mistakes style Minas Tirith prefers to play, or responding in the way Eorl did in Gondor's match, they became blinded with anger, which led to bad turnovers and one of their defenders being sent off the field. Minas Morgul was finally able to get an opponent to play to their low level of dirtiness, and once you fall into the Witch-King's snare, it's game over.

Minas Morgul 3-1 Minas Tirith
tot shots 15-10
on target 8-6
GOALS:
*38, 0-1 Tarondor (Eowyn)
*44, 1-1 Beruthiel (Castamir)
*66, 2-1 King Dead (Nazgul #3)
*77, 3-1 Beruthiel (Witch King)
YELLOW CARDS:
*MMorgul- Sangahyando, Beruthiel, King Dead, Nazgul #2
*MTirith- Imrahil, Eowyn, Firefoot
RED CARDS:
*MTirith- Firefoot (72, second yellow)

Misty Mts vs The Forest

The teams were quite content with their play, and where they stood at the end of 3 rounds, so in the 4th round they both just relaxed. Although the crowd was still able to see a couple good goals and the masterful ball skill of none other than Bombadil. For an unexplained reason Bombadil was fully engaged in this game too, so perhaps we are seeing signs that the yellow-booted madman will have his head in the match once they begin for real? If so, Mordor, Nargothrond and T-I-G, will all have real cause for concern.

Misty Mts 2-1 The Forest
tot shots 11-8
on target 6-5
GOALS:
*30, 1-0 William (Watcher)
*52, 2-0 Azog (Narvi)
*78, 2-1 Thranduil (Bombadil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*MistyMts- William, DBane, Chief Wolf
*Forest- Skinbark, River Woman

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-23-2011, 03:35 PM

Power Ranking:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup-pr-2406.png

Greatest gain:
+9 Valinor
+7 Tol-in-Gaurhoth
+5 Misty Mts, Lothlórien
+4 The Forest, Minas Morgul

Greatest loss:
-16 Mordor
-9 Tirion
-8 Shire-Bree Utd
-7 Beleriand

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking--the lower the aggregate, the higher the rank. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss-record; b) goal differential; and c) goals scored.

The offensive ranking is based on the goals scored throughout the friendly matches. Ties are broken by a) greater number of shots made on target; and b) greater number of shots made.

The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed throughout the friendly matches. Ties are broken by a) least number of shots allowed on target; and b) least amount of shots allowed.

Please note that the above ranking is based on the four rounds of friendly matches played by the teams, and does not reflect actual tournament performance.

Phantasy Numbers:

GOALS + ASSISTS
5+1
Eldacar (Gondor)

4+4
Curufin (Hithlum)

4+1
Maeglin (Anfauglith)

4+0
Aredhel (Tirion)
Smaug (Wilderland)
Ancalagon (Angband)
Saucepan Man (The Downer)

3+3
Túrin (Doriath)

3+2
Húrin (Doriath)
GwathWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Ar-Pharazôn (Westernesse)

3+1
Eöl (Doriath)
Maedhros (Himring)
Celegorm (Hithlum)
Eorl (Gondor)
Bombadil (The Forest)
Elros (Westernesse)

3+0
Bandobras (Shire-Bree Utd)
Scatha (Wilderland)
Thuringwethil (Angband)
Hador (Hithlum)
Mouth (Barad-dûr)
Aragorn (Eriador)
NerWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Turgon (Gondolin)
Varda (Pelóri)
Eönwë (Pelóri)
Berúthiel (Minas Morgul)

2+3
Finwë (Tirion)

2+2
Girion (Esgaroth)
Saruman (Misty Mts)
Khamûl (Wilderland)
Gothmog (Anfauglith)
Nazgûl #7 (Mordor)
Aegnor (Beleriand)
Míriel (Valinor)
Nerdanel (Valinor)

1+3
Frodo (Shire-Bree Utd)
Finrod (Tirion)
Sauron (Wilderland)
Arwen (Gondor)
Yavanna (Valinor)

0+4
Tevildo (Angband)

GOALKEEPER - SAVES
23 saves
Imlach (Hithlum)

22 saves
Rog (Gondolin)

21 saves
Ohtar (Barad-dûr)

20 saves
Aldor (Dunharrow)
Tuor (Mithrim)

18 saves
Maglor (Himring)
Brand (Esgaroth)

17 saves
Old Man Willow (The Forest)
Butterbur (Shire-Brie Utd)

GOALKEEPER - SAVE %
Manwë (Pelóri) 20/22 - 90.9%
Tar-Atanamir (Westernesse) 15/17 - 88.2%
Ungoliant (Angband) 14/16 - 87.5%
Ingwë (Valinor) 10/12 - 83.3%
Huan (Doriath) 15/18 - 83.3%
Elrond (Eregion)14/17 - 82.4%
Silmariën (Númenor) 16/20 - 80.0%
Amandil (Tol Eressëa) 16/20 - 80.0%

YELLOW CARDS
5 yellow cards
Bert (Eriador)

4 yellow cards
Fellbeast #1 (Barad-dûr)
Éowyn (Minas Tirith)

3 yellow cards
Ulfast (Himring)
Ferny (Shire-Bree Utd)
Beorn (Anduin)
Orophin (Anduin)
Attercop (Esgaroth)
Mayor (Esgaroth)
Azaghâl (Anfauglith)
Lorgan (Hithlum)
Morsul (The Downer)
Alien (The Downer)
Gothmog II (Barad-dûr)
Snaga (Mordor)
Ossë (Tol Eressëa)
Hyarmendacil (Westernesse)
Nahar (Pelóri)

Boromir88

06-24-2011, 09:21 AM

TWO TOWERS NETWORK
BoroLXXXVIII

Be prepared for the most thorough breakdown of all 8 groups and 32 teams that you will find. With the standard competition of AKM and MESPN, but also new jumpstart competitors like Nilp's blog and The Underground, TTN is really stepping up their efforts to remain the premier news source for phantasy and tournament information. We will cover every group from every possible angle imaginable (and angles unimaginable).

We don't care so much about friendly records, it's all about how the teams ranked in each category (as ArdaCup.com has also done). The difference is TTN includes the performance of goal keepers into their final rankings. Outstanding keepers can cover up leaky defenses and terrible GKs can make some of the better defenses look horrible.

As an example when we compiled all stats Minas Morgul actually allowed fewer shots -41(20)- than Pelori -45(22)- but somehow Minas Morgul gave up 7 more goals. How did this happen? Earnur was looking like swiss cheese at goal, while Manwe was a brick wall. So, in breaking down the teams, TTN produced some different results to include the goal keeper factor.

Group A

Predicted Standings
1. Doriath
2. Tirion
3. Himring
4. Shire-Bree United

1st place is already being awarded to Doriath and not without good reason. Doriath was 1 of 2 teams that was rated Top 5 in all our categories (OFF-1, DEF-5, GK- 4). This also means Doriath is one of the favorites to get into the semi finals (or if they don't make it that far, than their may be a real uprising in Thingol's forest). Whatever happens you have to favor Doriath to advance far because they got solid production from pretty much every position player during the friendlies. It's loaded with talent and grabbing Doriath players on your fantasy team (while some are a bit pricey) would definitely be worth it.

Even though Tirion look like the clear 2nd place favorites, we're not going to outrule an upset by Himring or Shire-Bree (although that chance is ever so slight). Tirion is better and it's really that simple. You look at every position and like Doriath, it's loaded with playoff experience. Aredhel, Finwe, Finrod, and Mahtan at the front, with Aule and Caranthir at the back. Not only is it hard to see these players slacking and allowing themselves to be upset, but they have good chances at knocking off the winner of Group G to go on a deep playoff run. The true weakness I can see is Orodreth is only a decent goalie, and Tirion's defense has shown to give up a lot of shots to teams who emphasize the attack.

So why include the other 2 in this discussion? Well, Himring has championship experience with Maedhros, Fingon and Maglor. The weakness is, no one else inspires a lot of confidence. All the men have pledged undying loyalty to Maedhros and Fingon, but you can't help but wonder what the men from Uldor's clan will do? Uldor does play hard and tough, but also is prone to making a lot of costly defensive mistakes. It's gotten to the point where you see Uldor on a team and you wonder what horrendous goof is he going to make and then just hope Maedhros is good enough to overcome it.

If you take out Shire-Bree's last friendly against the werewolves, which created a match up nightmare then you can see how the hobbits and Breelanders can be an upset pick. But you have to include every game, and at least in the hobbit's favor is none of the teams should be that bad of a mismatch. Let's be clear, they have no chance beating Doriath, but the hobbits won't be scared out of their minds to give an effort. The elephant in the room is their defense and goalie just isn't going to be good enough, without needing a whole lot of luck (and maybe a backdoor deal with Doriath and the refs?) to sneak into 2nd place. They're good enough to get a draw against Himring, but honestly, they need to beat Himring to get a fool's hope.

Round 1 Predictions

Doriath vs. Tirion - The two teams predicted to advance square off in Round 1. Keys to this game will be seeing if there's vulnerability to Doriath's defense. They'll be up against a proven and solid Tirion attack. Tirion's defensive problems are known, can they score enough to get a draw? They can still lose and easily advance from the group, but the defense will have to keep the scoreline close enough. If they're beaten by 2+ goals, that opens the door for Himring and S-B United.
Doriath wins 3-2

Himrings vs. Shire-Bree - Keys to the game has to be the defenses of both teams, and if Maglor can still remain a dependable keeper. The hobbits will look to attack more than Maedhros, so Himring's defense will have to stay smart and not run their legs off by dashing after the smaller hobbits. With that said, Himring should also have no problem putting up goals on their own. Whoever loses is dead in the group, if it ends in a draw, I say they're both dead.
Draw 2-2

Phantasy spin: We've added this section to our breakdown to identify players you may just want to have on your team, at each position.

GK - Huan is going to be your safest bet. He's costly, but always a lock for 4 points and can get a lot of shut outs. I don't like the pick for this round since Tirion has proven goal scorers, and it's risky taking the 2-star hound, when there are better (and cheaper) options in other groups.

DF- Pretty much anyone on Doriath is the way to go. A 2-star defender with an offensive ability (such as Melian - 2 assists in the friendly) are always good picks for teams. If you want to put stars on your defense, it pays off more to spend the extra cost on the 2-star defenders. Melian had 16 phantasy pts, Beren (1-star) had 10. That's a pretty big difference and worth the extra cost. If you don't want to spend your stars on DF, then better to go with Thingol or Carcharoth than any of the other defenders in this group.

MF- This group is loaded with good mid-fielders because of their offensive abilities. Hurin, Eol (Doriath) and Finrod (Tirion) are always involved in the attack and are usually good bets to score goals. The Hobbit MF also have a mind to attack, but with them there's a bit more risk involved as you don't know how much success they can have, where there's more sure-fire points from the three 1-star midfielders.

FW- A lot of good options at FW too. For those who like to spend stars on FWs, you can't go wrong with Turin. However, to no cost you can get Finwe or Aredhel (Tirion) and they've been getting points consistantly for years. Although, I don't know how much I like their chances against Doriath in Round 1. So, perhaps a bit more safety drafting Maedhros of Fingon who should have little trouble scoring against the weak Shire-Bree defense.

Boromir88

06-24-2011, 02:14 PM

Group B

Predicted Standings
1. Wilderland
2. Misty Mountains
3. Anduin
4. Esgaroth

As in Group A, this Group seems to have a pretty clear favorite winner in the Wilderland squad. They know how to score and can hurt you in a variety of ways. What works so well is the two great dragons are goal scorers. They're the targets, and it works in Sauron's scheme, because while Sauron will take a shot if the opportunity is there, he prefers to be the architect of the offense with expert passes. Khamul is a similar player, who can score, but looks to target the imposing dragons. Simply put, it's a deadly effective attack because you've got 2 primary goal scorers and 2 players who look to set them up with good chances. The defense is nothing to boast about, but it's good enough to win this group, it'll have to get better to advance further.

2nd becomes tricky to figure out again, although TTN will give a good edge to Misty Mountains who drew with Anduin and easily dispatched Esgaroth 3-0 in the friendlies. It's a new day now and I expect the tensions to boil over into a bloody bar fight, but then you're just walking into Misty Mts' specialty. They seemed to be coasting through their friendly matches and still performed well. And Caradhras was the best GK of the group. I'd say their biggest weakness is if Saruman and Durin's Bane lose their saavy. They are two big personalities, so big that if things start out rocky for them, their own egos will be Misty Mts' undoing.

The challengers then, how realistic is it that Anduin or Esgaroth make it through? Eh, nothing about their games tells me they can. So it's going to come down to either luck or one of them decides to surprise me with something I haven't seen yet. Neither Fram nor Brand can keep their goal clean (where Caradhras and Grimbeorn have done so). And in Brand's case, he was the 2nd poorest GK of the friendlies (58.1 sv%). They can both score goals, and will score goals in this group, but not enough I'm afraid. And if you look at the defenders on Anduin and Esgaroth, they pick up about as many cards as Misty Mts.

Round 1 Predictions

Esgaroth vs. Misty Mts - Just going by the 3-0 thumping Misty Mts gave them in the friendlies, Girion needs to come up with a new game plan and fast. The key is going to be who controls the mid field. Saruman has given the offensive reigns to Durin's Bane, so their offense runs through him. He's a notorious ball-hog (wait, I thought he was a ball-rog?) but the most dominating mid-fielder in this group.
Misty Mts wins 3-1

Anduin vs. Wilderland -
This will make for an interesting match, Beorn had wanted to recruit Grimbeorn to Anduin, but Grimbeorn was suaded by Sauron instead. Why? Most likely the money was better, but it might have bit to do with Grimbeorn also wanted to play GK. And will Beorn be in a frenzy as he can tend to play in? Whatever the case, Grimbeorn performed much better than Fram; 78.9 sv% to Fram's 66.7%. And even if Wilderland's defense falls asleep at times, that's always a good sign because it means Wilderland's offense is keeping possession and they're getting bored at the back.
Wilderland wins 3-1

Phantasy spin -

GK - I don't know if I'd take a GK from this group. Caradhras and Grimbeorn both stopped 15/19 which is a solid performance, but with it being their first time protecting the goal, I would still need to see more from them before choosing one. But for no star-cost they could make one of the better options.

DF - A lot of cheap defenders in this group. Stick to any of the DFs on Misty Mts or Wilderland. We've rated Wilderland's defense 9th and Misty Mts 10th. They were pretty much the same statistically, but Misty Mts' defenders draw more cards, which means negative points and a greater risk in taking them.

MF - As a 2-star player there was a bit of a risk with Durin's Bane because he can lay the occasional stinker of a game. As a 1-star he's a steal. Snatch him up for your team. And this group has several underrated MFs to be honest. Khamul and Girion both had 16 pts and Saruman 17. I don't recall Saruman performing particularly well in the tournament before, but the presense of Durin's Bane may change his fortunes. Girion and Khamul have been consistent (and again underrated) phantasy performers.

FW - Can't go wrong with any of the choices on the Wilderland, they score goals and lots of them. Earnil II and Bard have shown some quality but they averaged under 3 phantasy points per friendly, and thus probably aren't worth the risk.

Nogrod

06-24-2011, 04:51 PM

Reading instructions for the numbers:

After the name of the team are the number of friendlies they have won-drawn-lost
Next row: total goals made – total goals allowed
Last row: scoring percentage*, shots on target (all shots) – shots allowed on goal (all shots allowed), goalie’s saving percentage.

* The AKM thinks the percentage of scored goals vs. overall shots (not only those on target) tells one more about the team.

Group A
Doriath
Himring (hosts)
Shire-Bree Utd.
Tirion

Doriath 4-0-0
12-3
20,7% 34(58) – 18(37) 83,3%

A very strong performance in the friendlies. And the team really has talent this year. Elu Thingol hit the golden vein giving her spouse to pick up the team this year. This team is delivering! And there is no way it will not qualify. Actually there is no way they’re going to take any other than the first place in the group unless they wish to play tactics in an odd situation where the number two from Group H would be more to their liking and they’d be willing to lose in purpose for that forgetting their pride.

They just excel on all areas of the game.

Their friendlies have been just smashing. They have controlled the games as they wish, pressing and making goals when they will, even falling back after a lead but still scoring. Anfaughlith managed to score twice against them, but then again it was a very polite game where both teams played “hands-off” defense thus allowing more shots to the opponent (twice the number Doriath normally allows). So Huan and the defense led by Melian & Thingol (including Carcaroth & Beren) is even more formidable the stats show them to be – while the opponents will be playing it with full swing in the future as well to be sure.

But while their defense is solid, their offence is the real game-breaker. Twelve goals in four games is the best scoring-line of the friendlies with a margin. Having Túrin, Beleg, Húrin and Eöl up front would be a wet dream of any coach. Doriath has them – with Lúthien and Mablung supporting in the midfield.

With this line up and spirit Doriath will go a long way in this tournament.

Himring 1-1-2
4-7
10% 18(40) – 25(52) 72%

Losing the solid defense of Amon Sûl it was a surprise Maedhros and Fingon stuck together trying to gather a team around them and not just sell themselves to the highest bidders. It looked fine when Maedhros’ younger brothers Maglor, Amrod and Amras joined, but then it looked like all the rest of the talent was already hired to other teams. In a forced situation they turned towards their former Easterling allies, faithful and treacherous, to form an alliance in memory of Nirnaeth Arnodiedad – in the vein of how team Anfaughlith had been formed.

None predicted them a happy tournament and overall the results of the friendlies are just about average. But there is one thing that should be kept in mind here. They lost to Anfaughlith 1-3 because Maedhros purposefully left his defenses alone to see how they could cope, they played even with Nargothrond as they stopped playing after the leading goal. In their only game in more or less tournament drive they actually beat Gondolin 2-1. So maybe they’re just holding back something and will be much more dangerous come the real games?

One anomaly there is though: how was it they lost to The Forest 0-2 just like that? Was Tom Bombadill just that sovereign or what was it?

They will fight for the second qualifier with Tirion in this group. Only the future will tell which one will proceed.

Shire-Bree Utd. 0-2-2
7-12
14% 21(50) – 29(52) 58,6%

The Shire-Bree Utd. has attacked with gusto and scored. But that’s the only positive news there is to tell about this team. And sadly their ability to score is way undermined by the weakness of their defenses that allows the opponent to outscore them anyway. Also it must be admitted that most of their opponents in the friendlies have treated them with silken gloves – which will not happen when the real games begin. The one game their opponent played for real in the friendlies they scored zero. So if Doriath will be tougher in the tournament than their stats show, then S-B Utd. will be a lot weaker their stats show.

They draw with Esgaroth mostly because they were taking turns in the attack and amiably not taking it too seriously in between the joking. Eriador was way better a team of the two but Aragorn and friends rather chatted with them and let them make some game when they were ahead themselves – and were decent enough to only win them by one goal. The Forest ents just stood the first half fascinated more about seeing halflings than the game, but as soon as Bombadill woke them up S-B Utd. had no chance. The only game where the opponent were not giving them easy time was their last against T-I-G – and they lost that 0-4 without a question as to which team was superb.

Butterbur is one of the lousiest goalies in the tournament, their defense scores more minus points than positive ones (every defender has at least two cards)… The “hero-quartet” has a decent scoreline (Pip excluded) but that has been gaoned against opponents who do not play it for real. Only Bandobras Took has shown some quality in the team – and that will not be enough.

The last team of the group.

Tirion 1-2-1
9-6
15,5% 32(58) – 20(43) 70%

A nice pack of Noldor talent gathered around grandfather Finwë and aided by Aulë. Aredhel is a superb steal and Finrod Felagund delivers always. But will it be enough?

Their defense is probably better the stats allow as they gave away two goals to Pelori in a game that was more like an open practice, and three to Hithlum in the same way (an open test of the forwards where both teams neglected organised defense). And anyway their defensive stats are already better than their major rivals Himring – and actually their attack is on a class of its own regarding Himring. But there are a host of “but’s” involved.

A serious contender to be the second to qualify. 60%-40% against Himring.

Group B
Anduin
Esgaroth
Misty Mts.
Wilderland (hosts)

Anduin 0-2-2
5-8
11,1% 24(45) – 24(46) 66,7

It is rumoured that Earnil II, Beorn and Fram were drinking together one night by chance in a same inn and realized they had in common living by the Great River – and thus decided to form a team for this year’s Arda Cup. As is known, most drunken ideas should be left alone the next day but the three seemed to be serious enough to actually go for it. The result is a diverse team with no unifying cause to make them fight for it together – even if there is a host of individual talent involved.

Their stats aren’t too bad, but in this case they lie a bit. They draw with Misty Mts. (in the same group) but it was more like a cat and a mouse thing where the cat (Misty Mts.) let them shoot to test their new goalie and after falling back easily equalized on their will. They lost to Wilderland 1-3 (also in the same group) while Wilderland played left-handedly. They lost to Lothlórien only 0-1 because Lothlórien pulled back totally after getting the lead…

The only team they seemed to have earned a point from a draw was their game against the most pathetic team of Dunharrow (probably the worst one this year). Good for them, the team Esgaroth is even lousier than they are.

Most probably third in the group.

Esgaroth 0-1-3
5-13
14,3% 17(35) – 31(59) 58,1%

Esgaroth looks a lot like the team Dale from last year, but that they have lost their best players like Smaug and Beorn. The addition of the spiders Attercop and Tomnoddy goes nowhere near to replace the two heroes but might even distract the inner balance of the team – if there ever was one.

The results from the friendlies are just sad reading. They managed to draw with Shire-Bree Utd. in a game that was more like taking turns and chatting & joking. On other games it did happen that every time the opponent decided to play a little Esgaroth was more or less overrun.

Esgaroth really needs to find a solution to their classless defense. They have allowed almost sixty shots to the opponents of which about half on target – in four games! Even a great goalie would have problems trying to keep the goal intact in such a rain of shots, and sadly Brand isn’t one. And if one is going to allow three goals in every game (3,25 to be exact), they’d need a flashing attack to win games – which they have neither.

Unless they really pull their act together, and do some magic with their defense, they will be the last of the group.

Misty Mountains 2-1-1
7-4
16,3% 25(43) – 19(39) 79%

It is not said in vain of Saruman that he is wise, as wise people learn from their mistakes. Last year was a nightmare for Saruman with Gandalf and the halflings but this year he has chosen his companies with more care and the results are quite promising.

Saruman seems to have delved into negotiations with Durin’s Bane quite early on and they seemed to have Azog on board early as well thus founding the offence. Many questions hover over the true nature of Caradhras as the goalkeeper. His saving percentage is pretty good but not outstanding (79%), but many say they have purposefully held him at bay to only show his real qualities as the real games start.

The defense of Misty Mts. sure is formidable: with two great eagles, the chief wolf and the Watcher very few dare to rush towards them. The Great Goblin and William the Troll make it a huge stopping-zone in the midfield and Narvi provides some craftsmanship and intelligence to the team.

They draw with Anduin only because they wished to test Caradhras and let the opponents purposefully to shoot and they played an even game against Pelori (even if losing 0-1). The two other matches they won easily in a relaxed mode.

Ends up second in the group.

Wilderland 3-1-0
10-4
18,9% 32(53) – 19(41) 79%

Sauron hasn’t win the Arda Cup but once and that makes him ever more hungry for it – and he rarely signs with a lousy side that has no chances to go really far in the tournament. It seems the same this year – and he’s behind the steering wheel this time quite openly – including the fact that he has more or less stayed in the shadows during the friendlies leaving it to his team to make it. Like always, he seems to be happy to support the team with beautiful passes (like he was behind team Armenelos’ victory a few years ago feeding Ar Pharazôn).

But what kind of signings he has gathered this year… Smaug and Scatha around him in the attack! It’s hard to find as intimidating offence from this tournament. But he also signed the three wizards solidifying his defenses – and stealing the always deadly Khâmul was his last master strike.

And Wilderland has been outstanding in the friendlies as well even if their opponenrts haven’t been of the highest quality. The draw with T-I-G could make one wonder as T-I-G hasn’t been that impressive in their other games, but then again that’s the way T-I-G plays only stepping up when they really need to.

So Wilderland will easily win this group unless Saruman provides some real wizardry to outwit Sauron. But looking at the relationship of the two that’s hardly likely.

Wins the group.

Group C
Angband
Anfaughlith (hosts)
Hithlum
The Downer

Angband 3-0-1
8-2
16,3% 23(49) – 16(40) 87,5%

Morgoth leads the defense of a few Balrogs and Draugluin the Werewolf while Ungoliant guards the goal. You know the opponents will not be scoring a lot against that downstairs household. The amazing (and baffling) Tilion keeps being dangerous under Morgoth’s eye third year in a row in midfield, and Tevildo, Thuringwethil and Ancalagon himself go for the offence. Formidable.

Ungoliant was the shared best goalie last year and she has continued where she ended last year, being the trustworthy lock in the defense with 87,5% savings (2 goals from 16 shots on goal) in the friendlies. They gave one goal to Pelori in a tight game where Eönwë the herald scored from a corner and Fëanor’s brothers managed to get one in in a game Beleriand was defeated 1-3 by Angband. So mind you. It will not be easy to score against this backline.

The only problem one might see thus far with Angband’s playing in regards to the play-offs is that only Ancalagon (4+0) and Thuringwethil (3+0) have been scoring majorly (well, any team would be jealous for that kind of scorers, especially two of them in a same team). But they’d need Tilion to get his act together once again to have a third tooth to bite the opponent with.

Anfaughlith is a tough team as well, but it would be a surprise if Angaband didn’t claim the number one seat in this group. Unless the jokers of the group perform miracles…

Anfaughlith 3-0-1
8-4
14,8% 30(54) – 19(40) 79%

The team Anfaughlith is an astonishing combination of the best talent there is rallied around the hill of Haudh-en-Ndengin (Dagor Bragollach and Nirnaeth Arnodiedad) and from the great city of Gondolin tightly webbed with the fates of Ard-Galen. Basically half of the last years champions play for Anfaughlith this year and that must be said is the master-steal of the year by Huor, Rían and Azaghâl (forget Galadriel getting only one Fëanor). And the selected Balrogs aren’t no weak substitutes to the rest of the team, especially Gothmog is a real game-decider. Interestingly enough, the team organisers might be the weakest links of the team…

It’s hard to make a judgement on their friendlies as so many of them have included shooting contests, all out attacks by mutual consent of both teams etc. But their performances have been solid enough – and their defense strong enough even with the shooting contests, that it is easy to predict them to qualify over Hithlum and The Downer. Just look at how they’ll play when the games start for real.

But the two other teams are the real jokers this year and they will make this group extremely interesting.

Hithlum 1-2-1
10-11
18,9% 28(53) – 34(65)

The talk of Arda this year. Last year’s star defenders Celegorm and Curufin insisted on playing offence and Hador dared to hire them with the terms they laid on him. It wasn’t that good in the beginning as they were dominated by Gondolin in their first match (even if it was a draw) and were totally beaten by Doriath (0-4). But when they changed their tactics and started to go all out for offence, Fëanor’s sons started to deliver: Celegorm has scored now 3+1 and Curufin 4+4. Hador has shown that the edain can score as well gathering a nice 3+0 behind his stars.

A lot depends on what tactics Hithlum will choose in the group-phase. The all out attack produces a bunch of goals but also allows the opponent to score back as was seen in their last two friendlies against Mithrim and Tirion. Imlach has been a precious goalie in a few games but he’s not one of the top keepers of the tournament, so can Hador count on him and the fairly untested defense to go on full attack or will he be more careful thus frustrating his top-scorers? The group is really tough and the other teams will score if given room to do that. To be or not to be, that’s the problem Hador now faces.

If Hithlum defences start to hold and Imlach steps up a notch – and Hithlum braves to play offensively – they might challenge Anfaughlith for qualification. But if not, and they leave Celegorm and Curufin without proper feeding in the front, they will end up third or fourth.

The Downer 1-2-1
8-8
15,7% 22(51) – 22(46) 63,6%

The Downer is another talking point of this year’s tournament. It is less that no one expected the AFA authorities to allow for this kind of team to take part (the exception of T-I-G has been quite an everyday thing no one has contested in years), but more the way this team plays.

And they really play an odd game. During the friendlies they have been really aggressive claiming 16 yellow cards in four games (only Mordor comes even close with 15 cards), but they have also confused their opponents by pressing on when every decent team would have withdrawn and vice versa – or starting to play when the opponent thinks there is a mutual consensus that the end-result is okay.

The real question is, that now as the surprise-factor has probably worn out, how will the other teams adjust their play to counter the haphazardness of the Downer team? Pelori already gave them some physical counter-play, a tit-for-tat the first time, and thus causing them their first lost game during the friendlies. Looking at teams like Angband and Anfaughlith it looks like they’re not going to shy away from playing physically if it needs be – so answering the call of The Downer with a lot more strength and stamina The Downer can ever produce.

But one should not forget that the team Downer also has some real talent. Saucepanman is a quality midfielder who scores a lot (4+0). Alien (2+0), hookbill (1+2) and Peter Hampton (1+2) are guys to be watch out for as well. King Bus at the goal hasn’t been the best of goalies and the overall defense of The Downer hasn’t impressed.

The other joker-team of the group. If they manage to confuse the opponents they might even have a chance to qualify, but more probably the other teams just run over them playing it much more physical now as it is time for it and leave them the last in the group. But *knock-knock*, one never knows.

Group D
Barad-Dûr
Eregion (hosts)
Eriador
Gondor

Barad-Dûr 1-1-2
6-9
15,8% 16(38) – 30(62) 70%

After Sauron vanished the “boys of the last alliance”, Gil-Galad and Isildur, were left free floating and everyone thought they would leave the Dark Tower and join some competitive team to play with their friends for a change, but for some unseen reasons they decided to stay there, even alluring Cirdan from the Havens to join them. But it is an uneasy alliance now with Mouth, orcs, a nazgul etc. with the good guys and the focus tying them into that place gone to put up team Wilderland. But as they say, great minds are seldom understood in their time – or in this case even after their time.

The stats of the friendlies are not too flattering for Barad-Dûr, but one would do well to note they have played somewhat tougher opponents than an average team. But it was mainly the rifts inside the team which resulted in Gondor beating them in their last friendly – or was it just revealing their real level?

They will have it tough to advance from the group-phase even in this pretty mediocre group D. And most probably they will not do it.

Eregion 2-1-1
4-3
10,3% 20(39) – 17(38) 82,4%

Eregion has thus far the most solid defense of the group and with the master-keeper Elrond at the goal they can rest assured the opponents will not score a lot. Other than that is hard to say as their friendlies have been more or less played in a practice mode with nice understanding with the opponent of not being too competitive.

Glorfindel has flashed some nice play and Elrohir has been quite spirited as well. People are waiting for Eärendil to wake up though. And if he does, then Eregion has good chances of qualifying. And they do have a good chance anyway as everything in the group is quite open now. So which team goes forwards to the play-offs will be something hard to predict on.

Eriador 1-2-1
7-7
15,2% 24(46) – 22(46) 68,2%

Eriador knows how to score. Aragorn and Barrow-Wight have been really good at it getting great support from Halbarad. Last year’s comet Araphor hasn’t quite reached his level yet but has done decently. But the problem of Eriador lies elsewhere, namely in defense. It’s not that they have the most shots against them or that Arvedui would be a pathetic goalie, but somehow the defense just doesn’t work. And unless Bert stops taking those cards they will end up playing undermanned in every game when the stakes get higher. And that’s not a position to fight even matches.

But the same thing which applied to Eregion applies to Eriador as well: their friendlies are of little evidence to any direction. They were weaker than the numbers tell against Numenor, and their draw with T-I-G was only due to the werewolves freezing with the sight of the Barrow-Wight. Then again they were much better than the numbers show against the Shire-Bree Utd. and their final game with Eregion was a happy match where both teams were just walking it through.

As said, the group is wide open and it is hard to say which teams (except Barad-Dûr who are not qualifying) will make it to the play-offs. Whether there is a glorious path there for anyone team from this group to advance any further, well only a fool would bet on that.

Gondor 3-1-0
10-6
18,5% 24(54) – 22(49) 72,7%

Gondor’s stats from the friendlies look like they’re the clear favourites of the group, but whereas Eregion’s and Eriador’s stats are just hard to read, it looks like Gondor’s stats are plain misleading. They have won three games – and in a more or less competitive athmosphere – but those wins have come from some of the poorest sides in this year’s tournament. Their amazing draw with Westernesse was mainly due to the Numenorians playing with half-speed and letting them to play, some individual talent and sloppiness on behalf of Westernesse’s defenses and goaltending.

On a positive note one must say that Eldacar (5+1) has been on fire during these friendlies, and if he continues that way, the opponents need to really concentrate their defensive efforts. Also Eorl and Arwen have played well.

Gondor has good chances of qualifying, but they can’t be sure of it. In no way.

Group E
Mordor
Nargothrond
The Forest (hosts)
Tol-In-Gaurhoth

Mordor 2-0-2
5-7
13,9% 14(36) – 23(49) 69,6%

Mordor is facing a real leadership-problem.

Nazgul #7 has carried the burden of scoring but he seems not yet ready to fill the boots of the leader of Mordor. Shelob is no team leader – even less than being a team player with the orcs. The same goes with Watcher who could otherwise qualify as someone others look up upon, but he’s too much an individualistic loner to be able or willing to take responsibility of a team effort. Gollum does have personality, but who would follow such a wretched one? The orcs could fight over leadership, but the stars wouldn’t be impressed… So it looks like team Mordor, as it is now, is just a bunch of rag-tag baddies going after a whim, and in the worst instance destroying their own chances.

They did win the lousy Dunharrow team in a sloppy game and Minas Morgul in a more or less practice-like friendly re-union where no one cared about the result. But Gondor was clearly a too strong a team against them and with Westernesse they didn’t stand a chance.

The only chance for Mordor seems to be that Nargothrond turns out as sloppy team they are when the real games begin and Tom Bombadill decides to love flowers more than the game. Or if someone steps up to lead them and the Watcher turns into another mode entirely.

Will not probably qualify.

Nargothrond 0-2-2
4-7
9,5% 20(42) – 21(52) 66,7%

If Tuor has been criticized for making a bad choice willing to lead a team of his own, then some similar kind of criticisms should be sent towards Finduilas as well. Finarfin’s grand-daughter sure has led herself into trouble even if many from the mighty house of Beor did join the team. Glaurung sure is a star but his last season was just wretched and even if he has shown some higher spirits this year he seems past his prime (no wonder Morgoth told him he was too big and slow to fit his team) ith only two goals in four games thus far. Maybe the strict rules Finduilas set for him are an issue as well – like not being allowed to go for Túrin - and he doesn’t quite feel happy with the team?

After all the complaints one could try to see positive things in their game. They were the first to meet the odd team The Downer and got away with it with a draw. Also they played it quite evenly with Gondolin, which is no small feat – and as the man of the match there was Rôg on Gondolin’s goal it actually tells they were doing something right in there. Losing to Doriath only 0-2 is decent as well.

But after all it is a plain fact that their scoring percentage is a sad 9,5% with which no team could dream of making it to the play-offs. If Finduilas could motivate Glaurung to feel happy and do his best, and they could organize their defenses to let the opposition to shoot a little less – and then play as well as they did against Gondolin, well then they might stand a chance to qualify. But there seems to be quite many ifs on the road to play-offs…

The Forest 1-1-2
5-7
12,5% 21(40) – 24(47)

One always wishes to talk of other players than Tom Bombadill in an analysis concerning a team he plays in, but there seems to be no way around it. Once again it is Tom Bombadill who will steal our attention.
So let’s take a worn out example once more. Take Fëanor, take Túrin, take phantomwolf or whichever hero and present them with the Ring of Power. Or take any Maia… They will be either twisting to its will or at least having a great struggle with it – and even if this is pure speculation, it’s not so clear if all of the Valier would be able to ignore it either. But be as it may, the Ring has absolutely no power on Tom. He’s just above that kind of things and no one knows what he is and where he comes from.

The sad thing for any team having him in their roster is that he can be totally above playing football as well picking flowers from a near meadow or delving in his poems. But when he plays he is one of the best, if not The Best player in whole Arda. At least there are only a few who could contest that ranking with him in earnest – if he would happen to be interested in trying out anything g as insignificant as that.

This time around he has shown a considerable amount of interest in the game – maybe it is because Goldberry is playing as well and he has more reasons to focus on things in the field? But he is unforeseeable, which has been seen in the friendlies already – and in the tournaments before.

So if Tom is playing The Forest can go anywhere: the ents can be really tough on both defense and offence if sang to it in the right way – and Thranduil (who has been forgotten by most analysis on team Forest) is a good forward as well. But without decent calling the ents can also be very slow and well, treeish (just remember how the hobbits made fool of them in the first half of the game between the two until Bombadill sang the ents into playing – which changed everything).

A real questionmark then, but unless Tom deserts his team once and for all, then more probable qualifiers than not.

Tol-In-Gaurhoth 2-2-0
10-4
18,5% 29(54) – 18(34) 77,8%

After the trial of playing in a human form last year proving a disaster the T-I-G team has taken back their natural werewolf-form again – and they have been pretty good, if not as dashing as many would have anticipated. But like phantomwolf famously said after the first friendly: “Psh – it’s just friendlies”, and there’s nothing new in here. Traditionally T-I-G only starts playing when it matters.

Anyway, T-I-G are the clear favourites to win this group by a margin – if they just stick to it. But will they be good enough to go far in the tournament this year? Only time will tell.

Putting Gwathwolf up in the offence seems to have been a great idea as he has already produced 3+2. Also Nerwolf is getting her game together having scored three times already. Shastawolf is slowly gearing up and has now an okay goalie savings percent of 77,8%. Phantomwolf has also shown increased interest in the game and has scored a decent 2+1. Sallywolf and Galadwolf have done well in their supporting low midfield role, both securing two shut-outs but also offering two assists to goals each. On the downside Nogwolf has been quite invisible thus far after making one goal in their first match.

Yes, T-I-G will qualify for play-offs but they need to find the edge to their game if they’re to go much further this year.

Group F
Mithrim
Númenor (hosts)
Tol Eressëa
Westernesse

Mithrim 0-0-4
3-13
7,1% 17(42) – 33(58) 60,6%

Many a great name has weared the jerseys of team Mithrim, but this year those heroes will feel ashamed of the level of the team they have represented earlier years. This year Mithrim is just a shadow of their former days of glory. They have problems in scoring, but even worse problems in keeping their own goal clean – and it’s not only the problem of Tuor in the goal (even if it is partly also his problem) but the problem of the whole defense which just isn’t able to keep the opponent’s forwards away from shooting. They have allowed 13 goals in just four games and Tuor’s saving percentage is a dismal 60,6%. And meanwhile they have scored only three goals themselves thus far.

Even more worrisome however is the fact that every time the opponent has shown some interest in playing it for real (or just having an interest in controlling the game) Mithrim has been more or less overrun by them – and two of their three goals were made in a game against Hithlum where Hithlum threw everything forwards to practice goal-scoring (making four) leaving Mithrim more than ample room to score themselves (only two) – a situation they will not see during the group-play.

Looking at the other teams in the group every sign predicts an early exit to team Mithrim this year, which is a pity, looking at the proud history of the team’s banner.

Númenor 1-2-1
3-4
10% 14(30) – 20(45) 80%

Númenor is one of those teams it is very hard to say anything but impressions as most of their friendlies have been played in practise mode or just plain slow and unwilling to show off anything or to wear out the players. Being the hosts of the group one might though expect some real action from them when the group-phase finally begins. And anyway, it will be a battle between them and Tol-Eressëa for the second place in the play-offs as Westernesse will walk there quite easily.

But to those impressions then. They were a bit better than Eriador (which is not a lot, but something) and they seemed quite even with Beleriand (which is something) – and clearly the weaker team against Valinor (which was predictable). Their last game against Tol-Eressëa gave out nothing as both teams tried to avoid showing anything to the opponent as they will meet in the first game of the group phase. But the teams ending in 0-0 tells a lot about both teams.

The fact that they are the hosts and the feeling that they have been holding back a lot during the friendlies might speak of their behalf to qualify. But it looks like Tol-Eressëa has been holding their horses (waves?) as well so it is a tough call. But either one will advance to play-offs anyway.

On the positive note, Silmariën has proved to be a decent goalie and their defense stands cool.

Tol-Eressëa 0-2-2
1-4
2,9% 16(34) – 20(41) 80%

If Númenor has scoring problems, then I’m not sure what to call the situation Tol-Eressëa has in their hands. They have scored one goal (1 goal!) in four friendlies. And that’s all. Friendlies or not, but that is pathetic.

Ulmo leads a very solid defense, a stellar one it could be said, and Amandil is a right man between the posts (80% saving ratio is pretty good), but they just haven’t scored. Is this some sneaky tactics by Ulmo and they will surprise everyone when the real games begin or is it just that Uinen is a) not fit to carry the burden of being responsible for scoring, or b) is he just too alone in offence?

Looking at the friendlies it could be said that both T-I-G and Tirion just didn’t let them attack (and the game against Númenor doesn’t count, see the previous entry for details). The positive note could be found from their game against Beleriand where they actually got 7(12) shots made and only Halmir’s good day on goal denied them an equalizer – but even that game was quite sloppy, by both teams.

Everything else would point towards Númenor running over Tol-Eressëa in the group phase, them being hosts and all, but somehow it just feels like Ulmo has with-held more of his cards than others – even if it feels like team Numenor has also kept a thing or two out of sight as yet.

But a scoring percent of 2,9%! Even Dunharrow scores 5,4% of their shots – and Tirion scores 20,7%; in this group Westernesse scores 17,5%, with double the shots…

Odd, too odd – and thus very tough to predict.

Westernesse 2-1-0
10-2
17,5% 30(57) – 17(35) 88,2%

Westernesse’s defense has been only a little bit better than those of Númenor and Tol-Eressëa, but that’s the only thing one can meaningfully compare the teams. On all other fronts Westernesse is not just better but on a totally different level.

Tar Atanamir has been the second best keeper thus far and he will not be an easy guy to pass in the oncoming games – especially to teams who have problems shooting & scoring to begin with.

Secondly, Númenor has scored three goals and Tol-Eressëa one goal. Looking at the cream of individual players from team Westernesse shows the difference: Ar Pharazôn 3+2, Elros 3+1, Ar Adunakhôr 2+1, Tar Minastir 1+2… Mardil alone (1+1) scores even with team Tol-Eressëa. ‘nuff said.

Thirdly, unlike the other teams of the group, Westernesse has dominated their friendlies at will – even when playing half-speed. The one game against Valinor was different, but there both teams played without a play-book and only went with individual talent. And that was an even game which Westernesse nevertheless won. It’s hard to see any other team from this group winning Valinor, whichever mode the game would be played.

So Westernesse will win the group – and could go far in the tournament. Their worst problem is round 1 of the play-offs where they will meet either Angband or Anfaughlith, both potential finalists this year. But if they survive from there, sky’s the limit.

Nogrod

06-24-2011, 06:01 PM

Group G
Beleriand
Gondolin
Pelori
Valinor (hosts)

Beleriand 2-1-1
6-5
14,3% 19(42) – 20(46) 75%

Beleriand would be a serious contester to qualify from almost any other group, but in this “group of death” their fate is to be eliminated. And that’s just a cruel fact. It looks clear the fine sons of Finarfin have just been thrown to the lions in AFA group-lottery. They really challenged Angband, they played even with Numenor (even if not full speed), they beat Mithrim 3-1 walk-in-a-park style…

What remains to be seen is whether they or Gondolin will be the last team in the group.

With Celegorm and Curufin turning from star-defenders to star strikers a new concept was born and it looks like Aegnor and Angrod are trying to accomplish the same (it actually looks like Finarfin’s sons came up with the idea first), but with results clearly lagging behind that of the sons of Fëanor. Celegor and Curufin had their problems in the first games but now they’re looking quite impressive with Celegorm at 3+1 and Curufin at 4+4. But unlike them, Aegnor and Angrod have only been pretty good defenders, not stellar ones like Fëanor’s sons. Secondly, Aegnor has managed 2+2 and Angrod 1+1 thus far. Not bad but far from the other brothers.

Of the two teams Beleriand has the edge on offence and Gondolin on defense. But a place in the play-offs will remain a dream to the two as Pelori and Valinor will just fly there on their homeground.

Gondolin 1-1-2
5-6
9,8% 23(51) – 28(46)

As said before, team Gondolin was the champion of last year only to be stolen the cream of their team for this season. But no worries, King Turgon himself came back with half of last year’s silver-medalists from team Vinyamar. And the team looks very solid, able to qualify or at least seriously challenge for qualification… in any other group but this.

And to add to Turgon’s problems some elves in Gondolin have been also questioning the wisdom of some of his decisions which they claim if done otherwise could have made a difference and make them competitive enough to really fight for qualification even in this group of death. The issue mainly revolves around Penlod, Duilin and Egalmoth.

Penlod earned “The Clutch Performer of the Year” award in 2010 as a forward for Vinyamar. Nevertheless Turgon decided to make him the deepest defender in front of the goal. His talent in scoring, and scoring at the right time is something the team now lacks, the critics say. Instead, Turgon named Duilin and Egalmoth as the team’s forwards. They were quality midfielders last year and played well in offence scoring and assisting a few goals, but they are no strikers who will deliver every night, several goals every night, the criticism continues.

Turgon has mainly tried to shut the mouths of his critics by scoring. And he has done quite well in that. But the questions, many elves feel, remain unanswered for the time being.

So a good team but not good enough to really challenge the Valier teams who look much more competitive and dangerous this year than any year before. Fights with Beleriand from the third place.

Pelori 4-0-0
6-2
14,3% 20(42) – 22(45) 90,9%

Manwë’s teams have been accused of conservative play, being too happy to just defend, or just to be too nice to all the “goodie-teams” and not being competitive enough to really play and risk some goodie-opponents feel bad.

Whether that criticism is fair or not is anybody’s opinion, but it looks like Manwë is not going to give up his style of play even if some of his great Valier left his team for this year’s tournament: Pelori has won all its games with one goal difference in the friendlies again… And the team really plays conservatively in general trusting even more to goal-keeping this year as Manwë himself has taken the post between the posts. Saving percentage of 90,9% is just superb, but then again what else would you get from the Ruler of Arda?

But there is an interesting twist to Manwë’s game an avid follower of the games might have spotted. Pelori did indeed get physical to beat The Downer. Some (self-)righteous anger over a team that doesn’t play by the book or a new facet of Manwë’s team? A good question. But clearly not too Manwë-like.

Winning Angband when part of the game was played for real and forcing the odd ones, The Downer, to their first defeat just tells how ready this team is for the competition even if it has played most of the time with half-speed, or less.

Unless Manwë becomes too cordial and lets Beleriand or Gondolin to surprise him at the last minutes there is no way either of the two will beat Pelori to the play-offs.

Valinor 3-0-1
8-2
15,1% 29(53) – 12(30) 83,3%

Even if they lost one of their friendlies, Valinor still looks like “the dangerous team”. It’s not only that it is led by Tulkas who broke up with Manwë to play some more daring football with a quality-company, but it is also the relaxed easiness they have sailed from victory to another.

And that game they lost to Westernesse, well you could forget it as it was game where neither team played organizedly as not to show their cards to their probable opponents later in the tournament, and the winner for Westernesse was a lucky one deflection.

Other than the game against Westernesse (serious contenders for this year’s Cup and an unusual game anyway), Valinor dominated the friendlies at will: controlling the possession, scoring when willing to, calling the pace of the games… Add to that the crushing talent of their offence: Miriel, Nerdanel and Arien (consistently on the top of scoring year by year – beautiful steals to his team by Tulkas), a midfield led by Olwë and Yavanna (who at last seems to have found a team she plays well with!) and a defense led by Tulkas himself with Ingwë at the goal saving 83,3% of the shots on target. A strong team indeed.

It is clear Pelori and Valinor will battle it out – or if Manwë plays it “nicely” then they will gove the win to Valinor – the other two teams will be just onlookers this time, even if they are highly competitive teams. The last thing to confirm that prediction is just to reminisce the last year’s tournament and the way how the Valier looked after their own teams when playing in the West. It is no nice or easy place for a visiting team to play.

Whether Valinor wins the group or whether Pelori does is anybody’s guess. But those two will qualify.

Boromir88

06-25-2011, 10:21 AM

Group C

Predicted standings
1. Angfauglith
2. Angband
3. Hithlum
4. The Downer

TTN will go against the favorite pick of Angband to win the group and say Angfauglith will win the group. At this point just grab a coin and flip it, because they are that ridiculously close and both look like attractive picks to win the Arda Cup. Here they are battling in the same group.

We could find no significant advantage the top 2 teams have against the other. Possibly at GK, as Ungoliant continues to swallow every ball into her unlight, but don't be too qucik to forget Huor HAS won a championship as a keeper, Ungoliant hasn't. Angfauglith did give up 2 more goals, but that was against Doriath and Morgoth's defense isn't impenetrable. Also, we like Angfauglith's attack ever so slightly better than Angband. The Gothmog, Maeglin, and Gwindor trio is superior to the Angband trio. The downside is, Tilion can easily make it the Angband quartet, if he's in the right mood, where Angfauglith doesn't really have the 4th able scorer.

You really can flip flop those teams and since it's so unpredictable TTN is making it's Angfauglith pick based on plot lines. Balrogs are greater than dragons and Fingolfin is the only person with the moxy to ride out, face Morgoth, and smack him around (ok so he did get crushed too, but as this is football, Fingolfin will prove the greater :rolleyes: ).

So is it a forgone conclusion the other two are Angs-fodder? Yes. To their credit they are good enough teams to make the games in this group of the highest entertainment (and certainly there is a lot of personality to Hithlum and The Downer squads). The problem is simple though, The Angs are the more complete team. GK Imlach is too inconsistant (and King Bus is just bad), which would be more easily hidden with a good defense. Too bad for Imlach, Hithlum's defense is non existant.

The Downer can get away playing unconventionally in the friendlies, but that strategy won't work now that the teams are playing a full effort. There is a danger with the rash temper of Morgoth though, I can see this Downer team just really peeving him off. (Not because The Downer team will be particularly effective, but simply out of annoyance).

Round 1 Predictions

Angband vs. Hithlum - The keys to the game, the Hithlum FWs against Ungoliant and Morgoth's defense. Hithlum's going to give up goals, but Morgoth doesn't go full attack without mercy. He pressures to get a 2 goal lead and then plays shut down defense. Will Hithlum's attack be good enough to overcome a 2-goal defecit, not against Angband's defense.
Angband wins 3-1

Angfauglith vs. The Downer - I can't see this being a good match up for The Downer at all. Although, admittedly, when the Arda Cup teams were announced I knew nothing about these clowns. And for the first time I've got no analysis other than I wouldn't be surprised if The Downer plays a man short, at some point and then it's a route.
Angfauglith wins 3-0

Phantasy spin

GK- Of the two stars GK, Ungoliant is probably the one I'd most likely want to have. She's a beast and started last year with 4 straight shut out for Utumno. With that said, you can't go wrong with the cheap Huor either. He's led all of his teams at least to the Quarterfinals every year, and last year won a championship for Gondolin shutting out Vinyamar.

DF- I would not be opposed to taking either of the 2-star defenders in this group. Morgoth has moved to defense but know also his offensive abilities when he was a MF. He'll set up the attack starting in the back line, so I think Morgoth can get a lot of points as a DF. Fingolfin is probably the riskier pick out of the 2, but he had 13 pts in the friendlies, Morgoth 14. No significant difference. The Balrogs also make fabulous defenders and are less pricey.

MF- I say get Tilion. At least for the group stages. He disappeared, just as quickly as the moon, in the playoffs. But in the group stages that dude was on fire and single-handedly was Utumno's offense. Not many of hte other midfielders in this group look attractive. Ecthelion and Gothmog have worked out their rocky relationship, so perhapse Ecthelion as a cheap choice. Or take a risk on the unpredictable Downer midfielders (Hookbill, Peter Hampton, and Saucepan), they showed some ability. Wouldn't take them with their first round opponent of Angfauglith however.

FW- Ancalagon disappears way to often to be a dependable phantasy player. And actually any of the Angfauglith or Hithlum forwards would likely be much better choices. The good thing about Angband is their scoring is more spread out so you're almost guaranteed points no matter who you select from their team. However Hador, Curufin, and Celegorm for no cost have a reasonable chance to get a lot more points. (Same can be said for the Angfauglith trio, but they will cost more).

Boromir88

06-25-2011, 11:36 AM

Group D

Predicted Standings
1. Eregion
2. Eriador
3. Gondor
4. Barad-dur

This is one of the more difficult groups to figure out. Where so far A-C have been easier identifying where the teams stand either as favorites or a fighters chance (or no chance) to advance, this one looks far more up in the air.

In the end TTN believes it's Eregion's to lose. That is to say, we place them as the favorites, but are not confident in this choice and would not be shocked if they did not win the group. All signs say they should. Elrond wins games with keeping his goal clean, and last year the defense struggled to help their Lord. This year has seen a definite improvement with Celebrimbor and Asfaloth signed to the team. Earendil did not show up in the friendlies and somehow Eregion still went 2-1-1. Fans are waiting for him to heat up as they know he is more than able too, and right now criticism of the high priced signing has been tame because Eregion fans are distracted by Figwit's presense.

Who gets 2nd? We like Eriador because of Arvedui and Araphor's run last beating Manwe's Valinor team in the 1st playoff round. They rise up big on the bigger occasions and if they managed a respectable 1-2-1 in the friendlies, just think how they will show up on the primetime stage? The trolls added to the defense may backfire, but it's not terrible, and part of the problem is actually Arvedui at goal who isn't up to his standard from last year.

Based on Gondor's results and numbers, shouldn't we like them above Eriador? Eh, don't know how to describe it, or why I feel Eriador will edge out Gondor for 2nd. Defensively the teams performed almost identically and the only difference is Ecthelion II stopped one more shot than Arvedui. I look at Gondor and see a respectable team, and a team hard to beat because they won't beat themselves, but what is Boromir I doing playing as a DF? And Eriador has the late game intangibles, Araphor has an uncanny ability to score crucial goals late, and Aragorn's leadership is unrivalled.

Of course with how hard we're finding it to pick between Eriador and Gondor, it's completely possible both advance and send Eregion home packing.

There's talent on Barad-dur too, but I'd pick the co-operative teamwork of Gondor and Eriador over the discombombulated talent on Barad-dur. When Sauron was at his Tower last year the baddies fell in line to play with the goodies. Sauron's gone now, Gil-Galad's taken the leadership role but the baddies are no longer falling in line. Their backline is too disoriented and we wonder why then not place Anarion up front and put The Mouth in charge of the defense? At least that way the DF may have a bit more organization to it.

Round 1 Predictions

Barad dur vs. Eriador - Let's see if Arvedui's reasons for adding the trolls and Barrow-wight to the team pays off. He wanted to be able to stand up to the more evil minded teams. But this will be a weird game because it's Isildur, Gil Galad and Cirdan on the attack for Barad dur, and the trolls will have trouble containing them. Arvedui will have to be on his best form. With that said, Araphor, Aragorn, and The B-W should have their way against Barad dur's defense too.
Draw 2-2

Eregion vs. Gondor - It will likely take 2-goals to beat Eregion in this one, and 2-goals against Elrond is outside Gondor's ability. Question is, can they get 1? I can see it ending in a 1-1 draw, but if Earendil is ready to play it'll more than likely be a 2-1 win for Eregion. Although, TTN is going to say...
Eregion wins 1-0

Phantasy spin -

GK - Elrond is really the only keeper I'd feel ok about picking from this group. He's costly, but shuts down the goal and that's all there is to it. Out of the group stages he's always one of the top point getters for GK's.

DF - And as Elrond is the only GK, I would consider picking, same with Eregion's defense. It's not that Eriador and Gondor are horrible defensively but 1. The trolls pick up a lot of cards and 2. They allow a lot of shots, so unless the GKs are superb you're going to score on their defenses. Where Elrond is always superb and therefor his defenses are always a lock for phantasy points (and they don't foul often). The downside is, Eregion's defense doesn't venture too far up field so they won't be involved in the attack very often. With that said, Celebrimbor is the only one who costs 1-star (and Celebrimbor in the past has made a couple assists as a defender).

MF - Of the mid-fielders over the past couple years, Arwen has been the most consistant one. Although, in the 1st round of games with Gondor going up against Eregion, safer selections would be someone from the Barad-dur or Eriador MF, since there will likely be more goals in that game. Right now, I'd feel better taking Aragorn before Gil-Galad, or the Barrow-wight as a cheaper option.

FW - The FWs I like best from this group are Eldacar and Eorl, and you can get them for no star cost. I'd hold off on Earendil to see if he can play under his son's style, but there's no doubt that Elf is a hammer at the front. Araphor also has the knack of scoring goals, he does it every year and no reason to believe he's suddenly lost that ability, even with the subpar friendlies.

Nogrod

06-25-2011, 02:16 PM

Group H
Dunharrow (hosts)
Lothlórien
Minas Morgul
Minas Tirith

Dunharrow 0-1-3
2-8
5,4% 13(37) – 28(48) 71,4%

The muster of Rohan doesn’t seem to be what it used to. The eorlinga have been a disappointment, to put it in cordial terms. To put it frankly, they have been lousy. The new and old talent don’t seem to mix and their game has been almost as inconsistent as that of The Downer. The saddest proof was their last friendly in which they went against Wilderland with a rough and aggressive stance only to be beaten up badly.

Now as with many teams one can say they have played it not with the full steam and have left some aces into their sleeves for the group-play. And that is possible. Especially their games against Eregion and Anduin are ones it’s hard to say how a real game would have ended. But that actually reveals something: the teams it looks plausible they might have beaten if there was a reserve from where to draw some energy and stamina to their game are Eregion and Anduin; two other very lousy teams this year.

So even if group H is one of the weakest, if not the weakest, in this year’s tournament it is hard to predict any success to Dunharrow.

Lothlórien 2-0-2
4-4
11,4% 16(35) – 18(36) 77,8%

There has been a lot of talk and rumour around Galadriel and Fëanor and their personal relations. This is not a place to continue looking at that side of the situation, but looking at how Lothlórien’s game is organized the two have something to do with their problem.

Lothlórien defends pretty well – and we know Galadriel insists playing defensively: they have only allowed four goals (including a game against Valinor where they allowed two) and Galadriel’s saving percentage is quite good at 77,8%. They have a level or two better defense than the other teams of their group.

But the problem is scoring. If they have only allowed four goals, they have produced only four goals themselves. And that from a team which has Fëanor himself as the striker up front! It looks like Fëanor might be right in his complaints that he is being left too alone up in the attack and the balls just don’t get delivered to him often enough into decent enough places so that he could do what goal-scorers by the mercy of the Valar can do best aka. to score.

It looks quite clear that Lothlórien will qualify from the group just because the others will have hard time trying to break their defense and because the defenses of the others are basically so bad that Fëanor will just walk past them to score taking the ball with him from the defense if it’s not delivered to him otherwise.

But a word of caution to the play-offs. Something tells one Lothlórien is one of those teams actually hiding something. In their second game they actually scored three of their four goals. The opponent was Esgaroth and as such it was not a feat Gladriel’s grandchildren would be told about as mummy’s day of glory, but on that game they started using counter-attack tactics on the second half being losing 0-1 after the first half – and they won 3-1, in one half.

After that game they have never come back to that tactics but have just kicked the ball around – or like with the last friendly against Anduin where they took some tough playing in the beginning and after they scored they pulled back and for the second half just totally shut the game down.

So if the public rift is only a decoy or a bait, then we might see a team Lothlórien seriously able to challenge other teams also in the play-offs. But if there are some real disagreements as how to play when the going gets tougher, then Lothlórien will drop off from the games after their first play-off game.

Minas Morgul 1-0-3
5-9
8,8% 26(57) – 20(41) 55%

Let’s start with an interesting piece of data. Teams Doriath and Tirion have been the most active shooters in the friendlies (making 58 shots in four games each). Minas Morgul is the third most active shooter with 57 shots! And only one of their games can be called a “friendly-friendly” (and they shot a little less than average in that friendlier game) where one could say there could have been some mutually arranged practice-shooting sessions some teams have had.

But whereas Doriath has scored 12 goals (shooting percentage 20,7%) and Tirion 9 goals (15,5%), Minas Morgul has only scored 5 (8,8%). Therein lieth the problem.

But not only there. They have a huge problem in between their posts, and that problem has a name, Eärnur. Admittedly he played way better in their last game against Minas Tirith – but a kind of battle-frenzy seems to have taken hold of the whole team in that match. But even counting the last game, his saving percentage is only 55% - and in the game against Barad Dûr it was 25% (letting in three shots from four)!

The good news will be the following: Angband has a rock-solid defense which held them at bay (and they would do the same to most of the teams in the competition this year), in the game against Barad Dûr they had clearly more chances but Ohtar at the goal denied them the victory more or less alone – and when they really engaged themselves into fury they won Minas Tirith convincingly (the game against Mordor was just a fun reunion). So maybe, just maybe they have in them more than meets the eye?

Minas Tirith 0-0-4
5-11
10,9% 22(46) – 27(57) 59,6%

The hope for Minas Tirith lies in the possibility that they have met a bit more quality teams many others have. They played close against Gondor and The Downer – and the quality of those two will tell a lot about Minas Tirith’s quality as well. Angband just ran over them and so did Minas Morgul – but on the latter case there is the fact that they will meet again in the group-phase and if Minas Tirith is wise they try other tactics than getting all heated which is just the playing-style Minas Morgul loves to play – and knows how to play.

Looking at the stats they should beat Dunharrow, but taking on Minas Morgul and Lothlórien demand they play well better they have done thus far.

A sad fact telling a lot of the quality of the younger generation of the heroes of Minas Tirith is that the ancient Tarondor they dug up from the grave is easily their most effective player thus far. Oh, these are sorry days for the Great City of Gondor.

Boromir88

06-25-2011, 03:36 PM

Group E

Predicted Standings
1. Tol In Gaurhoth
2. The Forest
3. Nargothrond
4. Mordor

The Isle of Werewolves is an interesting team, they were bronze-medalists in 2008 but that was with Sauron. Once Sauron defected they've been desperately trying to return to their past success. The over-aggressiveness cost them and they lost the tenacity changing back to humans last year. Although you can't help but see a different werewolf pack, a more organized pack instead of relying on the talents of their individual athleticism. It was seen in the friendly against Wilderland, they really wanted to prove their worth to former boss, Sauron. If they keep that attitude every game, I can see TIG returning to former glory and a dark horse for the Final 4 teams.

2nd place is up for grabs and while we've overrated Bombadil's teams in the past, we're going to pick him this year. For Breeland, it all lied in Bombadil's hands and with the Bree bums there was too much slack Bombadil had to pick up. Now, while it's clear the success of The Forest will begin and end with his boots and how much interest Bombadil has to play, the team has better talent behind Bombadil. Thranduil for one is a reliable scorer. And when the Ents are roused they show great quality. AKM pointed out how lackluster they played, just watching the Hobbits play, but 2 facts about this group. 1. There are no hobbits in it. 2. Mordor is loaded with bur-ra-rums and TIG is loaded with werewolves, I don't think the Ents will need much help from Bombadil to wake up and play inspired.

In the end, The Forest's fate still lies with Bombadil, because of this the other 2 teams are contenders to advance. Mordor's got more stars on the team, but a lot of garbage lying around on the team (not to mention the huge void in leadership). Nargothrond has been siphening talent all around Arda the last two years. They are truly an ancient city crumbled from it's former glory. With that said, they will all play under Finduilas' leadership, so they may have a surprise in store for the other teams in the group. However, if Bombadil's been criticized for his disappearing act, I think Finduilas has every right to demand a refund from Beor because he hasn't shown up. Period.

Round 1 Predictions

Mordor vs. Nargothrond - I can't see how the Mordor team will fare well when they have no one in a leadersip role. Their lack of organization will be their undoing, especially against a still highly organized Nargothrond (even if they've lost a lot of their former stars). Nargothrond tradionally plays guarded in the friendlies, and becomes a lot tougher to breakdown in the tournament. Although, they will still have serious scoring issues.
Draw 1-1

The Forest vs. Tol In Gaurhoth - TIG typically starts out sloppy because they field a full team late and don't care about practicing together. However, with the friendly schedule they've had the chance to shake out all their mistakes. It will only work to TIG's benefit. As human players, the Barrow-Downs completely shut down Bombadil's Bree team last year, however as werewolves, they usually struggle keeping the erratic looneyman contained. Bombadil annoys no one else like he annoys phantomwolf. This will be a thriller.
TIG wins 3-2

Phantasy spin -

GK - The only GK worth the phantasy spot in this group is Shastawolf. The Silent Watcher is too green and unproven (especially against some of the powerful strikers in this group). Barahir performed the worst of the goalies in this group and as Nerwen pointed out last year...Old Man Willow, is a tree. Think about it, a tree. I think in later rounds Shastawolf could be a good steal, for no cost, but I don't like the Round 1 match up against Bombadil.

DF - The TIG defense peformed the best getting 2 shut outs. Their aggressiveness though also means they can give up easy goals. Treebeard usually aligns a solid Ent defense, and they did shut down Himring in the friendly. I'd like any of the defenders from these two teams, except when they're playing eachother. (Haleth for Doriath and the Wolves were slightly card-happy. Although not nearly as risky as picking troll or orcish defenders).

MF - So far it's really been the TIG show, and honestly all their MFs have contributed in the friendlies where the other teams haven't. Nazgul #7 has been a force and he's the only one who's been pulling his weight for Mordor. Also Glaurung is a force as a scorer in the center for Nargothrond, if Finduilas decides to let him loose some.

FW - You know what to expect from Bombadil and he is probably the most aggravating player to phantasy owners ever. I don't think he's worth the risk (especially with many other options available) but there's no denying he can unleash a plethora of goals in a short span, if you've picked him on the right game. The TIG FWs would be better bets since you can count on them scoring, but their goals get spread out amongst them. Thranduil can also pick up a goal here and there, but he's best suited being an experimental sleeper pick. He'll rarely be picked up (which means no one else can get the points he'll score), but not a strong enough FW to build a phantasy team from.

Boromir88

06-26-2011, 06:50 PM

Group F

Predicted Standings
1. Westernesse
2. Tol Eressea
3. Numenor
4. Mithrim

There should be no way Westernesse does not win this group. They have the best Numenorean talent from the Armenolos championship team and some of the best talent from Gondor. Not great individual stars, but play an excellent team game (although fusing the Numenoreans with the Gondorians might take a bit of time). Doriath was 1 of 2 teams ranked in the top 5 in each of our categories, and Westernesse is the other. (OFF-3, DEF-3, GK-2). And let's be honest, none of the other 3 can be legitmate challengers to first place.

It will still be an interesting 2-team battle for the 2nd spot. Well, more like whichever defense is better, or whichever offense is the least inept, however way you want to look at it. Despite Tol Eressea only achieving 1 goal, we like them above Numenor because it's Ulmo's defense. Wherever Ulmo is at, he always leads the best defense, and he consistantly takes the team far (2009 for Hithlum and 2010 for Vinyamar, the Ulmo's defense was good enough to be silver-medalists). Also, last year Vinyamar had no offensive ability in the friendlies, and while they didn't start burning up the scoreboard, they clearly adjusted their game to get more goals. The question is, can we see the same result, since Uinen, Elwing, and Earwen have never been great tournament scorers?

So, is Tol Eressea's defense good enough to shut down Numenor's attack? Yes. And that's what it comes down to, and that's why Numenor will finish 3rd. They have serious scoring issues and their only goals came against teams of lesser men and dwarves. Scoring on Ulmo and his Maiar helpers? Not going to happen.

Mithrim, probably doesn't deserve any mention at all based on the garbage we've seen from them. But if we say we're going to cover every angle, we mean it. The only person any good is Tuor and it's surprising his sv% was an atrocious 60.6%, because in 2008 as a goal keeper, Tuor performed about 20 percent points better. That seems so long ago now. Which is the story for the entire team, Androg was a premier name when Turin and Beleg first stepped onto the scene of Arda Cup soccer. He was able to mentor the two amazing FWs, but after they left the team, Androg went into retirement only to be brought out now by Tuor who really needed help to summon an 11-player team. Androg would have been better to stay in retirement and be remembered for the player he was, not the creaky, broken down veteran who can't move on from the game. ;)

Round 1 Predictions

Mithrim vs. Westernesse - Well not much to say about this one, and the only key would be for Mithrim to keep some honour by not losing 4-0. How embarrassing. Westernesse is dominant in every position and facet of the game, still I can't believe Mithrim has forgotten all it's pride and dignity.
Westernesse wins 3-0

Numenor vs. Tol Eressea - One of the bigger games of Round 1, but based on friendly performances it'll probably be a real snoozer. Big because the winner will more than likely move on to the next round. If it's a draw, that will throw a wrench into things and add some tense excitement to the last rounds of this group.
Tol Eressea wins 1-0

Phantasy spin -

GK - Several good options at GK in this group. Tar Atanamir is always one of the top keepers (and doesn't cost as much as Huan or Ungoliant). However, Silmarien has come in to perform quite well, and same with Amandil both saving 80%. And even though Tuor has had a terrible go so far, he was a quality GK in 2008, and with the defect offenses of Numenor and Tol Eressea, he might get some consideration.

DF - Take a couple defenders from any team in this group except Mithrim. They're all good defensive teams and Tar Telperien is also an offensive power (at least when we're talking about defenders).

MF and FW - I've combined the last 2 positions because the only ones I'd feel comfortable adding to my team, from this group, would be the Westernesse MF and FW. Pick and choose really, they have a healthy spread of points (Hyarmendacil was the lowest at 6, but the other 5 had all 10 phantasy pts or more).

Boromir88

06-26-2011, 07:51 PM

Group G

Predicted Standings
1. Valinor
2. Pelori
3. Gondolin
4. Beleriand

Matches from this group will be some of the best the Arda Cup has to offer at this stage. While The Vala teams will be the front runners, the other 2 teams are no slouches and can perhaps have a few surprises up their sleeves.

While Pelori went undefeated and Valinor lost a game, Valinor looks stronger at both offense and defense. They created more chances, scored more goals, and allowed the fewest number of shots on goal. And we're not talking a small difference, Valinor ranks 9th on OFF, 1st DEF, compared to Pelori's 15th and 17th. Significant differences there. The edge in GK belongs to Pelori as nothing was getting passed Manwe. Although, you wonder if he can stand up to Valinor's impressive trio of beauties leading their attack.

Poor Gondolin and Beleriand, good enough to seriously contend for advancement in all other groups, except this one. But there's nothing about these two teams that I can see them dominating. Even if Halmir and Rog were good GKs, Manwe and Ingwe were even better. Defensively, again not bad, but not as dominant as Valinor. We will give the a decent shot of knocking out Pelori, it all depends on what Manwe's motivation will be, continue beating teams kindly or handing everything over to the will of Eru?

Round 1 Predictions

Beleriand vs. Pelori - Beleriand managed to score in every one of their friendlies, and it's not like they played junk defenses. Even if you'd have to question the amount of effort Tol Eressea, Numenor, and Angband put into their matches against Beleriand, getting a goal against all those defenses (and the sturdy GKs) is nothing to scoff out. They can score 1. The key will be does Pelori want to push for 2 goals, and can Beleriand hold them to 1? For the sake of making this group convoluted.
Draw 1-1

Gondolin vs. Valinor - You always question how committed a team will be after winning a championship, and whether they will have the same focus and passion the next year. Interesting thing about Gondolin, despite the city winning the Cup, I believe only Thorondor remains from the championship year. So all the Gondolin players shouldn't have a question about their focus, as they weren't the ones who brought the Arda Cup to the hidden city. In fact, the players from Vinyamar may have a bit of fire after finishing 2nd last year. So, I don't question Gondolin's passion, but I do question their talent.
Valinor wins 2-1

Phantasy spin -

GK - All these golies performed well in the friendlies, and Rog was the highest point GK last year for Vinyamar. So in this order, if I were to take a keeper from this group I'd probably go with: Rog, Manwe, Ingwe, then Halmir.

DF - Gamil Zirak showed some offensive ability in the friendlies, and the Beleriand team is extremely focused on defense. And actually all the defenders in this group would make pretty good choices. I would just caution to pick the defense that happens to be playing Valinor in whatever round, because Valinor has also shown they can score some goals. Mandos, Tulkas, and Indis scored the most points in the friendlies from this group, all picking up 12.

MF - Varda, Yavanna, and Turgon have all been impressive scorers. Varda is usually safe for 2 goals and an assist for the 3 group stage games, although she's not going to score like Hurin and Eol are capable of, so for a 1-star? Eh, I'd rather have Hurin or Eol. The more offensive minded team of Valinor, Olwe and Yavanna could make nice steals, since they don't cost anything. And I still wonder how Idril has no stars, she always puts up goals. There is probalby more risk with Angrod and Aegnor since you can't really be sure how well Beleriand will fare against the teams in this group.

FW - From this group, I don't think it's worth taking up a spot with Marach or the Gondolin pair. Although from Pelori, Eonwe is a Herald on and off the field, and the Valinor trio is probably the most dangerous group of FWs in this tournament. (Or it can certainly be argued those ladies are one of the best!)

Group G

Predicted Standings
1. Lothlorien
2. Minas Morgul
3. Minas Tirith
4. Dunharrow

This is similar to Eregion's group, where Lothlorien should win simply based on the quality of their players. However the strategy of Galadriel may lead to Lothloriend undoing. While we would be shocked if Lothlorien did not get first, we wouldn't be greatly surprised. However, to not advance at all, that would be a true sign that new management needs to step into the Golden Wood. They're the safest bet for 1 of the 2 playoff spots, and mostly likely the best bet for 1st. This is based solely on natural ability, not from a "wise" strategy.

The challengers then? The Witch-King's teams have a long history of making it into the playoffs. I picked against them last year, and while it didn't hurt me (only temporarily wounded my ego and kept me out of the lead for a bit), I can't pick against MM this year, especially looking at the other competitors. Minas Morgul outshot all their opponents in the friendly and just had some of the lowsiest luck I've ever seen. (A lot of that had to do with Earnur though). And if you thought Minas Morgul was all out attack in the friendlies, just wait for these games to start, and the Witch-King decides to put even more effort into an all out attack.

Next then? Well nothing looks particularly good about Minas Tirith or Dunharrow. Minas Tirith were mediocre at best, and Dunharrow were even worse. I thought for sure the strength of Minas Tirith would be their familial-styled mid field but where did Eowyn go? How did she become this angry one wonders? 4 yellows in 4 games, and we've never seen that from the Shieldmaiden. Is it possible she's unhappy with her marriage to Faramir, or the real reason Aragorn has not returned to Minas Tirith is because Arwen wouldn't allow it while Eowyn was on the team? Hold on, we at TTN are higher than these spurious rumors...yes, definitely. This type of stuff belongs in that trash The Underground. :eek:

Dunharrow? Who?

Round 1 Predictions

Lothlorien vs. Minas Morgul - If Galadriel wants to play counter attack football, than this is going to be a nightmare match up for the Witch-King I have to say. Lothlorien's defenders are certainly strong enough to keep Minas Morgul at bay, and Minas Morgul always leave themselves open to huge counters. Feanor should have a field day running all over this Minas Morgul defense.
Lothlorien wins 3-1

Dunharrow vs. Minas Tirith - After the 1st game I wonder how much interest there will be in this game? Because really, these two teams are just fodder for Lothlorien and Minas Morgul in the next round. Oh my, am I getting grouchy as the day grows older. Sorry Minas Tirith fans, I can't be a homer (although I do wonder how much longer TTN will keep me on if I at least don't believe the White City can get the best of some bewitched mountain).
Minas Tirith wins 2-1

Phantasy spin -

GK - The only GK I would consider adding to my team would be Galadriel, but from past years she's been rather over-rated. She likes to try to be the star of every match by having to make a dramatic show out of all her saves. There's no doubt she can, but if you're going to be such a big show off, atleast do better than 77.8%

DF - Go all Lothlorien if you want any of the defenders from this group. I don't know if Gandalf will be worth that 2-star cost, obviously Lothlorien will have a shut down defense, but from your 2-star DF you want someone who can get a goal a/o an assist here and there. Tar Telperien does this, Morgoth can, but I'm not sure Gandalf can. Celeborn, Shadowfax, and Amroth though are nice, cheap options.

MF - I don't think there's a MF worth the spot in this group...hmm Legolas may be, since he is a scoring threat, but how much of a threat in Lothlorien's system is yet to be seen. You have to think someone needs to help Feanor though, and Legolas has this ability.

FW - Obviously it's Feanor. He will still perform great in this group (looking at the inferior competition), even if he's reigned in by Galadriel. Not sure I'd want him though on my team in the playoffs, where the competition will inevitably be tougher, at least not until I see if Legolas, Boromir II, and Haldir provide a bit of support for him.

the phantom

06-27-2011, 11:05 AM

Group C at Angfauglith

As the games approached many were discussing who would actually end up as the home team in Group C. Angband was so close, but then so was Hithlum, and fans of The Downer were interdimensional beings that could flit about Middle-Earth as quick as thought. And then of course there was Angfauglith, the official host, as the games would be played in the large, sand-colored stadium that stood in the middle of the empty plains between Thangorodrim and the Sirion. But Angfauglith had such a diverse make-up. Could they count on being backed strongly by any group?

As supporters slowly filled up the small number of usually vacant hotels and spilled out into a hastily erected shanty-town surrounding the stadium, it looked like Angband had sent the most. Trolls, dragons, wolves, spiders, orcs, orcs, and more orcs formed a never ending stream from the gates of Angband to the stadium. There appeared to be a good number that initially were looking to support Gothmog and the other two Balrogs on team Angfauglith, but suspiciously these fans group by group had a habit of turning up the next morning sporting a host of injuries and brand new Angband jerseys.

When supporters of The Downer began showing up, it seemed the denizens of Angband were keen to make converts of them too, but to no avail, as the wights were able to make themselves insubstantial at will, rendering them immune to physical coercion. "Yes, a gang of orcs threatened to 'tickle me with their swords'," said avid Downer supporter GreatElvenWarrior. "But unfortunately for them, their description turned out to be quite accurate," she laughed.

The hotels were mostly filled by men and elves. The House of Hador and its subjects were out in force, fully behind Hador's Hithlum squad, but also not entirely against the idea of cheering on Huor, Rian, and Fingolfin in Angfauglith's push to qualify. But possibly the most rabid Hithlum fans came, not unexpectedly, from the lands of the Sons of Feanor. They were nearly foaming at the mouth at the prospect of Celegorm and Curufin playing on offense this year. "Even as defenders they got on the score sheet occasionally!" said one elf. "Now they'll be scoring all the time!"

Very small groups of friends and family came from Gondolin and Nargothrond to root for Ecthelion and Gwindor of Angfauglith, and quite a few Noldor showed up to cheer on captain Fingolfin and the skillful striker Maeglin, and a larger than expected delegation of dwarves marched in to show respect for Azaghal, but all together their numbers were a bit less than Hithlum and certainly smaller than Angband. The Downer of course had the smallest group, but Wights are well known for being louder than any other race.

As far as the facilities, the stadium was one of the few stadiums in Arda capable of holding 100,000, understandably as it had hosted many a championship in the first age of Middle-Earth. It was built mostly from light colored sandstone, and sported few decorations or embellishments. The grass was a yellow-brown shade, and between that and the sandstone stadium and the barren plains surrounding it the overall effect was uncomfortably bright when the sun was out as well as a bit depressing if the crowd wasn't into it.

But no worries about that for the first game, as it was Angband versus Hithlum, which was certain to feature the most violently split crowd of all the Group C contests. Oddsmakers placed Angband as the heavy favorite to win both the match and the group overall, but the true winners are decided on the field and not by the sports writers....

the phantom

06-27-2011, 12:22 PM

Group E at The Old Forest

Tom Bombadil is always a lightning rod for discussion at the Arda Cup. "The Master", as they call him, always plays in a ridiculous manner, skipping and tumbling about the pitch singing nonsense songs. But whenever he has a mind to do so he displays uncommon power and speed that few can match, and that combined with his distracting style really gives defenses fits. The question every year is whether or not he'll feel like applying himself and paying attention.

This year it looks like there is a good chance he'll be ready to go, as he is the organizer and captain of his own team this year- The Forest, made up of his wife and mother-in-law, several Ents, and single representatives of Doriath, Brethil, and Mirkwood. But not only is he the captain- he is also the host of Group E, playing in a stadium that he sung out of the ground from root to tip.

The Old Forest stadium is one of the smaller arenas to host in recent years, seating just under 50,000, but it is an excellent stadium nonetheless, with all the walls and seats and stairs made from living trunks and boughs. Even the goalposts are made from roots that arch out of the ground, draped behind by vines that mimic netting. A canopy of leafy branches provides a cover for the arena, filtering and spreading the sunlight evenly so as to provide nice even lighting and not blind anyone, and also keeping out the rain. The facility is also well equipped for night-matches, as hundreds of lanterns hanging on branches all over the arena can be lit, and due to some song of Tom's the leaves and grass glow softly as well.

The stadium is situated on the western side of the Old Forest, a couple hours walk from the hedged border of Buckland. There are no lodgings in the Old Forest, and the trees there aren't the hospitable sorts anyway, so the fans were instead swarming Buckland, especially Crickhollow and Bucklebury. The hobbits were delighted to host the Ents and other scattered supporters of The Forest, and also gladly welcomed the Elves of Nargothrond and their friends from the house of Beor.

They were considerably less happy to see the orcs of Mordor, but only a very few made the trip, as there was Barad-Dur and Minas Morgul and Wilderland for them to support in other groups. Not to mention the orcs were quite frightened to enter the strange forest, recalling tales they had heard surrounding the doom of the orcs of Isengard.

And last to arrive- a small and close-knit group of Wights and Werewolves supporting Tol In Gaurhoth. Very few of them sought lodgings with hobbits, as they fully expected to be turned away. The hobbits were understandably frightened of the creatures, and were also feeling a bit hostile towards them after the beating they'd give Shire-Bree United during the friendlies. But this suited the Wights and Wolves just fine, as they were looking to party in the forest in close proximity to the stadium. "We spirits have no need of food or beds," said PitchWight. "And we're not scared of the trees either!" added Wereomer. "If they bother us, we'll bite and claw their bark off. And if they keep pushing, well... a couple of us brought our tinderboxes along."

Forest supporters were more than a bit worried about their opening night match against Tol in Gaurhoth and their devious fans. TIG was the oddsmakers favorite to take the group, and if they prevailed against the host in the opener it would deflate the atmosphere and possibly lead to a bit of overzealous partying from the TIG group. But if TIG lost, well... the volunteer fire-fighting department was geared up to spring into action.

Nogrod

06-27-2011, 02:40 PM

Group F at Armenelos

When Númenor won the bid over hosting group F it was clear where the games would take place. Although there are beautiful and large enough stadiums in both Andunie and Romenna, there was no question the action would take place at either. The “Wembley” of the Middle-Earth, the Armenelos stadium, is situated just in the shadow of the tower and the citadel raised by Elros just beside Meneltarma. Even if there are some fancier and bigger new stadiums in Arda, the Armenelos stadium stands as the classic venue, the somewhat grey but revered old king of stadiums. And in its stonework one can still see the craftsmanship of the men of old, and the eye for architecture of the Dúnedain at the height of their power.

The Númenorians are a footballing folk, and now as they had practically two home-teams to support it was obvious the whole island went absolutely nuts over the games. The Armenelos Times and The Númenorian – the two high-class journals of Númenor - published pages after pages of special reports and analysis over the coming games, predictions of the performances of different teams and top interviews with interesting players during the days leading to the beginning of the group-phase.

The players and fans from Gondor have been received with open arms, like long lost brothers and sisters. Elros’ decision to include some great kings (and a steward) of Gondor seems to have even cured some rifts between the generations of Númenoreans, not only towards their mainland relatives but also among themselves. And that is no small feat.

Getting Tol Eressëa to play there was a great honour for the Númenorians. As a sea-faring people they do revere the Lord of Waters and the Lady of the Seas and their vassals. And there were also Elros’ mom Elwing playing, and Tar Aldarion, and Amandil, people who could be counted to the “home team” as well. And even if Númenorians had some differences of feeling concerning the elves, it was clear they had decided to rejoice with the Teleri from the Lonely Island over coming to Númenor as football fans – and they were warmly welcomed.

Also team Mithrim and it’s followers received an honoring welcome, for even if they weren’t exactly the hallowed kings and queens of old, they were seen as the forefathers and to be honored as such. One can say the Númenorians are a proud folk and they can despise any lesser men, but it must be admitted they know to pay their honors to tradition and their ancestors, how rag-tag and pathetic they might look in their eyes. And naturally Tuor was received more or less as a national hero.

The most touching moment of the opening ceremonies to the games was seen when the captain of team Westernesse, the High King Elros himself, kneeled in front of his grandfather after which they embraced each other with tears of joy dropping from their cheeks while the huge crowds gave them a thunderous cheer.

The tabloids naturally made selling headlines from that the next day. Romenna Rumourer yelled: “Elros humbled himself pre-games, Mithrim will be humbled in-game!”, and Mittalmar Sun cried in huge letters: “Grandpa’s sole moment of glory!”.

But in general the mood has been relaxed and friendly, and everything is building nicely towards a week of really exciting football. The Armenelos stadium will be packed every game-day, also in the afternoon matches which is rare. Everything’s pointing towards a real football-frenzied jubilation when the whole island is turning their eyes towards their main stadium.

Nogrod

06-27-2011, 02:48 PM

Group G at Valmar

“No city can compare to the glory and splendor of Valimar, and many say the same about their grand stadium. The masonry, jewels, and lights are spectacular, and adding to the flavor are the trees and flowers incorporated in the design, as well as the many massive beautiful bells which are used to celebrate goals scored by the home side.” Thus started the story about last year’s Group F gearing up by the world famous journalist and commentator the phantom on MESPN. And we have nothing to add to that but the following. There is no more suitable place to hold games than a city in which the houses have roofs of gold and their floors silver and their doors are of polished bronze; in bright sunshine the city glimmers eye-blindingly bright for miles and miles away. What a place for a football tourist to visit! Especially as it is otherwise more or less impossible to visit the Blessed Realm.

Like with group F, group G has kind of two hosting teams even if just one is the official host. That should grant full stadiums for all the games – and as many Middle-earth based teams’ players are either one’s who have lived in the undying lands themselves or relatives & friends of them, there is a great feeling of a family-reunion, mutual respect and goodwill which reaches out to the fans of teams Beleriand and Gondolin as well.

There has been some rumours though that anticipating Tulkas deciding team Valimar willing to host the games at Valmar some AFA authorities were afraid the scandal of last year could be revisited – and that in turn would have affected the group-settings excluding any “baddie teams” from group G. But even with the pretty “good” teams involved, not all pre-game rumors have disappeared. Especially the non-existence of Nogrodian football tourists has raised some eyebrows, especially as it is rumoured at the same time that Aulë himself has begged for the Valar to let the dwarven supporters to watch the games. We will be following this issue closely.

The local media seems to have decided that the “home-teams” would qualify more or less easily and thus they have afforded to comment on the visiting teams in a mostly friendly and polite manner, even bringing forth their strengths; like the stamina of team Beleriand and the quality & achievements of team Gondolin’s players last year. Even if many professional sports analysts do actually agree that teams Valimar and Pelori are the favourites to qualify from this group, it would be interesting to see how the self-asserting mood of local media would change if one of the visiting teams really stood up and challenged the mighty teams of the West.

Pitchwife

06-27-2011, 03:57 PM

"We spirits have no need of food or beds," said PitchWight.
"Drinks, of course, are a different matter. We spirits need spirits to keep up our spirits, if you get my meaning. Goes without saying. What? Nah, no worry, we won't leave any bottles lying around. Don't wanna anger ol' Bombadillo by littering his forest. We've had a pipeline installed running all the way from Elrond's miruvor distillery back in Rivendell straight to the stadium. And we'll all be drinking from our own skulls. No barrels, no bottles, no plastic cups, no litter. We're eco-conscious boozers.

Who will win? The wolves, of course. They usually do, don't they? More often than not, at least. Though maybe the village will make it this time. Or if there's Lovers, they might win too. Maybe even the Bear.

What? There's no Bear in football? No Lovers either? And what do you mean, nobody gets lynched?"

Nogrod

06-27-2011, 04:13 PM

Group A at Himring

The Ever-Cold Arena is built on top of the flat summit of Maedhros’ old stronghold on the hill of Himring. It is said that those who are unlucky to book their tickets too late and are forced to sit on the highest rows have a special compensation in the breath-taking views over Taur-Nu-Fuin, over the plains of Himlad up to the forests of Doriath, and over the narrow beginnings of Little Gelion meeting the Greater Gelion and forming the great river Gelion itself running into Thargelion. Some even say certain people only pay for tickets up there for the view and not so much for the sports. But that of course can’t be true.

After The Himring Herald called group A “The group of the Great Noldor” the usage has spread to most East Beleriand elven magazines which has understandably annoyed not only the core of team Doriath’s fans but has actually caused a kind of protest wave in Shire and Bree. Outside, the press has been more observant as to the dynamics of the group.

The very same rift can be felt in the stronghold at the eve of the games. Even if the Noldorian elves have shown why they are renowned for their lavish hospitality and cordial behavior, the tensions between the different groups has not been left unnoticed by anyone sitting in the tavernas or walking down the streets of Himring filled with tourists and locals the last couple of days. That of course is not the whole picture as there are both bonds and rifts stretching over the team lines and cutting into them; both with the teams and among their fans. So it is no wonder the guard of Maedhros has been called to full alert just in case.

But no one anticipates any real confrontations; some bragging, foul words thrown out or insignificant fist-fights between the drunkards are the mainstay of any larger city or venue hosting major tournaments on any sports and not only tolerable but plain unavoidable.

But it must be confessed that if the hobbit fans of Shire-Bree Utd. have felt themselves more or less a bit lost or forgotten in between the tall elves and relatives and friends of great heroes of early men, the fans of the treacherous easterlings and Carcaroth have had quite hard times in the dark and drunken streets of Himring at night.

But there has been many happy reunions like Fingon the Valiant meeting his sister, uncle and cousins; or the reunion of the sons of Fëanor. And if you want to guess how many pages the yellow press has made out of Aredhel meeting the sons of Fëanor on the one hand and Eöl on the other, you can easily multiply that with ten.

The home-fans look forwards to a tight contest between Himring and their friends Tirion for the other qualification spot as most everyone accepts Doriath is the sole favourite to win the group – and the number of visitors from the neighbouring forest quarantees that Doriath may feel they’re playing almost in front of home audiences.

No one seems to pay attention to the Shire-Bree Utd. A headline in the Four Farthing Daily thus read a day before the tournament beginning: “The small ones have been underestimated earlier as well!” Sadly the big news agencies never noticed even that.

Boromir88

06-27-2011, 09:04 PM

Group B at Wilderland
Last year lots of grumblings were made when the Arda Committee awarded the Gorgoroth team with hosting Group B. More than a few believed Sauron had underhandedly bribed and threatened the committee to have the games in Mordor (Sauron claimed he wanted the West to finally wake up and see the improvements and modernization going on in Mordor). And this year, the rumours of dirty money dealings are growing as Sauron's team was yet again chosen as the host team. But where would Sauron construct the new stadium, or would he try to renovate existing ones like in Dol Guldur? Wilderland was a vast and diverse land, and is representative of all the teams in Group B, which have a large cultural mix.

Wilderland almost had to give up their host bid, as Sauron really struggled trying to find a suitable location. Sauron has only himself to blame for the Brownlands being unhospitable for a tournament and the committee denied Sauron's request to build the stadium there. Then he was denied by Thranduil to return to Dol Guldur. Sauron was not happy but Thranduil held firm saying that "Greenwood" was finally beginning to recover and would not allow Sauron to foul up his forest as he had done many years ago, and it didn't matter to him if his father played for Sauron.

So, in the effort to hold onto Wilderland's hosting rights, Sauron brought the captains of Anduin, Esgaroth, and Misty Mountains together to determine the most suitable location. The skeptics would say Sauron was just trying to manipulate the captains to get the most beneficial deal for Wilderland, but Sauron's supporters would tell you he cares about creating the best tournament experience and he should be commended for the effort to unite the culturally diverse land.

The proceedings were mostly kept behind closed doors, but we did see Fram, Earnil II, and Beorn leave expressionless, Saruman left trying to cover up a big grin, and Girion left red-faced. Then Sauron announced he would be building a new stadium, on the edges of Wilderland, and in fact a stadium near the Gladden Fields as a landmark to commemorate the historical fields. Fram was content enough to keep the location along the Anduin, as the team's fans live near the river. Saruman was very pleased, knowing the Misty Mts were near and was likely guaranteed good fan turnout. Girion had wanted the games nearer to the Long Lake and tried convincing Sauron Esgaroth could accomadate the games far better than trying to build up a whole new location, but was overruled by the other captains who were obviously pleased to keep the location closer to them.

When construction of the 50,000 seat stadium was getting underway, despite Thranduil turning down Sauron to rebuild Dol Guldur, he was not going to turn down Sauron's deep pockets. Many supplies for the stadium's construction came from nearby Mirkwood, and Thranduil also agreed to provide at least half the food, and most of the lodging for the duration of the games.

Due to the cultural diversity of the land and all it's teams it would be hard for any of them to have a dramatic advantage in fan support, and also many fans would have mixed allegiances. Like, who would the Beornings support in the 2nd game between Anduin and Wilderland? Would the Orcs and baddies of the Misty Mountains be totally aligned with their team (it helps Durin's Bane is back on the team, as he always has a loyal following of baddie support), or would they want to support the orc Bolg or the dragons on Wilderland?

Once the seat alottment was released, people began to see why Saruman left the meeting of the captains glib and how Sauron was able to pull this whole deal off. 20,000 seats would be alotted to fans of the teams playing in the current match. 2,500 each to the teams not playing. Which left 5,000 seats and while Mirkwood provided the supplies, Saruman agreed to provide the labor and soon the area had a host of dwarves brought by Narvi and orc laborers brought in by Azog to construct the Gladden Fields stadium. Critics also thought Saruman was unsure how his mountain spirit could be at GK, if he was far removed from his source of power in Caradhras. Thus Saruman was pleased with the arrangment when the 5,000 remaining seats were awarded to the Misty Mts for providing all the labor in constructing the stadium and it's surrounding hotels and vendors.

Though, some can't help but wander if this was just Sauron pulling the sheep's wool over Saruman's eyes, as the Wilderland mastermind is surely expecting with icons like Scatha, Smaug, Khamul and Bolg on his team the extra Misty Mountains alottment would have little trouble in supporting his Wilderland team as well.

And what is one to make of the marble statue, titled at the entrance of the Gladden Fields Memorial Stadium? A statue of Isildur, with orc arrows in his back, and titled "Isildur's Bane" is surely to get the orcs joyfully rowdy. Sauron said "It was just a bit of fun for a very old friend of mine." But when word came that the Arda Cup committee would send in demolishers to destroy the statue, by morning it suddenly had disappeared and no one knows to where. Sauron denied all accusations that in the dead of night he ordered the statue secretly removed and relocated to Mordor, saying "If you know about it, then it's not a secret now is it?"

Boromir88

06-28-2011, 03:56 PM

Group D at Eregion
There's nothing the Noldor smiths and their dwarven friends like more than a building project. There was already a stadium built outside Ost-in-Edhil which hosted several Arda Cup playoff games, but when Eregion won its bid to host Group D, the Noldor went straight to work renovating the old stadium.

The Ost-in-Edhil Stadium already had 65,000 seats, which was quite satisfactory for the Noldor's fancy. They don't like making the largest, bulkiest stone stadiums possible, but would rather build a true gem on Middle-earth. So the Eregion planning committee diverted all funds not to adding more seats, but to adourn the stadium in all the precious stones and gems the Noldor and dwarves could get their hands on.

The greatest accomplishment of the renovated stadium has to be somehow the Noldor builders were able to craft windows and precious jewels that could take in and capture light. So when the Hollin sky would often be lit up in its various hues of blues and greens, oranges and yellows and reds the stadium's walls somehow took in all the outside light. Then at night time the stadium let out a pale, but bright glow of light being converted to all the colors of the sky. And residents from the nearby great Noldo city and even sometimes from the entrance to Moria (under a day's walk away), could see the stadium letting off it's beautiful multi-colored glow. It was a site that has attracted many a tourists to the area and the Noldor were proud of their new accomplishment.

The stage for this group is expected to be extremely friendly as it will predominantly feature Elves in support of Eregion. However, as the group was also hosting many Elf-friends, like the rangers and older generations of Gondorians, under the captaincy of a jewel unto herself, Arwen then there isn't expected to be much trouble in terms of security or rabble rousers. Even the Barad-dur team, many of Eregion, Eriador, and Gondor fans were anxious to see Gil-Galad, Isildur, and Cirdan return.

The baddies on Barad-dur were feeling quite alone and you must wonder how well they can perform for their team being so far away from any support. Surely the Moria orcs would be more likely to attend the Group B games for the Misty Mountains and whatever orcs out of Mordor decided to travel, they would likely follow Sauron. The Mouth and Nazgul #1 were looking both disgusted and nervous that under 500 orcs and other general beasties (of the 'fell' disposition) had turned up for Barad-dur. Their hearts raised somewhat by a travelling band of around 100 trolls came, but only to find out they were sporting the Dunedain emblem of the royal sceptre and wearing Bert, Tom, or Barrow-wight jerseys.

"This game can turn even the evilest creatures into a travelling carnival of singing freaks" scowled The Mouth.

Boromir88

06-28-2011, 06:36 PM

Group H at Dunharrow
The road through Dunharrow, lined with the stone statues the Rohirrim called Pukel-Men was now lined with mostly Men, Orcs, and other beastlies, but also small packs of Elves and Dwarves were heading through up the narrow passage, to cheer for individual favorites like Feanor and Legolas or Gimli. And out of the Dwimorberg, through the Dimholt, came a particularly ghostly and chilling group to support the King of the Dead. Rarely before had these ghouls ventured out of their haunted mountain, but with their King playing on Minas Morgul, they felt their King's call to watch the games.

Where they were all heading? To Firienfeld where the Rohirrim have used the Firien plain as the pitch, and have carved 85,000 seats into the encircling White Mountains. Some spectators believed the seating wasn't ideal since even the closest row of seats were quite removed from the field and players benches. And there were questions of how would you get almost 90,000 people through the congested mountain pass, from Edoras (which was going to be providing all the food and lodging)?

However most were pleased with the large Firienfeld, since no matter where one was sitting, one could see the entire pitch, and the mountains encircling the plain insured the noise from the crowd would be ear-deafening. Lothlorien had the fewest fanbase, and most seemed divided more by either loving Feanor or Galadriel, not so much the 'Lothlorien' brand. Although the Rohirrim would find little difficulty cheering for not only their home team, but also for Lothlorien with Shadowfax and Gandalf, and their friends from Minas Tirith.

The one thing everyone agreed on was Minas Morgul would be the outcasts of the group. The Rohirrim would be hurt if their own team didn't make it, but as long as Minas Morgul didn't go through that would be acceptable. And that was the other problem the Rohirrim would have on their hands, because Minas Morgul had a swarming crowd hoping to get tickets to their teams' games. The Witch-King put together the best PR effort, and not a greater host leaving from Minas Morgul had been recorded in history before (and when joined by the dead men from the Dwimorburg, and the Corsairs out of Umbar, Minas Morgul's numbers swelled to nearly 40,000).

What security problems would this cause, because surely the Rohirrim (nor the Minas Tirithians) would like having to play host to this unruly crowd of their ancient enemies? And especially since such a large turnout came from Minas Morgul, the home town fans were wondering how much of a "home-field" advantage they would enjoy?

the phantom

06-28-2011, 07:19 PM

Group C

Though not daytime creatures by habit, the residents of Angband were up early and, equipped with sunglasses and gobs of sunscreen, pouring into the Angfauglith arena, eager to snatch the best seats. The supporters of Hithlum were out in force as well, and wisely the site committee had separate entrances for the two groups, and also tried their best to keep them on opposite sides of the stadium.

But as noon approached, nearly all of the men and elves were seated, whereas Morgoth's supporters were still pouring in, spilling over into the north half of the stadium until they occupied around two thirds of the seats. Hired patrols of various races paced the bordering aisles helping keep incidents to a minimum, but despite this plenty of goblets, wrappers, and such were tossed back and forth, and there were competing songs and chants all the while.

Suddenly the doors to the tunnels were thrown wide and team Angband and team Hithlum trotted onto the brown-yellow field. Most of the crowd cheered wildly, but some booed simply because they were upset that the teams were not allowed to make separate entrances thus allowing them to voice their hatred for the opposition.

Many of Hithlum's players looked a bit sloppy in warm ups, their practice shots and passes all a bit overdone. They were obviously a little too jacked up and anxious for the contest to begin- except the Sons of Feanor. They were used to playing against the best talent on big stages and showed no fear, and they had worked too hard to earn the right to play as forwards to allow themselves to get over-hyped.

Quite soon both squads took their positions and the game was underway. Angband pushed forward immediately and a quick pass from Morgoth to the speedy Thuringwethil caught Hithlum sleeping, but Imlach saved the day brilliantly and Hithlum sighed with relief at dodging the early bullet. Angband attacked again, but this time Hithlum had gotten rid of the cobwebs and converged nicely, forcing the ball to retreat a few times. And then out of nowhere- the first blow was struck!

Ancalagon tried to send it back out to Telvildo, but Gloredhel was there first and touched it sideways to Galdor who immediately sent it downfield over the heads of Morgoth and his Balrogs to a dashing Celegorm and Curufin. Drauglin attempted to challenge as the ball arrived, but Curufin, who largely inherited his father's ball skills and dexterity, received the ball and sent it over the Werewolf and hopped over his swiping paws without breaking stride and continued on towards the left post with Celegorm mirroring him on the right.

At the last minute Curufin faked the shot and sent it sharply to Celegorm, but Ungoliant is a fantastic keeper and read it perfectly and was leaping to meet the ball as soon as he sent it. But Celegorm read his brother even better, and had already turned towards his brother. Celegorm's head reached the pass a fraction of a second before Ungoliant, volleying the ball straight back to his brother who was fully expecting to receive it back and was more than prepared to chip it into the empty net for the 1-0 lead.

Angband's supporters fell silent immediately as Hithlum cheered. The orcs and monsters of Angband had been looking forward to a thrashing, and this was the last thing they expected. Many of them uncomfortably recalled last year's bronze medal match, where Celegorm and Curufin had played an important role in besting Melkor's squad. Would the brothers duplicate the feat?

But Morgoth showed no such fear on the field. "We'll get it back!" he could be heard shouting. "This thing lasts 90 minutes!" And indeed the field general proved correct, as Angband went back on the offensive and soon had their equalizer thanks to the booming tail of Ancalagon. The whole of the crowd was back in the match.

Soon after, however, the baddies were sent spiraling down again, as the Hithlum attackers showed some great movement in sustaining an attack and forced Ungoliant to make a tough save, only to have Curufin pounce on the deflection and skip it to Hador to put them in front once again!

Hithlum tried to get it up to the forwards again, but Morgoth ordered them to be swarmed to deny them the ball, and carefully built up the attack while staying towards the rear himself to keep an eye out for the counter. Shortly before the first half ended the quick and clever Telvildo worked it in against the athletically inferior defense of Hithlum and sent it to a racing Thuringwethil who was left too free on the side opposite the attention grabbing Ancalagon. Yet again, the score was tied!

The general fans of football were quite pleased with the talent they saw displayed in the opening 45, but the more partisan viewers were quite worried. Angband-leaners thought, "We ought to be one of the very top defenses! How can we go on giving multiple goals like this? What's wrong?" Hithlum-leaners thought, "We can't stop them scoring- they're too big and powerful. And Morgoth will have some strategy to stop us scoring, no doubt."

And in fact it was the Hithlum fans who were right to be worried. In the second half Morgoth and Drauglin did their best to stick to Curufin like glue and had his two rear Balrogs hover around Celegorm, thus negating long passes, as those were the two with the blinding speed to cause trouble on them. Hador was certainly a threat as a scorer, but without the Sons of Feanor to get him the ball, the other members of Hithlum just couldn't do the job against their imposing Angband defenders.

On the other end of the field, the Angband offense possessed the ball marvelously and gained some decent opportunities. Not long into the second half Balrog #3 thundered a drive high into the net for the lead, and fifteen minutes later Tilion poked it away from his man and beat everyone to it, immediately crushing a straight drive in nearly the same location as Balrog #3, and it was a two goal lead!

Hithlum pushed desperately to get back into the contest, but to no avail. Hungry to have the ball on his foot, Curufin began coming all the way back to collect the ball and take it upfield himself, but it was too great a task even for him.

Angband left the field looking pleased indeed, having gained a win from their bitter foe. Hithlum was upset, but not crushed. "We fought hard," said captain Hador. "Angband is one of the championship favorites, and I think the way we played today shows we're good enough to qualify, and once you're in the playoffs anything can happen."

Angband 4-2 Hithlum
tot shots 18-11
on target 9-6
GOALS:
*6, 0-1 Curufin (Celegorm)
*16, 1-1 Ancalagon (Ulfang)
*29, 1-2 Hador (Curufin)
*42, 2-2 Thuringwethil (Telvildo)
*59, 3-2 Balrog #3 (Thuringwethil)
*74, 4-2 Tilion
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Tilion, Drauglin, Ulfang
*Hithlum- Algund, Lorgan, Aradan, Galdor

Next up was the contest between the host, Angfauglith, and the upstart team named "The Downer". Captain Fingolfin was quoted before the match as being unhappy with playing a complete unknown in the first match. "They could be great. They could be horrible. There's no preparations we can make!"

But the lack of information did not seem to hinder the elite scorers of Angfauglith. Though Downer's tactics were strange and unbalancing, they did not have the legs to stay with Maeglin and Gothmog and the pair each scored in the first half to secure a two-goal cushion at halftime. And only minutes into the second half Gothmog's pal Ecthelion put his mark on the game, sliding expertly towards a low pass and blasting it low past the wheels of King Bus to go up by three.

Pleased, and perhaps a bit relieved, with the way things had turned out, Fingolfin called off the attack and ordered the team to defend the lead, partly to reduce the chances of injury, as The Downer had been treating the forwards as harshly as allowed by the refs. Fingolfin, his horse, and the balrogs held firm for five... ten... fifteen... twenty minutes, and the Men and Elves in the crowd began growing louder, counting down the minutes to the impending victory.

But The Downer was not content to go quietly. At minute 77 the metal-covered Wight known as Saucepan Man boomed a terrifying bullet past a surprised Huor to make the score 3-1. Fingolfin apologized to the keeper for allowing the good look and made it his mission to deny SPM after that. The Downer then turned to Alien to do the next damage, but his head just wasn't in the game, as he seemed to be more interested in perpetrating various forms of mischief, such as lighting fire to the grass on the sly.

Rather than being angry with the green terror the rest of the team seemed largely amused by his antics, Captain Hookbill in particular, who began shouting out suggestions for what sort of vulgar thing Alien could do next. Finally the refs spotted and carded Alien- this time he was projectile-vomiting into the crowd, giggling all the while.

Angfauglith would have taken advantage of the confusion, but most of them were busy being ill themselves, and the final minutes of the contest were pretty well spent standing around trying not to look at the Downer squad- now gathered in a circle near their own goal to watch Alien attempt to eat the posts.

Only the wights left the stadium in good humor, and no doubt head tournament official Boromir88 will have something to say to The Downer squad about their terrible behavior.

Angfauglith 3-1 The Downer
tot shots 14-7
on target 7-2
GOALS:
*15, 1-0 Maeglin (Gothmog)
*36, 2-0 Gothmog (Gwindor)
*52, 3-0 Ecthelion (Rian)
*77, 3-1 Saucepan Man (John Fillis)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfauglith- Balrog #4, Azaghal, Gothmog
*The Downer- Morsul, Burnt Bert, Alien

Boromir88

06-29-2011, 04:03 AM

Group B
Even though the Gladden Fields Memorial Stadium was on the smaller stadiums it was filled to max capacity (over 57,000) for the 1st round game between Esgaroth and Misty Mountains. And the organizers expected the same turnout for every match of this group, since there was something for every fan of the game to enjoy. For the first time in memory, every race of Man, Elf, and Dwarf, spiders, eagles, wild beasts, and even creatures of unknown origins were represented amongst the teams of Group B.

The other talking point of the group is how would crowd handle the mixed allegiances? Dwarves from Erebor who made the journey to support Esgaroth had a hard time not wanting to see Anduin perform well, since their great King Durin the Deathless played for them, and then there was the famed craftsman Narvi for the Misty Mts. But how could they like the Misty Mts when it was home to a demon of the ancient world, the very Balrog who slew many of their kin? It was a conundrum indeed, and would all these divided loyalties, clash of cultures, cause security risks? Would the cultural mix of all the teams unite their fanbase or divide them sparking internal fighting?

That was all yet to be seen. Whatever the case, the stadium was filled to the brim and the sun was shining on the morning of the opening game of Group B. Who would not enjoy the Arda Cup atmosphere?

Match 1 - Esgaroth vs Misty Mts
As the game kicked off it was clear Girion had a new scheme in mind to show their quality after losing to Misty Mts 3-0 in the friendlies. Esgaroth was going on the attack to put the Misty Mts defenders on their heels. The defenders looked slow and already under 10 minutes their eagle defender Meneldor was handed a yellow for a late tackle. The pessimists were not surprised in seeing not much has changed with this team, even with Saruman joining, they were still going to play dirty and risk playing 1-man down. The neutrals of the crowd thought that maybe Azog was correct when he called out the refs for being unfairly hypocritical in giving cards to the eagles. Whatever the case, it was never good to receive a yellow that early in the game.

It also effected how the Misty Mts played as after the early yellow, the defenders backed off and were not as aggressive as normal. Yet Girion kept laying on the pressure in an effort to have the Misty Mts draw more cards. But as much as Esgaroth was trying to attack, one would have to say the Misty Mts defenders actually played an organized defense, a lot different from the one seen in previous years. Esgaroth found shots hard to come by and whenever they did get one, the Caradhras was a force that could not be beaten. After saving a shot off Bard, with a cold blast of ice, Esgaroth was awarded a corner. However, Girion complained to the ref, that the ball was frozen solid and he couldn't kick it without breaking his foot. The Misty Mts crowd jeered and mocked laughter, while the Esgaroth crowd booed about how can this be allowed? It was just plain unfair! The ref couldn't do anything about it except replace it, and send the frozen ball into the locker room to get it defrosted.

After things settled down the game evened out and Misty Mts was slowly gaining the advantage. While they were not creating many chances of their own, Narvi had dropped farther down to help the defense and once he did Esgaroth found it even harder to keep up the attack. In the 39th minute Tomnoddy was looking to pass it off to Bard, but got distracted by Narvi's beard and the dwarf easily just took possession away from the spider. Narvi quickly sent it up to Durin's Bane. It was honestly the first real chance of the game for the Misty Mts, and so the Esgaroth defending was totally asleep when Durin's Bane broke through and sent a wicked curving ball to the top left corner. Brand could not reach it. The Moria crowd was alive and cheering in full force.

The Dale supporters were making noise too, but it was noise of protests. They were claiming it was cheating! They had clearly felt a gust of wind when Durin's Bane shot it and that gust of wind obviously came from no other source except Caradhras. How else could you explain Esgaroth being the more dominant team for 40 minutes, but on the Misty Mts first real scoring chance they convert! Whatever one believes, the Esgaroth fans were probably looking for a way to vent their frustration that despite their dominance on the stat sheet, after 45 minutes they were losing on the only thing that mattered, the scoreboard.

In the 2nd half, Esgaroth again came out trying to attack. Only this time, they were having no success, not even at getting shots. Not only were their FWs legs tired, but their will seemed broken. After the 1st half they had and to still be losing 1-0, Girion just looked lost...what else could he possibly do? At the same time, the Misty Mts attackers saw very little action in the 1st half so they were fresh. Even though the Esgaroth defenders were pretty fresh too, once the Misty Mts gained possession for longer periods of time and started pressuring, it was the end. The defense had no hope with an attack force like Durin's Bane and Azog, supported by Saruman and Narvi (and at times even William and the Great Goblin found their way farther forward).

After Azog scored on the 55th minute, the Esgaroth fans began coping with the reality it was not in their teams power to beat the Misty Mts. And in truth, Brand was really struggling between the posts as he allowed another in off Saruman's boot in the 68th minute. After going up 3-0, Saruman called off the onslaught and Esgaroth tried to put together another attack to at least bring back a goal and not make it another embarassing loss. But there was no beating Caradhras on this day.

Esgaroth 0-3 Misty Mts
tot shots 9-12
on target 4-5
GOALS:
*39, 0-1 Durin’s Bane (Narvi)
*55, 0-2 Azog (Durin’s Bane)
*68, 0-3 Saruman (Great Goblin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Esgaroth- Bain, Mayor, Thorin
*Misty Mts- Narvi, Great Goblin, Meneldor

Match 2 - Anduin vs Wilderland
As with the dwarves this game saw the divided loyalties of the Beornings. Would they support Anduin because of Beorn, or Wilderland because of Grimbeorn!? And in truth, this game was a lot about those two players.

Anduin, like Esgaroth in the first game, surprisingly came out as the aggressors. They knew Wilderland's defense could be had and Beorn seemed to be making this game personal as he was already in a berzerker frenzy to begin. He really wanted Grimbeorn on the Anduin, and looked like he wanted to make it his mission to beat Wilderland and prove that Grimbeorn made the wrong choice. At the start it looked like Beorn would be right, as he was a beast at the MF, having his way with the wizard defenders. In the 11th minute he beat Pallando to the ball and hit a rocket on goal that was barely tipped away by Grimbeorn for a corner. Beorn elected to take the corner and sent a strike to the far corner that met the head of the unmarked Falastur, and this time it got passed Grimbeorn for a 1-0 lead.

The Wilderland favoured crowd was stunned and Sauron was displeased with the sloppy defending on that play. He hoped things would eventually calm down but Beorn was tireless and even after the goal, while Anduin eased up on pressure was still wrecking havoc on the Wilderland defense. Pallando was having real trouble and had no choice but to slide in for a foul or Beorn might have put them up 2-0. Sauron had to do something else and so Khamul was newly assigned to shadow the Bear-man. Khamul has become more of an attacking player, but he had once been a defender for Mordor and Sauron hoped he could neutralize Beorn. Neutralize he did, once the wild bear was tamed by Khamul's marking, Wilderland finally got the game under their control.

Right before the end of the first 45, Wilderland got the equalizing goal they quite frankly deserved. Fram had made some good saves to preserve the lead but could not hold onto the blast off Smaug's tail in the 43rd minute.

The 2nd half was underway and both teams had to feel like they could win this, although Anduin would get a cold awakening. They were little threat on offense without Beorn's effort. And whatever coaching Sauron did at the break, or whatever Pallando picked up from Khamul guarding Beorn for most of the 1st half, Beorn was suddenly ineffective. Sauron risked putting Pallando back on Bear-watching duties, and this time the wizard was more than a match.

With Pallando now able to take Beorn out of the game, Khamul could come up to his true position and contribute his talents as an attacking midfielder. Now the balance had clearly switched to Wilderland's favor, but they still weren't getting goals. With the game winding under 10 minutes the stadium was silent, Anduin fans felt they had a real chance to escape with a 1 point if their defense and Fram could hold on a little longer. And who knew, maybe Beorn would fully recover from the Wraith lord's guarding and catch the Wilderland defense sleeping?

While the Wilderland crowd was nervous, knowing Anduin's capability to counter and their defense's shakiness. Still one could see Anduin just wasn't getting possession, as the Wilderland FWs were controlling, working it all over the field and hopefully to finally crack Fram's fortitude as they had done at the end of the 1st half. Also, as the Anduin defenders were tiring from the constant defending, they began fouling more just to not get beat and give up an easy goal.

Wilderland, however, are great from set pieces and in the 82nd minute, after a foul about 5 meters outside the box was to be taken by Sauron, everyone in the stadium was on the edge of their seats. Sauron took a shot that made it over the wall of defenders, and it was covered well by Fram, but Scatha muscled passed his marker and redirected it to the opposite post. Wilderland was in the lead with under 8 minutes to go and the Gladden Fields stadium was rockin'!

Anduin desperately tried to equalize, knowing the Misty Mts would be a tough opponent after seeing the Esgaroth match, and they wanted the point. However, with Sauron now diverting all efforts to defense, and Beorn being personally guarded again by Khamul, there was no chance. Anduin just was not the same team with their great bear being tamed.

Anduin 1-2 Wilderland
tot shots 8-15
on target 4-8
GOALS:
*13, 1-0 Falastur (Beorn)
*43, 1-1 Smaug (Radagast)
*82, 1-2 Scatha (Sauron)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Rumil, Earnil, Orophin, Durin
*Wilderland- Scatha, Pallando

Nogrod

06-29-2011, 08:01 AM

Group A

The Ever-Cold Arena was packed and buzzing when the first game of the first group was about to start, and even if the official home team was not playing most of the spectators were strongly supporting either team. The air was filled with excitement and anticipation.

So when the players of Tirion finally poured into the field led by Aulë himself and the Leader of Noldor Finwë hand in hand, followed by Finwë’s son and three grandsons, and the White Lady of Gondolin… the crowds went just wild. This was what they had been looking for! Some players had been seen in press-conferences and others on practice-grounds – and a lucky one might had even gotten a glimpse of one of his heroes in the streets or taverns, but this was different. Now they marched to the field with their jerseys flying their colors, ready to take on the opponent for real.

The entry of team Doriath was no less impressive. Elwë Singollo and Melian led the team followed by Beren and Lúthien, followed in turn by Huan and Carcaroth shoulder to shoulder, giving the chills to the crowds with their fierce presence. There must have been many souls in the crowds who praised their maker being able only to watch the two from afar and not needing to face them oneself: some of those sitting on the first rows were not sure if buying those expensive seats was that a good idea in the first place. The last ones to enter the field were Húrin, Túrin and Beleg. The three men looked solemn, stern and focused. They got the stars’ welcome they duly deserved and acted like true stars by not showing any notice or appreciation to the rising levels of cheering around them. They were here to play a game.

And what a game it was! All possible sloppiness there might have been in the friendlies was blown away with the referee’s whistle and both teams played with full gear. It was such a different game!

Tirion tried to press with attack planning to give Doriath no room to breathe, but Doriath played back with holding the possession of the ball and letting it do the work thus frustrating the great efforts of Tirion’s pressure running to and fro. Some of the passing-combinations of Doriath were just breath-taking. And as soon as Tirion’s players felt they needed a breather after running wild after the ball Doriath punished them. It was like straight from the handbook. Mablung gave a pass forwards from midfield reaching Túrin who played wall with Beleg releasing himself from the defenders. And Túrin rarely misses when left face to face with a goalie inside the box.

Tirion came back to the pressure mode but Doriath continued evading their pressure with smart passing. And after another fifteen minutes Tirion’s players were feeling the pain in their legs and Doriath capitulated again. This time Lúthien gave a nice cross to Húrin who headed the ball in from the back-post.

Being two goals down Finwë rallied his team around him and they went for it 110%. It’s hard to say whether it was the extra-effort alone by Tirion or whether Doriath was feeling a bit too confident not to play it to the edge, but there was finally a shift in pressure and Tirion started to rain attacks towards Doriath’s goal. Just a minute before the half-time whistle they finally made it. The attacks of Tirion had ran towards the goal like waves, and this time Aredhel shot the ball from the right flank hard towards the center behind the defenses and Finwë took a spurt sliding for it leg on – and he managed to slide beside Elwë and hit the ball giving it a new direction Huan had no chances to follow.

Eöl had been running after Aredhel, trying to deny her passing the ball up, but when he failed and Aredhel’s pass led to a goal, some madness took him and he took Aredhel by the hair and started dragging her off the pitch. Luckily before any war between the teams, Melian and Elwë managed to force him to leave Aredhel alone. Some people would have thought it was worth a red card but the referee only showed him a yellow commenting something about it being a family affair.

It was only 2-1 on the half-time. And the tension was rising. The crowds were on fire.

On the second half Tirion continued with their pressure and they managed to force Huan into a couple of spectacular saves. The majority elves on the crowds were waiting for the equalizer both holding their breath at times and yelling and chanting wildly on others, but the longer the game went on the clearer it became that Doriath had chosen just the right tactics for this game. The Tirion squad started showing signs of wearing out from all the effort they had put in, while Doriath players had played it smartly. So when Doriath suddenly shifted gear after some fifteen minutes into the second half, Tirion had no way of countering.

On 62nd minute they then scored again, this time from a corner after some real pressure on Tirion’s goal. After a mess in front of the goal Beleg got the ball and passed it backwards to Túrin who was relatively free behind the rush in front of the goal and hammered a mighty cannon-shot into the back of the net from 18 meters leaving Orodreth no chance to even react to it.

There was some frustration in the faces of team Tirion but they fought back bravely. As the time ticked on it was nevertheless clear they were losing and some of the intensity of the game withered slowly. It was Eöl who sealed the final numbers shooting in a nice volley from a pass by Túrin from between the Tirion defenders. Even if the game had been decided already, the goal seemed important to Eöl as that way he kind of balanced his bad deeds on the first half. And those who saw the grin he flashed to Aredhel after the goal could see other meanings behind it as well.

It was a highly entertaining game full of great performances on both sides, but in the end it was a knock-out for team Tirion. And Doriath looks even stronger the media or the betting agencies have anticipated.

Doriath 4-1 Tirion
tot shots 18-13
on target 11-6
GOALS:
*17, 1-0 Turin (Beleg)
*33, 2-0 Hurin (Luthien)
*44, 2-1 Finwe (Aredhel)
*62, 3-1 Turin (Beleg)
*78, 4-1 Eol (Turin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Elwe, Eol
*Tirion- Mahtan, Caranthir

As the sun was withdrawing behind Taur-Nu-Fuin and the lights of the arena started slowly emerging the table was set for the main act of the day for the huge crowd of home fans. And one could feel the excitement. Whether one read the local media or listened to the people talking at local inns, it was clear the home team supporters were certain that the odd hobbits would be but a snack to their great team. But there was a nervous doubt there one could sense from behind the loud words… what if those halflings were of different make they seemed?

But when Maedhros and Fingon led their team to the pitch the nervous optimism turned into a carnival of song and cheer. This was it now!

There were not that many supporters of Shire-Bree Utd. on top of the thousand or so hobbits and men of Bree who had made the travel following their team. Some Doriath-supporters who bore a special grunt towards the easterlings and those elves who couldn’t stand anything to do with Fëanor and his offspring were seen to cheer for the hobbits, but to the most of the elves and men especially in the audience the hobbits looked like weird deformations of nature whom they found it hard to support in a game against noble elves and men of old.

From the first minutes it was clear the home team had adopted the conservative philosophy expressed neatly in the maxim “all play starts from defense and works through defense”. The hobbits tried to shift their game into it by running around wildly using their agility and small size to their advantage, but their eagerness turned out to be a great mistake. For the game had lasted only 12 minutes when Himring scored and rtook the early lead to the great joy of their fans in tens of thousands. The goal itself was beautifully crafted by Madhros and Fingon. It was clear to everyone witnessing the goal these two had played together for a long time, it was seamless co-operation totally disarming the hobbit-defenses.

While the hobbits tried to find new ways to open the Himring defense, the home team played it wisely not risking anything but building their attacks slowly and carefully. And it brought them another goal at half an hour’s mark when after some pressure around Shire-Bree’s box Fingon lent the ball backwards to Bór who found Ulfast from the side where he had sneaked while the hobbit defenders had concentrated in the center where most of the pressure had been. And let free with the ball about ten meters from the goal Ulfast booted it in leaving Butterbur standing.

The rest of the first half Himring were happy to just keep the hobbits at bay and securing a two goal lead for the half-time.

The second half was more or less the continuation of the first one. The hobbits tried different ways of breaking the solid defenses of Himring while Himring built their attacks slowly from the bottom. And there was no question which team had the better chances of scoring as Himring defenders constantly forced Shire-Bree to shoot from far away and from difficult positions.

On 67th minute the hobbits were given new hope when Amrod took a stupid yellow for a late tackle on Bandobras, and as that was his second he got thrown out of the pitch. But oit went completely the opposite way. Seeing they were one man short Himring started to play a bit more energetically and in just four minutes they scored their third goal of the night; this time it was Maedhros’ turn to do the serving while Fingon scored from close range.

They home team won 3-0 and showed the footballing world they are serious about qualification. The game between them and Tirion will be a thriller indeed. In the late night press conference Bandobras Took didn’t even try to to make excuses: “We were beaten and the better team won. We’re not going to sprinkle ash to our heads though but will give a better effort in the next one”. Interesting though, he was not willing to answer a question by the Bree Enquirer concerning the very bad performance of Butterbur on goal (3 goals allowed from 7 shots on goal), but told the media the conference was over on his part.

Himring 3-0 Shire-Bree United
tot shots 13-11
on target 7-3
GOALS:
*12, 1-0 Maedhros (Fingon)
*32, 2-0 Ulfast (Bor)
*71, 3-0 Fingon (Maedhros)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Himring- Amrod, Borthond
*Shire-Bree- Bandobras, Gerontius, Ferny
RED CARDS:
*Himring- Amrod (67, second yellow)

the phantom

06-29-2011, 12:14 PM

Group E

There was much anger to be found in the ranks of Wights and Werewolves when the start times for the Group E matches were pushed earlier. Instead of 2 o'clock and 8 o'clock, the matches were switched to 11 and 4. "They're did that deliberately!" complained FormendaWight. "They know that Werewolves thrive when the sun sets, and that we Wights love to sleep all day and party all night!"

"Formy's quite right!" agreed The BoroWight. "It would be different if they had scheduled the matches at such times originally, but waiting to see who the homeside was playing and then making it a day game... Preposterous!"

Tol In Gaurhoth wasn't the only fanbase enraged by the early start. The few Orcs of Mordor that showed up also griped about things, pointing out that under their normal schedule they ought to be asleep until 3 or 4 in the afternoon. "The host committee really should be more considerate with their game times," said Mordor football enthusiast Mortakh. "Since the other teams have no troubles playing games later, why not do so? That way things would be fair for everyone."

But the complaints weren't going to change things for this round anyway, and so at 11 AM the opening match between Mordor & Nargothrond kicked off. The orcs and Nazgul looked a bit sluggish off the bat, and with little crowd support to jumpstart them things could've gone poorly for them, but fortunately Nargothrond didn't open too sharply either, and the Silent Watcher was on his game enough to turn away two early efforts from Finduilas.

As the first half wore on the fog cleared from the heads of orcs and slowly they began to control things. Just past the half hour mark they gained their first serious chance. Barahir was equal to Shelob's header, but the excitement of the near-miss seemed to spur the Nazgul out of their daze and Mordor became more dangerous than ever.

Shortly before the half they finally broke through, as they brought up their midfield to help apply the pressure and Gorbag turned a rebound around from just outside the box. The team on the field celebrated, but there was hardly a reaction from the crowd- most of the Mordor fans were stretched out on the tree-branch seats snoozing in the warm sun.

When the teams began the second half every last Mordor supporter was sound asleep, and Nargothrond took advantage stealing the spirit and momentum. At minute 67 they gained a well-deserved equalizer off the tail of Glaurung and it was anyone's game. The noise made by the men and elves woke the orcs in the crowd who were absolutely shocked to find the match in the final 35 minutes and tied at 1-1.

Even the best of people can be grumpy first thing after waking up, and orcs aren't exactly saints. In no time at all they were tossing things big and small down onto the field and shouting death threats, recalling their fury at the early start time. Team Nargothrond for the most part was stunned (and perhaps a bit frightened) by the sudden turn of things, where as team Mordor was buoyed up and found new energy, and in no time at all they were back ahead, as Nazgul #7 found Grishnakh beautifully!

Glaurung roared at his teammates in fury for losing their nerve, but the damage was already done, and Mordor organized a lockdown defense in front of Silent Watcher and hung on for a win in their opening match of group play.

Mordor 2-1 Nargothrond
tot shots 10-11
on target 5-4
GOALS:
*40, 1-0 Gorbag (Nazgul #6)
*67, 1-1 Glaurung (Finduilas)
*70, 2-1 Grishnakh (Nazgul #7)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mordor- Snaga, Shelob, Gollum
*Nargothrond- Arminas

Nearly all of the Noldor and men of Beor filed out silently, but the section of Orcs stuck around and were soon joined by the Wights and Werewolves, who had apparently invited the creatures of Mordor to sit with them for the evening contest and party with them afterwards. Had Mordor lost perhaps the goblins would have left, but they were indeed in the mood for some fun after their victory and stayed put.

Small groups from Doriath, Mirkwood, and Brethil occupied the seats directly across from the riotous ghosts and ghouls, but the rest of the stadium was a sea of Hobbits and Ents and Huorns. With the stadium grown from living roots the way it was, the tree-people very nearly blended with the arena itself, making it look a bit empty. But the volume made it obvious that the place was filled. The laughing of Hobbits, the howls of wolves, the shrieks of Wights, and the hooming of Ents made for quite a racket, and the game hadn't even started yet!

When Tol In Gaurhoth bounded onto the pitch the Ents surprisingly let them be, letting their fans cheer them on. "We hardly know them," said one Ent. "I realize there's been talk of them threatening forest fires, but let's not be hasty to judge."

But the TIG fans showed no such courtesy, laughing and mocking the Forest squad as they made their entrance. They had signs spoofing Tom's peculiar manner of speaking, and all of them had sticks and twigs which they merrily declared were "Entings" before snapping them and tossing them onto the sideline.

At the start of the game in appeared The Forest was able to tune out the audience and focus on the task at hand, but they were unable to make any headway against the Werewolves on the field. As time approached fifteen minutes The Forest began to look overmatched and lost focus, and as a result the crowd started getting to them. In particular Saeros seemed completely lost, as to everyone's amusement MormWight and LhunaWight repeatedly called "Take it off!" and "Give us a show!" and "Show us some skin, Saeros!", making light of his shameful death in Doriath.

And quite soon the game wasn't being lost in only the stands but on the field as well as PhantomWolf received it from GwathWolf and sent one of his trademark drives in for the lead.

Bombadil energized his team to strike back, but Saeros muffed their best opportunity and ShastaWolf turned away Bombadil's strike and The Forest, disheartened, was pushed back. At 35 minutes TIG lit the scoreboard again- this time it was the cool head of NogWolf nodding in a nice cross from Inzil.

TIG then played the possession game for a bit, especially with SallyWolf and PhantomWolf giving it back and forth and attempting various ball-tricks. The two wolves were openly laughing as the whirled in circles around their Ent defenders, deriding Treebeard and his race for their lack of quickness despite their straight-line speed. The pair finally put a stop to their antics after being asked repeatedly by NogWolf and SkipWolf. But soon after PhantomWolf was chuckling again as NerWolf wove into the Forest defense like a squirrel through tree-branches and ended her solo run by chipping it past a helpless Old Man Willow for the commanding three goal halftime lead.

As the team started the second half it was obvious that NogWolf had instructed TIG to sit on the lead and play suffocating defense, and for the first 20 minutes they did, but predictably PhantomWolf got bored and started showing off again, doing whatever he could to make his opponents feel inferior. This delighted the Wights and Werewolves in the stands, and in no time they were screaming for more, and other players began joining in, most notably SallyWolf who continually threatened to douse Treebeard with lantern oil and NilpWolf who carried on with the tradition of mocking Saeros.

At minute 65 NilpWolf was carded for going a bit too far- he took a water cup that had rolled onto the field of play and chucked it at Saeros's head, exclaiming, "This look familiar?!" Fellow defender SkipWolf yelled at NilpWolf and told him to straighten up, but NilpWolf had gotten such a great reaction from the TIG fans that he couldn't help but continue pushing things.

But at minute 73 he paid for it as he was sent off the field for going up behind Saeros and yanking his shorts down around his ankles. NogWolf was furious, but his anger was completely buried beneath the approving roaring and howling of his teammates and their supporters in the crowd. Even the well-mannered and courteous EstyWight was laughing herself out of breath in the front row.

Bombadil attempted to spur his team to take advantage of the missing defender, but the rest of his team was entirely flat, as the Werewolves had convincingly got it into their heads that things were hopeless and they could not compete with TIG's speed, skill, and ferocity. Not to mention they were more than a little frightened of what TIG players or supporters might do to them if they didn't roll over and submit. What an embarrassing way to begin for the home team!

The Forest 0-3 Tol In Gaurhoth
tot shots 7-16
on target 3-8
GOALS:
*22, 0-1 PhantomWolf (GwathWolf)
*35, 0-2 NogWolf (InzilWolf)
*44, 0-3 NerWolf
YELLOW CARDS:
*The Forest- Skinbark, Haleth
*TIG- GaladWolf, InzilWolf, NilpWolf
RED CARDS:
*TIG- NilpWolf (73, second yellow)

Nogrod

06-29-2011, 04:18 PM

Group F

The organisers of the games in Númenor had decided to open the gates of the Armenelos Stadium already on early afternoon to fill the stadium fluently and with easier pace as the stream of incoming spectators would spread more evenly. That was a fine idea, but the practice proved different. Huge queues started forming already around mid-day and when the gates were opened tens of thousands of football-hungry people had packed around the stadium trying to get in all at the same time. Even if the scene looked quite chaotic at times, the organisers aided by Armenelos City Guard managed to bring in enough order to avoid any major accidents.

Even with the crush at the gates, long queuing times and some unavoidable rows in the crowds, people seemed to be on a jubilant mood. Finally reaching their places and sitting down in the stadium parties opened their wineskins and brought forth the many imaginative snacks and pic-nic meals they had prepared for the occasion, trading and offering tastings to the next parties. The organisers had counted it wrong: the Armanalos Stadium was the place to be on this day, and when people heard the gates would be opened earlier they rejoiced with the news realizing they’d have a longer party at the stadium. When most of the Teleri and Gondorian supporters started to pour into stadium the normal one and half hours before the match they were totally surprised to see the stadium almost full already – and very much disappointed to find out that they had been left the farthest seats available with their ticket-classes.

As said on earlier reports, team Númenor was the official host of the group F, but in practice the group had two home teams. Most of the Númenorians cheered for both teams with as open heart, but many people had also taken their favourites. Some said that bringing Gondorians aboard was a bad idea and only a purely Númenorian team earned their full support. Others argued that the greatest heroes of Númenor played in the mixed team, and the Gondorians were their brothers, of the same blood after all. But only a few were willing to make it an issue to fight over.'

~*~

The first game between Westernesse and Mithrim sent the crowds into nirvana.

After just twenty minutes of gameplay Westernesse was leading with two goals to nil with Ar Pharazôn and Elros, more or less their greatest heroes, both scoring once. And when Ar Adunakhôr made an outstanding goal straight from a free-kick from about 25 meters just before the end of the first half the crowds just went mad. The editorial staff will wish to make their apologies for the language here, but there’s only one way of expressing the feeling in the crowds when Ar Adunakhôr hammered it in to the upper left corner of the Mithrim goal: they were peeing honey, and quite uncontrollably.

Playing defensively against Westernesse is a bad idea as that allows the highly skillfull and physical Westernesse midfield and forwards to bring in wave after wave of balanced attacks forcing the defending team into a position of complete underdogs constantly occupying the receiving end. Although, and to be honest, it was not the tactical choices of team Mithrim that brought them down but the sheer difference in quality of the players. An exceptionally talented, tough and confident team could build up their own attacks against the balanced lines of Westernesse even from deep down their own half. But that is clearly not what Mithrim as a team is.

Many were afraid the second half would be a formality, and in a sense they were right, but the crowds did see some top quality football on the second half as well.
Mithrim pressed harder against Westernesse in the beginning of the second half and even got a few decent shots (if only two on target), but there was still no doubt as to which team ruled the pitch. Malbeth’s bicycle-kick goal at 62nd minute was one of the most impressive of the first round. Grithnir pushed Malbeth from behind unbalancing him just as the corner shot from Tar Minastir was coming towards the two. But somehow Malbeth managed to turn sideways while falling down and stretched out to make a perfect sideways bicycle-kick leaving both Grithnir and Tuor at the goal standing in confusion. To top the angst of team Mithrim the referee showed Grithnir a yellow card after the goal, truly earned.

So if Doriath showed they are a force to be reckoned with in this tournament in group A, one could say that team Westernesse also gave a tempest-warning of how deadly they are.

Mithrim 0-4 Westernesse
tot shots 6-18
on target 2-10
GOALS:
*14, 0-1 Ar Pharazon (Elros)
*19, 0-2 Elros (Mardil)
*38, 0-3 Ar Adunakhor
*62, 0-4 Malbeth (Tar Minastir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mithrim- Gethron, Grithnir
*Westernesse- Elendil

The expectations were high for the late night match after the glory of the first one and the home crowds chanted Númenorean songs, old and new, more or less without a pause the full 60-minute interval between the games. But the few realists started sweating as the game drew closer. As TTN had said in their pre-group analysis, Tol Eressëa’s defense led by Ulmo might just be a bit too tough a nut to crack for the team Númenor’s attack. And they were afraid TTN was right.

But the majority of the home crowd seemed to feel that Númenoreans would beat any team brought against them this magical night. Some of the more drunken parties (drunk not only because of the wine) were even boasting they could form a team of their own to bring down Pelori and Valinor. But happily, for the honor of Dúnedain, there were only few parties among the tens of thousands getting that loose, even if they were quite loud.

But any hybris there was died down pretty soon as the game began and it became clear to the supporters of the home team that Númenor would not beat Tol Eressëa in a way Westernesse slew Mithrim at the pitch just a moment ago. It was a real struggle of two very even-looking teams both trying to avoid errors and shutting off any attacks of the other early on only to be cut by the other one in turn. And so most of the game seemed to be played in the midfield, or safely keeping the ball on one’s own half. It was no high moment of football as a dynamic art – even if the game sure had it’s own dynamics.

Then, on 37th minute just before the break, the heavens fell down for the Númenorians. Uinen gave a swerving free-kick from about 35 meters and found Elwing’s head perfectly. Silmariën saw the header coming and dived to the farther corner of the goal assuming the natural outcome, but Elwing had a snap second to notice Silmariën’s intention and she managed to yank her head giving the ball a different angle and sending it down in front of the two closest defenders and bouncing through between them to the nearest corner of the empty goal.

Some yellow papers claimed the next day that after seeing Elwing’s performance Elros had sprang up from his seat and yelled feverishly “Go Mum! Yay Mum!”, but that surely can be dismissed as just one more trick to sell more papers. But whatever Elros’ reaction was, it was an impressive goal anyway and the crowds did cheer for it even if somewhat confusedly as it was made by their greatly revered lady, but at the wrong end of the pitch.

But the worst thing to the Númenorean team and fans alike came only after the goal. Tol Eressëa regrouped into a lockdown and held their defense tight from the midfield on allowing the hosts no chances as they always seemed to have all ten players under the ball. As the second half went on the Númenorians started to get frustrated and fex. both their yellow cards came there, out of frustration facing such a solid defense which didn’t even try to attack sparing all the players into defensive tasks. Near the end of the game even some of the crowds started booing but that had no effect. Tol Eressëa took a precious win looking at the qualifying and made Númenor’s path to the play-offs all the more harder.

The home crowds poured into the streets after the game with mixed feelings: like they had been on a rollercoaster-ride that first made them immensely happy but in the end left a bad feeling.

Numenor 0-1 Tol Eressëa
tot shots 9-7
on target 4-3
GOALS:
*37, 0-1 Elwing (Uinen)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Numenor- Ar Zimrathan, Vardamir
*Tol Eressea- Uinen

Pitchwife

06-29-2011, 04:31 PM

"What did I tell you? The wolves won! Though, honest, I don't really get why, when they didn't kill anybody and even were outnumbered by the Forest guys after Nilp was killed by that guy in black. Who was that one supposed to be, anyway? A Black Beorning? Didn't seem to be playing for either team, did he?

Impartial? Ah, I get it - he's the Mod! Makes sense now, the way he was bossing everybody around. So Nilp wasn't killed but modfired, eh? What for, please - I'd say he was definitely participating! Confusing game, this. So they don't have to make kills but 'goals'? Put the ball into that framed net thingummyjig? Seriously, what kinda winning condition is this?

Anyway, the wolves won, which is all that matters - and quite impressively, if you ask me. I mean, they were at a clear disadvantage, with the village - er, Forest - knowing who they were from the start. Not that the Forest made much use of that. Played pretty wooden, didn't they? Some of 'em didn't move at all, you'd have thought they'd grown roots. Need to get more mobile, these guys.

Oh, and that Saeros guy shouldn't be such a sissy." *shouts at Saeros:* "Take it off! Swap shirts!"

Boromir88

06-29-2011, 06:55 PM

Group D

Match 1 - Barad-dur vs Eriador
Like in many of the first games already, the Ost-in-Edhil stadium was sold out for Barad-dur vs Eriador. The rangers came out in droves to watch their Eriador, and a good company of trolls had come to watch Bert and Tom. But there was also a crowd of Eregion Elves who were anxious to see Gil Galad and Cirdan again. The atmostphere was generally friendly and festival amongst the fans, and the baddies of Barad-dur looked nervous. Only a small section of orcs and fell creatures (probably under 500) had come to watch them and one has to wonder how this would effect Barad-dur's play? Would they be discouraged by the lack of support or not be bothered?

It was kickoff and the game started out with both teams being pretty cautious, not wanting to commit a costsly turnover or be exposed to a dangerous counter. It's not a surprise seeing who captains both teams they would begin by probing and testing out the other without risking much. However, after the cautious trial stage, the game started speeding up, much to the likeness of the crowd. This was the football they liked seeing.

In the friendlies Arvedui had trouble keeping his troll defenders in line, and again it seems like this would be a problem for Eriador. As Bert just ran over Cirdan in an attempt to steal possession and it was an easy yellow for the troll (the troll fans in the stands cheered the play, thinking Bert had made a great defensive stop). The Mouth took the free kick and Fellbeast #2 came swooping in to knock it into the net giving Barad-dur the 1-0 lead.

Once Barad-dur grabbed the lead the game slowed down again, as the Dark Tower was defending it's lead more than pushing to expand it. The trolls had actually started showing a true ability to be able to play well in Arvedui's defense. However, another mistake by Bert would lead to another Barad-dur goal.

Isildur tried dribbling into the penalty area. There was contact and Isildur fell down, the Barad-dur supporters were screaming for a penalty and for Bert's 2nd yellow (which would send him away from the match). But the ref was unconvinced, as Isildur was clearly looking to get a foul, and Bert held his ground. However, Bert thought the ref whistled the action dead, and stepped away from the ball, just leaving it. Cirdan rushed in, knowing the play was still live, took possession and rounded Bert, he sent it to the right side, where Gil Galad was also rushing in. And the High King of the Noldor finished it. Barad-dur would lead 2-0 going into the break.

If you've ever heard the tale of two halves this is an example of one of those instances. It's not that Eriador played terribly in the first, it's just a few trollish mistakes led to 2 easy goals for the other team. So, if they could find a way to keep the pressure off their trolls and avoid those mistakes, than you thought Eriador would be able to get back into the match. And they did!

Gil Galad shut down the offense completely and went into an extremely negative scheme where he wanted to keep all 11 players behind the ball at all times. While it was hard for Eriador to break down Barad-dur defense, it was not impossible. As is so often the case, unless if you have a lockdown defense like Angband or Tol Eressea, holding onto a lead is more damaging than it is not.

Eriador got on the board in the 68th minute, by Halbarad cleaning up the rebound of Aranarth's shot in the 68th minute. Barad-dur still decided to protect their lead, and found it hard to switch gears to an offensive one. The Mouth was trying to push the action but his passes often sailed over Isildur, Gil Galad and Cirdan, who often retreated and let the Eriador defenders take possession.

As Eriador was holding most of the possession now, and looking for an equalizer, Arvedui pushed his lines farther upfield, including the defensive line. Aragorn didn't earn the nickname Striker without reasons, and when Amlaith took the ball up to mid-circle he spotted Aragorn making a run. The star King took Amlaith's looping pass, chested it down and with one swift touch drove it passed Ohtar.

The match ended in a draw and Barad-dur was rather lucky to escape with the point. Since by the strategy of their captain in the 2nd half they definitely deserved to lose. The Mouth led all the baddies off the field, while the Last Alliance Company met with Arvedui's squad at mid-circle and shook hands for the good game.

Barad-Dur 2-2 Eriador
tot shots 10-13
on target 5-6
GOALS:
*22, 1-0 Fellbeast #2 (Mouth)
*43, 2-0 Gil-galad (Cirdan)
*68, 2-1 Halbarad (Aranarth)
*80, 2-2 Aragorn (Amlaith)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Nazgul #1, Isildur, Shagrat
*Eriador- Bert, Tom

Match 2 - Eregion vs Gondor
After an exciting 2-2 draw in the morning match, the crowd was ready for the afternoon game of their hometown heroes, Eregion, taking on the likeable and respected Gondor (especially since Arwen was captaining the team now).

The first half ended scoreless but the crowd was still buzzing with excitement, it was far from a snooze fest. Fans were seeing a real defensive masterpiece and it's not like the offenses were just staying back on their own side passing it to eachother. The offenses were truly working, but having to work hard to get chances. Gondor for the most part was attacking more, as Eregion looked to create counters. Eregion was able to get some good counter attacks, but it's difficult against Gondor's defense which is rarely ever caught napping, and even harder to beat their last line of defense, the GK Ecthelion. While Arwen was having an even harder time feeding the ball through Eregion's defense to her FWs.

So, despite the scoreless draw in the first 45, fans were still eagerly interested into the game. If the offenses were still able to get these chances off the flawless defenses, eventually a goal had to happen, right? Even with also the perfect goal keeping of Elrond and Ecthelion, surely a goal was coming.

Well, the Eregion crowd began their singing and chanting at the start of the 2nd and did not have to wait long to see that goal they knew was sure to come. Eorl had his best chance yet, and raised his arms up in celebration as he struck the ball hard to the right post, but Elrond jumped out of apparently nowhere to snatch it right out of mid air. Eorl exasperately breathed and threw his arms down, how was Gondor going to beat Elrond when he's playing like this?

Elrond spotted Gondor just a second late in back track and set up their defense so he threw it out wide to Erestor. Erestor made a deep run until Narmacil tried to challenge and take the ball away, but Erestor quickly sent the ball to Elladan. No one closed in on Elladan as no one anticipated he would shoot, and so he did. Ecthelion was too busy paying attention to make sure the dangerous strike forces Earendil and Glorfindel were marked, by the time Boromir I shouted "SHOT", it was too late, Ecthelion reacted too slowly and the ball snuck between his hand and right post. The stadium burst into more joyous singing and even the Gondorian fans had to applaud the goal.

Their team had been making a stellar effort, and there really wasn't much they could do than admit the facts that Elrond was an Arda class goal keeper and he was determined to keep his goal clean. And Gondor hadn't given up after the goal, since there was still a lot of time left and Eregion was surely going to go into all out defense now. Sadly, for the Gondorians, the other goal came by means of another Eregion counter attack. This one from precise, brilliant team work between Earendil and Glorfindel. If those two had their timing in sync, than Eregion could be quite a dangerous team, especially since it's certain you can always depend on the defense and their Master Elrond.

Eregion 2-0 Gondor
tot shots 10-12
on target 6-6
GOALS:
*51, 1-0 Elladan (Erestor)
*74, 2-0 Glorfindel (Earendil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eregion- Elrohir
*Gondor- Folcwine, Eorl

Nogrod

06-30-2011, 01:33 PM

Group G

At the time of pre-game press conference there had been no sign of any dwarven supporters from Nogrod in Valmar, or anywhere in Valinor. That had understandably given birth to all kinds of rumors. The fact that one of the most believable ones was that three ships of them had set sail from the Havens already the previous week was not exactly toning the other rumors down. One could easily dismiss rumours which claimed the Valar had asked for Ulmo to sink the ships into the sea, or that Manwë would have personally destroyed the ships with a blazing thunderbolt (or given that for Tulkas to handle, like another rumor claimed). Even if the dwarves were not of the original creation and none had visited the Blessed Realm, they were no creations of Melkor or in any other way servants of evil – and thus killing them was in no way a believable explanation. Or that’s at least how the local media reasoned.

But what had happened, or had nothing happened at all? That was the question which took over the press conference to the seeming annoyance of the organisers who would have rather discussed the great shape teams Pelori and Valimar on. Let’s peak in for a short moment.

Estolad Evening Star: So, does anyone here know about the fate of the three ships carrying dwarves from Nogrod? Where are they now?

Namo: Now there’s no evidence those ships ever set sail so it’s impossible to make any judgment at this point. It’s hard to pass judgements over entities you’re n ot sure exist in the first place – and rumors are no evidence.

The AKM: But it would seem odd that the Nogrodians would not be willing to come as their two great champions Telchar and Gamil Zirak are playing. And no one sighting them here would point towards there being something fishy in here, knowing the conservative nature of Valinor…

Namo: Now even if speaking of the intentions of someone who is not here to speak on his or her behalf is somewhat dubious and nothing one could use as evidence, I can see your meaning. And if we wish to dwell into speculation I do admit it would be easy to suppose some dwarves would have wished to do the trip. But we all know there are so many different ways in which a trip may fail, be slowed down or be just cancelled; accidents, financial problems, weather… But as I said, that’s all nothing but speculation.

Estolad Evening Star: But the hosts of ships of men and elves from Beleriand did manage to come! Isn’t it a bit odd only the dwarves didn’t make it?

Namo: Now you are basing your question again on the unproven assumption there was a ship of dwarves in the first place. And like I said, I do like facts more than assumptions without evidence.

The AKM: Let me put you a different question. We all know you and Manwë are the ones delving deepest in the vision of Ilúvatar. And many say you know almost all there is to know about the destinies of Arda and in the end you declare them according to your understanding of the Vision. Now team Beleriand is the most remarkable showcase of inter-racial comradery and bonds between different races who have bled together in the defense of the good against evil. Now surely Ilúvatar would not discriminate one race of heroes while embracing the other two. Now would He?

Namo: The mind of the One is hard to interpret for even those who have the best capabilities for it. So do you, Mr. Journalist, think you understand Ilúvatar’s vision?

Estolad Evening Star: Forgive me my boldness, but was that a confession?

Namo: Unfathomable are the ways of Ilúvatar…

The reader is free to make her /his own inferences from there.

~*~

It’s clear the press conference didn’t ease the tension over the issue. Actually it did provoke quite an unique protest from the team Beleriand as coming to the arena they all wore black ribbons, like honoring the memory of the deceased, in their left arms – and they wore them the whole game.

After a pretty careful start Pelori went into lead when only 12 minutes was played. From a nice pass from Varda, Eönwë forced himself free from between the Beleriand defenders and hammered the ball into the net with real power-shot. The crowds were pleased and relaxed as the haunting thought that these visitors from the east could have gained some extra-powers from their protesting felt now like something they had feared in vain.

But lo and behold. Telchar and Gamil Zirak called the team together with the help of Aegnor and Angrod. And as the game continued, the home crowds soon learned that the team Beleriand was capable of more than just protesting with their arm-bands as they suddenly looked very much focused and determined to give the best they could. It was clear the local media had not talked about their stamina in vain for they really gave a hard opposition to the home team who was so used to calling the shots in almost any game. But now the game was very much even.

Even with the extra-tension and effort in the field it still was not exactly the fastest or most flashing football on Arda due to the conservative and defensive playing-style of both teams – for even if rallied on a cause the Belerianders didn’t overdo it but still played from the defense on. Both teams had a few really good scoring opportunities but the crowds had to wait until the very end to see something more.

With only a few minutes to go the home crowds started feeling secure of the win when Aegnor silenced the whole stadium in disbelief. Very fittingly it was actually Gamil Zirak’s goal. It was he who took the defenders with him, got released from their pressure enough to chip the ball sideway to release Aegnor all alone at the corner of the goal where it was an easy task for him to just pass the ball in with no defenders around and Manwë being seriously late.

There were only two minutes on the clock and it was one all!

And it remained thus. Beleriand had robbed a point from Pelori thus making the group a lot more interesting as it is not anymore that certain Pelori will qualify. Surely the oddmakers would still see them as the more probable candidates of the two, but at the moment their performance is even. Whichever of the two teams plays better in the future has the claim for qualifying. Unless Gondolin breaks in and shuffles the deck once more.

That was what the evening game could reveal.

Beleriand 1-1 Pelori
tot shots 9-10
on target 4-4
GOALS:
*12, 0-1 Eonwe (Varda)
*88, 1-1 Aegnor (Gamil Zirak)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Beleriand- Telchar, Marach
*Pelori- Irmo

The elves (and maiar) of Valinor outnumbering all others in the stadium were getting a bit nervous when the evening match was about to begin. Their walk-in-the-park group had turned into something different: a competitive group where even Middle-Earth teams seemed to have a chance. And they were little by little waking up for real to the fact that over half of the team Gondolin were last year’s silver-medalists and players like Turgon and Thorondor weren’t exactly weak links either. So, talking about them as a tough team was no talking-point only or a nice admission to some weaker side, but something that was true.

The game started with both teams looking at how the other played. Valinor was having more of the ball but Gondolin answered flexibly to their moves holding them away from any serious scoring opportunity. The game gathered pace as the half went on but it stayed pretty even, Valinor shooting a bit more than Gondolin mostly due to their greater amount of time with the ball.

But just before the half-time Arien offered the home crowd a relief heading in the well-marked pass by Nerdanel after a short corner. Valinor was in the lead! But even in their joy many of the spectators supporting team Valinor realized that the overpowering happiness for the 1-0 just betrayed their innermost insecurity. It was not that easy they had thought beforehand. The goal and their own reactions hammered it in.

The second half continued quite evenly even if Gondolin seemed to be a bit more active in the beginning of the period trying to go for the equalizer. And to the horror of the home crowds they finally did it on 63rd minute! With a quick “change of direction” –play Idril managed to send Duilin free running the right side. When Vairë and Indis rushed after her noticing their mistake both Egalmoth and Turgon ran through the center facing only Tulkas and with the advantage that they saw the situation all the time while Tulkas needed to glance aside every now and then while he backtracked and tried to keep an eye on both attackers. And so Duilin sent a meter high pass from the side just as the two defenders were getting at her – and Turgon dived for it head on from Tulkas’ right while Egalmoth took a tight curve to steal his attention – and Turgon headed the ball past the stupefied Ingwë. And it was clear Tulkas wasn’t too happy either.

But the crowds were totally lost, biting their nails. Was this how it was going to be?

Tulkas was of the different opinion and Valinor started to move the ball even faster than before. Slowly the confused crowds started to wake up for a new hope and started supporting their team from the bottom of their hearts. And it was not long when the ball was in Gondolin’s net. Galdor had to stop Nerdanel against the rules when she was breaking free from him to reach a ball coming from Miriel. He was duly carded and Valinor was given a free kick from quite near the corner of the box. Arien and Nessa ran towards the ball from different angles, Olwë made a side run towards the corner of the goal, and Yavanna being at the side of the wall ducked down. Things were happening. But Estë had just rested beside the ball and suddenly as Arien was just about to reach the ball, she chipped it a meter sideways to Miriel who shot a real beauty from standing legs to the upper right corner of the goal. So while everyone thought the players doing the runs were those about to do something it was the two still-standing ones who scored! That was so cool even the elves from Gondolin and Vinyamar joined the standing ovation.

There was still time and Gondolin didn’t give in. But their promising chase got a sad ending when Olwë managed to steal the ball from Salgant in the midfield and sent it forth to Arien sensing the steal and already running full speed onwards. He was forced to shoot from 20 meters though as Thorondor was closing on him. Rôg kneeled down to safely pick the ball coming straight towards him rolling on the ground when it slipped from his fingers, took a swerve from his shoulder and bounced over him… and into the goal!

The crowds were relived and danced and sang and cheered to no end. It is not possible to reproduce the f-, s- and h-words springing from the mouths of team Beleriand players to tell what they seemed to feel at the moment.

Just ten minutes left with two goals down against a Valier-team the Belerianders realized it was too tough a job and they seemed to give it just a half-hearted effort to go for a goal. Had they not been upset for such a cheap goal they might have played differently, but now it felt like they had sold their city.

So the Blessed Realm got one victory in the end – even if they had been anticipating two easy ones. But even if Gondolin managed to play evenly against Valinor for long periods all the stats tell one that Valinor earned it’s victory. One thing for the speculators opened though – and that would concern betting on both of the two teams of the latter match.

Rôg was one of the top two goalies in last year’s tournament but began this season with a very bad performance gaining only 66,7% saving percentage against Hithlum. Now some said it was because Turgon had decided to leave the defenses without support to test them – and to give Rôg a true warm-up, but many thought Rôg was just rusty. And the following friendlies seemed to show the latter explanation to be the correct one as he really stepped forwards and played the next three games with almost 82% saving-ratio which is not stellar but on the top ten anyway.

But now he was playing badly again! The third goal went straight to him and some said that also the first header by Arien could have been saved by a goalie who was in top shape. Or was it that Rôg just couldn’t face the sun? Maybe the great blacksmith who had only stared at the fire and Balrogs couldn’t stand the sun? These are feeble excuses as one can see. Maybe he is past his prime then? Or maybe he will come back after the first match like he did in the friendlies?

Be it as it may, Rôg’s saving percentage in the game was a lousy 57%. Sure Valinor makes quality shots and all that, but depending on the reason for his bad numbers either Gondolin could be much stronger if he pulls himself together or Valinor is not that good if he is really playing badly in general. that remains to be seen.

Gondolin 1-3 Valinor
tot shots 9-16
on target 4-7
GOALS:
*41, 0-1 Arien (Nerdanel)
*63, 1-1 Turgon (Duilin)
*72, 1-2 Miriel (Este)
*79, 1-3 Arien (Olwe)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondolin- Turgon, Galdor
*Valinor- Tulkas, Este

Boromir88

06-30-2011, 09:02 PM

Group H

Match 1 - Lothlorien vs Minas Morgul
Minas Morgul fans had shown up by the tens of thousands to watch the matches in this group. In fact, had it not been for the strong number of Rohirrim locals to see Shadowfax, or the band of Gondorians to see Boromir II, Lothlorien fans would have definitely been outnumbered. The stadium was split 50/50, which would sure to make an interesting match.

To everybody's surprise Lothlorien started out as the aggressors. Well it was more like Feanor, toying with Minas Morgul. Galadriel refused to lend her star FW any support as he dashed to and fro playing keep away for several minutes. Then something awoke in Boromir II, spiritted on by Feanor's skill, he suddenly charged forward and when Feanor found him with a perfect pass, Boromir made his trademark shout "FOR GONDOR!" as he struck the ball. Earnur was stunned and Boromir rifled it past him. Then he ran over to the section of Gondorians. They pulled out their plastic replicas of Boromir's horn, and began blowing into them. The noise was a loud, constant buzzing that greatly annoyed the Minas Morgul section.

After the goal, Galadriel gave a stern glare to Feanor and Boromir, as if to say "ok, you've had your fun, now come back and defend." Thus, Lothlorien began defending their lead, and they were doing admirably. A mistake by the King of the Dead, led to a quick counter by Lothlorien. Castamir tried to play the ball to the Dead King, but somehow he missed it completely, it's as if the ball went straight through his foot. Feanor picked it up and broke forward with Boromir and Legolas. Boromir got it and tried to rifle another one past Earnur. But this one hit the top post and richoted almost straight down, however Legolas was there to ever so delicately nudge it over the line, giving Lothlorien the 2-0 lead.

Now Galadriel really believed the 2-0 lead would be sufficient and put an end to any counterattacks. While Minas Morgul was holding most of the possession, Lothlorien defenders had a pretty easy time of it, as Minas Morgul couldn't even crack the first line of defense, Feanor. Often times Feanor would steal it away, run around for a few minutes and pass it back to the defenders who also kicked it around for a while. It was a dreadfully boring end to the half.

The 2nd half was pretty much the same story as the end of the 1st. Minas Morgul couldn't keep possession passed Feanor long enough to get off shots, and Lothlorien refused to even attempt to expand their lead. Except for the occassional, solo-elf runs by Feanor where he attempted to take on the entire Minas Morgul defense or make up his own trick shot.

By the 80th minute Firienfeld had about half-emptied when Minas Morgul went into one of their classic late-game, manic periods. Last year they made a habit of being down for most of the match and storming back in the final 10 minutes. Minas Morgul came forwards in full force and it took the Lothlorien defense by surprise. They had a relatively easy day up to that point and, when all the force of Minas Morgul came in that first swift stroke, they overwhelmed the Lothlorien defenders and the Witch-King had an easy, open net, bringing the score 2-1.

However, after that first wave, Lothlorien adjusted and despite Minas Morgul sending even Herumor and Fuinur up to attack, it looked more likely Lothlorien would make it a 2-goal lead again on one of their counters. Feanor had a good chance in the 88th minute, but Earnur managed to come up with a good save. Thus the game ended 2-1, in favor of Lothlorien.

Lothlorien 2-1 Minas Morgul
tot shots 11-10
on target 7-4
GOALS:
*9, 1-0 Boromir (Feanor)
*23, 2-0 Legolas (Boromir)
*81, 2-1 Witch King (Beruthiel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Lothlorien- Haldir
*MMorgul- Castamir, Fuinur

Match 2 - Dunharrow vs Minas Tirith

After Minas Morgul's defeat in the first match, the mood in the stadium was festival and jovial. Obviously the Rohirrim would like their team to come away with 3 points in their match, but the fact that Minas Morgul was at the bottom with 0 was all too sweet.

It was a clean and fairly even and competitive match, but not one would remember as great or exciting. Judging by the play and the statistics of the teams, it would be hard to see either one advance, to be perfectly honest.

Brytta opened the scoring by heading in a corner delivered by Theodred in the 24th minute. Dunharrow pulled back to defend their lead and were able to do so successfully, in part due to some nice saves by Aldor.

Dunharrow began the 2nd ready to just defend and protect but in the 56th minute it cost them when Elfhelm cleaned up the rebound of Tarondor's shot.

As the game drew on it looked to all Minas Morgul fans Dunharrow and Minas Tirith made a secret deal at half time to end the game in a draw, so they could pick up a point and leave Minas Morgul at the bottom. However, they underestimated Dunharrow wanting to truly give their fans something to cheer about and that was a solid win, on the opening day of games, in front of their home crowd.

So in a short period where Dunharrow was actually forcing Minas Tirith to defend, and Minas Tirith looked more anxious to just hold onto the point then try to win the match, Theodred found Thengel completely unmarked and with under 4 minutes remaining in regulation gave his team the lead. Dunharrow was easily able to hold until the ref blew the final whistle.

Now there was a real reason for the Rohirrim to be excited. Their team was hosting, and they were tied with Lothlorien on top of Group H. Minas Morgul's defeat earlier in the day had become only the 'icing on the cake.'

Dunharrow 2-1 Minas Tirith
tot shots 9-12
on target 5-5
GOALS:
*24, 1-0 Brytta (Theodred)
*56, 1-1 Elfhelm (Tarondor)
*86, 2-1 Thengel (Theodred)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dunharrow- Helm, Folca
*Minas Tirith- Denethor II, Firefoot, Eowyn

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-30-2011, 10:45 PM

Standings:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-grp1st-1.png

Power Ranking:

The ArdaCup.com Stats Report Power Rank shall return with the next issue.

Phantasy Numbers:

GOALS + ASSISTS
2+1
Túrin (Doriath)

2+0
Arien (Valinor)

1+1
Fingon (Himring)
Maedhros (Himring)
Durin's Bane (Misty Mts)
Thuringwethil (Angband)
Gothmog (Anfauglith)
Curufin (Hithlum)
Elros (Westernesse)
Boromir II (Lothlórien)

0+2
Beleg (Doriath)
Théodred (Dunharrow)

GOALKEEPER - SAVES
7 saves
1. Orodreth (Tirion) 7/11 - 63.6%

6 saves
2. Elrond (Eregion) 6/6 - 100.0%
3. Fram (Anduin) 6/8 - 75.0%
4. Tuor (Mithrim) 6/10 - 60.0%

5 saves
5. Huan (Doriath) 5/6 - 83.3%
6. Eärnur (Minas Morgul) 5/7 - 71.4%
7. Old Man Willow (The Forest) 5/8 - 62.5%
8. Imlach (Hithlum) 5/9 - 55.6%

GOALKEEPER - SAVE %
100.0%
1. Elrond (Eregion) 6/6
2. Caradhras (Misty Mts) 4/4
3. Amandil (Tol Eressëa) 4/4
4. Maglor (Himring) 3/3
5. ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth) 3/3
6. Tar-Atanamir (Westernesse) 2/2
.
7. Huan (Doriath) 5/6 - 83.3%
8. Aldor (Dunharrow) 4/5 - 80.0%

YELLOW CARDS
2 yellow cards
Amrod (Himring)
NilpWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

Erratum: On Cermië the first, Year 2011 of the Seventh Age, we have erroneously published the saves of GK Butterbur of Shire-Bree Utd as 8, due to an error in our records. The entry has been duly amended and we wish to apologise for the inconvenience the erroneous data may have caused. We thank Boromir88 of Two Towers Network for spotting said error, and would wish to offer him a job in our company, if we could afford him.

Boromir88

07-02-2011, 08:00 AM

GROUP - ROUND 2 PREDICTIONS
BoroLXXXVIII Two Towers Network

After the atrocious friendly predictions I had, glad to know I'm right where I left off last year. The only team I said would win, but didn't was Minas Tirith. And I thought Himring vs Shire-Bree and Mordor vs Nargothrond would end in draws. However, I under-estimated how mismatched the hobbits were, and I over-estimated Nargothrond's ability based on previous years. I'll take 13/16 for round 1 and the predicted scores were all over the place, but those will become more accurate with time.

Group A

Shire-Bree United vs Tirion - First Himring, now Tirion, and they haven't even gotten to the favorites to win the group yet, Doriath. No fools hope left for the hobbits, they're going to get steam rolled again.
Tirion wins 4-1

Doriath vs Himring - Since Doriath will likely win this game, there's a lot riding on it for round 3. Doriath would already advance, which would leave one playoff spot open in the Himring vs. Tirion battle next round. Oooh excitment. But for the task at hand, Doriath takes care of business.
Doriath wins 3-1

Group B
The two playoff teams for this group could very easily be decided in this round, if Misty Mts and Wilderland win their matches. Which would just leave who gets 1st and 2nd in a thrilling Round 3 match between Misty Mts and Wilderland.

Anduin vs Misty Mts - Anduin's been a respectable and competive opponent, not only because of the 2-2 draw against the Misty Mts in the friendly, but they played even with Wilderland for most of the game. However, Anduin's scoring is way too reliant on how furious their star bear can get.
Misty Mts wins 2-1

Esgaroth vs Wilderland - If Smaug toasted Lake-Town can you imagined what another dragon and Sauron will do to it? Another embarassing loss for the Lake-men.
Wilderland wins 3-0

Group C

Angband vs The Downer - The Downer won't be able to intimidate or creep out Angband. Seriously, we're talking about Morgoth here, to beat Morgoth you need to be fair and crafty, not grotesque and erratic.
Angband wins 2-0

Angfauglith vs Hithlum - Another group where the two playoff teams can be determined at the end of this round, unless Hithlum has some tricks left. They were able to play even with Angband for a half, so they definitely shouldn't be overlooked.
Angfauglith wins 3-1

Group D

Eriador vs Gondor - This is a big game, and more important to Eriador who ends group play against the very strong Eregion. Still, Gondor needs points and can't lose this game or they will be eliminated. And Araphor really needs to start showing up or Eriador won't advance. Pressure on both teams, it should be a great game to watch.
Draw 2-2

Barad-Dur vs Eregion - I don't think anyone in this group has the skill or power to beat Elrond. While Earendil and Glorfindel will have no difficulty facing the baddie defenders on Barad-dur. Another comfortable win for Eregion.
Eregion wins 2-0

Group E

Nargothrond vs Tol In Gaurhoth - The werewolves are back and just as vicious as ever. Nargothrond will be a slightly tougher opponent do to better organization, and Glaurung will be hard for the wolves to control. However, do to Nargothrond's severe lack of star power, they're just another speed bump in the way for TIG to sweep the group.
TIG wins 2-1

Mordor vs The Forest - Big game for both teams. If Mordor wins they can have advancement wrapped up (assuming TIG wins too). The Forest can't lose, but at least should be a better match up than the vile werewolves.
The Forest wins 3-2

Group F

Tol Eressea vs Westernesse - Ulmo's defense is just as strong as last year, but I'm afraid it won't be strong enough to stop Westernesse. One of the other giants of tournament (even though their star power wouldn't indicate that). This group is coming down to which offense can score against the defenses? Westernesse's can, Tol Eressea's cant.
Westernesse wins 1-0

Mithrim vs Numenor - I won't add on to the abuse Mithrim is taking in the media for that 4-0 embarrassment. Fortunately Numenor is only a shadow of their Westernesse kin, and they may be able to salvage some honor with a goal. Mithrim will still lose, so not much of a victory.
Numenor wins 2-1

Group G

Gondolin vs Pelori - Well now the games of this group have a wrench thrown into it with Pelori's draw against Beleriand. It's vital Pelori wins here, they need a good points lead as they face Valinor in the final round. But, I'm not as confident about their advancement as I was before Round 1. Manwe's conservativeness may cost this team the playoffs.
Pelori wins 2-1

Beleriand vs Valinor - Nice job forging a draw against Pelori, you can see the dwarves, elves, and men have really rallied together for the dubious disappearance of the Nogrodian boats. That was good enough against Pelori, but it won't be good enough against the more talented Valinoreans.
Valinor wins 3-1

Group H

Lothlorien vs Minas Tirith - Lothlorien looked good in their victory against Minas Morgul and Minas Tirith should prove to go down just as easily. Even though there are some signs that the entire team isn't moving in the same direction. Still, if Lothlorien continues to win, the fans will continue spending money on their team, and Galadriel will likely be forced into being more tolerant of Feanor. Once something goes wrong, you can bet Galadriel will tighten her grip.
Lothlorien wins 2-0

Dunharrow vs Minas Morgul - Here's Dunharrow's chance to knock their rival out of the playoffs, so they will come out inspired on by the passionate Rohirrim. Problem is, Minas Morgul is too good to be contained by Dunharrow as they were against Lothlorien.
Minas Morgul wins 3-2

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-02-2011, 09:02 AM

So the first round's over, and the Felagundion got ten out of sixteen of his predictions correct. So this just proves that even bigoted journalism can get it right--over half the time! (TTN got, what, 13/16? That's just a +3 difference between journalistic integrity and biased sportswriting!)

Group stage round 2 predictions:

GROUP A
Tirion vs Shire-Bree United
Doriath vs Himring

The best friends Fingon and Maedhros did a number on the Hobbits, but apparently, Doriath is serious this year--as they demonstrated to Tirion. (Tough loss, but you'll meet them again in the finals. We believe! In the meantime, have fun shooting the lights out of the Halflings.)

GROUP B
Anduin vs Misty Mts
Esgaroth vs Wilderland

Might be exciting matches, considering the skill gaps. (Again)

GROUP C
Angband vs The Downer
Anfauglith vs Hithlum

Hithlum actually made 2 goals against Morgoth's fortress, so the boys of Gasping Dust better beware. Still, it's Fingolfin's game to lose.

GROUP D
Eriador vs Gondor
Barad-dûr vs Eregion

Eregion bares its offensive fangs! Other tourney favourites beware!

GROUP E
Nargothrond vs Tol-in-Gaurhoth
Mordor vs The Forest

Even if Bombadil refuses to rise to the occasion, surely the Ents will be roused up playing against the burárum.

GROUP F
Tol Eressëa vs Westernesse
Mithrim vs Númenor

All right, so Ulmo's squad got a goal against the Land of Star (dang), but does anyone in his right mind expect Tuor's team to do the same?

GROUP G
Gondolin vs Pelóri
Beleriand vs Valinor

Thank Eru Valinor's in this group. Their three-lady front line wins games--and the adoration of fanboys. (Arien is hot.)

GROUP H
Lothlorien vs Minas Tirith
Dunharrow vs Minas Morgul

Free Fëanor! Free Fëanor! Free Fëanor! (And the Rohirrim actually won a game! But the Black Tower scored a goal against the Golden Wood's defence, so they'll break the Eorling stronghold open foh sho.)

Kuruharan

07-02-2011, 01:25 PM

Kuruharan, The Underground

Moria-

The Arda Cup was rocked to its core today as it was revealed that Elrond of the Eregion side has been supplying his players with performance enhancing drugs. Unsurprisingly, the substance in question is Miruvor, which Elrond has been linked with producing in the past. Elrond himself disappeared when our reporters confronted him with these allegations and his representatives denied all knowledge of anything.

Eregion’s recent victory over Gondor is now up in the air as attorneys for the Gondor side have announced their intention to contest the result of the game.

Our reporters will be contacting the officials of the Arda Cup committee in the near future to get their reactions and the steps they intend to take to ensure a clean tournament.

Boromir88

07-03-2011, 11:01 AM

Group B

Match 3 - Anduin vs Misty Mts
The Gladden Fields Memorial Stadium was sold out yet again for both the morning and afternoon matches. It was fairly split for what team the crowd would be supporting, but Misty Mts did have a slight advantage. The orcs and baddies out of the Misty Mts had come in full force to cheer for their team and their star, Durin's Bane. They were also rowdy and raucous, as a win against Anduin would almost guarantee Misty Mts advancing, because no one believed Esgaroth could challenge Wilderland in the late match. The Black Chasm hasn't been awakened in many years, until now, until Saruman came. And thus far he has delivered on his promises, so the Orcs were confident they would crush the patchwork Anduin team.

Anduin would not be a walk-over, as it took a late goal for Wilderland to beat them, and they had drawn against the Misty Mts in the friendlies. "We weren't trying in the friendlies" jeered the orcs "and Durin's Bane still scored against your weak defenders whenever he wanted. We'll give you credit for being barely better than Esgaroth, but we'll still crush you by 2, or 3 goals. No one can beat our keeper!" Was it smart to get the Anduin team riled up with harsh trash talk? As the Anduin jogged out to the field to shake hands and get the match underway, everyone on the Anduin was stone-faced except for Beorn, he looked like he had orcs for breakfast.

However, when the game started Misty Mts were the aggressors and controlled all the action. The orcs kept singing their crude chants and taunts, it looked like they would be correct to not fear Anduin based on how the game began. Azog, Durin's Bane, Saruman, and Narvi were really pressuring and getting some decent shots. The Anduin defenders couldn't steal the ball away and Fram had to make some great saves just to keep it 0-0 in the first 20 minutes.

All the pressure was not turning into goals though and after Anduin had weathered the early assault. Durin's Bane was pressing too much, getting frustrated by not having scored yet, and he was even more angered when it was Durin who took the ball right from under his metaphorical wings. Now Anduin was building the attack and pressuring the Misty Mts defenders. In traditional Moria fashion, under good pressure they begin picking up a lot of cards.

Beorn was yet again causing havoc, and Misty Mts seemed to try to adopt the strategy of "rough up the bear." However, everyone knows if you try to play rough with a bear, you'll just get an angry bear. Beorn was immune to all the blatant attempts of the Misty Mts defenders to injure him and finally, in the 29th minute he blasted such a shot that it tore straight through the heart of the storm in the Misty Mts goal.

Anduin withdrew to defend the lead the rest of the half and were able to do so relatively easy. The Misty Mts crowd had been quieted by the goal, but at the beginning of the 2nd they got back behind their team and began the taunts and jeers all over again. There was some new founded wisdom to the Misty Mts. In previous years they would get overly-aggressive, turning over possession and collapsing defensively. However, with the presense of Saruman, they stayed smart, knowing they had a powerful strike force, that if they just kept working on the game plan eventually Anduin and Fram will break.

Break it did, and in the 71st minute, Misty Mts was level. Since sheer power did not work in the 1st period, they tried clever deception leading to the equalizing goal. Saruman had possession, while Narvi and Durin's Bane made simultaneous runs. Durin's Bane had his shadow all about him, and when Saruman passed it towards the shadow. Rumil and Orophin were both marking the Balrog, however to Anduin's surprise Azog had also been cloaked under Durin's Bane shadow. So as the 2 defenders followed the shadow, when Azog burst out of the darkness he was left unguarded for the easy score.

With under 20 minutes left, Misty Mts was the team making more of an effort to take the lead, and Anduin desperately trying to hold onto the 1 pt. However, not wanting to lose on a good counter attack, Misty Mts also made sure they were not overly aggressive, because even with a secured point, it would be extremely difficult for Anduin to overtake them in the standings based on the goal differential. So, it was Anduin who needed the win, and the 3 pts, more, but with a draw they are still not eliminated. It would just take a miracle to overtake the Misty Mts in the last round of matches.

Anduin 1-1 Misty Mts
tot shots 11-12
on target 4-6
GOALS:
*29, 1-0 Beorn (Leod)
*71, 1-1 Azog (Saruman)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Orophin, Beorn, Durin
*Misty Mts- William, DBane, Great Goblin, Chief Wolf

Match 4 - Esgaroth vs Wilderland
Esgaroth was just hoping to play better than their 1st round loss, and hopefully with better play they could still keep in the playoff hunt. It would not be to Esgaroth's benefit though that Sauron would be going all out for the win. With the draw from in the earlier match, Sauron knew they could lock up their advancement with a win, and also be in great position to win the group.

Whether it was nerves, just trying to play a little more cautiously so to not let the game get out of hand, or that Esgaroth was severely outmatched (probably more the latter reason than the former), this was another embarrassment for the Lake-Men.

While Esgaroth did begin the game defending better, once Wilderland got the first goal from Sauron in the 28th minute the nightmare for Esgaroth began, and Wilderland blazed through like a wild brush fire. There was no chance for Esgaroth to hold possession and Wilderland came in a ceaseless wave of attacks. While everyone got involved in the scoring, Sauron was the architect of it all. Sad thing is, a 4-0 thumping is bad enough, this could have been 5 or 6-0 if Wilderland's shooting was a bit more accurate.

The game was long over before Scatha thundered in the 4th goal of the game, but only then did Sauron call off the onslaught. All the Esgaroth fans had left before the end whistle and their team sauntered back into the showers. The Wilderland team stayed long after the match was over and partied with their fans who had witnessed the great victory well into the night.

Esgaroth 0-4 Wilderland
tot shots 9-18
on target 2-8
GOALS:
*28, 0-1 Sauron (Alatar)
*42, 0-2 Khamul (Bolg)
*62, 0-3 Smaug
*75, 0-4 Scatha (Sauron)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Esgaroth- Thorin, Tomnoddy
*Wilderland- Bolg, Great Warg, Scatha

~*~*~*

Group B (after Round 2)
1. Wilderland, 6 pts, (+5)
2. Misty Mts, 4 pts, (+3)
3. Anduin, 1 pts, (-1)
4. Esgaroth, 0 pts, (-7)

Round 3 Matches:
Anduin - Esgaroth
Misty Mts - Wilderland

Wilderland has already advanced (but can lose 1st place if loss to Misty Mts in round 3). Esgaroth has been eliminated. A win or draw, Misty Mts advances. A Misty Mts loss, with an Anduin win over Esgaroth, and combined goal differential of 4 Anduin will advance.

the phantom

07-04-2011, 12:25 AM

Group C

After the opening round of games most of the residents of Angband were feeling quite good indeed. They had taken Hithlum's best punch and gotten out with a win, and now they were matched up against The Downer, a team that had displayed considerable trouble with discipline and seemed more interested in having a laugh and causing property damage than competing for a spot in the playoffs.

But there were other Angband fans that weren't so keen to accept an easy win over The Downer. The Downer's blatant disregard for doing things properly and following rules had secretly won quite a few of the evil types over to their side, and they wished for them to advance as well.

And so it was that when the squads took the field many orcs cheered wildly for both, or at least they did until Morgoth glared up at the stands. But soon Morgoth's concentration was held by the ball in play, and the cheering resumed slowly. Around minute 20 a majority of the crowd was actually with The Downer, as the audience was mighty amused by the Soap Pope whacking the Angband forwards with his hat whenever the refs weren't looking.

Delighted by the reaction, the rest of the team joined in, doing any sly trick they possibly could to hinder the stars of Angband. But naturally it was bound to end in disaster- at minute 35 Philip Hampton put aside all trickery and delivered a flying kick to Tilion's backside.

The crowd roared with laughter as Tilion went down grasping his bottom, and the ref rushed over to show Philip a red card. But such a storm of boos broke out! All manner of objects began pelting the pitch and many in the front row started putting a leg over the wall to jump down to the field. The suddenly terrified ref instead gave Philip just a yellow to the crowd's delight, but Angband was still granted a nice free kick, which a recovered Tilion put on the money to Ancalagon for the lead.

Incensed at the way his forwards were being treated, Morgoth moved up onto the attack to put a stop to things. They wouldn't dare rough him around! But next thing he knew he was taken down from behind on a breakaway by John Fillis, who had tripped Morgoth through means no more clever than simply diving and grabbing his ankles.

A furious Morgoth took the free kick himself and boomed a beautiful strike to Thuringwethil, and stared down Fillis as if to say, "There! We see who came out ahead on that exchange!" But Fillis merely laughed and performed a comic reproduction of Morgoth's tumble to the turf, which greatly amused his teammates. While most of The Downer was engaged in a mocking game of charades, Ancalagon and Telvildo took it down and scored a third time just before halftime was announced.

Morgoth stared in wonder at his opponents, who hadn't even noticed the scoring strike. They were now in deep discussion as to the best way to cook a small child.

When Angband emerged for the second half, Morgoth ordered everyone to go on full time-wasting mode, no longer trying to score. The Downer made a couple nice runs at putting up a goal, but eventually lost interest and pursued other diversions. Alien in particular was in fine form, burrowing beneath the field and emerging beneath the feet of the opposition to bite their ankles. The refs looked ready to hand out cards, but Morgoth ramped up his intimidating aura and told them to keep the cards in their pockets, and encouraged his squad to join in the senseless violence.

By the time 90 minutes was up the field looked like a war zone, and everyone was bruised and bloody. The score completely forgotten, all the fans in the stadium sang in unison crude songs of plundering and burning and beating. Morgoth was smiling bigger than any time in recent memory.

In a brief press conference following the match, Morgoth had this to say: "We really needed a match like that. At first I looked down on The Downer for losing the game on the field, but then I realized halfway through that there are more important things. First and foremost they care about being nasty. I love the way they are true to themselves. I think that attitude will be good for us moving forward, as we play better when we are true to ourselves. I think this fun we had will really loosen us up for the playoffs."

Angband 3-0 The Downer
tot shots 13-13
on target 6-4
GOALS:
*35, 1-0 Ancalagon (Tilion)
*40, 2-0 Thuringwethil (Morgoth)
*44, 3-0 Ancalagon (Telvildo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Balrog #1, Morgoth, Thuringwethil
*Downer- Philip Hampton, John Fillis, Peter Hampton

The second game between Angfauglith and Hithlum was largely thought to be the battle for second place, and it would be hotly contested to be sure. Angfauglith with their star forwards and Balrog defenders were considered the favorites by the betting agencies, but no one was willing to count Hithlum completely out of it- not with Hador, Celegorm, and Curufin up front.

As the game started it was clear that it was entirely different from the previous contest. It was largely clean, with beautiful movement and quick back-and-forth action. In the early going Angfauglith definitely had the edge, as the defense and midfield was quite sharp and wouldn't let through any balls to the scorers of Hithlum. On the other end they built their attacks quite nicely and Imlach was really feeling the pressure in goal.

At 11 minutes the wait for the opening score was already over, as Gothmog and Maeglin showed some nice teamwork. Before the half-hour mark the home team lit it up again, only this time their captain and star defender Fingolfin came up in support to blast one in.

Hithlum looked shaken and out of sorts and no surprise Maeglin took advantage to get on the score sheet yet again, and Angfauglith was up by three! It was a very upset group of players that entered the Hithlum locker room, and a depressed bunch of fans that waited to see if they could turn things around in the second half.

But miracles do happen, and Hithlum stormed out of the locker room looking completely different! Surely the Sons of Feanor must have given one of their trademark fiery speeches! In the opening two minutes already Hador nodded it in to put them on the board. One goal by itself was nothing, but only three minutes later Hador struck again, this time helped out by Celegorm. It was a one goal game suddenly!

Fingolfin settled his crew down and the defense tightened nicely, but even their defense was not immune to a player like Curufin making a highlight reel solo run right down the middle, and at minute 62 it was tied!

The once silent men of Hithlum were going nuts now! And none of them were thinking to be content with a point from a draw- they knew they were going for the win.

But at last the Angfauglith defense truly got things locked down, bringing back everyone to help, and slowly Hithlum started to lose steam, tired out from their frantic pace. As the game approached its conclusion, the ball had moved to be mostly on Hithlum's own side, and with two minutes left the dream was brought crashing down as Maeglin and Gwindor made an unexpected charge forward and the Nargothrondian put the game out of reach.

Hithlum groaned and Angfauglith celebrated. The hosts would be going forward to the playoffs. Hithlum would stay home.

Angfauglith 4-3 Hithlum
tot shots 18-14
on target 9-6
GOALS:
*11, 1-0 Gothmog (Maeglin)
*25, 2-0 Fingolfin (Maeglin)
*33, 3-0 Maeglin (Azaghal)
*46, 3-1 Hador (Aradan)
*49, 3-2 Hador (Celegorm)
*62, 3-3 Curufin (Lorgan)
*88, 4-3 Gwindor (Maeglin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfauglith- Balrog #4, Rochallor, Azaghal
*Hithlum- Gundor, Baragund

GROUP C, after round 2
1. Angband- 6 pts, 7-2 (qualified, 1st place with win or tie)
2. Angfauglith- 6 pts, 7-4 (qualified, 1st place with win)
3. Hithlum- 0 pts 5-8 (eliminated)
4. The Downer- 0 pts 1-6 (eliminated)

ROUND 3 GAMES
Hithlum vs The Downer (playing for pride)
Angband vs Angfauglith (battling for 1st place)

Boromir88

07-04-2011, 07:49 AM

Group D
Group D has been rocked by doping allegations of the host team. This also effects Gondor, because if true, would Eregion have to forfeit their 2-0 victory in Round 1? That was the talk of Group D and mediat had swarmed around the lockerrooms for reactions from the clubs.

Arwen: I can't believe my father would cheat to win. I don't know how these rumors started, but they did not come from my team, no matter what you may have read elsewhere. We got beat by an Arda Class GK, there is no shame in that, and we have to concentrate winning Eriador now. This group is in our hands to take.

Aragorn: Are we playing Eregion this round? That'll be all.

The Mouth: Well I don't know much about the use of PEDs, that wouldn't surprise me much. But I do hear from good sources that Earendil is not playing well because his wife was seen wearing an Elrond jersey. Father jealousy? Everyone knows a mother will support her son more than the other man in the house.

In the mean time there is a game to be played, but everyone is waiting for the release of the next Underground to see what the Arda Cup Committee has to say about the allegations.

Match 3 - Eriador vs Gondor
The game was extremely even the full 90 minutes. They traded shots, goals, everything about the match brought it an exciting back and forth affair. Gondor would press, Arvedui would need to make a few saves, until the pressure paid off on the scoreboard. Then Eriador would press, Ecthelion II would have to make a few saves, until finally the pressure led to a goal. It was almost like a friendly, but the crowd actually did see skilled football. Eriador and Gondor were literally just that evenly matched.

So it was Gondor that started attacking first and in the 19th minute a good releasing pass by Arwen was banged in by Turambar. With the lead Gondor relaxed and Eriador was the team most often with possession in the opponents half of the field. Araphor has a long history of scoring crucial goals at the end of games, this one came with 2 minutes remaining in the 1st half. The Wight worked his way deep into Gondor's box and left it for Araphor. A finisher of Araphor's quality, there was no doubt to anyone in the stadium that one was going in. The half-time whistle blew and the teams walked off, agreeing that was a fair result.

The 2nd half was almost a mirror image of the 1st. 19 minutes in Gondor had the lead again, as Eldacar put in his 1st goal of the tournament. Gondor again relaxed and defended their lead. This time though, Eriador pressured a bit more. Araphor almost had his 2nd goal of the game but it was a brilliant hand save by Ecthelion, preserving the Gondor lead. But the rebound bounced perfectly to Aragorn, and the Gondor keeper had not recovered from saving Araphor's shot, it was 2-2., with under 15 minutes to go.

Knowing a draw would do them little good, since they would face Eregion in the last round, and either Gondor or Barad Dur could knock them out of the playoffs simply by beating the other, Eriador began looking for another goal. Though, there was something a bit frantic about their shooting in the last 10 minutes. Gondor's defense was holding well, but Eriador's shots were uncharacteristically wild, and Ecthelion II didn't even have to make a save in the last 10 minutes, since all Eriador's shots went sailing harmlessly off target.

Eriador 2-2 Gondor
tot shots 16-12
on target 6-6
GOALS:
*19, 0-1 Turambar (Arwen)
*43, 1-1 Araphor (Barrow-Wight)
*64, 1-2 Eldacar (Narmicil)
*77, 2-2 Aragorn (Araphor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eriador- Tom, Halbarad
*Gondor- Arwen, Narmacil

Match 4 - Barad Dur vs Eregion
The tension was thick before the kick off to this game, and a lot of it likely had to do with The Mouth's comments to the media before the game. Eregion fans did not take those comments kindly, so when the teams came out onto the field, the Barad-dur baddies were greeted with a host of boos (the Last Alliance crew, cordial clapping). The Mouth and his cronies were smiling, and security was looking nervous before the start.

However, as the match was going on, Gil Galad had maintained pretty good control over The Mouth and his crew. Maybe since The Mouth was in enemy land with very little support, he kept his followers fairly tame? Maybe he was just looking for some inspiration to spark a fire in his boys against Eregion? Who knows, only The Mouth knows, but like Gondor in Round 1, Barad-dur was not playing terribly against Eregion. They were able to get good pressure and create scoring opportunities. Yet again though, there was just no way Elrond was going to allow a goal this game. I don't think we've ever witness a GK this dominant in Arda before. I mean this is a whole knew level, even for Elrond!

And so as Barad-Dur was getting their opportunities, and seemingly holding most of the possession, Eregion fans were shocked (but pleasantly so) to see their team was up 2-0 at the half. It was almost like, they were so enamoured by Elrond's saves they forgot their team actually scored twice!

First goal was on a corner, in the 26th minute, that Figwit took and it found the head of Glorfindel, who was showing no fear in the face of the Nazgul and orcish defenders. The 2nd goal came when Glorfindel made a run into the box, with the ball, and the BD defenders collapsed, wanting to prevent the re-embodied Elf from shooting. But that left Elrohir, in the center, right outside the box to line-up his shot and make a good strike. Ohtar was blocked out by the crowded mess in front of him, and didn't see Elrohir shot until it was too late.

The 2nd half was pretty uneventful. Elrond shut down the offense completely, and Barad-dur tried to narrow the lead, but with each save by Elrond, the Eregion crowd cheered more wildly than the save before. 12 out of 12, no one has witnessed this before! Would anyone be able to score against Elrond!?

Barad-Dur 0-2 Eregion
tot shots 12-14
on target 6-7
GOALS:
*26, 0-1 Glorfindel (Figwit)
*43, 0-2 Elrohir (Glorfindel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Nazgul #1, Fellbeast #1, Cirdan
*Eregion- Elrohir, Valandil

Group D (after 2 Rounds)
1. Eregion, 6 pts, (+4)
2. Eriador, 2 pts, (0)
3. Barad-Dur, 1 pts, (-2)
4. Gondor, 1 pts, (-2)

Round 3 Matches
Barad Dur - Gondor
Eregion - Eriador

Eregion has not only advanced, but has locked up 1st place. Eriador wins they advance. Eriador ties, or loses, the winner of Barad-dur/Gondor will advance. Eriador loses, and Barad-dur/Gondor draw, that's a messy 3 way tie for 2nd. First tiebreaker is goal differential, then most goal scores, and if there's still a tie, SHOOTOUT!

Nogrod

07-04-2011, 02:31 PM

Group F

There were two things in the minds of the home crowds for round 2. Could Westernesse beat Tol Eressëa as confidently as they did to Tuor’s Mithrim – which in the end meant asking the question, how good Ulmo’s team actually was, could they even challenge the Dúnedain-heroes? The second one naturally concerned the chances of team Númenor to still qualify. To keep that hope alive they had to beat Mithrim, but even a confident win today wouldn’t let them off the noose which had been tied around their neck when they lost their first game against Tol Eressëa.

Especially the yellow papers speculated wildly with different scenarios. For if Westernesse won Tol Eressëa they could afford giving away just a big enough win to their brother-Númenorians on the last game as they would by then know the end result of the earlier match and thus secure two Númenorian teams to qualify. In the game day press-conference Ar Pharazôn, who was representing Westernesse because Elros was having a family-lounch, understandably denied the existence of any such plans – or that they would try to make as big numbers today as they could to make Tol Eressëa’s goal-difference worse. But he did it also in quite strong terms, saying the pride of the Númenorians would never give in fighting half-heartedly, even if against their own brothers and sisters. Some people thought that was kind of an odd remark and a little off to say the least, but no one could deny the truth of it.

~*~

The second match-day saw similar kind of festivities the first had. The families and parties had once again filled the Armenelos Stadium to the last bench for hours before the referee would blow his whistle to signal the first match started. They were having their food, wine and music under the slowly cooling afternoon sunlight enjoying each other’s company and the general carnival athmosphere – and of course behind all of it, the suspense and excitement of the games they would be witnessing today.

The crowds were not forced to stay under suspense for long though as the power-duo Elros – Ar Pharazôn made a beautiful combination-play outwitting the revered Ulmo’s defenses with some flashy passing. In the end Ar Pharazôn gave the final freeing pass to Elros from between Salmar’s legs and left face to face with Amandil on roughly at the penalty spot there was no way Elros would miss. And he didn’t. The crowds cheered wildly for the early lead when only 14 minutes had been played.

After the goal the game turned into a kind of war of attrition. Westernesse is known for it’s flexible and balanced game and with one goal ahead they naturally took their defense a tad more seriously – and as Tol Eressëa is a team that lives from defense whether in the lead or behind – the outcome was some very cool devensive play the coaches around Arda would have loved to watch hour after hour, but which in the eyes of a common football fan started getting a bit boring after a while.

But it was a solid fight. Both teams were earnestly trying to score but because of the rock solid downstairs both teams displayed most of the shots were shot from too far and from under too hard pressing by the defenders. Towards the end of the game it was getting clear though that Westernesse had more imaginative variations on their attack and well, just more quality, and they were able to slowly start asserting more pressure towards the Tol Eressëa backlines. Even the crowds woke up demanding a second goal.

And what was to come, was to come. A fair ten minutes from fulltime Tar Aldarion was forced to tackle Elros against the rules to deny him sprinting past him freely for a nice pass by Mardil. Elros thanked Mardil for the nice pass and asked him to give the ensuing free kick. While Ulmo’s defenses held Elros, Ar Pharazôn, Tar Minastir and Ar Adunakhôr tightly guarded close the goal, Mardil passed the ball sideways to on-rushing Hyermendacil who booted his heart out from 25 meters banging the ball into the back of the net leaving the unprepared Amandil no time to react. It was 2-0 and the Gondorians had scored for Westernesse, showing the homeside fans that the brothers were no pushovers but solid parts of team Westernesse. The Gondorian fans were just overwhelmed singing “Gondor, home of the brave” –hymn the rest of the match.

Tol Eressëa 0-2 Westernesse
tot shots 8-11
on target 4-4
GOALS:
*14, 0-1 Elros (Ar Pharazôn)
*78, 0-2 Hyarmendacil (Mardil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Tol Eressëa- Salmar, Ossë
*Westernesse- Tar Palantir

After Westernesse had given Mithrim a bashing on the first round many Númenorians hoped team Númenor would ignite similar kind of fireworks. But the older the first half became the weaker that hope became. Mithrim managed to force Númenor’s forwards to shoot from afar and were actually able to build up a few decent attacks themselves keeping the game pretty much even.

The second half seemed like a copy of the first at start, but then, like in the first game, it looked like the heavens deserted the Númenoreans again. It was a neat and slow build-up Mithrim gathered together moving the ball to and fro on the Númenorean half of the pitch looking for any holes in the defenses. And it took only a second’s lapse of concentration from Tar Calmacil – and the keen eye of Androg to notice it: Morwen sneaked off from her guard slipping behind him and Androg delivered the ball surgically accurate to her boot at the exact right moment giving her a chance to make a turn-around one-timer shot totally taking Silmariën unawares. And the visitors were in the lead! The stadium was silent, except the few thousand men (and some elves) from Beleriand who were shouting their throats sore from happiness and pride.

But the Númenoreans weren’t beaten yet. With the rallying call of Inziladûn’s daughter, the queen “fairer than silver or ivory or pearls” the Númenoreans started attacking stronger than before and the crowds were aroused into an ear-banging cheer and song to encourage their team. The minutes ticked away and Mithrim cling to their lead. The suspense!

Finally, when there was less than fifteen minutes to go, the stadium exploded. Tar Surion equalized with a header from a great corner by Tar Miriel.

And Númenor was not done yet! The craze of the crowd and the almost manic boldness of the great Númenorians was alight now – and even if Mithrim offered a stiff defense the waves of attacks roamed towards their goal And just four minutes before fulltime Tar Miriel hammered the ball in after a beautiful individual effort. Númenor would win! Númenor would win after all! The crowds were going nuts. The dream they had feared lost still lived on.

Mithrim 1-2 Númenor
tot shots 9-12
on target 4-5
GOALS:
*55, 1-0 Morwen (Androg)
*77, 1-1 Tar Surion (Tar Miriel)
*86, 1-2 Tar Miriel (Tar Ancalimon)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mithrim- Sador, Asgon, Aerin
*Númenor- Ar Gimilzor

Group F (after 2 rounds)
1. Westernesse, 6pts. (+6)
2. Númenor, 3pts. (+-0)
3. Tol Eressëa, 3pts. (-1)
4. Mithrim, 0pts. (-5)

Last matches:
Tol Eressëa vs. Mithrim
Númenor vs. Westernesse

Westernesse has secured the qualification and practically also the peak position in the group (unless they lose to Númenor with 6 goals or more). The second qualifier is most probably either Tol Eressëa or Númenor. Tol Eressëa looks like favourites as they meet Mithrim in their last game while Númenor has to take on the impressive team Westernesse. Unless Westernesse plays too relaxedly as they don’t have anything at stake any more – or unless those unsportsmanlike allegiations are true and Westernesse wishes to aid their brothers and sisters to qualify.

Kuruharan

07-05-2011, 07:32 AM

by: Kuruharan, The Underground

Bywater

The Underground recently obtained and interview with Boromir88, president of the Arda Cup to get his response to the doping allegations.

"The only PED legalized by the committee is 1 liter of ent-draught, and only players registered as Hobbits are approved to drink a liter of ent-draught before the tournament. Any non-Hobbit caught with ent-draught in their system will face the appropriate level of punishment.

1st offense is a fine, 2nd offense is suspension from the tournament the following year, and 3rd time offenders are permanently banned from all Arda Cup affiliated events.

Now, it is true by the Arda Cup's regulations that whole Miruvor is a performance-enhancing drug. However, any drink with under 2% miruvor content is qualified as skim miruvor and thus is an energy drink, not a PED. Each year, Elrond submits his batch of miruvor for testing, and if it 2%, or under, miruvor content than Eregion is in no violation of laws regarding PEDs.

We are awaiting the results of this years batch."

Forlong the Fat, lead attorney for the Gondor side had this response.

"When was this mysterious new rule regarding miruvor implemented? I've never heard of it before today? And why was only Eregion allowed this sweet deal and no other team had heard of it? And why was the testing not completed before the Arda Cup? At the rate we are going now the results won't be completed until months after the Cup is over.

I can assure the public, that in the interests of fair play and integrity, we will not cease our investigations until all our questions have been satisfactorily resolved.

Several members of the Barad-dur team, who just got their heads handed to them by Eregion, also weighed in on the topic.

Fellbeast #1 had this to say, "SHRIEEEEK, *snort* wheeeeeze *munch munch* SHRIEEEEK"

Shagrat echoed those sentiments. In part he said, "The fix is clearly in. Not only is the committee allowing certain teams to use PED but they are essentially refusing to look into the allegations. They have been bought."

Boromir88 allegedly tried to have both players dragged out back and shot. No word yet on whether he succeeded.

Boromir88

07-05-2011, 10:07 AM

Group H

Match 3 - Lothlorien vs Minas Tirith
Yet again, everyone seemed surprised that Lothlorien was the attacking team at the start of the game. Although, again after Minas Tirith had possession for a few minutes, Feanor stole it away and then played keep away. The Minas Tirith players were running around like headless chickens, with no idea how to steal the ball back. Realizing they would run themselves out of the game within the first 10 minutes, they really had no choice but to stay back and doggedly defend. They couldn't get the ball from Feanor, they couldn't keep it away from him for long, what else could be done?

Minas Tirith was able to hold off the goal everyone knew was sure to come until the 28th minute. That was because for the most part, it was just Feanor and Legolas up front, and while the White City defenders could not get possession, they were lordly men and a horse, they knew how to handle trouble. Also, Boromir II was actually staying back with Gimli as a defensive MF, saying he could not raise a boot against his home city. Lothlorien didn't need Boromir's offensive ability in this match however, because seeing how much fun Feanor and Legolas were having, Haldir and Nimrodel decided they wanted in the action. Once they came up for the attack, it really unbalanced the game to Lothlorien's favor. Nimrodel was able to feed the ball to Haldir, who got into point blank range, so all he had to do was taaaaap it in.

After creating that goal, Haldir and Nimrodel both seemed content to be a part of the scoring, and pulled back to defend. Legolas and Feanor also relaxed some, but like with Minas Morgul, Minas Tirith was having no success getting it passed Lothlorien's 1st wall of defense, Feanor. It's like Feanor was saying, you can hold the ball you want in your half, but once you come into my half, I'm taking it. And so when Feanor stole possession from Tarnodor the counter was on. Feanor and Legolas were able to complete 10 consecutive passes to eachother, until Feanor made it 2-0 and got his first goal of the tournament.

Up 2-0 now, Lothlorien became really defensive, since now Legolas and Feanor just seemed happy to kick it around in their own half for the remaining few minutes. Minas Tirith just wanted to get into the locker room, without being down any more so they didn't pressure and just let Lothlorien pass it around as if it were a practice.

Lothlorien seemed to just want the match over already, but Minas Tirith came out to start the 2nd half with a new spirit and fire. They were actually able to make up some pressure and get a couple shots. It was nothing that Galadriel couldn't handle, and more than anything Galadriel actually seemed to be getting annoyed that Minas Tirith hadn't folded yet. So she threw a long pass out to Feanor, some say he winked and smiled. Feanor boomed a kick downfield, and still onside, Legolas sprinted through White City defenders, and scored his 2nd goal in just as many games.

That goal looked pre-planned, as if to tell Minas Tirith, see what we can do, sure you still want to try for a goal? There was a new swagger and confidence which seemed to be contagious in the Lothlorien team. Although, you also have to admit, they haven't been tried by a serious championship contender yet.

Lothlorien 3-0 Minas Tirith
tot shots 15-7
on target 8-3
GOALS:
*28, 1-0 Haldir (Nimrodel)
*36, 2-0 Feanor (Legolas)
*73, 3-0 Legolas (Feanor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Lothlorien- Nimrodel
*MTirith- Elfhelm, Eowyn, Grimbold

Match 4 - Dunharrow vs Minas Morgul
The evening match was going to be wild and rowdy. The Rohirrim had won their first game, and had a chance now to knock out one of their old enemies if they could just beat the Minas Morgul team. Most Rohirrim were cautiously hopeful, knowing that task was easier said then done. Especially since Dunharrow fought out a hard 2-1 victory against Minas Tirith, but they just saw Minas Tirith get obliterated by Lothlorien. Still Minas Morgul, looked like a beatable foe, and anything is possible when we're talking about rivalries.

Also the Dunharrow fans wanted to win this game, knowing they had Lothlorien next while Minas Morgul would be heavily favoured to beat Minas Tirith in round 3. So, now would be their best chance to advance and knock out their enemy. Although, it would be hard to enjoy a huge home-field advantage since the Minas Morgul host had invaded the Rohirric mountain refuge, and the stadium was nearly half the crowd clothed in black and ghostly green and half in green with gold trim.

The Dunharrow crowd wanted a win, so perhaps were disappointed from the start seeing that Minas Morgul was the team attacking more, or maybe the Minas Morgul attack really was strong and just couldn't show off their strength against Lothlorien's superior athletes? Whatever the answer, Minas Morgul found themselves up 1-0 in the first 10 minutes, as Castamir line up for the free kick, the Witch-King wanted a goal immediately so they could take a firm grip on the match. So, he brought forward his entire team for the free kick, except the 2 central defender, Angamaite and Sangahyando. It was a risky play, because any failure could lead to a big Dunharrow counterattack.

The risk paid off though as Castamir chipped it into the crowded box, the Minas Morgul defenseman, Nazgul #3 rose above the rest, and got his unseen head to the ball, heading it past Aldor. Being down 0-1 in the 1st 10 minutes is not what the Rohirrim hoped for, and were dampened even more after hearing the roar of the Minas Morgul crowd, present on Firienfeld. They were taunting that at this rate, Minas Morgul would destroy the weak strawheads 4 or 5 to nil.

The Dunharrow players are proud bunch though, they would not be so easily riled by the taunts of Minas Morgul, and knew if they could just bunker down, keep this only a 1 goal defecit, the Witch-King's over eagerness would eventually be his team's undoing. So, Dunharrow dug in deep and halted the waves of Minas Morgul players trying to break through the stronghold of men in front of the goal.

And then Dunharrow got exactly what they hoped and planned for. Beruthiel lost the ball in the Dunharrow box, and within a blink of the eye, Theoden passed it to Theodred, who sent it on to Helm and the break was on. Earnur looked nervous between the posts, because Helm is known as Hammerfoot in these parts, and he has a reputation of injurying players with blasts off his foot. But, the Hammer also has a reputation for being poorly inaccurate, so when this rocket launched off well above the goal posts and into the stands, Earnur and the Minas Morgul fans breathed a sigh of relief.

Now the Witch-King wisened up a bit, and he still would push an attack to increase their lead, but would keep back more than just his 2 central defenders, to prevent Dunharrow from having such an easy break. With the 1st half winding down, Dunharrow's defense would falter again. Last game King Dead had a poor touch that led to a turnover and costly goal, but this time there would be no mistaking it. The King of the Dead made great contact, after receiving a pass from Herumor and made the score line 2-0. The ghouls from the Dwimorberg joined in the celebration with the Minas Morgul orcs, and Umbarian pirates.

When the half ended, Dunharrow knew they were in trouble. They needed several goals to come back, and goal scoring is not their strength. At the same time they needed some way to keep Minas Morgul from scoring, before the game got really out of hand. So, Dunharrow actually began the 2nd more aggressive than usual and 15 minutes into the 2nd, Brytta got his 2nd goal in his 2nd game. It was suddenly a game again.

Now Dunharrow could return to their usual style, playing rock-solid defense and finding a chance to counter against the hyper-aggressive Minas Morgul. However, the Witch-King also made an adjustment. He knew with Dunharrow having Lothlorien in the last round, all the pressure was on Dunharrow to win this match. So, while he did desire to have a little breathing room and expand the lead, he wasn't going to let Dunharrow get an easy goal from a counter.

He saw that since Dunharrow was hoping to counter attack, there would always be enough Minas Morgul players back to make it hard. Thus, unlike the 1st half, Minas Morgul had totally shut down Dunharrow's ability to counter. And it looked like still Minas Morgul would make it a 2 goal game, instead of Dunharrow equalizing. Aldor tried to re-adjust, his team's strategy, but it was too little, too late, and too rushed and frantic. Minas Morgul had won this rivalry and now Dunharrow would be hard pressed to have to beat Lothlorien, while Minas Morgul had the cellar-dwellers Minas Tirith.

Dunharrow 1-2 Minas Morgul
tot shots 12-14
on target 4-8
GOALS:
*9, 0-1 Nazgul #3 (Castamir)
*36, 0-2 King Dead (Herumor)
*61, 1-2 Brytta (Walda)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dunharrow- Thengel, Brego
*MMorgul- Herumor, Castamir, Angamaite

Group H (after 2 rounds)
1. Lothlorien, 6 pts, (+4)
2. Minas Morgul, 3 pts, (0)
3. Dunharrow, 3 pts, (0)
4. Minas Tirith, 0 pts, (-4)

Round 3 Matches:
Minas Morgul - Minas Tirith
Dunharrow - Lothlorien

Lothlorien's advanced, and with a win or draw against Dunharrow will win the group. Minas Morgul wins they advance. Dunharrows wins, and Minas Morgul loses or draws, Dunharrow advances. Minas Tirith is still not eliminated, even if they need a lot of help. MT must beat MM by at least 2 goals, and Dunharrow has to lose to Lothlorien by at least 2 goals.

Nogrod

07-05-2011, 11:39 AM

Group G

Alqualondë Herald, 5.7.2011

*breaking news* *exclusive*

Disaster at the high seas!

Remnants of three ships from Falas were detected about hundred nautical miles North-East from Tol Eressëa yesterday afternoon. Only a few hours later the Medi-Eagles’ squad of first-rescue had pulled a host of elven shipsmen to safety alongside three dwarves from Nogrod.

The teleri sea-elves from Falas are all safe and sound and have been released from the emergency department of Alqualondë central hospital and been given tickets to this evening’s matches from the loges of the V.I.P.’s for their bravery. Repeat: all elves taking part in the sea-crossing from Falas carrying dwarves from Nogrod have been accounted for and no one is missing as everyone is safe and sound.

Here are the names of those brave elves who survived the catastrophy at the seas in alphabetical order: Calenar the minstrel, Doralda, Eäloth, Galathilion 3rd, Galedhon, Luinen, Neldorloth, Nimgaer, Pelros the Mariner, Sîrtal, Talathril the dryfooted and Uialwen. Our deep thankfulness and gratitude belongs to the Great Powers of Valar and the Great Eagles.

The three dwarves are still treated at the intensive care unit and cannot be interviewed or seen by the media.

The news first released by the Alqualondë Herald spread fast all over Arda. The Dwarven newspapers were understandably upset not only with the content but also with the style of the news-release. The Nogrod Post went as far as to accuse Ulmo being behind this and being answerable for the lives of a host of many good dwarves. The Dwarven Daily called for Aulë to help them against the treacherous plans of “some untowards entities” and to bring forth justice.

The Himring Guardian took no stance on anyone’s guilt, but still criticized the overall organization of the Arda Cup: “If Arda Cup means there will be a lot of travel by the sea by teams and fans alike, it is not wise that Ulmo and all his entourage concentrate on the games themselves as players and fans – some security over the seas should be provided to all footballing community making these games possible. If Ulmo insists in playing himself, couldn’t he release Uinen, Ossë or Salmar at least to keep the seaways safe?”

Even if many thought The Himring Guardian’s concern legitimate, some sharper persons pointed out that Anfaughlith and Tol Eressëa might meet in the play-offs and that was just psychological warfare, the cynics said they were deliberately trying to force a decision on the issue and thus weaken Tol Eressëa in case Anfaughlith would meet them.

But even if most papers weren’t as enraged as the Dwarven magazines or as purposeful as The Himring Guardian, there was a steady stream of uneasiness pouring from the editorials from the newshouses all around Arda, but the Valinorian media. The last year had not been forgotten and the ways Valar handled things looked ever more suspicious. But only a few said that out aloud.

At Valmar press-conference the feelings were understandably tense. Marach was demanding a full investigation on the matter and Turgon was actually backing the demand. Manwë did his best to affirm the truth would be learned and that there was no foul play involved. Tulkas stayed more or less in the background for the whole press-conference, but some journalists reported seeing him grinning following his brother taking on all the pressure. Some even told they thought him muttering to himself “you reap what you sow” while shaking his head, smiling.

~*~

The game between Pelori and Gondolin was quite uneventful, Pelori playing the uneventful but effective game they played. Varda shot them to lead at half an hour’s point and Namo made 2-0 just before the half-time. The early game had been careful and conservative defending from the Pelori-team but on second they just held the ball to themselves frustrating Gondolians to no end. Duilin managed to sweeten the numbers twenty minutes before the end of the game but after the goal Pelori tightened their already tight defenses even more shutting Gondolin out of any opportunity to equalize.

Some immediate blogger-reactions from Gondolin were quite telling. “Gondolindrim sacrificed again!” yelled the tweeter “The Rôgger”.

Just after the game a more known bitter columnist “Maeglin’s Ex-girlfriend” wrote in her blog thusly: “The whole Arda Cup is a big ego-boosting for the self-sufficient Valar who keep their feet out of the Middle-Earth fearing they might get dirty with life! Gondolin’s natural group would have in it teams like Nargothrond, Himring, Hithlum, Beleriand – maybe Doriath. And as one can easily see, the chances for Gondolin would have been totally different. On what grounds does Gondolin play in a group with Pelori and Valinor? Why have Gondolin and Mithrim been chosen as the sacrificial lambs on the throne of Valar?

Now we all remember the scandal from the last year and to avoid it the AFA authorities were cautious enough to not let any baddies play in a group where the Valar played – and they had to give them a group in the “Blessed Realm” – should I say the “unsporty realm”? So some goodie teams had to be sacrified to the altar of Valar where teams play by their rules and make sure their teams qualify… But why not the pathetic hobbits, the odd Bombadillo and the freaky ents, why not the sissies of Dunharrow, why not the sad copiers from Minas Tirith?

And why do they have this policy in the first place? Are they afraid of meeting Angband, “the team” we faced in real life millenia ago? We lost, to be sure, but we fought it bravely unlike these modern-day Valar.”

Some more even-headed commentators made some sharp questions though, like where is Rôg’s performance, how can last year’s silver-medalists underperform that badly (the Vinyamar players)? Even if team Gondolin didn’t actually lose that much in numbers had they lost their soul?

Gondolin 1-2 Pelori
tot shots 9-14
on target 3-6
GOALS:
*27, 0-1 Varda (Eonwe)
*40, 0-2 Namo (Ilmare)
*70, 1-2 Duilin (Idril)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondolin- Galdor, Salgant
*Pelori- Nahar

After the breaking news it was rumoured that Beleriand would refuse to play entirely. And even if Marach had pledged in the press-conference that they would play for their honour – especially for the honor of the Nogrodian dwarves – the whispering went on that at least Telchar and Gamil Zirak had already packed and left Valmar to Aqualondë intending to force their way into the hospital if need be. But at time of the game both teams ran to the pitch from their lockers in full strength. Beleriand-players were still wearing the black ribbons in their arms and they looked very much focused and determined.

The game kicked off with some real intensity. Valinor was willing to control the ball as was their tactics but even if Beleriand clinged to their defense-first –philosophy, they were doing it quite aggressively cutting passes and passing-lines all over the field creating a few dangerous-looking counter-attacks already on the first twenty minutes.

The first goal of the game actually started from a neat counter-attack by Beleriand. Getting the ball up to the front Beleriand started to bring forth more power when Vairë stole the ball from Belegund and sent it straight up to the midfield from where Nessa immediately delivered it forwards to Yavanna who had realized her chance while the lowest Beleriand defenders were busy tying the trio Nerdanel, Miriel and Arien down. Appearing out from nowhere to the Beleriand defenders Yavanna spurted after the ball and scored confidently from close range the defenders trailing her by meters.

But Beleriand was not going to give in an inch. They kept pressing the Valinor possession-play and had their fair share of decent opportunities to score. And finally they did score. It was a classic counter-attack stuff. Marach cut a pass in the midfield, sent it to Aegnor who in turn sent it to Angrod who was already in full speed. Running towards the goal Angrod and Aegnor were drawing most of the defenders to them, when Angrod finally sent the ball diagonally backwards reaching Marach who got a chance to hit the ball straight from the pass. A great shot from a great pass, and the game was even!

Sadly for the Beleriand supporters Valinor retaliated in just five minutes. Nerdanel and Miriel were showing once again why they are the hottest ladies the sport has to offer – with Arien, of course. This time Miriel freed Nerdanel to score with a flashing heel-kick. And so Valinor was back in the lead again.

Beleriand came with renewed effort to the second half but the high-intensity game they were playing started to take it’s toll on them and it seemed they were getting fewer and fewer cuts to Valinor’s passing-machine. And when the all-female forwards-trio totally outwitted the bit slow Beleriand defense at 62nd minute, the game was practically over. Nerdanel brought the ball into the edge of the “danger-zone” (the box) and gave a genius blind-pass backwards to Miriel who gave the decisive pass again, chipping the ball in between two defenders to the center from where Arien scored with a nice half-volley straight from the pass before the defenders were able to even imagine reaching her.

Valinor continues their strong game. But Beleriand has played bravely and shown that inter-racial co-operation is not just for hippies and their peace & love mission, but must be taken seriously in sports as well.

Beleriand 1-3 Valinor
tot shots 11-15
on target 4-8
GOALS:
*19, 0-1 Yavanna (Nessa)
*33, 1-1 Marach (Angrod)
*38, 1-2 Nerdanel (Miriel)
*62, 1-3 Arien (Miriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Beleriand- Aegnor, Telchar, Bregor
*Valinor- Nessa

Group G (after 2 rounds)
1. Valinor, 6pts. (+4)
2. Pelori, 4pts. (+1)
3. Beleriand, 1pts. (-2)
4. Gondolin 0pts. (-3)

Last games:
Beleriand vs. Gondolin
Valinor vs. Pelori

Valinor is through to the play-offs. If Beleriand wins Gondolin they can reach the same points Pelori will have if they lose to Valinor. It looks unlikely Tulkas would give his brother the aid to let them draw to secure Manwë’s qualification as he has put up his own team just to show his brother, but looking at the general feeling around any group-play done in Valinor there seem to be some doubts as well. On the other hand: if the Gondolin players are as upset on the game day as their fans in blogosphere were right after the match today it is thinkable they would lose to Beleriand like 10-0 betting their fortunes with Valinor beating Pelori and thus making Beleriand to qualify just to show Manwë…

the phantom

07-05-2011, 01:58 PM

Group E

After the first round of games the fans of Nargothrond were quite worried. Their players had allowed the crowd to get to them in their contest against Mordor, and the promising looking home side had been blasted by the wolves of Tol In Gaurhoth- their next opponent.

Nargothrond News columnist Gilnor had this to say: "Unless Finduilas can force her team to block out the antics of the crowd then things are going to go badly, as Tol In Gaurhoth's fanbase is more active and devious than Mordor's. But much more difficult will be blocking out the antics of the team on the field. Tol In Gaurhoth has a habit of getting inside the heads of their opponents, through means legal and otherwise. The Nargothrondians have got to block it out and hope that Tol In Gaurhoth will resort to taking cards."

And it looked like that would be a good strategy indeed, as Arda Cup Officials announced in no uncertain terms that they would be on the lookout for underhanded behavior from the Werewolves in this game. When Tol In Gaurhoth heard this proclamation they were outraged. "It's one thing to call a tight game," said NogWolf, "But to single out a side and threaten them like that is really out of bounds! And when one combines that with the fact that the games have been shifted several hours earlier so as to hinder the performances of nocturnal creatures, well... this host committee should never win another bid, that's for certain."

But NogWolf needn't have worried about the game, as Tol In Gaurhoth took only two cards, the same as Nargothrond. PhantomWolf in fact received no cards at all despite the fact that he was being watched like a hawk. He spent most of the game following the refs around, refusing to insert himself in play and making it impossible to call anything on him. And in the meantime Tol In Gaurhoth really didn't need his help to dominate, as everyone was grim and determined to show that they could win fair and square.

Nargothrond held firm for half an hour, but the speed of the Werewolves finally got to them as SallyWolf found GwathWolf on a breakaway and he scored easily. Some Nargothrond fans were hopeful at the half, knowing they were only down by one goal, but the more observant fans knew they were being outplayed and that it would only be a matter of time. And indeed less than ten minutes in GaladWolf caught the Nargothrond keeper off guard with a pinpoint boot from long range that sailed just over his hand as he tried to back up in time to stop it.

Conventional wisdom at that point would've been to withdraw and play some defense, but NogWolf was worried that the refs were itching to hand out cards, so he called for full-fledged possession game. The Werewolves did a fine job at it, and even gained themselves a couple more opportunities while doing so, though Barahir turned them away. But the third time was the charm as NogWolf received it deep, faked the shot, then ran in drawing the defense and freeing NerWolf for an easy header, and it was 3-0.

Judging that 3-0 was too large a deficit for Nargothrond to overcome with such little time left, even with the refs helping them, NogWolf went ahead and ordered a retreat, and Tol In Gaurhoth settled down to defend. Nargothrond tried their best to run some offense through the towering Glaurung, but they could only manage a couple of long-range efforts that simply weren't powerful enough to challenge ShastaWolf.

As the final whistle sounded, the Wights and Werewolves in the stands began celebrating. Two shutouts to start things off- they were almost certainly through to the playoffs.

Nargothrond 0-3 Tol In Gaurhoth
tot shots 9-17
on target 3-8
GOALS:
*32, 0-1 GwathWolf (SallyWolf)
*54, 0-2 GaladWolf (InzilWolf)
*67, 0-3 NerWolf (NogWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Nargothrond- Guilen, Glaurung
*TIG- GaladWolf, SkipWolf

The stadium was filled with hobbits and huorns as The Forest prepared to kick off against Mordor. Bombadil and friends needed this win, as a Mordor victory would end all hopes of advancing.

Despite the awful showing in the first round, fans remained hopeful, believing that Tol In Gaurhoth was simply a bad matchup for them. And this belief looked quite correct as only six minutes in Bombadil shredded the orcs for the early lead!

Not at all content with their slim lead, The Forest pushed for more, and Mordor was really on their heels. At minute 20 Gorbag committed a foolish foul and The Forest was awarded a free kick. It looked quite certain that they would go up by two, but Bombadil's drive bounced off an invisible barrier right before it went through- The Silent Watcher had saved it!

The Forest howled in protest, as it seemed entirely unfair that a goal could be denied when the keeper was sitting motionless in the center of the goal, but the refs told them that was simply the way of things. It took them a while to get their concentration back, and Mordor took advantage of this by equalizing off a corner, and that's the way it would stay through the half.

At the start of the second period Mordor looked the most dangerous, owning the ball and putting pressure on Old Man Willow, but how quickly things can change. Thanks to a quick counter The Forest went ahead yet again, as this time Bombadil summoned greater will and energy into his shot and broke through The Silent Watcher's defenses.

The Nazgul did their best after that to distract Tom, knowing that their Silent Watcher could turn away any half-hearted attempt, but Tom was having none of it. At minute 73 he took on the middle of Mordor's defense all by himself and sent it last minute to the sneaky River-Woman who deflected it in before Silent Watcher could shift his attentions, and the Huorns and Hobbits went absolutely nuts.

For the final fifteen Bombadil pulled his troops back to defend against Mordor's desperate attack. With only five minutes left the Nazgul made things interesting by closing the gap to a single goal, but that was as close as they could get.

The host was still alive!

Mordor 2-3 The Forest
tot shots 13-14
on target 5-7
GOALS:
*6, 0-1 Bombadil (Thranduil)
*25, 1-1 Shelob (Grishnakh)
*61, 1-2 Bombadil (Saeros)
*73, 1-3 River-Woman (Bombadil)
*85, 2-3 Nazgul #7 (Nazgul #5)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mordor- Gorbag, Nazgul #6, Nazgul #4
*Forest- Skinbark, Fimbrethil, Treebeard

Group E, after round 2
1. Tol In Gaurhoth- 6 pts, 6-0
2. Mordor- 3 pts, 4-4
3. The Forest- 3 pts, 3-5
4. Nargothrond- 0 pts, 1-5

ROUND 3 GAMES
Mordor vs Tol In Gaurhoth
Nargothrond vs The Forest

With 6 pts and a +6 goal differential Tol In Gaurhoth is almost certainly in. They would have to lose very badly to Mordor and The Forest would have to completely slaughter Nargothrond to leave TIG out. In order to qualify, Nargothrond would have to win by two goals over The Forest, and Mordor would need to lose to TIG by three. If The Forest loses then Mordor is in with a draw or better, and the same works in reverse. If they both win then The Forest would have to have a differential at least two goals better than Mordor. This is a very convoluted group.

Boromir88

07-05-2011, 03:51 PM

Group A

Match 3 - Tirion vs Shire-Bree United
Everyone knew the Hobbits would be made into 2nd breakfast by the Tirion faithful. The hobbits were far away from their homes, had very little crowd support, did not look at all like the great athletes on the other teams in Group A, and were completely shut out by Himring in round 1. This would be easy.

The hobbits and Breelanders were anxious to prove that just because they didn't appear as fit and as athletic as the other teams that does not mean they weren't a proud footballing nation too. So, the hobbits came out in a whirlwind, controlling the action, darting through and around the Tirion defenders. They were shooting from every possible angle, and whenever they had the spacing to do it. And while most of their shots were going off target, Orodreth was really sweating between the posts.

Finally the hobbits work ethic paid off, as Bandobras was able to direct a shot on target. Orodreth was there on the save, but couldn't hold on and Samwise reached the rebound before Elemmire to give Shire a shock 1-0 lead.

But Tirion were cool professionals, if this was the game the hobbits wanted to play, they would only be playing to Tirion's strengths, their skill players up front. The hobbits showed their worth, but now it was time for Finwe, Aredhel, Finrod, and Mahtan to show how deadly they were.

After some testing of the Shire-Bree defense and Butterbur, 13 minutes after the hobbits goal Tirion was equal. Finarfin threaded a crisp pass to his father, who easily rounded Butterbur and scored. Then 11 minutes later, the always calm and collected Finrod saw Mahtan open and the great Noldor smith lined up a real power strike to give Tirion the lead. That was the manner of Tirion, they can beat you with skilled precision or raw power and everything was right again in the footballing world.

After the crowd saw 3 goals in the first 30 minutes, the game calmed down in the final minutes of the half, as the attacks became more tired and less frequent.

Shire-Bree began the 2nd much like the 1st half as the hobbits were darting all around the Tirion defenders again. Only this time, having seen the hobbitish tricks already, Aule was more easily able to handle their attacks. After a couple of their shots went off target, Tirion regained possession and went to work for more goals. Finrod got on the scoresheet again, only this time with a well-struck goal, giving Tirion a 2-goal lead early in the 2nd.

And there was even time for a 4th goal as the Tirion defenders decided to get involved in the scoring. Aule launched one of his trademark passes deep into Shire-Bree's half of the field, to the dark Caranthir who out-hustled the two ponies. Butterbur tried to come out to pick the ball on its bounce, but was too slow and clumsy for Caranthir who controlled it expertly with a nice chip over the Breelander keeper.

Tirion let the Shire try to their own luck attacking again, but Tirion's defense was now well aware of the hobbits directionless offensive strategy and did not allow them any more quality scoring chances. So, after a bad 4-1 defeat to Doriath, Tirion was able to bounce back with a 4-1 victory of their own and hoped that Doriath would play to expectations to beat Himring in the next match, and that way Tirion's fate would be in their own hands in the final round. The hobbits were eliminated, but did have an improved performance to look at; they had scored on one of the greatest Vala and his Noldorin defenders. And had even been leading the match for 20 minutes, surely that counts for something!?

Tirion 4-1 Shire-Bree United
tot shots 15-16
on target 8-5
GOALS:
*7, 0-1 Samwise (Bandobras)
*20, 1-1 Finwe (Finarfin)
*31, 2-1 Mahtan (Finrod)
*53, 3-1 Finrod (Aredhel)
*70, 4-1 Caranthir (Aule)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Tirion- Elemmakil, Enerdhil
*SBUnited- Samwise, Lumpkin, Pippin

Match 4 - Doriath vs Himring
The ever cold arena was not sure what to expect from their team in this game. Doriath was surely one of the best teams of the tournament and would be a championship contender. But there own team were just coming off a strong 3-0 win, even if it was against a team no one thought too highly about.

The first half was a very even affair, but it was slow and uneventful. The teams seemed to want to play a testing phase, sizing eachother up, checking for weaknesses and playing carefully.

During intermission the Himring fans were murmuring "this was the great Doriath? This was the team everyone seemed afraid of? Ha! The sons of Feanor could conquer Thingol's wooded realm. Although neutrals wondered how excited Himring should be, it was 0-0 and Himring showed very little promise to be able to score against Doriath. While everyone knows of Doriath's striking ability, and were wondering just when the Easterlings would bail on their Elven teammates again.

It turned out the neutrals were correct as early in the 2nd, Uldor had a vicious sliding tackle on Turin. Turin escaped without injury, but was probably about to receive a yellow himself (Uldor was handed a yellow for the tackle), with his rash temper. Turin had felt Uldor should have been handed a straight red, because it was a goal scoring opportunity and Uldor was looking to intentionally foul, but his trusty friend, Beleg restrained him before the ref carded Turin for protesting. Eol was set to take the free kick, and in what one could only call "football justice," Eol chipped it to Turin, who muscled through Uldor, to give Doriath the 1-0 lead.

Doriath was now turning to their quality possession game, working the ball around Himring's penalty box, trying to find open scoring lanes. The Easterlings made another costly mistake, this time Ulwarth and Uldor mixed up their assignment, and Hurin was left free. It was an easy pass once Turin saw him and Hurin made it 2-0 Doriath. That was Doriath's 6th goal of the tournament, and in 5 of them Turin had a part to play, 3 goals, 2 assists. Absolutely remarkable!

Maedhros and Fingon tried to make a game of things, but they were not strong enough to beat Doriath's defense, which is known as the Girdle of Melian. And with 9 minutes to go, Beleg found Luthien, and Maglor could only get his fingertips to the shot, unable to deflect it off its course, the ball snuck into the left-side post. After a sluggish 1st half, Doriath finished off Himring in what could only be called a dominating performance. Doriath were serious contenders this year!

Doriath 3-0 Himring
tot shots 15-11
on target 8-4
GOALS:
*56, 1-0 Turin (Eol)
*69, 2-0 Hurin (Turin)
*81, 3-0 Luthien (Beleg)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Carcharoth
*Himring- Ulwarth, Uldor

Group A (after 2 rounds)
1. Doriath, 6 pts, (+6)
2. Tirion, 3 pts, (0), 5-5
3. Himring, 3 pts, (0), 3-3
4. Shire-Bree, 0 pts, (-6)

Round 3 matches:
Doriath - Shire Bree United
Himring - Tirion

Doriath's qualified and for all purposes we'll just say they've won the group. They'll need to lose big to The Shire, and Himring/Tirion would need to win big in their match to knock Doriath out of first. Shire-Bree has been eliminated. Winner of Himring/Tirion will advance. If ended in a draw, Tirion goes through based on having scored more goals.

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-05-2011, 10:02 PM

Standings:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-grp2nd-5.png

(1) secured first seed
(2) secured second seed
(q) qualified for the knockout stage; seeding undetermined
(x) eliminated

Power Ranking:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-grp2nd-pr.png

Greatest gain:
+16 Himring
+15 Minas Morgul
+14 Dunharrow
+12 Lothlórien
Greatest loss:
-14 The Downer
-13 Beleriand
-11 Gondor
-9 Gondolin

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking--the lower the aggregate, the higher the rank. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss-record; b) goal differential; and c) goals scored.

The offensive ranking is based on the goals scored by the teams throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) greater number of shots made on target; b) greater number of shots made; and c) lowest aggregate of defensive ranking of the other three teams in the group.

The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed by the teams throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) least number of shots allowed on target; b) least amount of shots allowed; and c) lowest aggregate of offensive ranking of the other three teams in the group.

Phantasy Numbers:

GOALS + ASSISTS
3+2
Túrin (Doriath)

3+0
Ancalagon (Angband)
Hador (Hithlum)
Arien (Valinor)

2+3
Maeglin (Anfauglith)

2+1
Thuringwethil (Angband)
Gothmog (Anfauglith)
Curufin (Hithlum)
Glorfindel (Eregion)
Elros (Westernesse)
Legolas (Lothlórien)
Bombadil (The Forest)

2+0
Azog (Misty Mts)
Smaug (Wilderland)
Scatha (Wliderland)
Aragorn (Eriador)
Brytta (Dunharrow)
NerWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Húrin (Doriath)

1+2
Sauron (Wilderland)
Fëanor (Lothlórien)
Míriel (Valinor)

0+3
Beleg (Doriath)

GOALKEEPER - SAVES
12 saves
1. Elrond (Eregion) 12/12 - 100.0%

11 saves
2. Fram (Anduin) 11/14 - 78.6%
3. Orodreth (Tirion) 11/16 - 68.8%

10 saves
4. Aldor (Dunharrow) 10/13 - 76.9%
5. Imlach (Hithlum) 10/18 - 55.6%

9 saves
6. Huan (Doriath) 9/10 - 90.0%
7. Ohtar (Barad-dûr) 9/13 - 69.2%
8. Tuor (Mithrim) 9/15 - 60.0%

GOALKEEPER - SAVE %
100.0%
1. Elrond (Eregion) - 12/12
2. ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth) - 6/6
3. Tar-Atanamir (Westernesse) - 6/6
.
4. Huan (Doriath) 9/10 - 90/0%
5. Caradhras (Misty Mts) 7/8 - 87.5%
6. Galadriel (Lothlórien) 6/7 - 85.7%
7. Grimbeorn (Wilderland) 5/6 - 83.3%
8. Ungoliant (Angband) 8/10 - 80.0%

YELLOW CARDS
2 yellow cards
Amrod (Himring)
NilpWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Orophin (Anduin)
Durin (Anduin)
Thorin (Esgaroth)
Great Goblin (Misty Mts)
Scatha (Wilderland)
Balrog #4 (Anfauglith)
Azaghâl (Anfauglith)
Nazgûl #1 (Barad-dûr)
Elrohir (Eregion)
Tom (Eriador)
Skinbark (The Forest)
GaladWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Telchar (Beleriand)
Galdor (Gondolin)
Castamir (Minas Morgul)
Éowyn (Minas Tirith)

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-06-2011, 03:45 PM

Group A
Match of interest: Himring vs Tirion
The fight for second place of this group. Both have a goal difference of zero, but if they tie, Tirion goes through with more goals scored. Tirion is better offensively (9th compared to Himring's 16th) but Himring is better defensively (14th vs 27th for Tirion). Himring is ranked higher over-all in the ArdaCup.com Power Ranking (13th vs 18th for Tirion). Aredhel (Tirion) have been in all three Arda Cup finals games, winning two of them, but Fingon and Maedhros (Himring) have been finalists twice already, with Maedhros winning once.

Phantasy match: Doriath vs Shire-Bree United
Shire-Bree United will most likely get shut out, and Doriath might do target practice in SBU's side of the pitch. And since Doriath's already qualified (and poised to face Minas Morgul in the Round of 16), it's a good investment to have Doriath players in your team.

Group B
Match of interest: Wilderland vs Misty Mts
Misty Mts might still end up missing the next round, their impressive performance to date notwithstanding. Both are fairly strong defensive teams (Wilderland's 4th, Misty Mts 6th), but Wilderland has a stronger attack (4th vs 13th for Misty Mts).

Phantasy match: Anduin vs Esgaroth
Esgaroth has one of the weakest defences in the whole tourney, and Anduin has already scored a goal against the resilient Misty Mts defence. Anduin might not make it to the knock-out stage--and even if they do, don't expect them to go far, especially since they'd be up against one of the Blessed Realm teams. Still, if you have a star to spare, Beorn (Anduin) just might light up the score chart.

Group C
Match of interest: Angband vs Anfauglith
Two strong offensive teams (Anfauglith's 2nd, Angband 3rd) vying for the top spot of the group (and avoiding a date with cup contender Westernesse for the next round). Maeglin (Anfauglith) and Ancalagon (Angband) are beasts on the attack, and Thuringwethil (Angband) and Gothmog (Anfauglith) are not far behind them. Almost half of Anfauglith's team were from last year's championship team, and Fingolfin has been in all Arda Cup finals matches.

Phantasy match:
For more secure slots, get any of the scorers from Angband/Anfauglith. In the other match, The Downer's porous defences means Hithlum's potent attack (ranked 10th) is likely to do big damage, but since they've already been eliminated, you'll have to replace them once the next round comes.

Group D
Match of interest: Barad-dûr vs Gondor
This could very well be the battle for 2nd place in this group. Both teams are almost evenly matched (Gondor is ranked just one notch higher in offence, defence, and over-all), so a draw is likely, which means Eriador still has a shot at 2nd, provided Eregion doesn't run them over, and if Barad-dûr and Gondor don't make a lot of goals against each other.

Phantasy match:
There's some risk in grabbing Eregion's defensive line-up for this round, since Eriador will do its best not to be shut out. However, Elrond (Eregion) is still a wall; and since they'll most likely meet The Forest in the next round), Eregion picks are safe picks for at least two more rounds.

Group E
Match of interest: The Forest vs Nargothrond
This is The Forest's chance to make it to the next round, and there's hardly any better chance to be offered to them: Nargothrond is dismal in the pitch (1 goal made, 5 goals allowed even in this weak group). But The Forest's defence is not up to snuff, so a rampaging Glaurung (Nargothrond) may still make a contest out of this.

Phantasy match: Tol-in-Gaurhoth vs Mordor
A TiG shut-out of Mordor is likely, and TiG goals more so. Tol-in-Gaurhoth will face the 2nd of Group D (Gondor, Barad-dûr, or Eriador) in the next round. They're unlikely to lose to any of them, so TiG players in your phantasy line-up are a safe long-term investment.

Group F
Match of interest/Phantasy match:
Allegations of possible match-fixing notwithstanding, we'll almost certainly see Westernesse and Tol Eressëa winning their matches and walking out of this group. Both teams would most probably hold their opponents to zero goals, and Westernesse shooters would not be denied. More Westernesse, less Tol Eressëa, though, since Westernesse is more likely to go further into the tourney, despite their impending match-up against the 2nd of C (Angband or Anfauglith).

Group G
Match of interest/Phantasy match: Pelóri vs Valinor
The battle for this group's 1st seed (and not having to meet Wilderland in the next round), this match will be one to watch. Valinor's sizzling attack is not likely to be shut out by even the Mountains of Defence. Pelóri is more likely to be shut out, but probably not. Pelóri still might not make it to the next round, so this is a crucial match for them--win, or at least don't get slaughtered (and hope Beleriand doesn't decimate Gondolin).

Group H
Match of interest/Phantasy match:
Lothlórien would not let Dunharrow score. Minas Morgul will take a lot of shots, and the anemic Minas Tirith defences would be unlikely to hold them back. Minas Morgul might even shut the Tower of Guard out.

Nogrod

07-06-2011, 05:25 PM

The final round of group play is approaching! Here are the latest takes on the last games by the AKM

Group A

Doriath vs Shire-Bree United

Doriath is on fire this year and Shire-Bree Utd. has no chance to qualify. There is no question which team will win, but there is a question though if Doriath will play too relaxedly to just save energies for the play-offs – for even if they lose they will qualify, and it would take a real bashing for them to be dropped on the second place of this group.

Shire-Bree has only their honour to sell here, but there’s little to sell this time around: with a goal-scoring percentage of 3,7% they are the second worst this time around. And having Butterbur saving 53,3% of the shots it’s hard to see a surprise here, even if Doriath played loosely.

Himring vs Tirion

The real killer match! Other one will qualify, the other will be left into the group-stage. And there is a clear difference between the teams: Tirion has a more effective attack while Himring’s defenses are a bit stronger.

The AKM goes for Tirion to win the game. The forwards and attacking midfielders of Tirion like Finwë, Aredhel, Finrod Felagund, Mahtan and Finarfin, backed by Aulë himself and Caranthir in defense and Orodreth on goal just look so much stronger than Himring, even if they have the Silmaril-bearer Maedhros the tall or his good friend Fingon the Valiant on their ranks. They have a few decent helpers in their team but not enough to beat Tirion.

Group B

Anduin vs Esgaroth

Anduin will give their best on this match switching to full attack as their only chance to qualify rests on them winning and the Misty Mts. losing their game against Wilderland - and even in that situation there is a 4-goal gap to tie up…

Esgaroth is probably the single worst team in the tournament and it would be a miracle if Anduin lost. But whether Anduin reaches a win big enough against the proud dwellers of areas around Lake Town is another question.

A tough better might go for some of the forwards or attacking midfielders of Anduin this round… well a daring one could do that.

Misty Mts vs Wilderland

Wilderland has secured their qualification and they would hate to meet Valinor on the first stage of the play-offs. Knowing Sauron’s capability of looking towards greater goals for himself instead of being nice to possible allies it looks clear Wilderland will not be aiding Misty Mts., at least too much. It’s the classic Sauron vs. Saruman game here where no-one bets their money on Saruman.

Misty Mts. needs a point to qualify for sure and a small defeat would most probably be enough against Wilderland. So they might go for a draw to begin with and try to defend like crazy for it. So a lot depends on how vane Sauron is and how much better contenders against Valinor he thinks Misty Mts. in comparison to Andui; for sure Misty Mts. would wear them down a lot more than Anduin? So maybe we’re not seeing the beating the numbers would propose?

Group C

Hithlum vs The Downer

The two teams have no chance of qualifying so it’s up to the honour of the teams at stake. It’s hard to see any honour in team Downer but Celegorm, Curufin and Hador should make a feast of goals just to retain their dignity.

Hithlum beats them 6-0 just for the sake of it. Phantasy-point betters: notice this! Unless Celegorm and Curufin get mad and will not play…

Angband vs Angfauglith

Both teams have qualified but there is a lot at stake here. It’s the question of principle (even if inside team Anfaughlith the principle might be a different one as regards a player) as both teams are going truly for the final.

But even more importantly, the problem is that the winner of the group has a road paved for the semis at least while the loser would need to face Westernesse on the first play-off round – if clearing that T-I-G on the next one… and then most probably Valinor – or a team that would have won it!

So even if the prospect of meeting Doriath in the semis is not that appealing, it is a much more an easier way than needing to go through all those strong teams the other side of the table has to offer for the second team of the group.

The teams will clash in earnest and with full effort. Both teams score well, but there is a marked difference: Anfaughlith has a problem at their goal: Huor has been just a bad goalie this season, to put it bluntly (50% saving ratio) while Ungoliant has been decently good record (80%). Then again Maeglin has been phenomenal this year and Gothmog has not trailed that far behind him; but Ancalagon and Thuringwethil have been strong as well – and if Tilion or Morgoth rise to the occasion… well then Anfaughlith is in trouble.

Group D

Barad-Dur vs Gondor

This is a tough one. Both teams played 2-2 against Eriador (Eriador with 2 points now in contrast to their 1 point, but facing Eregion in the last match) and lost to Eregion 0-2. So both teams have a chance to qualify if Eregion does not lose.
The two teams are quite tied in the stats. Barad Dûr is a slight favourite to win (scoring percentge 9,1% vs. 8,3% / goalie’s saving percentage 69,2% vs. 66,7%), but the diffrences are marginal.

So in the end it is the question whether Gil-Galad and Isildur can get the odd bunch of the Mouth, Fellbeasts, Cirdan and others to play together or whether Eorl can get his troops with Arwen, Eldacar and Echtelion to rally behind him.
The AKM predicts Barad Dûr will win the game – unless it is a draw.

Eregion vs Eriador

Elrond has a great respect to Aragorn and Araphor, not to talk of the other kings of the north, and they have already won the group. So will Eregion play to the full or will they just play it easy to keep their energies to the play-offs?

One thing we know for sure is that Eregion will not be too happy to admit a goal as Elrond’s saving percentage shows a pure 100% right now, and they see no reason to change that. But it must be added team Eriador would be such a nicer team to qualify with them than Baras Dûr…

So does this spell a 0-0? Hopefully not.

Groups E-H to follow tomorrow...

Galadriel55

07-06-2011, 07:44 PM

“Not a bad idea for a team” is what we thought before the start of the games. However, this was proven otherwise. We sent a man to find out exactly what is going on in that team, and what was the reason for their fate.

Reporter:Mister Butterbur, would you please tell us what stopped you from saving the 4 goals – especially Caranthir’s?

Butterbur: I only slowed down to ask him if he would like to stay at my inn for a night or two. My inn is good as ever, and the ale did not get worse (bless Gandalf for putting a good word on it)! You know, four of my teammates here have been there, they can tell you all about it. Now where was I? Of course, about Master Caranthir! I asked him what rooms would he prefer, and on which floor, if he would like to stay at my Pony, because, as you know, if he would like to stay, he has to choose a room…

Reporter: Mister Pippin, how do you feel about getting a (-1) Phantasy point?

Pippin: The referee was biased against our folks (the Ruffian!). He just didn’t recognize me as a knight of Gondor and one of King Elessar’s men.

Reporter: Mister Harry Goatleaf, can you please enlighten us about what you were doing during the game?

Harry: Why, I’m the gatekeeper! I was guarding the gates! Now don’t tell me that that’s ol’ Butterbur’s job. He’s always at his Pony, busy up to his ears – some one has to guard the gates!

Reporter: And Mister Merry, sir, what were your contributions?

Merry: I was blowing my horn. That really got a cheer from the crowd, if anything.

Reporter: Mister Gerontius, why is it that such an admirable Thain did not get any Phantasy points?

Gerontius: Well, there’s a reason I’m called “Old Took”!

Reporter: Mister Bandobras, how do you feel about assisting the only goal your team scored?

Bandobras: Ha! That was nothing! After golf, football is a joke!

Reporter: Mister Frodo, why was there such a lack of enthusiasm from you?

Frodo: I tried to save the Shire-Bree United, but it hasn’t been saved… and you didn’t even notice the attempt!!!

Pony Bill, Fatty Lumpkin, and Mr. Ferny refused to say anything, but we found out that instead of kicking the ball Bill kicked his namesake.

Reporter: Mister Samwise, sir, how is it so that you got a yellow card?

Samwise: I saw Ferny quarreling with my beloved Pony, so I threw an apple at him.

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-06-2011, 08:44 PM

13/16 for the second round! Getting there! (But TTN got all but one of their predictions correct. Blast. Ah, well, that's now just a +2 difference between journalistic integrity and biased sportswriting! :p )

Group stage round 3 predictions:

GROUP A
Doriath vs Shire-Bree United
Tirion vs Himring

YOU CANNOT DENY THE RIGHTFUL HIGH-KING!!! ALL HAIL FINWË!!!

Oh, who am I kidding? I hated them back in 2008, when they eliminated the team of a certain someone. I'm rooting for them now cos that certain someone's with them. Go, blond Noldorin Cave-Elf!

GROUP B
Wilderland vs Misty Mts
Anduin vs Esgaroth

So yeah, on one hand you have two dragons and a Maia on the attack, but on the other hand you have a mountain between the goalposts. The only Maia attested to have defeated a land feature was Eönwë, when he pwned (accidentally) the continent of Beleriand. Sadly (or, rather, happily), Sauron is no Eönwë. Well, it's not like Misty Mts can score either; before the Balrog and the Wizard and the Orc meet the son of a bear-man manning the Wilderland goal, they have to go through a Warg first. A Warg. Tough luck, mates.

GROUP C
Angband vs Anfauglith
Hithlum vs The Downer

His hopeless challenge dauntless cried
Fingolfin there: 'Come, open wide,
dark king, your ghastly brazen doors!
Come forth, whom earth and heaven abhors!
Come forth, O monstruous craven lord,
and fight with thine own hand and sword,
thou wielder of hosts of banded thralls,
thou tyrant leaguered with strong walls,
thou foe of Gods and elvish race!
I wait thee here. Come! Show thy face!'

Perhaps one of the most awaited rematches in the history of Ea. Actually, it's a re-rematch: Morgoth barely won round 1, way back in the FA (First Age) cup, before football became an organised sport (swords and maces were legal back then, and nobody bothered with a formation, or indeed the ball); and Fingolfin won round 2 just last year. Once again, it's gonna be epic (and Fingolfin is gonna win again.) The only cloudy lining in this silvery match-up is that both are defenders, so we won't get to see much action between them.

GROUP D
Eregion vs Eriador
Barad-dûr vs Gondor

It's no secret why Eregion is also known as Hollin, the land of Holly. I've heard, 'Holly ****, how did Elrond save that?' too many times already. And we're bound to hear it some more.

GROUP E
Tol-in-Gaurhoth vs Mordor
The Forest vs Nargothrond

Bombadil sighting in the second round! Will we see him again? And again?? (If you know what I mean.)

GROUP F
Westernesse vs Númenor
Tol Eressëa vs Mithrim

Ar-Pharazôn! If you eliminate Numenor I'll dip you in gold and sell you as a piñata! And don't you test me! :mad:

GROUP G
Valinor vs Pelóri
Gondolin vs Beleriand

'Arien! Sign this photo--oh, no! It's burning!!! Okay, let me take a picture of you instead--argh, my eyes! I'm blind!!!'

GROUP H
Lothlórien vs Dunharrow
Minas Morgul vs Minas Tirith

C'mon, Minas Tirith! You've beat these guys before. Oh, wait--you had the help of the rest of Gondor back then. Plus Rohan. Blast. :(

Boromir88

07-06-2011, 10:03 PM

GROUP - ROUND 3 PREDICTION
BoroLXXXIII, Two Towers Network

Oh my, that was quite nearly a perfect round. The scores were still not up to par, (closer than in round 1 though) but 15 of 16 outcomes predicted correctly. The only fault was Misty Mts wound up with a draw against Anduin, instead of besting them. I wish I had this same amount of success picking phantasy players. I swapped out Araphor for Eorl, and Legolas for the B-W. What was I thinking!? Hopefully, I don't peak too soon, because if I falter with my predictions, than I'm going to be in big time trouble.

Fortunately my predictions never fall apart, but as the cream rises to the top and they start playing eachother in a vicious and spectacular final 16, win or go home playoffs, the games will get harder and harder to call.

(All the best color commentary to be editted back in tomorrow. I decided to try to tempt the magic internet pixies, and as I had the post typed and ready, klapooey, connection went dead. :()

Group A
Doriath vs Shire-Bree United - No contest here, Doriath will be well on their way to sweeping the group in the most dominating fashion ever seen. It would be silly to not have a few Doriath players on your teams, but the questions are which ones? If you're near the leaders and wish to stay in striking distance, you're probably better off taking Turin, before falling behind further. However, if you're already a good distance behind and looking to catch up, it doesn't do much good adding the same players the leaders have. So, it may be better taking some of the Doriath players not picked up as much, like Beleg, Eol, and Melian. You may fall behind more if Turin keeps up on his rampage, but you're at a point where you have to think about catching up, if it's possible (and it is still possible :)).
Doriath wins 3-0

Himring vs Tirion - One of the premier games of the round, winner moves on, loser goes home. A draw and Tirion advances, although this game won't end in a draw, simply because Maedhros, Fingon and Maglor won't allow it. They will come out determined to leave it all out on the pitch, as we like to call it. Save nothing let, and leave with no regrets. Question is will the treacherous Easterlings be playing with the same passion or flat out bail on Maedhros in the face of adversity as they have done so many times before?
Tirion wins 3-2

Group B
Anduin vs Esgaroth - Esgaroth has been atrocious yes, but I think they match up better with Anduin and not the rough/heavy-hitting Sauron and Saruman run teams. Anduin will certainly not blow out the scoreboard against anyone. So like this game will end 2-1 in favor of Anduin, and even with the win it won't be enough goals to knock off Misty Mts. But, I'm actually going to go out on a bit of a limb and say Esgaroth gets the draw. They have to be better than what they've shown so far, right? I mean really, they have to.
Draw 2-2

Misty Mts vs Wilderland - Another big game with a lot of factors on the line. Although, I think the hype and competitiveness will be over-sold on ths one by Sauron and Saruman. It will overhyped for publicity and profit purposes, but won't be much of a contest to be honest. 1 Balrog against 1 dragon and I would take the Balrog. But 1 Balrog and a gimmick wizard against 2 dragons, 2 wizards, and Sauron? Gimme Wilderland.
Wilderland wins 3-1

Group C
Hithlum vs The Downer - The Downer has shown absolutely zilch interest in actually playing the game. How they got a spot in the final 32 is beyond me, despite how interesting and whacko their characters are. And despite this, Hithlum's defense is so porous, without even trying The Downer can put up 2 goals on them. Problem is, Hithlum can score more, even in a game that means nothing.
Hithlum wins 4-2

Angband vs Angfauglith - Now this is a game which can not be over-hyped, it is going to be one of the great battles of the ages. Could very well be a championship caliber game, and we get to see it in group play! Statistics and gameplay all point to Angband winning this one, but I've picked Angfauglith to win the whole thing, and this group. And I'm sticking to that until they're eliminated!
Angfauglith wins 2-1

Group D
Barad-dur vs Gondor - This match will impact how the teams play in the 2nd match a lot. Everything shows that these 2 will fight to a draw, which means Eriador can relax a bit and just not lose by more than 2 goals to Eregion. However, I can't see what Eorl's and Eldacar's problems are, they have been multiple goal-scorers in every Arda Cup, except NOW. It's all about what you've done for me now, and I suspect these boys know that. They're due for a break out game, or at least they better have one NOW, or they'll be shipped out of Gondor double-quick.
Gondor wins 3-2

Eregion vs Eriador - This one could end in a draw, but that will do Eriador nothing if either Gondor or Barad-dur win. Even against the Vala defenses, these Eriador players know how to score, and I think they're just good enough to finally beat the impenetrable wall of Elrond. They can't do it twice though, I'm not sure anyone is that good. Eriador only has themselves to blame if they don't advance though, should have taken care of business against Barad-dur or Gondor and they didn't.
Eregion wins 2-1

Group E
Mordor vs Tol In Gaurhoth - All the questions are going to be will the wolves allow the orcs and Mordorians to go through with them over the more annoying Bombadillians? Wolves won't care about this game, but they won't care about orc feelings either.
TIG wins 2-0

Nargothrond vs The Forest - This one is hard to say, because so many times before when I've picked Bombadil's team and thought his star quality is enough to get into the playoffs, he skips off to a field of lilies. I think this year might be slightly different, if only for the fact that the Ents are good defenders and shutdown when riled from slumber, plus Nargothrond is a joke.
The Forest wins 3-2

Group F
Mithrim vs Tol Eressea - Not much to see here, move along, eventhough this is an important game to win for Tol Eressea. I can't see how Mithrim can score on Ulmo's defense, and Ulmo will probably get the lone goal of the match too.
Tol Eressea wins 1-0

Numenor vs Westernesse - I don't care what AKM wants to speculate, Wesernesse will not tank this game to allow Numenor to qualify. They forget these Westernesse players met in secret to form their own super-team, combining the best of Numenor with the best of Gondor. Numenor's not going to take being cast aways by the primadonna's lightly, they'll come out wanting to beat them. But all that means is Westernesse will put the Numenoreans in their rightful place, as spit-shiners for Ar-Pharazon's golden boots.
Westernesse wins 2-0

Group G
Beleriand vs Gondolin - No surprising comeback in store for the scrappy Beleriand team. Their draw against Pelori was an awesome story, but they've since come back to earth and now everyone's waiting when Gondolin will actually come to play at all?
Draw 1-1

Pelori vs Valinor - Here's an interesting one, considering all the storylines with Tulkas running off to forget his own team. Will Manwe put his rebelling brother in his place? Not likely. As long as you're not Morgoth or Feanor, Manwe basically stays hands off and lets members of his club do what they want. In this case Tulkas' aggressiviness will always win out over the boring conservativeness of Manwe, at least in the game of soccer, not always the case in the fate of Arda.
Valinor wins 2-1

Group H
Minas Morgul vs Minas Tirith - Minas Tirith will play better than what they'v shown, because there is no love loss when playing Minas Morgul. But talents not there to seriously make this a thrilling rivalry, sorry but it's not. Where is the Witch-King? Where is Castamir? And where is the Queen? Are all fair questions and quite right. They'll have a break out performance against their weaker foes.
Minas Morgul wins 4-2

Dunharrow vs Lothlorien - Dunharrow's given a much better effort than the Helm's Deep teams of the past, but sorry boys, not good enough to beat Lothlorien and advance. Not with Feanor dominating as he is, and Legolas and Boromir adding their contributions. Not with the defense playing as good as it is, and Galadriel truly raising her performances. Keep playing like this, and the Golden Woods may finally have a real winner to brag about.
Lothlorien wins 2-0

Nogrod

07-07-2011, 01:30 PM

Group E

Mordor vs Tol In Gaurhoth

The werevolwes are already through to the play-offs and they have been playing a bit sloppy at times when there is nothing at stake for them; but on the other hand one would think Mordor would be an opponent they’d like to beat just for the fun of it. If they get into it there is no way Mordor will prevail, so in the end it’s the attitude of the T-I-G that will decide the outcome of the match.

Mordor on the other hand needs points desperately to qualify and they will give their best. Is it enough against the werewolves is another question entirely.

Starting from same points before the final round with The Forest who have a lot weaker opponent against them doesn’t promise well for the Mordor side, but it is clear they will fight.

Nargothrond vs The Forest

Nargothrond has been unquestioningly one of the major disappointments this year. Somehow Beor the Old, Glaurung and Finduilas have not been able to pull their act together – which looked at from certain angle is not that surprising. But against such an unpredictable team as The Forest one can’t throw away the chance they might surprise. The stress is on the word ‘might’.

The Forest has a decent chance to qualify. Their goal difference is two goals minus whereas Mordor is at even, but T-I-G has won both their earlier matches 3-0, and in that case even a draw would do for them.

The question is then more or less only about Tom Bombadill and his willingness to get interested in the game. As a positive sign one could note that Bombadill stayed quite focused in their earlier game against Mordor gathering a nice 2+1. With Tom leading his team the ents can play decent football and Thranduil, Saeros and River Woman can actually score as well.

The AKM would not wish to bet on the outcome of this group, but if it was forced to do that, it would bet on The Forest to qualify.

Group F

Mithrim vs Tol Eressëa

Tuor and his bunch of men have only theoretical chances of qualifying as they would have to win Tol Eressëa with three goals. Seeing that Númenor wasn’t able to score against Tol Eressëa at all and even Westernesse had to settle with only two goals against them it looks like a mission impossible, not the least because Mithrim has managed to score only one goal in their first two matches themselves. So very much an uphill struggle for Mithrim.

Tol Eressëa has one of the most solid defences of the tournament and even if Uinen and Elwing have been all but flashing, they should be able to score once or twice to win the match comfortably. With a win from Mithrim they would be strong candidates to qualify with a win over Númenor in their pocket as well. But it will not be in their hands.

Númenor vs Westernesse

Practically Númenor needs to win Westernesse to qualify as the chances for Tol Eressëa to fall against Mithrim are slim indeed. But is there any believable chance they could do it? An honest answer to the question would have to be no. But this time there is a slight “but” involved in the form of brotherly love.

If Westernesse lets Númenor win the game they could help team Númenor to qualify over Tol Eressëa. Now Ar Pharazôn denied that possibility with quite strong words, but then again Elros is the captain of the team and calls the shots.

Even if the AKM wants to remind readers of this possibility, it would not be betting on it itself. Even if the Westernesse players from Númenor loved their brothers and sisters and held the glory of Númenor dear, it’s hard to see them acting unsportsmanlikely like that – or willing to lose to anyone in the first place, even to their kin.

Group G

Beleriand vs Gondolin

The air of group G has been quite bitter after the scandal of the Nogrodian dwarves and it is extremely hard to predict what will follow. If Valinor allows Pelori even one point it will be totally insignificant what happens in the match between Beleriand and Gondolin. But that will not be known to the teams as they will be meeting before the Valier-teams match-up.

If both teams would play it seriously and with full effort one would need to say it would be a very close game to call with Beleriand maybe slight favourites.

But a few “buts” enter here. First of all Gondolin has no chance to qualify any more, how will that affect their game? Secondly, it seems at least some folks at Gondolin feel for the team Beleriand and are quite upset with the way the issue with the dwarves has been handled; so would they go as far as to help Beleriand to give it back to Manwë by losing big-time as it doesn’t matter to them success-wise? And would that happen, would it in turn affect the late game and how team Valinor plays?

Be that as it may, one of the big question around this year’s tournament still is, what went wrong in Gondolin? They lost a lot of the best talent there is but gained more or less as much. Still they have lost their chances of qualifying already after the two first rounds of group-play. Many fingers do point towards Turgon – some even say it’s not the first time Turgon has been fore-warned and he has not paid heed to the imminent disaster…

Pelori vs Valinor

Many say Manwë’s teams play the dull and opponent-friendly game caring more about defense than offense – and more about good relations between them and the opponents than going for it big time. And this year’s tournament seems to have proven those many right once again. In the friendlies they won every match they played – with one goal difference!

And they have continued that strategy also in the group-phase – although Beleriand managed a last minute equaliser messing it up one time. So the question becomes, how good they really are, can they challenge the very strong-looking Valinor side if the competition will be real? Or is Manwë planning to compensate the Belerianders for the wrong-doing he deemed necessary?

But as said in the earlier review, Pelori needs only one point to qualify which means they need a draw – unless Beleriand doesn’t win with at least two goals, which they will know when their game begins…

Even if the issue has been speculated here and there, it is hard to see Tulkas giving in an inch to help his brother to qualify. He set up his team to show he liked different football and the game between the two should be the showcase for him to hammer it in his way is the better one.

So it’s up to how good and how willing the Pelori actually are.

Group H

Minas Morgul vs Minas Tirith

Minas Morgul needs only to beat the weakest side of the group to make their qualification most probable. And the bigger numbers they score, the more probable the qualification (the chance of Dunharrow to beat Lothlórien is relatively non-existent, but in case that would happen the probability of them beating lady Galadriel’s team big time is more or less zero). So expect Minas Morgul to go for scoring, even if that hasn’t been their strongest weapon thus far.

There is one big question that is on everybody’s lips when speaking of team Minas Morgul, and that is, what has happened to the Witch King? He has been one of the most effective scorers every year thus far, and he hasn’t always had a great host of talent around him to score by himself. But somehow he is not playing up to his level. Nowhere near!

Some claim he has said feeling a bit thin lately, but some others claim he’s just been taking it easy the first two matches and will blast a hat-trick against Minas Tirith – would there be a better team against which to wake up for him?

If the supporters of the Minas Tirith team are counted off, it’s hard to see any sane person betting on them on this match (whether Minas Tirith supporters can be said to be a sane bunch in the first place is another matter we will not dwell into here). Eomer and Faramir haven’t gotten anything done and Eowyn has made herself noticed only with two yellow cards.

Dunharrow vs Lothlórien

Dunharrow and Lothlórien were both real disappointments during the friendlies but have shown a bit more effective side of their teams in the group-play. But there is a marked difference in the quality of the teams still. The battlehardened Rohanians have shown some stamina but less flair. Sadly, even if lady Galadriel could pity them Fëanor will not.

What comes to Lothlórien, it is interesting to see that after all that row during the friendlies they have really pulled themselves together in the group phase. The 3-0 win over Minas Tirith was quite promising indeed, and Legolas is just hot! If Fëanor finds his silmaril-boot, they could seriously talk about being competitive semifinalists.

And it’s not only that the team has started working better, but Galadriel has also shown – after a few disappointing years – that she is a quality keeper who can win games.

So it’s looking bright for Lothlórien and less so for Dunharrow.

Nogrod

07-07-2011, 04:13 PM

The AKM has collected a few stats for you to enjoy and to pay heed to...

The most effective scoring teams = percentage of (goals made / shots overall)

Angband 22,6% (7/31)
Anfaughlith 21,9% (7/32)
Doriath 21,2% (7/33)
Westernesse 20,7% (6/29)
Hithlum 20% (5/25)

The worst scoring teams = percentage of (goals made / shots overall)

Esgaroth 0% (0/18)
Shire-Bree Utd. 3,7% (1/27)
Nargothrond 5% (1/20)
The Downer 5% (1/20)
Minas Tirith 5,3% (1/19)

The shooters = shots on goal (shots overall)

Doriath 19(33)
Tol-In-Gaurhoth 16(33)
Wilderland 16(33)
Anfaughlith 16(32)

The worst to shoot = shots on goal (shots overall)

Mithrim 6(15)
Esgaroth 6(18)
The Downer 6(20)
Tol Eressëa 7(15)
Gondolin 7(18)
Nargothrond 7(20)

The tightest defenses = shots on goal allowed (shots overall allowed)

Westernesse 6(14)
Tol-In-Gaurhoth 6(16)
Wilderland 6(17)
Númenor 7(16)
Lothórien 7(17)
Pelori 7(18)

The weakest defenses = shots on goal allowed (shots overall allowed)

Hithlum 18(36)
Tirion 16(34)
Mithrim 15(30)
Shire-Bree Utd. 15(28)
Anduin 14(27)

Best goalies = saving percentage (goals allowed / total shots against)

Elrond of Eregion 100% (0/12)
Shastawolf of Tol-In-Gaurhoth 100% (0/6)
Tar Atanamir of Westernesse 100% (0/6)
Huan of Doriath 90% (1/10)
Caradhras of Misty Mts. 87,5% (1/8)
Galadriel of Lothlórien 85,7% (1/7)

Worst goalies = saving percentage (goals allowed / total shots against)

Brand of Esgaroth 46,2% (7/13)
Huor of Anfaughlith 50% (4/8)
Butterbur of Shire-Bree Utd. 53,3% (7/15)
King Bus of The Downer 53,8% (6/13)
Imlach of Hithlum 55,6% (8/18)

Nogrod

07-09-2011, 02:03 PM

Group A

It was going to be a thrilling evening at the Ever-Cold Arena. The crowds would be served a great appetizer looking how the dashing stars of the nearby woods showed their skills against the half-sized weirdo’s of another time and place, and then as a main course, there would be the nerve-wrecking fight for a place in the qualifiers between the home-team and their main rivals in brotherhood. The night-game was an absolute cracker: both teams were on even points and both had an even goal difference, so it would be solely the outcome of the game that would decide matters, no third parties involved, no fear for other matches to influence the outcome. Just a game of the year for the fans – not only the home-side fans, but also for the loads of Tirion-supporters who packed almost a nice fourth of the stadium to cheer for their team.

~*~

But there was an afternoon game before the big event – and the seats were sold out even there as everyone wished to see the great heroes of Doriath – local media had already named them champions of this year’s Arda Cup – not the least the thick crowds from Doriath itself who filled almost one third of the seats eager to see the “homeboys” play one more time at their hoods.

It must be admitted that the hobbits were brave and did their best, and it felt like they gained some new friends from the crowds who were just admiring the persistence of the little folk. But the difference in the quality of the teams was just too wide for them to have any say with the outcome.

The hobbits came to the game full of energy and they took every shot they could make but Melian’s Girdle forced them away from the best shots and most of their efforts ended in shots way off target. Although Bandobras Took managed to hit the post once giving Huan some food for thought. But Doriath scored their first goal already on the 14th minute – and when they made it 2-0 just ten minutes later the hobbits saw the name of the game as Doriath had started to possess the ball, more or less closing the opportunities from the hobbits to even try a shot.

Thingol’s 3-0 just before the half-time was surely one of the greatest free-kicks given in this tournament thus far. Harry had tackled Luthien about ten meters from the left corner of the box and Doriath was given a free-kick. Instead of Túrin, Húrin or Beleg who normally took the free-kicks, Thingol called for a chance to shoot one for a change. And what a shot it was! The swerve of it was just stupendous!

Looked later in slow-motion one can see the ball going past the wall of Shire-Bree defenders and looking like it was going a few meters off the goal, but just after passing the wall the ball takes a twisted swerve towards the goal. Butterbur reacts and dives towards the post – but the ball swerves much more he could have anticipated and goes in the middle of the goal while Butterbur is diving down to the post.

Shire-Bree Utd. showed a brave face on the second half and went for it as well as they could but Doriath just shut their few chances off and mainly just possessed the ball with clearly no purpose of making the numbers too cruel.

Huan and Carcaroth were getting bored as the second half grew older and they had little or nothing to do. So to the surprise of all, after one of the rare hobbit-attacks on the second half, Huan got the ball and decided to wish to play as well. Passing it to Carcaroth they started advancing – lending the ball only to each other. Thingol and Melian were upset at first but then just decided to fall back to take the places of their goalie and the lowest defender, letting the canines have their fun.

And they seemed to have a lot of fun. Huan dribbled like a professional forward and Carcaroth scared the ponies out of their wits (if they had any). Finally Huan took the shot from the corner of the box, and hit the post! The rebound fell to the feet of Húrin who instinctively shot it to the back of the net. After the game he was sorry about it as he thought either Huan or Carcaroth would have deserved the goal, but he blamed his reflexes.

So Doriath won 4-0 with almost a walking pace. It was not just one or two newspapers which raised the question after the game whether there were too many teams competing in the Arda Cup as the differences on the quality were that huge between some teams.

In the post-group press conference the media was interested in hearing Bandobras’ and Frodo’s views on how they felt, and did they admit the disaster their team was this year? But against the expectations they were quite calm and positive.

Bandobras Took: "We’ll have another United team next time, for sure. Some more of local talent that have played elsewhere should be introduced, but by and by, that’s it. Hobbits are tougher than they look and this was just… well, a practice. We stood against the wolves back then and these laddies destroyed that blasted Ring, need I say more about what we are made off?"

Frodo: "It wasn’t our brightest moment but we’ll pull our act together the next year. And you know, we’ve had some guests playing for our team in previous years and some of them have enjoyed their time with us… so maybe we could hire a few feet to aid us the next year?"

Doriath 4-0 Shire-Bree United
tot shots 16-12
on target 9-2
GOALS:
*14, 1-0 Beleg (Melian)
*24, 2-0 Túrin (Eöl)
*38, 3-0 Elwë
*71, 4-0 Húrin (Huan)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Húrin
*Shire-Bree- Ferny, Pippin

Too big differences or no, the crowds were entertained to the fullest and the real drama was only just going to unfold in front of their eyes. It was the home team against Tirion, and the winner would take it all and qualify. The loser would have nothing. The nasty thing for the home-team supporters was that in a case of a draw Tirion would be advancing to the play-offs as they had scored more… but this was about winning or losing, not playing for a draw.

There were a lot of hugs and kisses in the pitch before the game started – some of the players clearly wanted to remind the fans that even if it was a game of life and death the most important thing was being good and caring of each other. Thus Fingon and Aredhel gave each other a warm embrace kissing each other to the cheek, while all the sons of Fëanor went for a group-hug, the three of them pushing Caranthir around in a friendly manner. And in the end Finarfin and all the grandchildren of Finwë gathered around him to receive his blessing. The other elves and easterlings were not looking too happy to follow the example of Finwë’s family but were decent enough to shake hands together.

And then, the game was on!

It started very much evenly as had been anticipated. They were very much even teams even if Tirion played a more offensive game while the home team was a bit more conservative facing the game from defense onwards. With Tirion slightly outdoing Himring in possession the homeside fans were biting their nails. The suspense!

But then the home-crowds just exploded. Himring had been building an attack for a change and suddenly Maedhros saw the chance. With a split-second decision he glanced at his cousin, made a short run forwards when his brother Caranthir who was defending against him had been expecting a pass and was reaching for it to a wrong direction. Aulë charged on Maedhros to fill the gap, but he passed the ball behind the stupefied poet Elemmirë just in time and reached Fingon perfectly behind the now torn defenses. And The Valiant scored!

Himring was on the lead! The crowds were going crazy.

The game went on with both teams battling it out for real, even if Tirion had stepped their game maybe a level, or a half level, upwards. The crowds were nervous and excited. But just before the fans of the home team thought they’d have the relief of a half-time going there with a one goal lead, father and son forced some really bitter medicine down their throats.

Finarfin got a nice pass from Aulë and made a huge run forwards the right side of the pitch. About ten meters from the edge of the pitch he was about to be taken up by Amrod and Amras trailing him like wolves, but he made a pass into the middle at the exact right moment before the brothers were on him – and Finrod slided to the pass past Uldor and scored. It was indeed even for the half-time.

The second half was much alike to the first: intensive fighting, scoring opportunities spread quite evenly, Tirion holding the ball and attacking a bit more but not much, neither team willing to give in an inch… And it still was a fair match: only three cards were given and in a game as intensive as this was, that’s amazingly few.

About twenty minutes to the second half the home crowds went nuts again. And it was the elf people thought was the best talented after his father, Maedhros, who scored with a cool header from a corner given by Fingon and headed to him by Borthond.

The home-crowd was counting minutes in feverish anticipation: they would qualify, they would, only twenty minutes to go, only fifteen to go…

And then it came. The equalizer built beautifully by the grandpa himself, and Aredhel was no rookie to fail when given a chance. With a nice bluff she made Amrod charge the wrong way and scored easily from a close range. It was even with only ten minutes to go. And Himring needed to win the game.

The home team threw forwards all it dared to but there was no reward for their efforts. The game ended in a draw and Tirion was qualifying. After a rollercoaster ride the fans had had, the Himring supporters felt very ill and sad while the Tirion supporters loved the whole world right now.

After the game it was natural Maedhros and Fingon were not too talkative because of the disappointment, but the press was pressing on them about their future plans.

Maedhros: "We’re no brothers by birth, just cousins, but we’re brothers by fate and love and blood. Whatever becomes, we’ll face it together."

Fingon: "Exactly. We’ve braved greater opponents than football squads together and there is no intention we would go separate ways. But we’d surely like to sign into a more competitive side next year…"

Maedhros: "Even if we only got out of the play-offs by the number of goals we made... it was that close I'd remind you."

Fingon: "Yeah, close. We didn't do badly. But next year we're going to score more."

Himring 2-2 Tirion
tot shots 12-15
on target 5-7
GOALS:
*23, 1-0 Fingon (Maedhros)
*40, 1-1 Finrod (Finarfin)
*66, 2-1 Maedhros (Borthond)
*79, 2-2 Aredhel (Finwe)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Himring- Ulfast, Amrod
*Tirion- Mahtan

Final results, Group A

Doriath 9p. 11-1 (+10)
Tirion 4p. 7-7(+-0)

Himring 4p. 5-5(+-0)
Shire-Bree 0p. 1-11(-10)

Doriath will meet the runners up from group H and Tirion will meet the winner of Group H in the first round of play-offs.

Nogrod

07-09-2011, 03:26 PM

Group F

The Númenorians gathered into the Armenelos Stadium for the last time this year filling the benches as soon as the gates were opened. Wineskins were passed from hand to hand as all the savoury snacks, tapas, pies, salted almonds and pistachios, nuts and figs, all that food the Númenoreans loved. And on this third day of the games also the visitors from Beleriand and Tol Eressëa were starting to blend in enjoying the festive athmosphere and the local habits of having a several-hour pic-nic at the stadium before the games began. But even if the general mood was light and playful, even congenial, there was nervousness and fears mixed with high hopes and excitement bubbling under.

Hithlum had been relegated already but how well would they stand up against the mighty Ulmo and his Maiar and the great elves? The Númenorians prayed for grandfather Tuor´s squad to somehow find a new gear and beat Tol Eressëa, or at least force them to a draw – and they laid their hopes strongly on TolEressëa’s bad track record in scoring (only one goal in two matches), hoping they would not find a cure for that defect in their team. The Tol Eressëa supporters were naturally afraid of just that and praying for the exact opposite; that the female trio of Earwen, Elwing and Uinen would find their game and start to deliver like the powerhouse of Miriel, Nerdanel and Arien does for team Valinor in Group G.

What comes to the match between Númenor and Westernesse, it seemed the islanders had started to separate more strongly into two groups. The one party thought team Westernesse should let team Númenor win to give them chances of qualifying as in that way both Númenorian teams could make their way to the play-offs. That tactical defeat should be done for the greater glory of Númenor, they argued. The others naturally argued the opposite: to them losing willingly was not only degrading and un-Númenorian, but also a very bad omen predicting troubles to team Westernesse – which in the eyes of most people belonging to this latter party represented the height of Númenorian strength, honor and greatness. If Westernesse played a sloppy game now, how would they find their top gear in the next match in the play-offs against Anfaughlith or Angband where both the stakes and the quality of the opponent were so much higher?

~*~

The first match was a game between two defensive teams – even if a glance at Mithrim’s goals allowed column couldn’t tell that to a casual reader. But to the honour of team Mithrim one must admit they didn’t seem to have come to the pitch only to kick the ball around as they had nothing to gain in this match, but they seemed to be playing seriously, playing for their honour if for nothing else. Some of course noted that Tuor might have rallied his team around him in the lockers to play not only for their honour but also for his grandchildren.

Be it as it may, Mithrim was playing well and the game looked pretty even in the beginning. But the very thing the homecrowd feared the most happened anyway at the 25th minute. Tol Eressëa got a corner and Ulmo himself came up to aid with it. Uinen delivered the corner as usual, but not into the front of the goal where most players were packed, but diagonally backwards to the middle where Lindo stood totally unguarded about 25 meters from the goal. The defense reacted to this new situation which gave Ulmo just enough room to jump for it (meaning Brodda let go of his shirt turning to look where the ball was). With a wisely timed pass Lindo found Ulmo’s head rising the highest in front of the goal – and Ulmo scored.

And then it was the time for the famous Tol Eressëa lockdown play the Númenoreans had learned so bitterly to hate on round 1. So everytime they lost the control of the ball, they hastily grouped all their players under the ball so MIthrim was always facing all ten players and the goalie in front of them. It was like a wall of defense never showing a weak spot. It didn’t give Tol Eressëa too many chances to score themselves either, but they were at the lead and that was enough for them. It was not beautiful, but it sure was effective, once again.

Like the last time, parts of the crowds started booing to Tol Eressëa on the second half as they found their tactics both boring and unfair, but the football aficionados knew better: it was admirable and cool how they cut every Mithrim lines of passing, how they took away the time and space from Mithrim attack after they had gotten to the midfield, how they managed to always find someone to guard any forwards of Mithrim trying some unpredictable runs, well just how total and overwhelming it was. TolEressëa’s lockdown play was just superb, and no wonder as the mastermind behind it was none less than Ulmo himself.

And the crowd hadn’t seen all yet. The Tol Eressëa forwards had made a few individual efforts on running it forwards but after a crude mistake by Aerin at midfield Uinen managed to cut her pass and sent it forwards to Earwen who got Elwing with her into the sudden change of tempo. Together they zigzagged the defenses down unawares and Earwen scored into the empty goal as they had fooled Tuor big time in the end.

That was more like what the Tol Eressëa supporters wished to see and they praised their ladies in standing ovation. The Númenorians were impressed by the performance, but at the same time they realized the chances of team Númenor were getting ever slimmer.

And that was how it ended: Tol Eressëa got a secure 2-0 victory and took a huge step towards qualifying.

Let’s hear what Tuor had to say in the post-game press-conference:

“Well, of course I’m disappointed. And I do think that some of the criticism towards me has been to the point – even if it hasn’t always been fair. Yes, I may have taken this post a bit hastily thinking gathering players you just know could make for a team while forming a team seems to require so much more. Also I think I have not been the best man to lead other men and women as all of my life I have lived with elves. So that would be a natural direction to me the next year… maybe playing with my dear Idril and well, Eärendil, that would be a dream come true… my father in law, oh that would be great, or Glorfindel, Voronwë, or Gelmir and Arminas… you know. I do miss my elven family and friends.”

Mithrim 0-2 Tol Eressea
tot shots 10-11
on target 3-5
GOALS:
*25, 0-1 Ulmo (Lindo)
*74, 0-2 Earwen (Elwing)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mithrim- Aerin
*TolEressea- Voronwe, Osse

Tol Eressëa’s confident victory over Mithrim had forced team Númenor into a situation where a three goal win was required from them if they wished to qualify. Would Westernesse ever submit to that? Any sensible answer to that would have to be no. The supporters of team Númenor knew it deep down in their hearts even if they wished to think it was possible.

From the first minutes it was clear both teams were into it for real and the crowd was served some real quality football with both teams keeping a balanced formation all the time while showing some really nice combinations in building the attacks, some flashing individual talent in attack and defense, and sacrifying defending (with Númenor having a free kick from 18 meters both Elros and Ar Pharazôn took their places in the wall exposing themselves to the cannon-blast of Ar Gimilzôr).

Both teams played for their pride, but Númenor also needed the win, a big win, and thus they were slightly dominating the field the first twenty minutes or so. But Westernesse never gave in and slowly the tables were turned and Westernesse started having the edge while team Númenor got somewhat exhausted from the effort.

So when Tar Minastir hammered the ball in from a neat freeing pass by Elros just about five minutes before the half-time, no one was actually surprised. Westernesse was in the lead, and looking at what was going on in the field, they truly earned it.

The second half started with Númenor giving it yet again a spirited effort and gaining the control of the game for a short while but little by little the more physical and talented Westernesse-players turned the game once more into their advantage. At sixtieth minute Westernesse scored untypically for them from a quick counter-attack. Númenor had managed to make a decent build-up for an attack and was passing the ball around Westernesse’s box when Tar Telperion cut the pass from Vardamir to Tar Miriel and sent in far away to the offense. The two lowest defenders were guarding Elros and Ar Pharazôn – and the ball was coming some ten meters left of them. But seeing that Ar Adunakhôr was rushing forwards as well the two made a nice trick: they ran diagonally towards the ball looking like they were both trying to cut it’s flight. Tar Calmacil and Tar Ciryatan were forced to reckon with the dangerous forwards and rushed after them… while Ar Adunakhôr sneaked forwards beside them. When Elros and Ar Pharazôn shut the defenders away Ar Adunakhôr was free to run with the ball. Silmariën had no change against the rushing Ar Adunakhôr – and it was 2-0 with half an hour of the play left.

But that goal actually broke the backbone of team Númenor. With a quick count they realized they would have to score five goals in the last half an hour to qualify. That truth was slowly emerging in the minds of their most fervent supporters as well. There was no way team Númenor would qualify. And there wasn’t. Westernesse took it a bit easier the rest of the game but it was clear Númenor wasn’t making a maximum effort either. And so the game ended with 2-0 to Westernesse and the Númenorians cheered for the clear group-winners even if half of them felt betrayed and sour about team Númenor’s fate at the same time. Why couldn’t Elros and Ar Pharazôn yield for once to get two Númenorian teams into the play-offs? It had to be the Gondorians’ fault. Those cousins were to blame for this!

There were actually a few incidents during the following night at some tavernas where Númenor supporters got into heated debate with Gondorian supporters of Westernesse, but the King’s Men dealt with any bar-fights swiftly and effectively dragging all rebel-rousers into custody. No one died and just a handful needed checking at Armenelos Central Hospital.

The press was ready to eat team Númenor representatives alive in the post-group press-conference. Was Númenorian talent so thin that they needed Gondorians to succeed, what was done wrong as they didn’t qualify? What next?

Tar Ancalimon: “I should be one who has seen what becomes when the Númenorians get divided into two rivaling parties… It is sad and we need to learn from our mistakes.”

Tar Miriel: “Well, from my POV forcing unions is no better…”

Tar Ciryatan: “We should build peace as we build our ships, together and with no ire: with respect and mastery of the skills.”

Tar Miriel: “And I do have confidential knowledge from my husband *grits teeth* that there will be no team Westernesse next year, whatever they achieve this year.”

Tar Ciryatan: “We’ll pull our act together the next year.”

Tar Ancalimon: “That maybe a fool’s hope, but Númenor will prevail any year. This time it’s not us but Westernesse, next year, who knows. But Númenor will produce a quality team every year contending for the championship. Mark my words.”

Númenor 0-2 Westernesse
tot shots 9-12
on target 3-6
GOALS:
*39, 0-1 Tar Minastir (Elros)
*60, 0-2 Ar Adunakhôr (Tar Telperion)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Numenor- Tar Meneldur, Tar Elendil
*Westernesse- Ar Pharazôn

Final results, Group F

Westernesse 9p. 8-0(+8)
Tol Eressëa 6p. 3-2(+1)

Númenor 3p. 2-4(-2)
Mithrim 0p. 1-8(-7)

Westernesse will meet the runners up from group C and Tol Eressëa the winners of group C.

the phantom

07-09-2011, 05:28 PM

Group C

Without any doubt the late night match at Angfauglith was the big one, Angband versus Angfauglith- both title contenders and already guaranteed to go into the playoffs. And yet the stadium was filled to capacity to view the evening battle between Hithlum and The Downer.

A few men and elves of Hithlum were there as were supporters of Celegorm and Curufin, but most of the crowd was made up of Angband orcs that had adopted The Downer as a new favorite. Their love of villainy and vile behaviors had won over all of Morgoth's creatures, and even Morgoth himself, who commented only yesterday that if only he didn't have to play he would show up in support of the trouble-maker Downers.

And to start the game the crowd was not disappointed, as The Downer came out actually playing for real for the first time, and with Hithlum rather flat and depressed with no hope of qualifying The Downer soon gained the edge, with Alien showing he could do more than just eat things and throw up, redirecting a nice ball from Hookbill for the 1-0 lead. Not long after, Lalwende MP decided to launch an investigation into Hithlum's defense, and found it guilty of playing uninspired ball. Their punishment- falling behind 2-0.

Some of Hithlum looked content to fold, but Hador would have none of it. He still had pride and wanted everyone to know that they had been eliminated only because of how tough the group was. And he also inspired the Sons of Feanor, reminding them that if they could not score against the bottom team in the group their offensive debut may be considered a failure.

Their newfound intensity slowly spread through their squad, and just before halftime it paid off as Hador himself headed in a nice feed from Curufin. Hithlum stayed with it after the half, but The Downer started getting quite rough with them and held them at bay, as the refs (perhaps influenced by the crowd) were letting defenders get away with a lot.

But as the minutes ticked away The Downer got more and more carried away and soon the refs couldn't help but hand out some cards- Hookbill was caught with a knife in his hand, and Morsul was spotted throwing evil mayonnaise into the eyes of the Hithlum players. But it really came crashing down at minute 71 when Alien was handed his second card for trying to stuff Lorgan into a microwave he'd carried onto the field.

With a man advantage Hithlum really started putting the pressure on King Bus between the posts, and at minute 78 Celegorm gained the equalizer. And not content to stop with momentum going their direction, Hithlum made their fans applaud yet again with but a few minutes left in the contest. It was Celegorm again, this time assisted by his brother.

As time expired The Downer for the first time appeared aware that they had lost a match, but they didn't sound particularly disappointed in the post game interviews. Saucepan Man had this to say: "We're only just learning to play this game, so we had no expectations at all. We'll be back next year and a bit more polished." When asked about cutting down on penalties committed by his team, he laughed. "It's who we are. We have fun, and don't like rules much. I mean- obviously we should try and be more clever with our rule breaking so we aren't caught, but change our character? Nah."

In the other locker room there was more disappointment, but still high levels of optimism for next season. Celegorm and Curufin: "This was a very tough group. What a pity- we feel we were good enough to qualify. But on the bright side I think we proved we can play offense, and against the best defenses. We're very grateful to captain Hador for giving us the opportunity to do this, but next year we'll probably be looking to play with more familiar faces on more familiar ground."

Captain Hador was of a similar feeling. "Yes, we really thought we were good enough to be in the playoffs, but it just didn't work out. Celegorm and Curufin were great to play with- they're very competitive, and I think they've created some demand for their services next season. During this off-season I really need to get to work early with recruiting and get some of my fine house that is playing elsewhere to join me here."

Hithlum 3-2 The Downer
tot shots 20-14
on target 9-6
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Alien (Hookbill)
*30, 0-2 Lalwende (Peter Hampton)
*43, 1-2 Hador (Curufin)
*78, 2-2 Celegorm (Galdor)
*86, 3-2 Celegorm (Curufin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Hithlum- Gundor, Lorgan, Galdor
*Downer- Burnt Bert, Hookbill, Alien, John Fillis, Morsul
RED CARDS:
*Downer- Alien (71, second yellow)

As the first match had started as the sun was already setting, night was well underway when the final match of Group C finally prepared to kick off. With normal teams Fingolfin and company might've complained that their own home committee was catering to the scheduling of Angband, but with three Balrogs on his own side vying for the support of Angband fans he didn't really mind.

From the moment the contest started the fans were treated to some excellent football. Thuringwethil and Telvildo on one side and Gwindor and Maeglin on the other showed some quality flash and flare, always a danger to go the distance on a quick attack, but the Balrogs on both defenses were experienced and great athletes themselves, and always managed to do just enough to stave off the goals- squeezing their opponents out of bounds, slightly deflecting passes, kicking balls past the endlines, and so on.

Finally one of the attacks broke through as the first half neared its end. Angband carefully built up the pressure in Angfauglith's half with excellent passing, working it back to their defenders when necessary, who pushed closer and closer. Finally Morgoth made a pinpoint strike to Thuringwethil just inside the box and then, instead of redirecting it at the goal, she sent it across towards the right post perfectly for Tilion who rose up and headed it home.

Knowing that they were set to qualify no matter the result, most of the Angfauglith fans didn't mind applauding lightly, as it had been a fine play. But as the second half began it was clear the players on the field weren't content to qualify- both wished to win and avoid playing the Group F winner, which would nearly certainly be an on-fire Westernesse squad. Angfauglith started bringing the pressure up more aggressively than ever, but this nearly proved their undoing as Angband's midfield outclassed them and stole possession for a quick counter. Thankfully for Angfauglith Rochallor dashed back quick enough to make Telvildo's shot a tough one and Huor grabbed it to preserve the one goal deficit.

But there was no such luck to be had a minute later as again the Angband midfield stole it away. This time it was Ulfang and he boomed it straight down at the goal. Ancalagon winged off immediately at full speed and, just barely before the ball arrived, as per the rules, he touched all four feet to the ground and boomed it in with a crack of his tail for the 2-0 lead!

Many of the upper-deck Angfauglith fans complained that he had contacted the ball while still officially airborne, but the refs had gotten it right and there was nothing to complain about.

But Fingolfin was much too determined a battler to roll over and die, and Angfauglith continued to fight against an increasingly defensive Angband. At minute 70 Angband's midfield again set up the fast break, but Morgoth ordered them to slow it up and eat clock with possession, trusting that Angband could limit Angfauglith to two goals or less. But minutes later it looked like he may have regretted his decision not to go for more as Maeglin made a brilliant run along the end line to force the defense over and he sent the ball perfectly between two of them to the mighty Gothmog who rose above the field and headed it down to cut things to a single goal!

A minute later and they were deep with possession again, but a Gwindor pass back to the defense was disrupted by an anticipating Tilion and suddenly he was past the back defender on the right side and running free with Ancalagon in the middle of the field, Thuringwethil closing from the opposite side, and both squads hot on their heels! Huor looked quite worried as they rushed towards him, but Tilion was forced to give it up as the trusty warhorse Rochallor caught him, and Tilion's pass was barely behind Ancalagon, and in that split second he had to stop, the blurred figure of Fingolfin flashed in front of the mighty dragon and stole it.

Instantly Fingolfin slid to a stop keeping the ball behind him and boomed it back down at the Angband net. The defense of Angband was all caught dashing the wrong way, and the ball bounced and split right between Drauglin and one of the Balrogs, and hot behind the ball was Ecthelion, who seemed to have been the only person on the field not wrong-footed. Ungoliant cursed and readied herself as the elf lord charged into the box uncontested, made her best guess and jumped.

But the lord of Gondolin was not to be denied, booming it the opposite direction and low, and all the Angfauglith supporters screamed. It was tied, and they had a few minutes left to win the group!

Morgoth bellowed to his defenders not to be caught pressing forward for any reason, and told his forwards that defense was their first priority, going so far as to place the quick and speedy Thuringwethil on duty covering Maeglin, and asking Telvildo to shadow Gwindor, while he bodied up against his old general Lord Gothmog.

Angfauglith gave it their best effort, but they just couldn't get it to their forwards, and had to settle for drives from the defenders, all of which went off target or never even made it through the mess between them and the goal. As the final horn sounded the Angband fans celebrated wildly. They had won the group! But Angfauglith held their heads high as well, knowing they had just played even with one of the powers of Arda Cup. They felt ready for anything.

Angband 2-2 Angfauglith
tot shots 12-15
on target 6-7
GOALS:
*37, 1-0 Tilion (Thuringwethil)
*59, 2-0 Ancalagon (Ulfang)
*76, 2-1 Gothmog (Maeglin)
*82, 2-2 Ecthelion (Fingolfin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Balrog #2, Tilion
*Angfauglith- Balrog #5, Gwindor, Balrog #4

Final Results: Group C

Angband 7 pts 9-4 (+5)
Angfauglith 7pts 9-6 (+3)

Hithlum 3 pts 8-10 (-2)
The Downer 0 pts 3-9 (-6)

Angband will meet the runner-up from Group F in the playoffs, while Angfauglith will play the Group F winner.

Boromir88

07-09-2011, 09:50 PM

Group B

Match 5 - Anduin vs Esgaroth
It was a cloudy day at Gladden Fields but for the Anduin supporters in the crowd, they were not going to let the weather prevent them from coming to the stadium and supporting their team. Even if Anduin needed to clear Esgaroth confidently and hope Wilderland could beat the Misty Mts by at least 2 goals in order to have a chance of advance. Fram, took a few questions before the game, "Yes, our fate is not completely in our hands, but we can't concern ourselves with the late match. If we don't beat the task in front of us, then we're out no matter what happens in the late game. We are focused on winning Esgaroth, we have to be."

Anduin was also in desperate need of goals, so the crowd was expecting heavy pressure by Anduin, and hopefully several goals to applaud. They would sure have the majority of the crowd behind them, as less than 1/5th seemed to have the Esgaroth colors and banner. And Esgaroth was likely to even have less support, since the Dwarves who had come with King Dain, were now getting behind Durin. If their team was eliminated, then better to have Anduin with the great Durin go through, then have to see the vile orcs and their Balrog.

The first 45 was completely dominated by Anduin. They were passing it all around Esgaroth's half the field and while Esgaroth would do just enough to clear the ball away before anything dangerous materialized, they could not build any attacks of their own. So, as Anduin kept working for opportunities, Esgaroth was just trying to hold out indefinitely. You always pay when trying to hold out indefinitely, and it was no shock to see Anduin get on the board first.

Leod received a pass from Durin and no one knew if Leod was just trying a speculative long ball to test Brand or if it was a serious attempt on goal. Not even Brand knew, as he was caught napping on Leod's long-bomb projectile, giving Anduin a 1-0 lead. No one could seem to answer what Brand's struggles were, was he playing injured? Did he just not have any confidence after a poor friendly performance? Was he not happy goal-keeping? Whatever it was, it is the worst showing of any GK in Arda history, and Brand is much better than this.

Anduin was still in need of goals though, so they kept attacking, and again Esgaroth was having trouble trying to keep possession to build attacks of their own. In the 35th minute, Leod was involved in the scorig again, this time Moneybags knew he was about to take a shot and was able to get in front for the block. But the ball squirted away from the Esgaroth defender, and Earnil shot a screamer to the top post that Brand honestly had no chance to stop.

It was intermission and the Anduin fans were getting drunk (but still remaining about as civil as drunk fans can be). "If we can get another goal or two, and keep Esgaroth off the sheet, we just may be able to pull this off!" And they were right, if Esgaroth conceded defeat and just folded, than Misty Mts would be under a lot of pressure in the night match.

But it turns out that there was still a scrap of dignity and fire in Esgaroth, particularly the Men of Dale who wanted to show they would not hand over the match so easily. Maybe with a 2-goal lead the Anduin team decided to relax some, but Esgaroth was now able to keep most of the action in the Anduin half now. And in the 62 minute Girion showed he still has quality, by threading a pass between the two Elven defenders to Bard, who kept his shot on the ground and it squeezed under Fram's arm.

It was a 1-goal game again, and the few Esgaroth faithful cheered the goal. Although one would have to say there was more sarcasm to the cheers than approval of their team's performance. And the Anduin faithful knew that 1-goal probably would not be good enough to advance, but once Fram tightened his defense and Anduin started getting control of the game again the crowd began urging their team on again.

Leod was playing like a man posessed and determined to give his team the best hopes of advancing. With 15 minutes remaining Leod gave Anduin a 2-goal lead again. You woud think after the game he had so far, there would be closer defending on him, but he was released free by Telumehtar and pounded it into the net. Anduin was looking to furthering their lead even more, but it was not to be thisnight. With only few minutes remaining Leod found Earnil with a pass, Brand was clearly beaten on the play, but Earnil shot it wide! And so it ended a 3-1 victory for Anduin, and they would be anxiously anticipating the end of the Wilderland - Misty Mts game.

The team from the Long Lake had been eliminated before their last match, and afterwards Girion and Dain talked about their horrid showing in this years Arda tournament and started looking ahead to next year:

Girion: "We are disgusted by how we've played these 3 games as all our fans are just to be disgusted as well. Yes we lost a lot of our star talent from last year, but there is no excuse. None. It was a bad team effort all around."

Dain: "We did not try hard enough in the off season to keep our best talent from Dale and Erebor on the team and hastily tried to fill holes. There will be a lot of changes, especially at the mid-field where we were dominated in all three games. But the Dwarves of Erebor have always stood firm with their Dale allies. We do not throw aside friendships at the first sign of struggle. I and any dwarf who chooses to follow, will be back with Girion next year."

The Esgaroth Esquire: You've mentioned changes at the mid-field, what about at GK? Surely you can't keep Brand back there with the performance he gave this year?

Girion: "Brand is loyal and valiant. Something was effecting him, but it's a personal matter and he's played through it. But you ask a fair question and I will discuss with him about a possible change in re-joining me in the midfield. In whatever capacity it is, I do not want to lose Brand."

Some things answered, but only more quesions will be asked. With the cotinued stress about the mid-field, we can only assume that Girion is going to rebuild that area, so that could mean bye-bye to the spiders. And what of Dain's statement about "any dwarf who chooses to follow [him]." Are some of the Dwarves not as enthusiastic about Girion's leadership and looking to move on else where if there is a sweeter deal?

Anduin 3-1 Esgaroth
tot shots 13-13
on target 6-4
GOALS:
*19, 1-0 Leod (Durin)
*35, 2-0 Earnil (Leod)
*62, 2-1 Bard (Girion)
*75, 3-1 Leod (Telumehtar)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Orophin, Telumehtar
*Esgaroth- Tomnoddy, Dain, Balin

Match 6 - Misty Mts vs Wilderland
With the 3-1 win by Anduin, Misty Mts did have a bit of breathing room, but they could not melt down and in the past the team has been notable for some big meltdowns. A 1-goal loss and they would still be through, a 2-goal loss and it would go down to a shootout between them and Anduin. A 3-goal loss was simly unacceptable and some may have been fearful of what evil could be awoken underneath the mountains if Misty Mts did lose by 3!

But as we talk of as it's assumed Wilderland would beat the Misty Mts, Saruman was singing quite a different tune; rallying his goblins out of Moria and propping up his rock-solid GK. Saruman would have everyone believing Misty Mts would win and steal the group away from Wilderland, as it would take an effort even beyond the will of Sauron to beat his new, shiny keeper. But, while a win, draw, or loss Wilderland was already through to the knockout stage, Sauron was not going to concede his grip of 1st place in Group B.

The stadium was jammed full of orcs and nameless, gnawing critters, who hid underneath he grand stands from the sun that was beginning to set. There was even a few dragons present, and one of peculiar interest was spotted, Glaurung who was there to watch Scatha and Smaug. Certainly the rumors and speculation would start, since Glaurung had trouble landing with a team in the off-season was h trying to make nice with Sauron or his former dragon-buddies for next year?

Had both teams not performed well so far, and both not be in good position to advance things between the orc factions may have gotten more violent. But thankfully there were only a few minor rows and taunts about which was the stronger, the Red Eye or the White Hand. There was also a small section of Anduin fans, with the team of the Great River present, watching, waiting, and fully supporting the Wilderland.

Sauron was quick o try and get even tighter control of 1st place in the group, and show Saruman that he was still inferior. And so Wilderland began with a flurry of shots. The Misty Mts defenders were doing their best to disrupt, without drawing cards, knowing they could not afford a player being sent off, or this could turn into a nightmare.

First Smaug and Scatha tried it, but their shots were stopped cold (literally!). Then Khamul tried it and his shot was pushed aside. Then Sauron himself tried the Mountain and his attempt was stopped. Saruman was right to brag about his Spirit, and maybe it was too powerful for even Sauron!

After Sauron's shot was stopped, with a mighty gust of wind Caradhras threw the ball out to Narvi. The Misty Mts also had a skilled attack, and were finally able to get pressure off their defense, which was thankful for the much needed break after 30 minutes of constant Wilderland attacks. Now was the Misty Mts turn to see what damage they could cause on the Wilderland defense and their keeper, Grimbeorn.

The Azog, Saruman, and Durin's Bane combo was too hot to handle and in the 41st minute Durin's Bane rocketed a shot that was heading straight towards Grimbeorn. It looked like Grimbeorn was going to stop it, but at the very last instant Saruman stuck his leg out to deflect it, and it was too late for Grimbeorn to adjust. Misty Mts would go into the half with a 1-0 lead! A result that would see them in 1st place, and Wilderland in second. The Moria orcs were singing songs of praise for Saruman the White. Saruman the Wise. Saruman the Great. The orcs under Sauron just muttered and grumbled.

As the 2nd half began, it was clear Sauron was not going conceding the game without a fight. And like the 1st half, Wilderland was keeping the pressure on. With the lead, the Misty Mts defenders started getting more aggressive though, not as fearful to lose a player early and thus began drawing cards.

After Landroval's foul, latching onto Smaug's tail, Wilderland was awarded a free kick. Sauron figured now was a time they needed a goal and brought every attacking player up front. Khamul usually takes the corners and free kicks, but this time Pallando came up and Khamul was on the front line with the dragons and Sauron. When Pallando delivered a pass into the congested box, Khamul had scared off his Chief Wolf(pup) defender and headed it in. The will of the mountain had been beaten and Wilderland was level.

Much to the surprise of the Misty Mts crowd, Sauron kept pressing the attack. A 1-1 result would still assure Sauron's team 1st place, so why was he pressuring with this much intensity? And in the 77th minute, Sauron passed the ball to Scatha, and with a mighty whip of its tail, it was a 2-1 lead for Wilderland. What a display of sheer power, it looked as though the Caradhras spirit had it stopped with one of it's strong blasts of ice, but it ripped right through the ice.

The Anduin fans were now more alert, another goal by Wilderland would mean it would go down to a shootout, between their team and the Misty Mts for runner up in the group! However, to their first confusion, and then anger, they figured out the treachery at work. With 13 minutes remaining, it appeared Sauron and Saruman had reached an unspoken arrangement. Sauron was displeased with Saruman's arrogance in the pre-game, and with Misty Mts having the lead in the 1st half. Sauron had wanted to prove to Saruman, that he was still the Mightiest. And he displayed his dominance by pushing all out for the win, but once grabbing the lead, that was it. As long as Saruman folded, and didn't show any desire to equalize the match, Sauron would call it off, and thus allow Saruman's team to advance as well.

Thus after 70+ minutes of some of the most exciting football yet seen in this years cup, the last 10 minutes was a complete dud. Saruman did not want to test Sauron's grace, and Sauron was content that he taught Saruman his lesson. Don't try to challenge him again.

*~*~*

That result would mean the Misty Mts was going through to the knockout rounds, while Anduin team would be going home. They clearly showed disappointment in their eyes when the Misty Mts crowd swarmed onto the field to celebrate with their team, but Fram and the other leaders of Anduin were keeping their heads held high. They had not been embarrassed by anyone in this group, and if they could have held out another 10 minutes against Wilderland than they'd be the ones going through. 1-goal, Misty Mts gave up 1 less goal, that was all the difference.

Fram: "For being a spur of the moment idea between a group of friends at a late night gathering, I thought we put on a good show to build on for next year. Obviously our goal at the start of the tournament was to go through to the round of 16, but we have the right spirit and mentality within the team. Now we just need to get an earlier start recruiting, there's a lot of talent to be found along the Great River."

Leod: "There's no reason we can't be back with a greater Anduin team next year. I will do all that I can in Rhovanion and we are lacking royalty amongst the Rohirrim."

Fram: "Indeed and we can even expand our efforts beyond what we were able to do this year. With how late recruiting started, Earnil, Beorn, and I stayed basically within our own lands, but we can definitely go father north and south to get players. There is a lot of untapped talent in the ancient haven of Pelargir."

Misty Mts 1-2 Wilderland
tot shots 13-16
on target 5-8
GOALS:
*41, 1-0 Saruman (DBane)
*62, 1-1 Khamul (Pallando)
*77, 1-2 Scatha (Sauron)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Misty Mts- Saruman, Azog, Landroval, William
*Wilderland- Smaug, Great Warg, Alatar

Final Results: Group B
Wilderland 9p. 8-2(+6)
Misty Mts 4p. 5-3(+2)

Anduin 4p. 5-4(+1)
Esgaroth 0p. 1-10(-9)

Wilderland will face the runner-up of Group G. Misty Mts will play the winner of Group G.

the phantom

07-10-2011, 04:49 PM

Group E

The fans of Mordor and Tol in Gaurhoth were in a foul temper after they discovered that the opening match of Round 3, their match, would be played at 5 PM. "This just proves that the host committee has been attempting to sabotage we baddie teams from the start!"

NogWolf agreed with his opponents on the point. "It's a well known fact that our squads prefer late matches, but in the first two round when matched up against the good teams they forced us to play our games at 11 AM or 3 PM. Now suddenly when it doesn't matter any more they're starting games at more usual times- 5 PM and 9 PM."

Though the squads were unified in their displeasure, it was unlikely there would be any sort of good feelings between the players on the field. Mordor needed a win to clinch a spot in the playoffs, as did TIG. It was possible that both could advance with a loss depending on the outcome of the second game, but neither was willing to leave things to chance.

The Werewolves started hectic and furious in front of the half-empty stadium, playing at a breakneck pace that took the crowd by surprise, and shocked the orcs on the field as well. In the opening four minutes they gained two nice opportunities, but Silent Watcher turned one aside and the other went flying past the post. NogWolf shouted to his squad that they needed to focus their will better to defeat the mental energy of the keeper, but while the Wolves collected themselves Nazgul #4 stole the ball away and sent it down to the rest of the Nazgul and Shelob, who had kept their heads during the entire ordeal.

TIG was unusually slow reacting- their fury had blinded them just a bit, and Nazgul #7 and #6 and Shelob were left facing only KuruWolf while NilpWolf and SkipWolf and the midfield raced to chase them down. Knowing what a rare opportunity it was Nazgul #6 refused to slow up to allow his teammates to join him more fully but instead rushed straight in against KuruWolf and the keeper.

KuruWolf played things well and didn't buy the ball fake and there was a terrific collision! It wasn't clear how it happened, but in the tangle of flailing limbs the ball popped over high towards the right post. ShastaWolf lunged for it, trying to beat the onrushing Nazgul #7 to it, but both arrived at the same time and the ball ricocheted off the keeper's hands, off the Nazgul's head, and straight back and slightly left onto the waiting head of the trailing Shelob who bumped it to the other side, giving the defense no chance to stop it.

The small group of Mordor orcs shouted and banged their noisemakers in approval. Only five minutes in and they were on the board again the vaunted Werewolves of Tol In Gaurhoth! Perhaps the Werewolves had only skated by the other teams because they were able to intimidate them. Mordor wouldn't let that happen to them.

But unfortunately for Mordor Tol In Gaurhoth was more than just scary- they were also fast and strong, and now they were plain furious. Only three minutes later NogWolf leveled the game with a thunderous volley off a Nerwen feed, and five minutes after that NogWolf turned assister, drawing the defense and sending it back to GwathWolf who put in a laser drive for the lead.

The Werewolves calmed down somewhat after gaining the lead, settling down to a more possession based game. But they still remained scoring threats, with InzilWolf going just wide off a corner and NogWolf nearly getting on the sheet again after PhantomWolf released him to face Silent Watcher and Gollum.

Finally at 35 minutes Mordor couldn't dodge the bullet any longer, as SallyWolf headed in a typically nice PhantomWolf corner, and Tol In Gaurhoth had a two goal cushion to be guaranteed first place in the group. Their Wight and Wolf supporters broke out the "Group E Champ" t-shirts they had overconfidently ordered and started chanting "Playoff bound!". OddWight and GreenWight struck up a merry tune on their instruments and soon it was a full fledged party in the seats.

Mordor ignored the activity and doggedly tried to push forward and claw back into the game, but NogWolf had his squad on full Wolf-to-Orc pressure mode and Mordor could barely get it across midfield.

At the start of the second half Mordor came out rested, but the initial push yielded only a couple long prayers and a lob of a drive that ShastaWolf caught easily, and soon Mordor found themselves trying to build from their own half again. The Orcs were just exhausted, and Shelob was barely moving. Only the Nazgul were still the least bit effective, being immune to tiring and bruising as they were, but four players isn't nearly enough to play with.

As the minutes ticked away it was clear that it wasn't happening, and that Tol In Gaurhoth would be sweeping the group. Recognizing this and knowing that if any more scores were going to happen it would be by the Werewolves, the Nazgul admitted defeat and shook with NogWolf effectively ending the game then and there.

The Orcs weren't pleased with the result, but understood that they'd been beaten. Their hopes now rested on Nargothrond in the evening match. Could they defeat the home side and release Mordor through to the playoffs?

Mordor 1-3 Tol In Gaurhoth
tot shots 9-15
on target 3-8
GOALS:
*5, 1-0 Shelob (Nazgul #7)
*8, 1-1 NogWolf (NerWolf)
*13, 1-2 GwathWolf (NogWolf)
*35, 1-3 SallyWolf (PhantomWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mordor- Nazgul #4, Shelob
*TIG- KuruWolf, NogWolf, SallyWolf

The Huorns and Hobbits were out in force for the evening extravaganza. With the loss by Mordor in the early match Bombadil, Treebeard, and The Forest now held their fate in their own twiggy hands.

But they were facing an opponent that still had something to play for. Mordor and The Forest were both sitting at 3 points and -2 differential (Mordor at 5-7), meaning that a 4-2 victory by Nargothrond would put them in a tie for second, while a three-goal victory would place them alone in second, as would a two-goal win scoring more than four goals. It would be difficult- but it wasn't impossible.

As the game kicked off to a constant humming and trumpeting of the thousands of Huorns in the stands, Bombadil and company looked sharp, dominating possession with their midfield and passing expertly up front. Within 20 minutes Bombadil himself put the home team ahead, and the humming of the Huorns increased in volume.

It became downright deafening at just under a half hour as Quickbeam snapped his springy leg with thunderous force into the ball and sent it screaming in past a helpless Barahir. At the 36 minute mark the Hobbits had to grab napkins and tear off pieces of their clothing to shove in their ears, as the Huorns and Ents hoomed their approval at Bombadil's continued fine play- this time feeding Thranduil expertly.

The tree-folk and Hobbits began singing in earnest during halftime and continued into the second half, where they gladly looked on as their squad pulled back and defended their lead. Surely they could keep the less than adept Nargothrond offense from putting up more than three goals.

And it certainly looked to be true at first, but an angry Glaurung whipped up his helpers on the other end and finally struck off a pass from Beor to close it to two. But the Forest didn't look too worried- there was less than twenty minutes left, however at the 86th minute things got just a bit scarier when Glaurung struck again, this time receiving it from Finduilas.

But Bombadil shrugged it off, as he knew there was not enough time for Nargothrond to score twice more, and right he was. The Forest was through to the playoffs!

Nargothrond 2-3 The Forest
tot shots 12-15
on target 5-6
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Bombadil (Thranduil)
*29, 0-2 Quickbeam (RiverWoman)
*36, 0-3 Thranduil (Bombadil)
*71, 1-3 Glaurung (Beor)
*86, 2-3 Glaurung (Finduilas)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Nargothrond- Beor, Gelmir, Mim
*Forest- Saeros, Haleth

The eliminated squads, Mordor and Nargothrond, were quite displeased about their plight, and their players had quite a lot to say after the games. The Nazgul of Mordor were particularly displeased with their orc teammates- specifically naming Radbug and Snaga as weak links, and stating that Mordor would be back next year in a more formidable form.

Finduilas sounded confident that the proud realm of Nargothrond would be back and better the following year, and hopefully with its usual leaders Finrod and Orodreth, as she simply didn't feel comfortable taking their place.

Final Results, Group E

Tol In Gaurhoth 9 pts 9-1 (+8)
The Forest 6 pts 6-7 (-1)

Mordor 3 pts 5-7 (-2)
Nargothrond 0 pts 3-8 (-5)

After sweeping the group Tol In Gaurhoth will play the runner up from Group D in the first round of the playoffs, while The Forest will take on the Group D winner.

Boromir88

07-10-2011, 09:01 PM

Group D

Match 5 - Barad-Dur vs Gondor
Barad-Dur and Gondor began the day behind Eriador in the standings, but were aware that wasn't a huge obstacle. Both teams in the early match believed if they could win this one, they were going to leap-frog Eriador in 2nd place.

The Ost-in-Edhil stadium was mostly full, but filled mostly with locals from Eregion who had no strong allegiances to either team. They were just hoping to see a good match where there were playoffs on the line. Although stronger sympathies appeared to be for Barad-Dur since Gil Galad was still a beloved hero in the area. And they were appreciative of the fact that he was keeping a tight control over the team, not letting The Mouth and his crew get away with their usual sinister shenanigans. The Gondorians were less appreciative of King Isildur, however. How could he play under the banner of their greatest enemy? Sauron gone or not, it was a slap in the face to the proud realm of Men (or so the Gondorians thought).

Barad-Dur started in their normal defensive style, as Gondor came out pressing. It must be said though, The Mouth and his fellows were banging up the Gondorian attackers, appearing to test the ref to see how much roughing up they could get away with. It was working for Barad Dur though, the rough play wasn't effecting the stout Gondorians physically, but it was getting under their skin, frustrating them.

Eorl was taken down in the box, and felt for sure he deserved a penalty kick, but the ref wasn't interested. And when Eorl mocked whether the referee had left his cards in a different pair of pants. The ref showed that he had not forgotten his cards, and booked Eorl for protesting. Gondor was losing composure, that was quite uncharacterstic of them, and it was costly. Since after Eorl was shown a yellow, Barad-Dur was launching one of their quick counter attacks. Isildur was stretching the field wide, trying to draw defenders and open up room in the Gondor box. He crossed it in to Gil Galad, who controlled the pass masterfully and with one touch rolled it into the goal.

Gondor was pressing again, trying to take advantage if Barad-Dur was relaxing a bit too much after getting the lead. Gondor could have, and probably should have equalized in the next 10 minutes had it not been for a heroic effort by Ohtar between the posts. And in the 27th minute Arwen tried to pass it to Eorl, inside the box, but it was cut off and headed away nicely by Anarion. Barad-Dur started the counter again, and this time The Mouth forward too, giving Barad-Dur the advantage in numbers. Gil-Galad and Cirdan were covered, and one Boromir I stepped forward to challenge Isildur, it really was a simple matter of finding the open player, The Mouth who then beat Ecthelion II.

Through the 1st half, Gondor was controlling most of the posession, and most of the shooting, deservedly or not though, they found themselves down 0-2 after 45 minutes. And that's all that mattered. They had allowed Barad-Dur to frustrate them and had become unglued. Even if they could regroup during the break, Gondor fans were biting their nails off, knowing how difficult an 0-2 defecit is to come back from, especially when they really needed the win as a draw would likely not be enough points. While Barad-Dur had seemingly worked out all their inner tensions, as the last few games the baddies have shown good spirit and willingness to play for Gil Galad.

The scripts for the 2nd half was easy to predict. Gondor needed goals and quickly so they came out with more fury than ever before, and with a 2-goal lead Barad Dur would be concentrating all their efforts on defense. Gil Galad was keeping all 11-players behind the ball and Gondor kept pushing them further back, making Barad-dur defend deeper and deeper. There was still no answer for Ohtar's parade of saves, he was playing like he had a real mission or purpose. Perhaps proving to his lord, Isildur, and his team that he was a worthy, dependable goal keeper?

After just about 20 minutes had gone by in the 2nd though, Gondor found the goal they so desperately were searching for. The goal wasn't any accomplishment of brilliance, nor a mistake by Ohtar. It was more or less luck (or unluck if you look from Ohtar's perspective). Since all 11 of Barad-Dur players had been pushed back to defend, it was a jumbled mess in front of Ohtar. Arwen lobbed one into the box, and Eorl got a foot too it, but it was blocked by Gothmog II. After some ping-ponging around, and a failure by Barad Dur to clear the ball away from their goal, it deflected off Eldacar last. Nevertheless, a goal is a goal. It counted and Gondor had reduced the defecit to 1.

Ohtar shared some quick words with his master and it seemed Isildur agreed. They needed to stretch the field a bit and not let everyone slowly get pushed back in front of Ohtar. And it was relatively easy for Barad-Dur to keep most the action at the mid-field and occasionally put pressure on Gondor's defense. Since the intense play by Godor's attackers to start the half had taken a toll on their legs, and it was showing in the tiredness of their faces as well.

These matches are a long grind and so they seemed like they were trying to wear the clock down more than wearing themselves out, and making sure they had enough energy to deal with any of Gondor's attacks that might materialize. So, while Barad-durs shooting was nothing to be mavel at, they were at least forcing Gondor into playing defense and not letting them concentrate all efforts on equalizing.

But as it was closing down the final stretch, Gondor needed goals and began playing more risky. Barad-dur was being forced onto their back heels though as Gondor was relentless. With only a few minutes left Arwen broke free from her Nazgul defender, she was into the box, with only Ohtar left to beat. Lo! Ohtar made a kick save and it was a b-e-a-u'teh. Barad-Dur controlled it for the final seconds, holding on for the win. Gondor was eliminated while the Dark Tower would go through if Eriador could not win Eregion.

After their elimination from the tournament, Gondor secretly shuffled out of the locker room, trying to avoid the media circus outside. Arwen briefly stopped just to comment that the grief of elimination was still too near and would not be taking any questions at this time. After their qualification last year, this must have been a bitter pill for the Gondorians to swallow, and hope they can be back next year with a strong vengeance.

Barad-Dur 2-1 Gondor
tot shots 14-14
on target 5-8
GOALS:
*16, 1-0 Gil-galad (Isildur)
*27, 2-0 Mouth (Isildur)
*64, 2-1 Eldacar (Eorl)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Gothmog II, Mouth, Fellbeast #2
*Gondor- Felarof, Narmacil, Eorl

Match 6 - Eregion vs Eriador
Eriador's only hope now is to beat Eregion and with the form Eregion has shown the first two games this seemed like it would be beyond the powers of the rangers. Even if Eregion had nothing left to play for, already being assured of winning the group, Elrond took great pride in keeping his goal clean and was likely not to throw away goals to allow one team to qualify over another. Still if Eregion was to be beaten, now would be the best time, since they were likely to let up and take it easy.

It was a very slow start to the game, the Rangers were trying to take the initiative but found it extremely difficult against the defense Elrond arranged. The Elves were well versed and prepared for the tactics of Rangers, but Arvedui was equally prepared. With Eriador having just the extra bit of motivation and desperation they slowly started taking over the game.

Their attempts were bearing no goals however. Eriador was not given the time nor space to get off a real quality shot. And in order to beat Elrond, it had to be quality of the very highest. His positioning was perfect every time and whatever shot did make it through the defense, Elrond had easily covered.

Then in the 25th minute, disaster for the Rangers. The Barrow-wight was not intimidating any of the Elven defenders and the Wight had it stolen by Celebrimbor from right under his cold feet. Eregion began their counter attack and much had been made of Earendil's poor performance through 2 games. He was a high price signing, who was expected to fill a hole Elrond's teams always lacked, scoring. But thus far only had 1 assist. The cynics were silenced and the Eregion fans burst into song when Earendil got his first goal for his new team. Arvedui had no chance.

The Rangers were down, but not knocked out and just as quickly as they had fallen behind, they showed Eregion they were not ready to pack their bags just yet. Eregion had a terrible lapse of focus after grabbing the lead, celebrating too early and thinking ahead to their playoff match, instead of the current match? Whatever the case, Araphor got open in the box, after receiving a pass from Aragorn, Asfaloth was the closest defender, but couldn't close down in time. Araphor shot a snipe that Elrond got his fingertips too, but it wasn't enough to deflect the ball off it's tragectory. Araphor's shot scraped the paint off the left post and it was in. Elrond's perfect save percentage was snapped, and after he grabbed the ball from back of the net he gave his defenders a stern glare as if to say "Let's go, keep your head in the game."

It was positive Eriador was able to equalize that quickly, but they would still need another goal, and scoring on Elrond again was judged to be beyond the power of the Rangers. If the first Eregion goal was a disaster, the 2nd was heart break. 10 minutes after Eriador was able to equalize, this time Lindir intercepted a pass and sent it on to Earendil. Earendil broke away from his marker and hammered another shot beyond Arvedui's reach. Now there were no questions as to why Elrond wanted his father on the team in the hearts of the Eregion supporters.

Eriador went into the half looking dejected and their wills broken. There was still a half to be played, but Elrond had never conceded 3 goals in a match, ever. It seemed as though Eriador had already conceded defeat, and without their same determination the 2nd half was a drag. The rangers were only going through the motions now, and Elrond was happy to just let the score stand.

There was another goal in the 64th minute, but it was quite accidental. Elladan ballooned the ball up into the air, Arvedui had come out of his goal to try to snatch it out of the air. However, Bert was trying to jog backwards to head it away, but he tripped over his own feet and knocked ito Arvedui. The ball was bouncing towards the goal line and Amlaith couldn't reach it before it was over the line.

The match ended with no further action. Eriador would be going home with Gondor, while the Eregion fans could spend the next few days celebrating. They won the group and would take on The Forest, and that meant there would be another game played in the beautiful stadium at Ost-in-Edhil in front of Eregion's passionate fans.

*~*~*

Eriador's captains were not going to run back with their tails between their legs however, they were far too noble for that.

Aragorn: "We knew it would be a tough challenge once Barad-Dur knocked out Gondor in the first match but we are better than what we showed tonight. We had our chances, but should have done better, not only in this game but in the others as well."

Arvedui: "I know after our success last year this must be a major let down to our loyal fans. We have had a plan in mind for the last few years, but didn't quite have the finances to get the deal done this year. We promise there will be a new and exciting look to this squad next year and hope our fans have not lost confidence in us."

Eregion 3-1 Eriador
tot shots 13-16
on target 6-7
GOALS:
*25, 1-0 Earendil (Glorfindel)
*28, 1-1 Araphor (Aragorn)
*38, 2-1 Earendil (Lindir)
*64, 3-1 Elladan (Glorfindel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eregion- Asfaloth
*Eriador- Bert, Aranarth

Final Results: Group D
Eregion 9p. 7-1(+6)
Barad-Dur 4p. 4-5 (-1)

Eriador 2p. 5-7(-2)
Gondor 1p. 3-6(-3)

Eregion will play The Forest in Round 1, while Barad-Dur will face Tol In Gaurhoth.

Boromir88

07-11-2011, 02:02 AM

Group H

Match 5 - Minas Morgul vs Minas Tirith
Minas Tirith had the ever slightest chance of advancing still, even though no one was betting on their chances to do so. Minas Morgul was currently tied with Dunharrow for second, and would be under the enormous expectation to put down their enemy for good, while Dunharrow would have the more difficult task of having to play Lothlorien.

The stadium was loud and the tension was thick before kick-off. Faramir, Imrahil, Eowyn they were well aware they had not played up to form, but they have also faced the evil of the Witch-King before and had succeeded. So, perhaps a bloody and ancient rivalry was enough to awaken their team to a greater effort. There was actually more Rohirrim in the stands than Minas Tirithians, not only because the Rohirrim greatly desired the defeat of Minas Morgul, but many of their own heroes such as Eomer, Eowyn, and Cirion were playing for Minas Tirith as well. But as we had seen in the first 2 rounds, Minas Morgul had been unleashed and travelled to Dunharrow. It was a great atmosphere for a game, as there were the Minas Morgul fans and then everyone else, rooting against them. There was no room to plead neutrality in this match.

Unfortunately, the players on the field did not like eachother either and their actions only seemed to rile the fans into acting on their violent thoughts. The game was an absolute blood bath as 2 players were each sent off and Gamling and Theoden's royal guard had their hands full securing the stadium. Many in the crowd had to be forcibly removed as there seemed to be a brawl in the stands that took place every 5 minutes. Minas Morgul griped that their fans were shown the exit far quicker and for less heinous acts than the Minas Tirith sections.

Thankfully, no one was killed, at least within the Dunharrow compound (MEFA is checking into the accounts of deaths outside the stadium and whether it was football related). But the numbers seemed to support the Minas Morgul argument as, of those who reported injuries: 24 were Minas Morgul fans, 28 were not. So, the number of injured were pretty even, but the number of ejections were not: 246 Minas Morgul fans were kicked out of the stadium, compared to 11 people supporting Minas Tirith.

But enough of the politics of crowd control, as there was still an important game that needed to be played and what a game it would be!

Eowyn opened the scoring for Minas Tirith in the 21st minute, she had been having a terrible performance, but was able to rise to the occassion today, in front of her home fans who still adored their Shieldmaiden.

However, the Witch-King seemed to take Eowyn scoring the goal, personally. He was not going to be out down by the Lady of Rohan again. So, in a combination of skill, power, and fear the Witch-King worked the ball nicely with the wannabe-King and Minas Morgul was equal. When the Witch-King shot it, he let out a terrible screech, the Minas Tirith defenders trying to clog up the box suddenly collapsed onto the ground. Cirion did his best to save it, but really he had no chance, not with the force the Witch-King had struck on that one.

Would giving up the equalizing goal so close to the end of the half demoralize Minas Tirith? As surrending late goals has a tendancy to do? For they had been playing well in this one, so far. There was still honor and strength out of the great fortress of Gondor, and were not playing at all like many of the pundits had anticipated.

And only 5 minutes into the 2nd, the pundits appeared right as Minas Tirith was becoming unhinged. Denethor II had been jawing with Castamir through out the game. Castamir had been heard taunting that he was surprised the see Denethor get his bum off the throne for once And Castamir had heard there was a beacon close by that Denethor could climb and light himself on after he took the throne of Gondor. Denethor shoved Castamir to the ground. Even if Denethor was provoked into the foul, the ref had no other choice, it was a yellow to Denethor. His second of the match, and Minas Tirith would now be a man short with nearly 40 minutes still left.

It did not take long for Minas Morgul to capitilize on the guile of Castamir. 7 minutes after Denethor had been sent off Herumor banged one in, off a beautiful pass from the King Dead. The mountains began to shake from the stomping, cheering, and celebrations of Minas Morgul. They had the 1-man advantage, and now a 1-goal lead, so it was only a matter of time before the pathetic Minas Tirithians would be crushed.

However, shortly after Minas Morgul took the lead, fortunes would begin to turn against them. When you are facing a hated enemy, you don't always think with the clearest head. Such was the case for the Witch-King who wanted to completely humiliate his opponents. It was costly, as the Witch-King pushed his full team forward, Faramir stepped in to intercept and quickly passed the ball on to Eomer. Eomer was all alone and racing straight on towards Earnur. Angamaite was behind and decided he had to stop Eomer by taking him out from the back. It was a yellow for Angamaite, his second, and now he was sent off.

It was now 10 on 10 and truthfully the ref could have sent off more, but there was still over 25 minutes to play and he appeared to just say no more. If the two teams wanted to leave the field, hobbled, bruised, and bloodied that was their choice, he wasn't going to turn this into a 7 on 7 game.

Even with the advantage gone, a 2-1 victory was not going to be good enough for the Witch-King. How could he return to Minas Morgul with honor, only barely beating his weakling enemies? So, he came at Minas Tirith with even more fury. His aggression would be his undoing as Cirion was stopping everything that came at him this time. And when Cirion saw the back line of Minas Morgul draw further up to attack, Cirion caught Beruthiel's shot, he passed it out wide to Imrahil. The Minas Morgul defenders all tried desperately to run back as Eomer, Tarondor, Eowyn, and Faramir were all breaking forward. They did manage to get back, but did not have time to get their defense set, and the confusion led to Tarondar knocking in the equalizer.

With 15 minutes left in the match, the Witch-King finally appeared to wisen up, and suck up his pride. As a draw might not be the most desired result, if he were to actually lose to Minas Tirith and put their playoff chance at risk, he would never be able to return to Minas Morgul with honor (if there is such a thing as honor in Mordor?)

Minas Tirith had really nothing to lose and were going straight up for the win, which greatly pleased the crowd. The final 15 was filled with tension, excitement, and watching Minas Morgul truly be on the ropes desperately trying to hold on to the 1 point. However, there would be no winning goal, as unlike other GKs, Earnur has appeared to step up his game after his poor friendlies. Minas Morgul barely hung on, but they did and for the time being were sitting in 2nd with 4 pts, while Dunharrow was at 3, and Minas Tirith would be going home.

*~*~*

Minas Tirith did manage to come away with a point, and against Minas Morgul which should appease their fanbase somewhat. But if the reaction of the Minas Tirith fans after the game was indicative of the headlines in tomorrow's papers back in Gondor, then Minas Tirith was facing a PR nightmare.

Hurin of the Keys: I had been given leave from my gate duties so I could come and watch the games here. Being the Warden of Keys is pretty boring since there's been a declaration of peace, but I gotta tell you, I should have just stayed at the gate if I knew I'd be forced to watch this disaster. Yeah, we managed to draw in the last one, but big deal. Where are the great ship kings, Falastur and Hyarmendacil? Where is the faithful Steward, Mardil? Or our greatest generals, Earnil and the Boromir's? They're all playing for other teams, and it sickens me to see the leaders of this team apparently not even try to go after them, or keep them here. Their names our legendary, and can't get behind this team until I start seeing some of these names playing again for the White Tree and towered-City.

Minas Morgul 2-2 Minas Tirith
tot shots 17-14
on target 7-6
GOALS:
*21, 0-1 Eowyn (Imrahil)
*42, 1-1 Witch King (Castamir)
*58, 2-1 Herumor (King Dead)
*75, 2-2 Tarondar (Eomer)
YELLOW CARDS:
*MMorgul- Beruthiel, Angamaite, Castamir, Fuinur, Nazgul #3
*MTirith- Denethor II, Eomer, Beregond, Grimbold, Firefoot
RED CARDS:
*MMorgul- Angamaite (63, second yellow)
*MTirith- Denethor II (51, second yellow)

Match 6 - Dunharrow vs Lothlorien
After the violence displayed in the earlier game, it was a completely opposite atmosphere for the 2nd. The Lothlorien supporters were greatly outnumbered in the stands, but with no known quarrels, the Rohirrim respected them. And were also pleased to host a team with Feanor, they had not seen a star of Feanor's skill in Rohan before. Likewise, Lothlorien appreciated their hosts. There was a certain gritiness to Dunharrow that people just loved to see in a team. Clearly, not the most talented players, but they would play you fair and straight up, a worthy opponent to be up against.

There was so much kindness and love-mongering the couple thousand Minas Morgul fans who stayed to watch as this game would mean something in Minas Morgul's fate actually wound up leaving before first kick. "It's nauseating" grumbled Gorthakh. "It wouldn't surprise me if Lothlorien allowed Dunharrow to win 1-0, just to keep our team out."

Minas Morgul was not surprised then, when at the start, Dunharrow was the team pressuring and Lothlorien was more or less just letting them have the ball. "See I told you!" snarled Shaktor, another Minas Morgul supporter who then promptly got up and left.

Despite letting Dunharrow hold on to possession, they were having a terrible time trying to create good chances. Gandalf was a true wizard back in the defense and Shadowfax was tireless. Most of Dunharrow's shots to begin the game had went sailing harmlessly off target, and no trouble to Galadriel.

Around the 20 minute mark, Dunharrow was not used to keeping up offensive pressure for long, Helm and the attacking mid-fielders were showing signs of slowing down. Then Lothlorien had actually started to build their own attacks. It was rather surprising, since Galadriel is known for being stubbornly defensive minded and only looking for counters. But now they were taking control of possession, holding the ball and forming an actual, consistent offense, led by Feanor. And in the 33rd minute, Legolas is not known for his long-distance precision for no reason. There was an open shooting lane , and Aldor wasn't in the best of position having his view blocked by the tall Boromir. It still took a lot of skill and accuracy for Legolas to squeeze it through the tight crowd and keep the ball down just enough to sneak it under the top cross bar.

The Rohirrim were silent, Lothlorien was in no interest to hand the game to them, so how were they going to manage 2 goals when they were playing wise? The Minas Morgul fans, who were now all at the local watering holes were pleasantly surprised. Maybe Galadriel and Lothlorien were not as bad as they thought? And they were always awed by Feanor's skill, who's Hithlum team played theirs a few Arda cups ago.

The 2nd half whistle blew, and Dunharrow again tried pushing for a goal, but the Lothlorien defense was having none of it today. They were completely shutting down Dunharrow. In like a virtual replay of the 1st period, Lothlorien began getting more control of the possession.

In the 72nd minute, they were awarded a corner kick, and what was this, Gimli was taking it? But he's a defensive mid-fielder and is never involved in the offense? And Celeborn too!? Was Lothlorien just trying to show off now or something? With far better success than anyone anticipated, Gimli sent in a beautiful cross from the corner that Celeborn headed in, giving Lothlorien a 2 goal lead now.

And after that goal the game really slowed down as when Lothlorien had the ball they just kicked it around, winding down the time. If Dunharrow had it, they were still making an effort, but nothing. Without the motivation, you weren't going to beat Gandalf's masterful defense nor Galadriel's determination.

Before heading into the showers (since Galadriel always waited for all the males to be done first anyway) she stayed on the field to comment about the game.

Galadriel: We decided now was a good time to try a few different things, to see if we could execute. Making it out of the group stage is one thing, but advancing deep into the playoffs is a completely different challenge. Feanor has been there before and it would be unwise for us to not listen to his experience. I thought now would be a good opportunity to try out his ideas on a possession game and building a controlled offense, in a real game situation.

What about the corner-kick taken by Gimli, will we see more of that later?

Galadriel: Most likely not, that was just for fun if we could afford it. My husband was a striker last year, and has always had some creative offensive ideas. I thought we could use him better in defense this year, but to let him go up for that play if he wanted to. Gimli is an excellent defender, and that means he also has a powerful boot. I admit I was surprised that he delivered that good of a corner, but I doubt I'll use him again in those situations for the playoffs.

Galadriel listening to Feanor and talking about her players having 'fun?' Is this the real Galadriel and if they were playing as relaxed and confident as they have through the group stages, opponents beware, they are serious contenders for the trophy.

*~*~*

Unlike some other teams who had to take a journey home, the Dunharrow team, as the hosts, really could not run and hide. They needed to stay home and face the questions over their elimination from the local media.

Theoden: Listen. "Our fate was in our hands in the final match of the group. We were just up against a better team, and it's really that simple."

Aldor: "There's a lot of positives to take from this team, but in order to compete and get better we need to bring back some old names. Honestly. There is absolutely no reason Eorl should not be with us, and the great mearas for that matter too. We were at our most competitive with them on the defense and Eorl leading the attack."

Theoden: "Aldor's right. It seems to me that Eorl needs to be reminded, while he made an oath to ride to Gondor's aid whenever he was called upon, that this oath is non-binding in football. He needs to return and play for his people."

Dunharrow 0-2 Lothlorien
tot shots 15-14
on target 4-8
GOALS:
*33, 0-1 Legolas (Feanor)
*72, 0-2 Celeborn (Gimli)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dunharrow- Snowmane, Folca
*Lothlorien- Shadowfax

Final Results: Group H
Lothlorien 9p. 7-1(+6)
Minas Morgul 4p. 5-5(0)

Dunharrow 3p. 3-5(-2)
Minas Tirith 1p. 3-7(-4)

Lothlorien will go to their enchanted forest to play Tirion. Minas Morgul will take the long journey to Doriath.

Nogrod

07-11-2011, 01:14 PM

Group G

Before the final games at Valmar it was clear that Valinor was through to the knock-out phase and Gondolin’s story would end this year into the group-play. But Beleriand and Pelori were still contending for the other qualifying post – and actually, if Pelori would win Valinor they would claim the number one seat of the group and avoid meeting Doriath on the second round of qualifiers although then most probably forced to meet Westernesse on the next. Most pros agreed the position on the upper quarter was the tougher one for Group G, but it was not an uncontested belief. Be that as it may, it’s obvious there are no easy games reaching final four, or even eight, and winning the championship would require the team to win every game after the group-rounds.

~*~

Many Gondolian players and supporters had shown openly their dismay over the Nogrodian-issue and voiced their support to both the players and fans of team Beleriand, but that didn’t seem to affect their willingness to play against them seriously, even if they had no chance of qualifying themselves. But looking at the poor performance of team Gondolin this year it is understandable they didn’t want to return home with only lost games under their belt and be compared to teams like Shire-Bree Utd. or Mithrim.

And they played a very entertaining and even game – rekindling the discussion some media had entertained before the group-phase of whether this group was just too strong compared to many others and whether they both would had qualified in other groups – leading to the discussion about Manwë’s role once again pulling the strings behind the curtains to his whims. Whatever the case, both teams showed a lot of talent and fighting spirit – and with the fate of the second qualifier at stake the audiences were given a treat indeed.

Gondolin went into the lead on 24th minute when Salgant’s big shot hit the woodworks and Turgon shoved the rebound in from close range. But Beleriand equalized before the half-time with Aegnor’s great run on the flank and crossing that found Belegund’s head from between the Gondolian defenders.

The second half was no less exciting as both teams fought seriously for the win. Due to the differences in strategies Gondolin seemed to have more of the possession and it actually created a few more quality-shots, but Beleriand was always dangerous when it got the ball and had it’s fair share of scoring-chances.

But after some few nice opportunities on both sides of the pitch it was Gondolin who took the lead again with Egalmoth scoring his first goal of the tournament from an ingenious single-performance by Idril who had been getting warmer game by game – but to both it applied they had performed well under the level that had been anticipated from them.

Getting the lead again half an hour before the end Gondolin dropped back a bit flexibly strengthening the defenses on the cost of their attacking power. With some more room to breathe in the midfield Beleriand went for it with all they dared. Even if they were forced to meet a few really frightening counter-attacking by Gondolin, the tactics eventually paid off and a fair ten minutes before the final whistle the game was even once again. After a strong pressure around Gondolin’s box Nellas finally found a gap from between the defenders and Marach made a rightly timed run for it while Nellas, who was very much used to work with men, delivered. And Marach scored with a kingly shot the leader of men should.

Beleriand was deliberately after one more goal the last ten minutes, but Gondolin heightened their defenses and started pressing the Beleriand forwards and midfielders again shutting them off from any decent scoring-positions while making quick counter-attacks in hopes of scoring themselves, but also for keeping the Beleriand defenses on full alert.

The game ended a draw. It was a disappointment to Gondolin, but to Belerianders it was a huge disappointment. Somehow they had believed in their qualification all the time. Forcing Pelori to a draw had really heightened their spirits and even if they were hard-pressed also in this game they still thought they had what it takes to qualify from this tough a group. But it was no to them this time.

The feelings were quite mixed in the post-game press-conference where the representatives of both teams were questioned by the media. Marach was adamant about the talent and skills of his team and actually blamed both the AFA- and hosting-organisations. “We would have qualified in almost any other group. And we will be demanding a public inquiry into what happened with those dwarves coming innocently to support our team. That you can understand has stressed the players as we haven’t been able to get rid of the feeling the local authorities have something against us – or at least something against us having a fair chance in the competition.”

When asked whether he had nothing to blame himself for, he first denied there being anything, but after some pressing he was willing to admit they could try to get into the recruiting business earlier the next year to get a bit more of the huge Beleriand talent brought into their team as well.

When asked about the dwarves he had this to say: “Well, they are naturally upset and feel wronged, almost attacked upon personally, and they will not leave these lands with any warm memories. And they are determined the case should be studied and those responsible punished, how high that chain of wrongdoers might go. But I’m afraid you’re not going to see Telchar and Gamil Zirak representing team Beleriand the next year as they seem to be having something on the works they’re not willing to disclose of quite yet. But I don’t know anything more about it.”

Turgon on the other hand seemed much less self-confident, and at times he looked more like confused facing the critical questions.

The AKM: “It seems that not only many fans of Gondolin but even some of the players are asking whether they backed the wrong house this year. Many seem to be yarning back to Maeglin and Aredhel to lead the team. What is your take on these views?”

Turgon: “Well… well, I can’t know what other people think or be responsible for them… That might be the view of some, but you must ask them.”

Gondolin Evening Standard: “Are you going to cling on the captaincy or are you ready to give up on your own initiative?”

Turgon: “Deals are always affairs between two sides and I think it is premature to jump into any conclusions now… but, erm… well I can see such a future where I’d need to reconsider my place in the tournament.”

Beleriand 2-2 Gondolin
tot shots 13-14
on target 5-7
GOALS:
*24, 0-1 Turgon (Salgant)
*40, 1-1 Belegund (Aegnor)
*60, 1-2 Egalmoth (Idril)
*77, 2-2 Marach (Nellas)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Beleriand- Telchar, Daeron, Angrod
*Gondolin- Meleth, Salgant, Thorondor

With the afternoon game ending as a draw both Valinorian teams were through to the knock-out phase. That in turn focused the dynamics of the late game into the battle-out between Manwë and Tulkas; the battle between conservative defensive football vs. a more flaring, attacking style of the game. Some commentators even talked about the stakes been a lot higher this way than they would have been if it had been “only” a question of qualifying.

Everyone knows the Valier have and have had some disagreements between them, but through history they have always been quite good in handling the media hiding most inner rifts away from the public. And you all have probably heard those rumors about the compilers of Valaquenta sentenced to solitary confinement at some remote location to the farthest west of the West – or even to the abyss by some rumors. But here the rift was open and public. Tulkas had challenged Manwë stealing part of his team with him and openly announcing he’d play different, and he’d play better; not contending himself to play one goal wins deliberatively as to keep things calm and friendly. And now with nothing else to play for the game was clearly reduced (or elevated, actually) to a contest between the superpowers and their different ideologies – on a Valar scale, like it was no row over different views of say Gondorians and Rohanians, or the orcs of Orthanc vs. the orc of Sauron.

And what a classic the audiences witnessed in Valmar that evening! If you have a frend who says he doesn’t understand why football is such a great sport by some people, get the official dvd/Blue Ray from the AFA-licenced dealer nearest to you and show him this game. If your friend doesn’t become a football fan the AFA will be returning half of the purchase price to you!

Now the game would have been great just because of the highest possible quality of the players on the field (resulting in some most dashing individual & team performances seen in this year’s tournament) and the stakes the teams were playing (which could be sensed in the field with both teams playing every situation to the end with stamina – but also as the unceasing attentiveness and nervousness of the crowds creating the athmophere to the game). But it had yet another facet that originated from purely tactical issues, but which really set this game alight. And that was, that both of the teams wanted to possess the ball, to have it with their team, to build up great combination-attacks with chains of quick passing. And they normally had it their way as they normally dominated the field with their individual skills and tactical wisdom many other teams lacked. But now they had more or less an equal opponent who was not ready to give in an inch. “The ball was fought over more fiercely than the Silmarils in the past” – like Hunter U. Nogson put it in his tweet.

But there was also a tactical difference between the teams – which actually did a lot to affect the outcome of the game. Pelori plays a defensive and conservative game which means they have the philosophy of “defense first” – and thus attack rather with longer preparation and longer chains of passing taking care always they have their back secured if they happen to lose the ball at some stage of the build-up. Valinor on the on the other hand plays balanced game where they do not wish to either send everyone up or pull everyone down, but want to maintain a balanced spread of players throughout the field at all times – which enables them to do some flashingly fast turn-overs sending the ball from their own box to the opponent’s box with three or four mid-ranged passes in a question of seconds in the best situation – or to exert a really tiring pressure to the opponent’s build-up being spread evenly on all areas of the pitch and thus giving the opponent no free-rides while they advance.

But yes, the game itself. As many had anticipated, team Valinor came into the game with furious energy while Pelori played more coolly – which didn’t mean they played it sloppily or passively, had they done either, Valinor would have scored immediately. But with tough defensing they managed to suffocate the Valinor attacks time by time again. Then again, when Pelori gained the control of the ball the Valinor-players were immediately on them and Pelori’s slow build-ups were challenged left and right all over the field until the ball was stolen and Valinor went for it with 110% energy again only to bang their heads on the toughest defense.

That is the basic view of half one. Which gives one just a rough outline of the overall dynamics of the half. But what performances! What fighting! Nerdanel and Miriel threatened the Pelori defenses a few times slipping off the pressure – but one time it was Manwë who stretched to a fabulous save, another time it was the post (which didn’t stretch) that denied them a goal. Arien’s free-kick from 20 meters went just a few inches wide in a situation where Manwë was clearly late, while Yavanna’s genius high-shot over Manwë, who had come a bit too long way forwards from his goal when Namo lost the ball, landed on the roof of the goal.

But Pelori had their chances as well. Quite early on the game Pelori were building a pressure when Lórien seduced both Tulkas and Vairë to him and fooled them with the last second pass to Eönwë – who missed the goal just barely left to shoot from a totally open place. Varda forced Ingwë to a few spectacular saves on the first half from some neat build-ups of the whole offense of Pelori – the last one of them Ingwë managed to tip away with his fingertips just barely as the ball hit the post then and went over the line.

The following corner-kick produced the first goal of the match. Eönwë gave the corner sending the ball into the crowded center in front of the goal. Indis got her head on it and headed it forwards… but it landed straight on Nienna’s feet 25 meters from the goal. The rush in front of the goal got out of order for a moment, the defenders looking for the nearest target they should tie down as Pelori attackers were trying to relocate - and Nienna looked like she was going to return the ball back into the front of the goal for a header. But she didn’t. Instead, Oromë made a run away from the goal and towards Nienna who saw his sudden move and passed the ball towards him – and Oromë performed a wonderful turn-around kick from full speed getting both the defenses and Ingwë by surprise. It happened like in two seconds of which on the latter second the defenses realized what was happening but by then they had no time to react. And the shot was perfect; to the upper left corner of the goal far out of reach for Ingwë. Just four minutes before the half-time Pelori had taken the lead!

The second half began with more or less the same. Oftentimes when football commentators write this sentence they actually mean “it was soo boring the second half as well”. But not this time! It was exactly the similar kind of action packed, beautiful, hair-raising, talented, tough… you name your superlatives-game like the first half.

But the tactical imbalance between the teams some keenest eyes might have noticed on the first half started to show more openly on the second half. So while Pelori had everyone defending when Valinor was attacking – even Eönwë and Varda were seen tackling the opponents deep down in their half of the pitch – Tulkas kept on with his balanced spread of players. And that lead to nasty situations the few times when Valinor was not able to break the Pelori passing-game as then the defenses were easily outnumbered as Nerdanel, Miriel and Arien were especially told not to run to the help of them – and even Yavanna and Olwë were strongly discouraged by Tulkas to meddle in the affairs lower their places in the field. And from one just this kind of situation Pelori made it 2-0.

With some quick passing from about 30 meters to the box Pelori managed to create a 4 against 3 situation. Oromë and Ilmarë took with them a defender each (Tulkas was especially following Oromë after his goal and Ilmarë made a fake diagonal run forcing Vairë to trail him) thus leaving Eönwë and Varda together against Indis – and Lórien played the ball fast to the two who with a few touches got behind her. Varda served and Eönwë hammered the ball in from a few yards right of the penalty spot leaving Ingwë no chance.

That was so unexpectable! Pelori was leading 2-0 less than half an hour to go! The crowds had seen an even game, they had seen Pelori going 1-0, they had seen all that had happened on the second half… but if you had asked a random spectator, who would score next, 70% would have said Valinor. But was not what happened.

Anyway, Valinor started a unforeseen fight back. They had almost half an hour – and they went for it with all they had. There were only few major attacks built up carefully by Pelori during the rest of the game. Valinor players were just all over the place cutting any lines of passing from the Pelori if Manwë’s team managed to steal the ball for a moment – and getting the ball back to the team Valinor, in a wink of an eye they were on full attack again. But the Pelori defense was tougher the crowds had ever seen.

Many football aficionados use the term “Manwë’s defense”. It means a defense so thick and tough the opponent has no way of getting through. Now this had to be “Manwë’s defense 2.0”. For had there been any lesser team against Valinor that last half an hour Valinor could have scored ten goals or something. Nerdanel, Miriel and Arien were showing both their skills and dedication to the fullest with stupendous tricks with all the heel-passes, dribbles, fake-runs turning into real runs, switching of places… you call it. And Yavanna, Estë and Nessa were giving the defenses hard times as well.

If someone hadn’t noticed it yet, Tulkas’ team was a real female powerhouse! Especially in this game where Ingwë had allowed two goals (even if the execution of the shots had been of master-level), Tulkas and Vairë had not been able to shut out the Pelori offence everytime and Olwë had been quite invisible. But the ladies really made a show of the last half an hour.

And they scored on 79th minute. The goal had been “hanging in the air” for quite a time, but a fair ten minutes before the final whistle Arien, Miriel and Nerdanel found the right footmarks sawing the Pelori defense into pieces. In all fairness one would call for the rule a goal could have two passers put on record in football like in ice-hockey – but it’s such a conservative sports any such idea will take a thousand years to become reality – like video-checking or anything.

This time it was Arien who was left with no mark on her statistics even if she was an integral part of the goal both building up the situation in the first place and then on the decisive moment drawing both Nienna and Námo on her and passing the ball to the two others. That doesn’t mean Nerdanel’s trick freeing herself from Gwaihir wasn’t spectacular, or that Miriel’s shot when hard pressed by Nahar wasn’t pure genius; not the least as coming from between the legs of the mighty horse Manwë had no chance to see it coming and was totally out of the whole situation.

The last ten minutes were just the greatest thriller one could buy a ticket for. Valinor were pressing even harder for an equalizer and Pelori gathered all their players under the ball. Some even claim they saw Manwë having sweat-drops on his forehead which for a goalie were not so much from the physical exercise but the mental tension.

But Valinor ran out of time. They had two decent opportunities to score in the last ten minutes, but on the first one Gwaihir managed to divert the freeing pass by Nerdanel with the tip of his wing at the last moment and on another Arien dived just a few inches short of a pass from the flank by Yavanna.

Pelori won the game and the group. Manwë was smiling calmly but not too cordially not to outrage his brother any more. Tulkas was clearly enraged but held himself under control with all the brothers and sisters and Maiar and high-elves around.

But Manwë did approach his brother pulling off his Pelori jersey while he came closer, and offered his shirt to him willing to exchange it to his shirt, like the traditional football gesture goes showing the player who suggests the change appreciates you or holds you in a high esteem, or stresses your friendship over a heated game. In front of the tens of thousands Tulkas had no chance but to accept the offer and he pulled off his shirt as well and gave it to Manwë. The crowds cheered with the gesture of fairness and friendship, but it was clear that to Manwë Tulkas’ shirt would be a trophy of his victory over the brother who tried to rebel, but for Tulkas it would be a bitter reminder of his brother beating him. No surprise Tulkas didn’t pull Manwë’s shirt on him – and Manwë didn’t want to provoke him anymore and also left the stadium his torso naked only hanging Tulkas’ shirt in his arm.

A small incident was though recorded by the media when the teams walked out of the field and into the locker-rooms. For Nessa and Oromë chanced to come walking side by side. Then Oromë had looked at his sister with a smirk and asked: “Wasn’t your mighty husband of the opinion that one goal wins are boring?”

After that the accounts spread and no one knows for sure how it continued as they went into the tunnel leading into the lockers right there, but some media report that Nessa had hit her brother, while some others say she just ignored him; but there is also the story that Nessa had been quite upset calling her brother a traitor, and that had he just answered the call of Tulkas, things would be a lot better.

Tulkas never appeared to the after-game press-conference, but Manwë did, even he was sparing his words. Actually he only wished to make a statement. It was short, and went like this:

Manwë: “I’m not going to answer any questions tonight. But I will make a statement. I know there has been a lot of controversy over this group in general and there will be some of this game in particular. Now you are free to think about both of them as you like. It’s not our duty to be your thought-police. But we – and here I mean myself and the honourable defender of my squad, Mandos, Namo to some, – are the ones to interpret Eru’s vision and we are in charge of executing it. It is a heavy duty and it might go sometimes against what we would will ourselves, and we do feel burdened obeying the vision. But that’s what we have to do. I know this will not answer directly to the two questions you wish to ask from me, but to those of you wise enough, you’ll see I have come clean with it. Now thank you all for your interest, but this is it this time.”

Pelori 2-1 Valinor
tot shots 14-16
on target 7-6
GOALS:
*41, 1-0 Orome (Nienna)
*63, 2-0 Eonwe (Varda)
*79, 2-1 Miriel (Nerdanel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Pelori- Gwaihir, Nahar
*Valinor- Yavanna, Indis

Final results, Group G

Pelori 7p. 5-3(+2)
Valinor 6p. 7-4(+3)

Beleriand 2p. 4-6(-2)
Gondolin 1p. 4-7(-3)

Pelori will face the runners up from Group B and Valinor will meet the winners of group B.

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-11-2011, 08:20 PM

Standings:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-grp3rd-1.png

(1) secured first seed
(2) secured second seed
(x) eliminated

Bracket:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-brkt-16-2.png

Power Ranking:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-grp3rd-pr.png

(Teams in bold are group leaders; teams in italics are eliminated.)

Greatest gain:
+9 The Forest
+7 Anduin
+3 Barad-dûr, Hithlum
+2 Tol Eressëa, Beleriand
Greatest loss:
-9 Mordor
-7 Númenor
-5 Dunharrow
-3 Gondor, Shire-Bree Utd

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking--the lower the aggregate, the higher the rank. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss-record; b) goal differential; and c) goals scored.

The offensive ranking is based on the goals scored by the teams throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) greater number of shots made on target; b) greater number of shots made; and c) lowest aggregate of defensive ranking of the other three teams in the group.

The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed by the teams throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) least number of shots allowed on target; b) least amount of shots allowed; and c) lowest aggregate of offensive ranking of the other three teams in the group.

Phantasy Numbers:
(Players in italics are from eliminated teams.)

GOALS + ASSISTS
4+2
Túrin (Doriath)

4+0
Ancalagon (Angband)
Hador (Hithlum)

3+2
Bombadil (The Forest)

3+1
Gothmog (Anfauglith)
Legolas (Lothlórien)

3+0
Arien (Valinor)
Húrin (Doriath)
Scatha (Wliderland)
Glaurung (Nargothrond)

2+4
Maeglin (Anfauglith)

2+3
Curufin (Hithlum)
Glorfindel (Eregion)

2+2
Maedhros (Himring)
Thuringwethil (Angband)
Elros (Westernesse)
Celegorm (Hithlum)
Léod (Dunharrow)

1+3
Beleg (Doriath)
Sauron (Wilderland)
Fëanor (Lothlórien)

GOALKEEPER - SAVES
18 saves
1. Elrond (Eregion) 18/19 - 94.7%

16 saves
2. Ohtar (Barad-dûr) 16/21 - 76.2%
3. Aldor (Dunharrow) 16/21 - 76.2%

14 saves
4. Fram (Anduin) 14/18 - 77.8%
5. Orodreth (Tirion) 14/21 - 66.7%
6. Imlach (Hithlum) 14/24 - 58.3%

GOALKEEPER - SAVE %
Tar-Atanamir (Westernesse) 9/9 - 100.0%
Elrond (Eregion) 18/19 - 94.7%
Huan (Doriath) 11/12 - 91.7%
Galadriel (Lothlórien) 10/11 - 90.9%
ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth) 8/9 - 88.9%
Grimbeorn (Wilderland) 9/11 - 81.8%
Amandil (Tol Eressëa) 9/11 - 81.8%

YELLOW CARDS
3 yellow cards
Amrod (Himring)
Orophin (Anduin)
Balrog #4 (Anfauglith)
Alien (The Downer)
Castamir (Minas Morgul)
Angamaitë (Minas Morgul)
Denethor II (Minas Tirith)

Boromir88

07-12-2011, 11:23 AM

OCTOFINALS - PREDICTIONS
BoroLXXXVIII, Two Towers Network

Round 3 saw somewhat of a drop off in accuracy from Round 2, but still feeling pretty good. Especially since my phantasy team picked up the sluggish start, and now with the playoffs starting, another comeback in the mix? I think so.

In a battle of journalistic integrity verses fanaticism, I must say that the Felagundian has it slightly better as far as their favorite teams remaining and the chances of those teams. The mood within the Two Tower's Broadcast is pretty depressed from the pathetic showing of their teams. Minas Tirith and Gondor were garbage and their players looked lifeless. Minas Morgul and Barad-dur managed to sneak in, but they're about to get blown out of the playoffs by the Doriath and Tol In Gaurhoth machines. Not looking sunny for The Two Towers Network of teams this year, that's for sure.

Still, there's a job to be done and since I have no choice but to be fair and objective, no one wants to miss this...

(For easy reading, after rating all the teams in offense, defense, and goal keeping, the team next to the category is the one we feel has the advantage in the match. So, Match 1, Doriath has the advantage in all 3. And "even" means we could not find any significant advantage/disadvantage between the teams matched up.

Match 1 - Minas Morgul at Doriath

OFF: Doriath

DEF: Doriath

GK: Doriath

Prediction: You get the picture right? Minas Morgul fans will travel to Dunharrow, but they won't make the trip all the way to Doriath just to see them get creamed. In every aspect of the game Doriath is furlongs ahead of the Tower of Sorcery, and there will be a huge home crowd advantage in Melian and Thingol's realm. 3-0 Doriath

Match 2 - Valinor at Wilderland

OFF: Even

DEF: Wilderland

GK: Wilderland

Prediction: It seems as if Wilderland will have the edge here, just based on the numbers (and they're staying at home). However, I think it wise to take into account the relative difficulty of the groups. Valinor was in a First Age loaded group, and also another Valar team, while Wilderland was in an all Third Age group and they had some bit of difficulty with it. Wilderland's only confident win was against Esgaroth, and everyone knows how low life that team was this year. Anduin and Misty Mts gave them some fits, which doesn't spell success against an angered Valinor team. It'll be a high scoring affair, and probably one of the better matches in this round. 3-2 Valinor

Match 3 - Tol Eressea at Angband

OFF: Angband

DEF: Tol Eressea

GK: Even

Prediction: Tol Eressea's got a stingy defense, but they're going to try to hold out indefinitely against Morgoth. And as Morgoth usually does, he'll just wear you down then knock you out in a swift stroke. Tol Eressea's attack will do absolutely nothing against Angband's defense. Amandil's given up 2 goals, Ungoliant 4 and that may be seen as a significant difference. But Amandil is protected more by Ulmo's defense, and Ungoliant had to face some of the tournaments deadliest boots in the group stage (Gothmog and Maeglin on Angfauglith. Hador, Curufin and Celegorm on Hithlum). If you think Ungoliant's going to be scared of Uinen, Elwing, and Earwen, think again. Angband wins 2-0

Match 4 - The Forest at Eregion

OFF: Eregion

DEF: Eregion

GK: Eregion

Prediction: Another one on paper that looks one-sided towards Eregion. Elrond is not known for a high-powered offense, but fact of the matter is they scored 7 goals compared to The Forest's 6. And I don't need to get into how much better defensively Eregion is, or how dominant Elrond is (the outright phantasy points leader so far. He's got 22 and this is simply unheard of that GK is leading in points!) Still, Elrond's teams have underperformed in the playoffs in the past, and you never know what magic Bombadil can conjure up. If anyone can put 2 goals passed Elrond, Bombadil can. Too bad that won't happen here. 2-0 Eregion

Match 5 - Barad Dur at Tol In Gaurhoth

OFF: TIG

DEF: TIG

GK: TIG

Prediction: This will be another massacre like Match 1. Barad-Dur's in here by luck and struggled to just make it out of a weak group. TIG's group wasn't particularly stronger, but they dominated it, plain and simple. 4-1 TIG

Match 6 - Angfauglith at Westernesse

OFF: Angfauglith

DEF: Westernesse

GK: Westernesse

Prediction: This is what we consider the marquee match of the round, it could easily be a championship battle. Westernesse will be favored, but we're going with Angfauglith and here's why. Angfauglith averaged 3 goals per game, in a group that had Angband. Westernesse hadn't surrendered a goal, but in case if you didn't notice no one in Group F could score (except Westerenesse). This will be Westernesse's and Tar Atanamir's first test of an offense with bite and fire too it, which is not good if you're defense is just getting it's first test at this stage. And Angfauglith's 6 goals given up is a bit mis leading. 1. They were in an offensively loaded group. 2. Fingolfin's defense only gave up 33 shots, and 14 on target, they're a nice defensive team. The problem was Huor's goal-tending, but in case you haven't seen Huor in the playoffs this guy won a championship last year, took Dor-Lomin to the quarter-finals the year before, and took Hithlum to 2nd place in '08 as a GK. Draw 2-2. Angfauglith wins shoot out 3-2

Match 7 - Misty Mts at Pelori

OFF: Even

DEF: Even

GK: Even

Prediction: Yup, this one is completely dead even. We've tried every single possible way to find an advantage somewhere, but there isn't one. Misty Mts 5 goals on 37 attempts. Pelori 5 goals on 38 attempts. Misty Mts gave up 3 goals on 36 attempts, Pelori conceded 3 goals on 34 attempts. Caradhras has a better save percentage than Manwe, but that's because he's had to save more shots. So, there may be a slight advantage there, but both GKs allowed in 3 goals, so we're not seeing any significant difference. The only advantage will be the match is being played in Valinor, and the Valar will likely be up to their usual tricks to give their team the biggest home advantage possible. This one goes into over time. 2-1 Pelori

Match 8 - Tirion at Lothlorien

OFF: Even

DEF: Lothlorien

GK: Lothlorien

Prediction: They scored the same amount of goals, on virtually the same chances. We'd give a slight edge to Tirion because they're more offensively oriented, but there's really no difference. The difference in the game is clearly the defense and goal keeping of Lothlorien is levels above Tirion's ability. Tirion may have been in a stronger group, but their defense leaks big time and Aule made a mistake replacing himself with Orodreth. It'll be interesting to see Feanor be reunited with his father, that'll be the main storyline going in. Coming out, it'll be Feanor has surpassed his father in skill. 2-1 Lothlorien

Nogrod

07-12-2011, 12:23 PM

The performance of the qualified teams…

The effectiveness of scoring = percentage of (goals made / shots overall)

1. Doriath 22,4% (11/49)
2. Angband 20,9% (9/43)
3. Westernesse 19,5% (8/41)
4. Anfaughtlith 19,1% (9/47)
5. Eregion 18,9% (7/37)
6. Tol-In-Gaurhoth 18,8% (9/48)
7. Lothlórien 17,5% (7/40)
8. The Forest 16,7% (6/36)
9. Wilderland 16,3% (8/49)
10. Tirion 16,3% (7/43)
11. Minas Morgul 16,1% (5/31)
12. Valinor 14,9% (7/47)
13. Misty Mts. 13,5% (5/37)
14. Pelori 13,2% (5/38)
15. Tol Eressëa 11,5% (3/26)
16. Barad Dûr 11,1% (4/36)

The shooting activity = shots on goal (shots overall)

1. Doriath 28(49)
2. Wilderland 24(49)
3. Tol-In-Gaurhoth 24(48)
4. Anfaughlith 23(47)
5. Lothlórien 23(40)
6. Valinor 21(47)
7. Angband 21(43)
8. Tirion 21(43)
9. Westernesse 20(41)
10. Eregion 19(37)
11. Minas Morgul 19(31)
12. Pelori 17(38)
13. Misty Mts. 16(37)
14. The Forest 16(36)
15. Barad Dûr 16(36)
16. Tol Eressëa 12(26)

The tightness of the defense = shots on goal allowed (shots overall allowed)

1. Westernesse 9(23)
2. Tol-In-Gaurhoth 9(25)
3. Tol Eressëa 11(30)
3. Wilderland 11(30)
5. Lothlórien 11(32)
6. Doriath 12(36)
7. Pelori 13(34)
8. Anfaughlith 14(33)
9. Valinor 15(34)
10. Misty Mts. 16(36)
11. Minas Morgul 17(37)
12. Angband 17(39)
13. The Forest 18(41)
14. Eregion 19(40)
15. Barad Dûr 21(41)
16. Tirion 21(46)

Goalkeeping = saving percentage (goals allowed / shots on goal) + total shots saved

1. Tar Atanamir of Westernesse 100% (0/9) +9
2. Elrond of Eregion 94,7% (1/19) +18
3. Huan of Doriath 91,7% (1/12) +11
4. Galadriel of Lothlórien 90,9% (1/11) +10
5. Shastawolf of Tol-In-Gaurhoth 88,9% (1/9) +8
6. Amandil of Tol Eressëa 81,8% (2/11) +9
6. Grimbeorn of Wilderland 81,8% (2/11) +9
8. Caradhras of Misty Mts. 81,3% (3/16) +13
9. Manwë of Pelori 76,9% (3/13) +10
10. Ungoliant of Angband 76,5% (4/17) +13
11. Ohtar of Barad Dûr 76,2% (5/21) +16
12. Ingwë of Valinor 73,3% (4/15) +11
13. Eärnur of Minas Morgul 70,6% (5/17) +12
14. Orodreth of Tirion 66,7% (7/21) +14
15. Old Man Willow of The Forest 61,1% (7/18) +11
16. Huor of Anfaughlith 57,2% (6/14) +8

Nogrod

07-12-2011, 03:14 PM

So the play-offs begin and the AKM will be right on the spot. We agree on many issues with TTN, but feel happy to disagree with a few as well. So here’s our take on the first round of knock-out matches.

The numbers after each team are:
points taken in the group phase
Goal difference (scored - allowed)
Scoring percentage (from total shots)
shots on goal / total shots
shots on goal allowed / total shots allowed
goalie's saving percentage

Minas Morgul at Doriath

Doriath 9 11-1 22,4% 28(49) – 12(36) 91,7%
Minas Morgul 4 5-5 16,1% 19(31) – 17(37) 70,6%

One can’t say group A was one of the toughest groups this year, but Doriath nevertheless dominated the group sovereignly. They have the most goals, most shots and the best scoring percentage of all the teams thus far in the tournament. To top that Huan is the third best goalie looking at the saving percentage and Doriath’s defence the sixth tightest. To be honest, right now they look one of the hottest teams around – and serious contenders for the Arda Cup this year. Minas Morgul on the other hand barely got themselves through group H which had Minas Tirith and Dunharrow in it! Looking at the stats Minas Morgul is clearly below the top ten, while Doriath is one of the strongest teams in the top three.

Doriath goes through.

Valinor at Wilderland

Wilderland 9 8-2 16,3% 24(49) –11(30) 81,8%
Valinor 6 7-4 14,9% 21(47) – 15(34) 73,3%

Here we agree with the TTN as well: the stats say WIlderland are the favourites, but Valinor will prevail. It looks like Sauron has played his cards the wrong way this year – and were the opponents anyone but a Valar-team we would have considered him having a chance. Not to talk that they will have an enraged Tulkas against them, and team Valinor’s slightly worse stats coming from a level or two tougher group. Let us make it more concrete: Wilderland won Anduin and Misty Mts. 2-1 while Valinor won Beleriand and Gondolin 3-1. It’s clear which team has played better. Also, the greatest difference between the teams in the stats comes from Wilderland beating the lousy Easgaroth 4-0 while in their third match Valinor was forced to bend to Pelori 1-2 after a huge game.

So we say bye-bye to the stats and say Valinor will qualify.

Tol Eressëa at Angband

Angband 7 9-4 20,9% 21(43) – 17(39) 76,5%
Tol Eressëa 6 3-2 11,5% 12(26) – 11(30) 81,8%

This will be much more heavily contested game than the two first ones. It looks like clear from the stats, but Tol Eressëa, like all Valinor-based teams, seem to be able to adjust their game and bring forth that extra gear when needed. TTN was quite up to the point asking whether Ungoliant would be afraid of Eärwen, Elwing or Uinen. But we must return the question: does anyone believe Ulmo with Ossë and Salmar will be afraid of Ancalagon, Thuringwethil or Tevildo? But even if it will be much tougher that the stats show, there are two things that make the scales lean on Angband’s favour: Tol Eressëa did lose to Westernesse quite straightforward 0-2 (so they can be beaten with a few goals) and the Moonman Tilion is a force that could unbalance even the Tol Eressëa defense – even if hasn’t been too flashing yet. (A wink here for the phantasy-players).

After a tough fight Angband will win.

The Forest at Eregion

Eregion 9 7-1 18,9% 19(37) – 19(40) 94,7%
The Forest 6 6-7 16,7% 16(36) – 18(41) 61,1%

Eregion look like the favourites in this one: Elrond is statswise clearly the toughest guy to beat at his goal in this tournament and Glorfindel is on fire, sharing the second place with Maeglin and Legolas on the phantasy-points (only two points behind the leaders Túrin and, well Elrond). But there is a greater but here the TTN allows there to be. And that is the extremely low quality of Group D – both on offense and on defense. So Eregion’s stats look far too good in comparison to their real level of play, and that means also Elrond’s spectacular saving’s percentage is based on a too light a testing thus far. And here we come to the issue TTN does acknowledge; if Bombadill is in the mood for it, The Forest will be scoring, and the question becomes how well do The Forest’s backlines work against Glorfindel, Eërendil and Elrond’s sons – and the defense has been the weakest part of The Forest thus far…

If Tom is serious about the game it will be o tough one, but Eregion has slightly better chances to win.

Barad Dûr at Tol-In-Gaurhoth

T-I-G 9 9-1 18,8% 24(48) – 9(25) 88,9%
Barad Dûr 4 4-5 11,1% 16(36) – 21(41) 76,2%

Gil Galad and Isildur made some bad decisions pre-tournament and are paying for them now. Without the lucky strike of being put into the shabby-group D they played in, they would have been left into the group-phase. It is clear they have no weapons to hold the hungry werewolves at bay. The werewolves score on a wide front and their defense is the second tightest thus far in the whole tournament – backed by Shastawolf with 88,9% savings. To be honest one has to say that T-I-G hasn’t met any really tough opposition yet, but Barad Dür should be a snack to them anyway.

T-I-G wins comfortably.

Anfaughlith at Westernesse

Westernesse 9 8-0 19,5% 20(41) –9(23) 100%
Anfaughlith 7 9-6 19,1% 23(47) – 14(33) 57,2%

We see where TTN is coming from calling this game for Anfaughlith, but we tend to disagree with them here a bit. It is true that group C was very much attack-oriented and group F was quite less so. Still we’d like to remind the readers that from the total of 9 shots on goal Tar Atanamir saved each and every one while from the 14 Huor faced he let in 6! Huor has been a steady achiever during the years but this year his game is totally lost: the saving percentage of 57,2% tells it all, it is the single worst from any team qualified (of all teams only Shire-Bree and Esgaroth had worse goalies). Now it is true Angaughlith has compensated that with a lot of shots and a lot of goals – but Westernesse has scored only one goal less in the three games and shot only three times less on goal (so one shot less in a game on average). As Anfaughlith’s defense isn’t the solidest rock this yuear it will mean Westernesse will shoot – and score. But Anfaughlith hasn’t met with as solid defense Westernesse has and it is questionable their scoring will continue at the same pace.

We still call this a close one, and agree with TTN that this will be one of the jewels of the round, but we’d bet it slightly more on Westernesse to get through from this.

Misty Mts. at Pelori

Pelori 7 5-3 13,2% 17(38) – 13(34) 76,9%
Misty Mts. 4 5-3 13,5% 16(37) – 16(36) 81,3%

We find it interesting TTN finds no difference between these teams and calls this an even game. We’d say there is a quality-difference of several classes here. Caradhras is a good, even if odd goalie and Durin’s Bane and Saruman with the trolls and goblins can threaten lesser souls, but we’re talking that team meeting Pelori led by Manwë himself. It seems TTN has totally disregarded the relative differences of the groups these two teams played in and the sovereignty of Manwë’s teams. So while Misty Mts. faced teams like Esgaroth and Anduin, Pelori faced Beleriand and Gondolin. And in the third match Misty Mts. lost to WIlderland while Pelori beat Valinor. So we see nothing unclear with this game…

Pelori wins (although here we agree with TTN, only with one goal, but not because it is a tight game, but because that’s the way Manwë likes to do it).

Tirion at Lothlórien

Lothlórien 9 7-1 17,5% 23(40) – 11(32) 90,9%
Tirion 4 7-7 16,3% 21(43) – 21(46) 66,7%

The case Fëanor is on everyone’s lips this year – like he is every year – but this time people are wondering about where he is. Only one goal and three passes in three games? It would be a lot to many a player but to Fëanor that is shockingly little. Happily for Lothlórien Legolas has taken the torch and scored while Fëanor has been in the shadows. Tirion has to throw in the trio Finwë, Finrod and Aredhel – and both teams seem to be as good on offence. The greatest difference seems to be in the defence where Lothlórien allows half the shots on goal than Tirion and Galadriel saves a third more of the shots Orodreth does. But then there is the famous “but”: Tirion’s group A had a lot more shooting and scoring talent than Lothlórien’s group H. But even that taken into account, it’s hard to see Lothlórien allowing too many goals, so it will up to Legolas – or possibly Fëanor waking up.

Lothlórien will win, not comfortably, but they will win.

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-12-2011, 07:48 PM

A1 Doriath vs H2 Minas Morgul

Minas Morgul's greatest achievement to date has been to score a goal against the famed defence of Galadriel, but they still lost that match 2-1. Now they're up against a defence just as unyielding (only 1 goal and 36 shots against (12 on target) in 3 games), but with a whole other level of offence (11 goals and 49 attempts (28 on target) in three games). The Tower of Sorcery will be hardly a road bump in the map drawn by Melian to the finals.

Doriath 4:0 Minas Morgul

B1 Wilderland vs G2 Valinor

Perhaps Sauron was considering himself lucky to have avoided running into the famed Mountains of Defence in their first playoff match, but in exchange they face a red-hot Valinor--which has, however, cooled a little in their last group stage match. This shall be a battle of fire-power against fire-power (no pun intended), two dragons and an offensive maestro on one side, and three of the best strikers in the game on the other. Wilderland's defence look better than Valinor's at first glance (2 goals against and 30 shots allowed (11 on target) in three games), but they have yet to face a team of Valinor's calibre, who plays a balanced possession game similar to them, and with the midfield skill to contest the ball from them, which means Valinor would take more shots against Grimbeorn than he has been accustomed to in the group stage, and Wilderland would have lesser scoring chances against Valinor than they have had so far.

Wilderland 2:3 Valinor

C1 Angband vs F2 Tol Eressea

Morgoth's defence looks worse than Ulmo's at first glance (4 goals against and 39 shots allowed (17 on target) in Angband's three games vs 2 goals against and 30 shots allowed (11 on target) in Tol Eressëa's three games), but one needs to remember that Angband came from a group of offensive powerhouses (29 goals scored in six games by Group C, the most goals as a group by a margin of 5), whereas Tol Eressëa has faced teams that lacked scoring prowess (14 goals scored in six games for Group F, the least by a margin of 4) save for Westernesse, who scored over half (8) of the group's total goals. Plus, Ungoliant was a top-tier goalkeeper from last year, and maintained a decent save rate (13/17 - 76.5%) even in the face of such offensive ferocity. Now a comparison of their defences look much more even, but a comparison of their offences is just overwhelmingly in Angband's favour--9 goals and 43 shots (21 on target) in three games for Angband, compared to 3 and 26 (12) for Tol Eressëa. One can use a similar argument as before, that Angband faced looser defences whereas Tol Eressëa had to face quality defences in Númenor and Westernesse. But Angband managing to score two goals against the Anfauglith backline (with last year's champion keeper Huor manning the goals) cannot be discounted, and Tol Eressëa dreadful shooting in the friendlies (1 goal and 34 shots (16 on target) in four games) should be remembered.

Angband 2:0 Tol Eressea

D1 Eregion vs E2 The Forest

This contest could be seen as one between Elrond and Tom Bombadil. If motivated, the star striker of The Forest could break through even the legendary defences of Eregion. If not, then Elrond's skill would be sufficient to turn away everything The Forest could throw at him. Eärendil has shown signs of life (2 goals in the last match), and Glorfindel remains a key contributor to the Eregion attack (2 goals and 3 assists), whereas The Forest's defence remains in a woeful state, 7 goals against, with 41 shots allowed (18 on target) in three games.

Eregion 2:0 The Forest

E1 Tol-in-Gaurhoth vs D2 Barad-dûr

This is almost a rematch of last year's group stage game. Almost. The Werewolves have grown in strength, and that of the Dark Tower has waned. ShastaWolf was a gem of a find for Tol-in-Gaurhoth, and NerWolf, GwathWolf, and NogWolf (with two goals each) spearhead their effective attack. Barad-dûr has gained Círdan, yes, but they have lost their offensive conductor Sauron in the off-season. They have done well enough in their group against teams not named Eregion, not letting more than two goals per game against the tested attack of Gondor and Eriador, as well as managing to get two goals against them. However, facing the suffocating defence (1 goal against and 25 shots allowed (9 on target) in three games) and the sizzling offence (9 goals and 48 shots (24 on target) in three games) of the Isle of Werewolves, such a performance would avail them little.

Tol-in-Gaurhoth 3:0 Barad-dûr

F1 Westernesse vs C2 Anfauglith

It is both a treat and a waste that we shall be witnessing a match between two cup contenders so early in the knockout stages. Westernesse remains the only spotless team in contention, managing three shutouts in three games. But they have yet to face a team with the offensive ferocity of Anfauglith: 9 goals and 47 shots (23 on target) in three games, including two against Ungoliant and Morgoth's Angband. Westernesse's frontline has been tested against quality defensive teams Tol Eressëa and Númenor and has not come out lacking (averaging 2 goals and 11 shots (5 on target) against the two teams), so anything less than perfect defensive execution is unlikely to deny them. Anfauglith's defence has been less than stellar so far (6 goals and 33 shots allowed (14 on target) in three games, the third worst in playoff teams), so they'd have to perform better offensively if they hope not to be knocked out too soon. Maeglin (2+4) and Gothmog (3+1) are sure to come out hot, but would that be enough?

Westernesse 3:2 Anfauglith

G1 Pelóri vs B2 Misty Mts

Normally the first thing we would consider about Manwë's team is not its skill (which it has in abundance), but its motivation. Since Misty Mts is a team half of baddies, composed partly of the foul creatures that dwell beneath the Hithaeglir, as well as Saruman the wayward Istar, perhaps the motivation is there. We just witnessed their thriller against Valinor in the last group stage match, and if they should decide to bring even half of that effort against Misty Mts, then Caradhras, for all his excellent performance so far, would be swept aside. And if Manwë retains his cool wits with him between the Pelóri goalposts, having faced the lethal trio of Arien, Míriel, and Nerdanel and yielding but once, then Azog, Saruman, and Durin's Bane would fail to faze him.

Pelóri 1:0 Misty Mts

H1 Lothlórien vs A2 Tirion

Tirion's offence (7 goals and 43 shots (21 on target) in three games) and Lothlórien's defence (1 goal against and 32 shots allowed (11 on target) in three games) look to be in parity, so the question of this match would be how much rope Galadriel is willing to give her offence. Fëanor is a striker of the highest quality, and Legolas and Boromir II have been there to provide offensive help to the fleet-footed Noldo. Orodreth has been struggling manning the Tirion goal, saving only two-thirds of the shots against him (14/21), but he was up against Doriath's ranked 1 offence and the tested best-friends combo of Himring, the two teams averaging 3 goals in 15 shots (8 on target) against Tirion's defence. Lothlórien has taken a little more than 13 shots per game (8 on target) in the group stages, so if the Lady of the Golden Wood gives free rein (or as much freedom as she would give) to her team's offence, then Tirion would be hard-pressed to make up for it by scoring on the other end. Finrod and his grandfather Finwë (2 goals and 1 assist each) has been doing well enough so far, but two-time champion forward Aredhel (1 goal and 2 assists) needs to wake up if she wishes to retain her finals appearance streak.

Lothlórien 3:2 Tirion

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-12-2011, 08:18 PM

8/16 in the last round, that was terrible! Ah, well--that's still half correct, and TTN got just twelve, which still leaves a respectable gap between our styles of journalism.

Now, before I get to my predictions, I'd like to take this chance to CURSE WESTERNESSE FOR KNOCKING NÚMENOR OUT!!! :mad: You'll get your just desserts, you wait and see!

Round of 16 predictions:

A1 Doriath >>> H2 Minas Morgul

Túrin has battled Morgoth's forces during the height of his control of Beleriand with lesser help than his current squad. I'm sure he'll manage to beat this bunch of wannabes bad guys in his sleep. With one foot tied behind this back. (C'mon, Doriath! Tirion'll be waiting for you in the finals!)

B1 Wilderland <<< Valinor

Regarding their next match, Arien has been reputed to say, 'You bring dragons? Against me? Is this some manner of joke?' We agree, Arien. We agree.

C1 Angband >>> F2 Tol Eressëa

Let's see. On one hand we have the Iron Hell, on the other the Elf Boat Island thingy. So, yeah, totally obvious. (No offence, Ulmo, but, you have, you know, no offence. :D )

D1 Eregion > E2 The Forest

In the blue corner, we have Elrond's 'Holly' streak (broken at 18)! In the red corner, we have Bombadil's playing streak (2 games and counting)! LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!!!

E1 Tol-in-Gaurhoth >>> D2 Barad-dûr

ShastaWolf's his usual psychic self, and the rest of the pack's just as sharp. After this match, it will indeed be Barad-dûr's Last Alliance.

F1 Westernesse <<< C2 Anfauglith

Ten - nil to Ard-galen!!! How's that for karma, golden boy?!?!

G1 Pelóri >>> B2 Misty Mts

Remember what I said in my last article, about Eönwë against a land feature? You know what's goin' down. :smokin: That's right, a beatdown of cosmic proportions! (Sorry, Saruman, you're not big enough to make Manwë choke.)

H1 Lothlórien <<< A2 Tirion

Fun fact: Galadriel has never won in any contest against Finrod. Be it rock-paper-scissors, 2008 Arda Cup group stage matches, whatever. Even shiniest hair--Galadriel started using Finrod's shampoo after she lost to him. As for Fëanor? His father and father-in-law will give him a good hard lesson in how terrible life is. Should never have left Tirion, pal. (Well, at least you got your hair, harhar.)

Nogrod

07-16-2011, 04:16 AM

Valinor at Wilderland

A Game of Wits and Physics

So this was it then. The Gladden Fields stadium stood now proudly in between the Misty Mountains and Mirkwood and sucked in the sunlight from behind Mirkwood in the morning when the stadium was empty – and had an early twilight as the sun disappeared behind the mighty mountains towering in the west when the crowds started gathering into it. So when the game was beginning at 9 pm, it was already getting dark – Sauron had thought of everything people were able to realize on hindsight.

And when the sky at last turned into black just about the kick-off, the odd “blueish-greyish” lights that were turned on to light the stadium when the teams ran in to the field weren’t exactly welcoming for anyone with good intentions. It was, well, creepy to a human or a hobbit, but just cozy and welcoming for a warg, an orc, a dragon… and the wizards cared not about such little things as lighting. Sadly for Sauron’s possible schemings with the stadium, they were meeting no human or “later/east-elven” team this evening, but a team packed with Valar, Maiar and the very firstborn of the firstborn.

As group-winners Wilderland were going to host a knock-out game against a runner-up from another group – and it is easy to see Sauron didn’t exactly smile when he saw the picks for the groups and their order. And there were no sly tactics to be played on that front as they would meet anyway an opponent from group G having two of Valier-teams in it. So he had most probably just wished for luck to the two Beleriand-based teams while cursing how Manwë had his hand everywhere, even in the AFA board of directors. That had to have been a calculated move…

But here he was and there was nothing he could do about it. And the worst thing from Sauron’s POV was that he had to face Valinor; a team with tremendous attacking power, possession-bound and enforcing playing-style. Had Manwë and Tulkas a deal on this? If forced to face a Valinor-based team, he would have liked to challenge Manwë and his defensive and conservative game countering them with an all-out attack – but against all previews Pelori had beaten Valinor and well, the rest is history.

But Sauron never gives up and rises again like a phoenix from the dust – and he intended to do just that this time as well. His team had a flexible tactics and he was ready to use that as a weapon against the Valier led by Tulkas. And after looking through the dvd of the Pelori vs. Valinor –game for ten times he knew what to do.

The AKM managed to sneak a microphone into the Wilderland lockers just before the game and here’s what Sauron was telling his team:
“Okay, listen. They play fast and let the ball do the work with their even spreading along the pitch. We can exploit that, like Pelori did, by building up superior numbers in the attack. But that means we need to cut their passing-play. We need to cut-cut-cut! Do you understand? I want everyone to do whatever you can to cut any pass that comes anywhere near your place in the field. And that means you Smaug and Scatha as well: you can not afford to play the forward divas in this game, I want to see you sweat going after the passing-lines, do you hear me? Everyone runs for the passes like mad, do you understand? We are physical enough to outrun them, anyday. We’re strong, we’re relentless, we’re tough! Right? We’ll show those High Elves and Maiar and Valar what we are!

But be careful with the passes yourself – the first passes after a steal should be the safest ones: when we gain the ball, we don’t want to lend it back to them immediately and we need to build pressure safely gathering a superior attacking force against their defenses. That way we’ll score, and they will lose. So two styles: without the ball I need to see you running the heck out of your feet or wings, with the ball we build pressure with sense, aiming for an advance in numbers on their half of the pitch. Understood?”

~*~

From the fifty-thousand seats about 5000 were taken by the elves of the west (with some Valar and Maiar), another almost 10 000 were crowded by elves, men and dwarves of the surrounding areas – and the rest 35 000 were occupied by orcs, goblins, wargs, dragons… So when the dull blueish-greyish lighting went on with the teams coming forwards the feeling was, well, “intimidating” might do for a word here. The orcs and goblins were banging their drums and shields so loud it blocked one’s ears, the wargs were howling, the dragons were roaring – and they easily overpowered the few elven songs the smaller part of the crowd tried to put up against the general cacophony.

And it became an inferno just a few minutes into the game.

Like expected, Tulkas was infuriated and beat his team to some real attacking football. They clearly wished to close the game in the first minutes – such was the fury of Valinor coming forwards. But Wilderland players had listened good for what Sauron had said and especially the Maiar-wizards were very good in cutting the passes, and Sauron himself was running up and down the field pressing the Valinor players and calling others to follow his example – and soon enough Alatar cut a pass by Yavanna in the midfield and sent it safely to Pallando who was alongside her, who in turn realized Smaug was within his reach. Smaug took the high pass spreading his wings and brought it down from the heights and reeled it down just behind Indis and Vairë – seeing that Sauron was running there. And Sauron just smashed through the defenders and hammered the one-timer in from just inside the box with such velocity Ingwë had no chance to take it.

Only 7 minutes had been played and the home team was in the lead. And the crowds made such a noise it was probably heard as far as in Lothlórien.

Valinor continued with their style of play and actually managed to build a few decent attacks – but Wilderland had a few dangerous counters as well. And when 25th minute had passed Pallando cut a nice pass in the midfield again – turning it to Alatar this time. Alatar was pressed by Olwë, but he managed to dribble him out of the situation and to send in up to Sauron who made a brilliant one-touch turn-pass sending the ball towards the goal he had seen from the corner of his eye Smaug was flying into. And Smaug didn’t bother to land first but swept his tail from mid-air homing the ball with such a thunderous speed there was nothing the defenders or Ingwë could do.

There was a hoard of protests after the goal. Tulkas called for a red card to Smaug, Arien was especially heated and tried to argue with the referee only to be carded for that. The referee stood staunch on it: the linesman had seen Smaug had touched the ground with his left wing as he winged his tail and thus it was not against the rules and the goal stayed. You can just imagine the ear-piercing noise the home-crowds made during and after these procedures. Multiply it with a gazillion and then you’re near it. After 26 minutes of the Wilderland was leading 2-0!

If there would be time-outs in football, Tulkas would have taken one immediately, but now they had to stay cool for twenty minutes and not allow a goal more. So he yelled orders left and right, his head red from it: “Possession, possession! No hazard passes! Press but do not leave your place!” And Valinor managed to settle the game down for the rest of the first half with both teams having a few decent chances of scoring. But as the referee whistled the half-time, there was no mistaking. Wilderland was leading with two goals.

On the second half the crowds saw a more concentrated and aggressive team Valinor. Wilderland still managed to steal some passes and were able to build up a few nice attacks, but it was clear Valinor was now having the upper hand on the pitch. After 18 minutes of play into the second half Valinor was finally rewarded for their effort. With a quick turn-over Vairë sent the ball over half the field to Miriel who continued it with one-touch pass forwards to Arien who was running through the flank - and from a close angle she hammered the ball in from between the legs of Grimbeorn. The home fans protested and called it an off-side but the linesman stayed calm and kept his flag down.

After the Valinor goal Sauron rallied his team to a more aggressive counter-play trying to cut Valinor’s passes even more aggressively. It did help at first, but then it led to a few cards given to Wilderland players and when Pallando slided badly late over the ankle of Nerdanel and got carded, the things got grim for Wilderland.

It was only 8 minutes to the full time and Valinor got a free kick from 22 meters, around the left corner of Wilderland box. First it seemed Nerdanel was unable to continue with the game but biting her lip she nodded to the referee and expressed her wish to continue with the game. Seeing that determination, Tulkas asked her to give the free kick. She accepted, whispered something to Yavanna when no one paid attention and started to settle the ball.

The defensive wall was built, Grimbeorn yelled his advice to them, Miriel and Arien elbowed room in the the wall, the referee had to order the wall back and back again as they tried to advance tip-toeing forwards… the crowds were for once silent watching in nervousness… Olwë and Yavanna started running to different angles when Nerdanel started towards the ball. The wall was moving prematurely as they tend to move, but with three different lines of attack there was a spread in the wall. Suddenly Nerdanel made a full stop just before the ball and chipped it left towards advancing Yavanna who volleyed it from the run – and in just barely hitting the post. The game was drawn!

It meant overtime – and in the last instance a shoot-out.

The overtime began more or less like the second half: Valinor was slightly on top of it but Wilderland’s sudden cuts of their passing created some dangerous situations on the other end. But little by little it started to look like team Wilderland was wearing themselves off. They had run like madmen all the time and with the overtime taking it’s toll they were really tired. Valinor in turn had let the ball do most of the work and seemed to have energy-reserves still and the game was turning more and more towards the Wilderland goal. The homecrowds saw it and started a loud supporting row to boost their team. But it was not enough.

The Great Warg was just late of the situation with heavy feet and made a sliding tackle on Arien after she had already passed the ball forwards. It was a clear free-kick and a tougher referee would have shown him another yellow for that. But it was a free kick from the middle of the pitch, about 25 meters form the goal. Very dangerous indeed.

Arien insisted on taking it herself… and she hammered it in to the upper-right corner of the goal, plain and simple! 24 minutes overtime Wilderland was defeated. She was the hero of Valinor this day. Two goals and some real effort & bravery.

The home crowds were so disappointed with the goal they started throwing anything they had at their hands to the pitch: weapons, kitchenware, clothes, bottles, fast food wrappings, leaflets, fan-stuff, pebbles from the ground, you name it. The teams and referees tried to get into cover and dashed for the tunnel leading to the lockers but a few players got hit with a stray bottle or a pebble.

That was enough for Tulkas and he roared so loud it beat the noise of the thirty-thousand disappointed orcs making a fuzz. Arien starting to glow brightly was no little aid to that performance as the orcs and wargs tried to get away from the brightness of her. And when Vairë stood forth starting to silently mumble something about the fate, the home crowds just ran away in panic.

There would be some consequences of that incident. That much is clear. But because of it, there was no after game press conference. And only the AKM was able to steal one comment from Tulkas as he rushed into the tunnel more or less enraged.

The AKM: ”A comment?”

Tulkas: “Idiot!”

We’ll leave it open, whom did he mean…

Valinor 3-2 Wilderland (OT)
tot shots 17-16
on target 7-8
GOALS:
*7, 0-1 Sauron (Smaug)
*26, 0-2 Smaug (Sauron)
*63, 1-2 Arien (Miriel)
*82, 2-2 Yavanna (Nerdanel)
*24, 3-2 Arien
YELLOW CARDS:
*Valinor- Vaire, Arien
*Wilderland- Bolg, Great Warg, Scatha, Pallando

Valinor goes through to meet the winner from the game Doriath vs. Minas Morgul.

the phantom

07-16-2011, 11:20 AM

Minas Morgul at Doriath

Doriath had played host to various group and playoff contests in recent years, but it wasn’t anything quite like this. Their first concerns had always been impressing visitors with the beauty of their underground arena and being gracious hosts, but this time it was a party, for their team was playing, and they were streaking out of the group stages with the best differential in the tournament!

Standing in the path to the quarterfinals was Minas Morgul, a team that there was no reason not to hate according to most of the Elves- other than their keeper Earnur, but surely there must be something wrong with him if he chose to play there, they figured.

A few hundred men, mostly from Umbar, travelled in support, and these were treated at least decently, for despite their leanings they bore themselves well for the most part, though their faces were often sneering.

The Orcs on the other hand- King Thingol had declared that they should be allowed to live at least, but they weren’t showed much kindness beyond that. Any Orc walking about Menegroth could count on being stopped and searched on nearly every block, as the rangers and wardens of Doriath were all dedicated to ensuring that there would not be a single weapon-carrying Orc within the stadium for the match nor in the pubs before, during, or after. “We don’t care that they’re here so much, but they can’t be trusted to keep the peace,” said one official.

But the trip from Mordor is a lengthy one, and not even five thousand total Orcs showed up to be harassed by the Doriath troops, making the policing job simpler than they had hoped for, and guaranteeing a substantial home field crowd. From pre-match interviews it was clear that the Witch King had noticed a lack of die-hard travelling fans, and had something to say about it.

“Apparently we weren’t thrilling enough in the group phase to get everyone on board... Apparently Doriath is so good that we don’t have a chance... And apparently most of our so-called fans are worthless!” he shouted at various media gathered for the pre-game press conference. “With these players and ME at the front, how could they bail on us and write us off?! And even were it hopeless- miracles can happen! Not to mention we’ve been playing our hardest for this squad. All teams ought to receive better support than this, just for the love of the game and for the pride of you homeland.”

His bitter words did nothing to change the makeup of the crowd, however, and the game kicked off with a nearly unified stadium singing the fight song of Doriath. Minas Morgul tuned it out though and pressed forward, taking the initiative against their foes who seemed perhaps nervous and over-pressured by expectations. Already in the first two minutes Beruthiel managed to release Castamir to the corner of the box, but lucky for the home team Carcharoth closed quickly enough to limit his angle to the far side and forced him to go near and Huan read things well and made the stop.

Not long after that some nice passing led to King Dead having room to try a drive to test Huan again, and the keeper barely got up and over for it, tipping its course up just enough to have it rebound out off the crossbar. The crowd was rather silent at this point, as things were not going as planned! But the rebound came out to Luthien who immediately sent it forward and to the side she was facing where Mablung was dashing, and the pass led him perfectly and he had green space ahead down the side. Turin and Hurin were charging down the middle with him, and only Nazgul #2, Angamaite, and Sangahyando were with them.

Mablung angled in as he approached the other end but instead of taking it closer he suddenly sent one into the far side of the box, for he had seen Turin peel from the middle towards that side and the defenders were late reacting being occupied looking at the ball and Hurin. Angamaite ran full out for the spot but the pass was over him and coming down exactly the right spot to allow the tall Turin an uncontested header. Earnur knew it was simply a guessing game, for with Turin’s power from that close a range there would be no time to see it and react. Spotting Nazgul #2 running in towards the post farthest from Turin, Earnur guessed near post. But the stern head of Turin sent it instead high to the far side of the middle, and too fast and near for Nazgul #2 to help, and the home team was in front!

The crowd fell back into their celebratory ways quick as lightning, and their confidence grew all the more. “Even if we’re outplayed we’ll win! Our keeper is just that good, and even with limited chances Turin’s just too dangerous!” But the Witch King and his side maintained their composure and picked up where they’d left off with their quality play, putting the pressure on yet again. Witch King himself put one over top of the goal, and at 20 minutes Castamir redirected a corner just wide. And then- Minas Morgul’s hopes were crushed yet again!

Elwe gained possession by the end line and sent it over to Luthien who sent it down the middle where Melian controlled it and turned past her defender with a burst of speed. Already streaking ahead of her was Beleg and Eol near the sides and Turin and Hurin in the middle and she followed in their wake. As the offense closed on the box everyone expected her to give it up and the defenders continued to concentrate on the forwards rather than the ball. Finally at 40 meters Fuinur and Herumor closed on her, but she faked a pass to freeze them and split them in a flash and then brought her foot back for real at the top of the box.

Eol flashed into the picture from the left going along the sideline and she chipped it to him high. The pass was perfect to beat the defenders but Earnur was coming and would surely snatch it or at least block it coming off of his head, as his arrival would be only microseconds late. But the creative craftsman Eol had the pass angle judged brilliantly and faked a header and pulled his head down and away from the net at the last instant, allowing the pass to buzz a fraction of an inch over him without contacting him at all, and the ball spun lazily beyond the reach of a shocked Earnur who could only watch it fall against the inside of the post and bounce into the goal for the 2-0 lead!

The crowd applauded and screamed loudly for Eol, appreciating the fine work he had done that would not show up on the stat sheet. There were many cheers for Melian as well- they were thrilled to see their defense organizing queen get a goal!

The first goal had not shaken Minas Morgul, but this one did. Awe was evident on the faces of many of their players. How could they defend a team when even their defenders were that skilled with the ball and so quick and offensively efficient? Play was under way again and Doriath now owned the ball, content to take their time with a two goal lead and the defense sagging off of them. But as the half was winding down Minas Morgul became more aggressive and Doriath moved to one touch passing and started moving it up and back more quickly to keep the defense running.

Then with five minutes left they got it to Eol in his corner and the defenders closed in to apply the pressure. Eol worked it sideways towards the net to draw the defense then sent it back out with his heel to a lonesome Mablung who immediately boomed one low towards the opposite side, curling into the box. It looked like it might get through without anyone touching it and the jerseys all flowed towards the opposite side, but Carcharoth dashed to the edge of the box and made a mighty leap into the air. The ball struck him firmly upon the back of his head and bounced down and back the way it came, where the only player that hadn’t gone off in the other direction, Beren, was waiting to meet it with a thunderous boot before it even touched the ground! Earnur managed only to get a couple fingertips on it and it was 3-0 Doriath!

During halftime the Orcs began filing out already- they could not watch any more. Many of the black Numenoreans stuck around, but looked quite depressed. The wood-Elves and men of Dor-Lomin on the other hand got the ale flowing and the food circulating as soon as the second half started and were already in post-game celebration mode, singing songs of victory. And they had good cause- for Doriath was owning possession yet again, and Minas Morgul could do little about it.

This went on for some time with Doriath taking some speculative drives when finally at minute 67 they went with full-on pressure and the crowd was rewarded with icing on top- a goal by Mablung fed by Turin, a reverse of the opening tally. Doriath had a commanding four goal lead! It was all but in the books!

Doriath treated the final 20 largely as a practice, kicking the ball away to Minas Morgul and allowing them to test their defense. The Witch King was enraged to be treated in such a fashion, but he was powerless to do anything about it, as his team could hardly manage more than distant snipes, as every player had a defender draped on him that he could not shake off.

Finally the refs declared it over, and Minas Morgul exited quickly, ashamed to be seen. But no one was paying the least bit of attention to them- all eyes were on the magnificent team from Doriath, who trotted off the field lazily acknowledging the cheers of the crowd as if they had done nothing to celebrate about. This was a confident bunch with high expectations of themselves, and the crowd loved it!

Doriath 4-0 Minas Morgul
tot shots 18-12
on target 9-4
GOALS:
*10, 1-0 Turin (Mablung)
*22, 2-0 Melian (Luthien)
*40, 3-0 Beren (Carcharoth)
*67, 4-0 Mablung (Turin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Carcharoth
*MMorgul- Fuinur, Beruthiel, Nazgul #2

Doriath advances to the quarterfinals to meet the winner of Valinor vs Wilderland.

Nogrod

07-16-2011, 11:51 AM

Anfaughlith at Westernesse

The Brave Fight of the Undermanned Side

Before the first play-off game the people of Númenor had forgotten any possible rifts there had been between the supporters of team Númenor and team Westernesse Now Westernesse was their champion and the games would be held at the very same Armenelos Stadium, the Wembley of Arda.

In their usual way the Númenorians were confident their team would prevail whoever came against them, but Anfaughlith was one of the teams that did send some shivers into the backs of the Númenorians. The team had some really awe-inspiring players; like Gothmog lord of the Balrogs, the slayer of Fëanor, Fingon and Echtelion, with two others of his kin; but also Echtelion himself, the slayer of Gothmog in turn; and Maeglin the “sharp glance”; Fingolfin the “strongest of all”; Tuor’s father Huor; the mighty Gwindor…

Team Westernesse had more or less the top-stars of the island aided by the Gondorian lords from the days immemorial. But would it be enough against these heroes of the past? Some said an all-Númenorian team would have had better chances, but nonetheless the support of the home crowd was unreserved when the game came down upon them.

The old Armenelos Stadium took in about 60 000 spectators. The organisers had told twenty-thousand would go to Númenorians, another twenty-thousand to team Anfaughlith supporters and the last twenty-thousand would be up for grabs to anyone – and if there was not a full twenty-thousand coming to support Anfaughlith, they would sell the rest “at the door” to anyone willing to come in. That was accepted by the AFA authorities as it sounded like a fair deal – but in fact the Númenorians opened internet booking lines for those last twenty-thousand in Númenor and Gondor two days before opening them to every nation – and thus most of the seats were already taken when the selling opened for all, not to talk that all those “at the door” tickets went predominantly to Númenorians with their food baskets and wine skins queuing at the gates a fine five hours before the game while the hopeful football-tourists from outside Númenor were just having breakfast after having a nice night out.

~*~

So it was once again a feast and/of football at Armenelos Stadium, and the crowds were entertaining themselves with food and wine for hours before the game just to be together and to share the nice day-out. And with the tactics on the ticket-booth it was more than two thirds home-team supporters on the crowd – and they were enjoying themselves in the afternoon sunshine beside the towering presence of Meneltarma.

Anfaughlith came into the game with all the gusto their flaringly attacking game thus far should have predicted and the home team supporters had to bit their nails looking at the wave after another of dashing attacks by Anfaughlith, the Westernesse defenders having a hard time to push them back. And to the horror of the homeside-fans they scored after just 17 minutes of play. And what was the worst: Tar Atanamir was not infallible! He had to give in a goal! And only from the second shot of the game on target!

It was kind of a classic goal. After dribbling two midfielders Gwindor made a quick run on the left flank outrunning the defenders at first but when a few of them finally reached him a few meters from the corner-flag he sent a nice high pass into the middle – and Maeglin headed it in to the lower right corner of the goal despite Tar Palantir’s effort to deny him the header. Tar Atanamir had been following the situation at the left post so when the crossing came he was just too late – even if he dived bravely when he saw what was up.

After the goal Westernesse shifted into more aggressive tactics of cutting off the passing-lines and practically denied Anfaughlith from any major outbreaks on the first half. Gothmog had a few chances but the Balrog either sent the ball wide or into the hands of Tar Atanamir. But as the first half got older Westernesse started to gain the upper hand pulling their ranks together.

And they evened the game just before the half time! The dynamic duo Elros – Ar Pharazôn were at it again. This time Elros broke free dribbling Balrog #4 and went towards the goal from the edge of the box, but Rochallor galloped to shut him out. Just before Fingolfin’s best friend succeeded, Elros heeled the ball behind him and Ar Pharazôn was indeed trailing and shot the ball into the back of the net while Huor was still concentrating on Elros and Rochallor. The home crowds exploded with the equalizer and the songs suddenly caught the air and went on loud through the half time pause.

But even through their happiness, the home crowds realised there was another half to be played and just getting even was not enough – they had to win, as they thought their team would do, but Anfaughlith was just as tough an opponent the pessimists among the islanders had warned they would be.

The lay-Númenorians thought their team would just turn the game around on the second half, continuing from where they left in the end of the first half – but how wrong they were! Anfaughlith came to the second half with refreshed attacking-force and they really made the Westernesse defense to sweat. And to the horror of the hometeam fans they scored again after about fifteen minutes of play into the second half. Fingolfin got the ball passed neatly to him close by the post by his grand-daughter’s husband’s mother , and he was totally unguarded, and just passed the ball in as the rush was at the other end of the goal. Great pass by Rían and cool execution by Fingolfin while Gothmog, Maeglin, Ecthelion and others were making the fuzz elsewhere.

And Anfaughlith was not yet done. They kept attacking after the goal with even more energy: they had clearly decided to kill the hosts then and there, it was the time of their momentum. But neither would Westernesse give in – and with the ever-rising support of their home crowd they started pressing back. The last twenty minutes of the game were some of the most entertaining football this season’s games have had to offer: two highly skilled and attacking teams clashing against each other with full force!

At 63rd minute Maeglin hit the crossbar from 25 meters.

At 66th minute Ar Pharazôn’s shot from between the two balrogs went just an inch wide while Huor was decisively late.

At 67th minute Rochallor just ran over Ar Adunakhôr who was getting free from the defenders, hitting him into the back of his head with a hoof. That was unquestionably a straight red card and Ar Adunakhôr had to be carried outside the pitch to be looked after with the bleeding wound he got from the hit.

At 68th minute, from the ensuing free kick, Elros boomed a real cannon-shot a meter from the box only to be tipped away by Huor’s fingertips from the upper corner of the goal.

At 70th minute Gwindor and Echtelion made a nice wall-play setting Echtelion to a superb place to shoot, but at the last possible moment Elendil managed to slide the ball across the line.

At 74th minute Tar Telperion sent a long pass from the defense and Ar Pharazôn took the run for it but his shot was denied by Fingolfin forcing him out of balance.

At 75th minute the referee called for a free kick from Fingolfin’s error on midfield and Ar Adunakhôr re-entered the pitch with his head now bandaged. Elros took the free-kick fast when some of the Anfaughlith team members were still unawares. Ar Pharazôn received the ball and sent it forth immediately to Ar Adunakhôr who was running like mad towards the goal looking for a revenge. Balrog #4 shut his way but he turned around and passed the ball diagonally backwards to the feet of Tar Minastir who blasted the ball from top-speed into the back of the net. The game was even!

The goal was built by some flashing performances of the top-players, but also due to the confusion, both of Elros’ fast kick and Anfaughlith facing the undermanned situation for the first time in the game when Ar Adunakhôr was finally able to return to the field and Rochallor was out for good. So Maeglin yelled at his team to regroup and Gothmog wasn’t quiet either. Rían and Azaghál were giving orders to others as well – and Huor gave his advice shouting from his goal. It was a chaos.

There was still 15 minutes to go and Westernesse took the advantage of the chaos. With one player advantage and the defenses in disarray they started hammering attacks after another towards the Anfaughlith side and dominated the game – giving the opponents no chance of making a counter-play. Westernesse was now playing it’s best game thus far, sent flying by the chanting and cheering crowds who had now risen to their feet from excitement. Even Maeglin and Gothmog had drawn back to support the defense as they left only Gwindor to look for a happy turn-over attack a bit higher on the field.

It was now a game played on one end of the pitch only, but the time though was running short for Westernesse and their supporters, minute by minute. It was a thriller!

If Anfaughlith could stretch the game to overtime they’d have a chance talk their regrouping with one player disadvantage. It looked grim but given a chance to try and deal with it was all they asked – and all they played for the last minutes.

Four minutes to go: Elros boots a mighty shot from the edge of the box but it goes just wide.

Three minutes to go: Anfaughlith tries to do some counterplay only to be robbed of the ball in midfield by Hyermendacil – who gives it to Tar MInastir who in turn lends it to the flank to Ar Adunakhôr who’s centering just misses the head of Ar Pharazôn by an inch.

Two minutes to go: Ar Pharazôn gets the ball near the corner-flag and passes it towards the goal – and Elros reaches from between the two balrogs for a header… and he hits it… and it is… a GOOOOOOOOOL!!!!
Westernesse scores two minutes before full time against the undermanned Anfaughlith! The people go wild in the audience. It takes a minute or two for the referee to get the game started again after all the jubilation. But the game is over even if the ref. allows four minutes of extratime (Ar Adunakhôrs injury, some fakedly long wailing from Anfaughlith players gone down after contact with Westernesse players, the end jubilation…). There just wasn’t anything Anfaughlith could have done when Westernesse took on a high-pressure defense-mode after their lead, not the least for being underhanded.

The home team won after a real fight, but even if the star players exchanged shirts amiably after the game – Huor’s and Rían’s shirts were almost fought over by the Númenorians – the Anfaughlith fans were disappointed and cursed the referee, even if they knew his decision to send Rochallor off was a fair judgement.

Angfauglith 2-3 Westernesse
tot shots 15-16
on target 9-6
GOALS:
*17, 1-0 Maeglin (Gwindor)
*41, 1-1 Ar Pharazon (Elros)
*59, 2-1 Fingolfin (Rian)
*75, 2-2 Tar Minastir (Ar Adunakhor)
*88, 2-3 Elros (Ar Pharazon)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfauglith- Azaghal, Gwindor, Balrog #5
*Westernesse- Tar Palantir, Malbeth
RED CARDS:
*Angfauglith- Rochallor (67, straight red)

Westernesse goes through to meet the winner from the game T-I-G vs. Barad Dûr.

Boromir88

07-16-2011, 06:10 PM

The Forest at Eregion

The talk before the game at Eregion was mostly centered around none other than Bombadil. He had shown more interest in the games this year and than in the past. Many had speculated why and came up with just as many reasons as those wondering who Bombadil was. He was 'The Master', the Master of what though? The Master of the pitch? No one would dispute his skills, but Elrond and Eregion would have something to say to the newly appointed title for Bombadil.

There was a sliver of doubt in the hearts and minds of the Eregion fans though. Not only had they confidentally swept the group and were treated an extra delight by hosting another game in the beautiful Ost-in-Edhil Stadium, but Eregion had a better team effort than The Forest. There was no disputing this, when talking about The Master, there is always a sliver of a doubt.

Right before the match was ready to kick off, the Eregion fans reasoned that Bombadil's inspired play was due to not only playing in The Old Forest, but playing for his forest. So, how would his powers be outside his realm? And there was Elrond. Elrond was not going to allow a single player, no matter how good he was, beat them.

*~*~*

Elves, Men, Huorns, and even many Hobbits came to fill Ost-in-Edhil, and as the sun was setting the stadium was starting to let out it's radiant, warm, glow. Eregion were sure to be gracious hosts to The Forest, and the Ents appeared in good spirits, playing in the land of Holly. The stage was set, the atmosphere was intense, but welcoming, let the games begin.

It began with joyous songs from the Eregion crowd, urging their team on, but in the first few minutes the songs died down and they began to get nervous. Celebrimbor had no answer for Bombadil, and Eregion's defense was forced to it's back heels right at the start. It wasn't just Bombadil either, as Tom's singing eventually overtook the songs of the Eregion fans and Bombadil's teammates became inspired to push for the lead. Hey merry do! Hopalong me friends! Follow Bombadillo!

If the crowd was biting their nails and scratching their arms until they bled, you could not have seen it in Elrond's face. Despite Celebrimbor not being able to slow down Bombadil, Bombadil did not seem to have the extra gear to beat a GK like Elrond. They were foolish to doubt their Lord Elrond and with each calm, cool, professional save confidence was being restored in the home town fans.

For one of the rarest moments, Bombadil was beginning to show emotion and he was completely befuddled. Every match has defining turning points, which you usually don't find until after it's all over. This would be one of those defining moments. Bombadil judged with how stretched the Elven defense was getting, if The Forest swarmed and overwhelmed the area in front of Elrond, the great GK would eventually crack. The crowd began biting their nails, and getting nervous again, as The Forest was coming in an all out attack. Then in half a second, the silence turned into rioutous applause. Bombadil blasted a rocket towards the top right corner, but Elrond lept into the air to catch it! What a save!

When Elrond peculiarly passed the ball out to Asfaloth (normally Celebrimbor gets it), the Eregion team seemed to notice what their Lord did and what he wanted. The Forest team was caught forward, and Asfaloth is known for a mighty hoof. The great horse reared back and launched the ball into The Forest's half. No one was around Lindir when he collected it. The trees are a stiff defense, but sometimes too stiff, and when Celebrimbor rushed forward it was an easy 1-2 tap into the back of the net. The Old Willow was completely rooted and didn't even seem to give half an effort to save it.

Now the Elves, and Men close to Elves, in the stands were truly alive. They could not only breathe relief, but with the joy of leading 1-0 they could get back to their merry drinking and singing. Bombadil tried to make another push to get an equalizer, but with Eregion's defense calmed and gathered together, Eregion began getting the lions share of the possession in the later minutes of the half. Spectators were noticing, without saying a word Earendil appeared to be thanking his son and Celebrimbor for holding on and now it was time for Eregion's strikers to take control.

Breaking the treeish defense plus the stout Haleth was not an easy task. Still, it was The Forest's defense this time, which was getting pushed to the brink as they desperately wanted to just go into the half, keeping it a 1-goal defecit. Sadly, it was not to be. With 2 minutes remaining in the 1st, Glorfindel sniped a shot that Old Man Willow tried to swat away, but the ball bent around his branches and Eregion would walk into the lockers leading 2-0.

The 2nd half appeared to be a formality, as the life and spirit was sucked out of The Forest. How would they get 3 goals in 45 minutes off a goalie like Elrond? Bombadil gave it his best try to begin the half, but this time he could not sing his team into support. And even Bombadil was lacking the same lovably annoying tune to his rhymes. So, when Earendil capped off the scoring in the 68th minute, everyone knew that was the match (if they hadn't known that already).

Bombadil wasn't spotted in the remaining 20 minutes, but Elrond showed no desire to try another goal and simply held onto possession. It must be said that Tom showed a much greater interest in the games this cup, even if he'd be going out with a 3-0 defeat. It was just not enough to beat Elrond, when he's playing in front of his home crowd. A lot was made about Bombadil and The Barrow-wight parting ways, and now one has to wonder how long will it be before the Old tree is sent away to hibernate?

Eregion 3-0 The Forest
tot shots 15-12
on target 8-5
GOALS:
*24, 1-0 Celebrimbor (Lindir)
*43, 2-0 Glorfindel (Elrond)
*68, 3-0 Earendil (Elrohir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eregion- Figwit
*The Forest- Haleth, Treebeard, Saeros

Eregion will advance to the quarter finals to play winner of Angband - Tol Eressea

the phantom

07-16-2011, 07:24 PM

Tol Eressea at Angband

The Hells of Iron was no stranger to hosting football contests, and everyone assumed it would be business as usual for Morgoth’s football operations team, but it turned out that Angband did not wish to host in their home arena at all, but instead received permission to play their contest in the arena just south of Angband’s gates- Angfauglith, the arena they had played in for all of their group contests.

“It’s an easy hike for our supporters,” said Morgoth, “And we grew quite comfortable playing there over the past couple weeks. We’ve been performing well, so why change a good thing?”

Not surprisingly the game was set to be a late night affair, ensuring that all of Angband’s supporters could make the trek to the stadium in complete darkness and still have a bit of time left to work themselves into a frenzy. By the time the Angband fans arrived, however, they found a mass of people already surrounding the arena. The Elves of the Havens both of Middle Earth and the Blessed Realm had sailed in force along with many Numenoreans supporting Amandil and Tar Aldarion, and had massed in Hithlum, and throughout the day they had streamed down from the mountain passes and converged upon Angfauglith.

As the visitors Tol Eressea by the agreement set down for this contest had the rights to 20% of the tickets, but no one had expected them to bring enough fans for it to matter, and Morgoth had already laid plans to buy the tickets from the ones that did show up. But things did not go as planned at all. As the Orcs arrived and were greeted by the large and glorious host of Elves and Men, many of them felt instantly out of place and parted with their tickets a bit too easily, and the Numenoreans especially had plenty of cash to help persuade them. On the flip side, absolutely none of the ticket-holding faithful of Tol Eressea were willing to budge an inch on their ticket ownership, even in exchange for a fortune.

And so it was that when Morgoth and his team emerged from the tunnels they were greeted by half and half cheering and booing. Team Angband whirled around in amazement, checking to see that they were in the right stadium, but there was no mistake. Morgoth looked furious and wanted to know how it had happened, for he had been preparing for the game all evening and was not privy to events outside the arena. There was no time for conversations, however. Tol Eressea and the refs were already in position and ready to go, and with a grumble team Angband set up.

It was evident that out of the starting blocks Tol Eressea had some extra pep or Angband didn’t, for Tol Eressea kept things more on Angband’s half than their own, and worked it in for a handful of decent shots in the opening 20 minutes, to the delight of their fans. But their midfielders were unable to put them on target, and Ungoliant erased Uinen’s best opportunity, cutting off the angle nicely and keeping hold of it and not allowing a dangerous rebound.

At this point Angband’s thinking seemed to uncloud and they began playing smart for the first time, maintaining possession and testing Tol Eressea’s defense, playing up and back, side to side, waiting for someone to leave an opening to take advantage of. Even the best defenses make mistakes, and Angband had to be awake at all times to make sure they could capitalize on a mistake by a Tol Eressea defense that rarely made any.

Finally around 27 minutes Morgoth sent it to Ancalagon in the middle who popped it forward and right to Telvildo who managed to get just a step on Salmar. Telvildo controlled it and spun around his defender, forcing help, then sent it swiftly to the box. It was a laser pass on the ground and so tough to receive, but Ancalagon had a window and went for it, swiping it with his tail, booming a shot on first touch. The Angband fans started to rise, but groaned and seated themselves again as Ancalagon’s drive went perfectly straight to Amandil who blocked it then leaped upon it.

Morgoth shouted encouragement to his forwards. “Perfect! Just keep that up and we’ll get it in!” And three minutes later it looked like they may put it in finally, as Thuringwethil used some nifty moves to clear herself for a 30 meter blast, but Amandil dove and smothered it to keep his goal clean and the Angband fans groaned again. The Tol Eressea fans on the other hand cheered for Amandil, but not so enthusiastically as they had started the game. They were nervous.

And with good cause, for just a minute later they were forced to clear it out of bounds and Angband gained a corner, and on the corner Morgoth rose above the field and rang the post with a header, and straight off the rebound Telvildo headed it back at the same spot, only inches left so that instead of hitting the post it found the net, and Angband had broken the scoreless tie!

The North side of the stadium erupted, and the Elves and Men fell silent. Morgoth stood himself in front of the Tol Eressea side and shouted, “Is this what you came all this way to see?” And then struck with an idea, he continued, “But no- you didn’t come to see scoring, did you? Ulmo and his underlings are supposed to be the masters of defense, right? Well then,” he laughed evilly, “That’s what I’ll give you then. Masterful defense!”

And from that moment on, the game changed completely. Morgoth and his minions put on a clinic, running the clock with possession when they could, never risking a possession on anything less than a quality shot, and when Tol Eressea had the ball Angband was just too hot to handle.

Morgoth suspected Ulmo would try to get in on the action somehow to help put his team level, so he shadowed him personally. Thuringwethil was dropped back onto defense beside Carcharoth and they completely dominated Elwing and Earwen with their beastly speed and reactions leaving them no room to operate. And the Balrogs helped to choke of Uinen, their fires causing her to steam and lose control of her liquid movements.

As the second half neared its end, Ulmo ordered all out attack to try and gain the equalizer, but Angband denied them again and again, and rather than quickly countering they got the ball forward quickly and then held it as long as possible. The minutes ticked away and the Orcs started leaping up and down on their seats, gleeful at Morgoth’s mockery. The Tol Eressea fans held their faces in their hands, unable to view the evidence any longer- the proof that Morgoth and Angband could beat them at their own game.

Ulmo made one last desperate run, but Morgoth toed the ball away from him and one of the Balrogs was there to knock it high and forward, where it came down to Telvildo. As he jogged forward with it, the final whistle blew and it was all over. Angband’s defense had obliterated Tol Eressea!

Angband 1-0 Tol Eressea
tot shots 12-9
on target 6-2
GOALS:
*32, 1-0 Telvildo (Morgoth)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Drauglin, Ulfang
*Tol Eressea- Eriol, Osse

Nogrod

07-17-2011, 03:49 AM

Misty Mts. at Pelori

The Scandal Refuses to Die Down

The first problem emerged as soon as the play-off pairs were announced. The friends and fans of Caradhras decided to take the trip to Valinor but Manwë and Námo declared it was against the will of Eru Ilúvatar himself that whole mountain ranges would shift positions for a sake of a single football match. And they were banned on moving anywhere after Caradhras – they were quite blatantly told to just watch the game live on MESPN.

But that wasn’t the only problem. This time Manwë and Námo made it clear in public that no balrogs, wolves, orcs, goblins, trolls or any other odd & evil creatures of old were allowed into Valinor – except as players for that short while the game lasted. And that would be a strict policy “enforced decisively” on the border control with any “straying undesirables”.

Many Middle-Earth media took this announcement as an insult – most strongly those of the more liberal mind-set of men and elves. But the Dwarven media was silent for days as they had not been mentioned… But it was about to break. And it did.

Tumunzahar Weekly, Firebeard Times and Khazad-dûm Guardian published a shared a bold and mocking open letter to Manwë asking whether the dwarves were officially counted as “undesirables”, or could the fans and supporters of Narvi & the dwarves of Moria make the trip without fear of being drowned or otherwise killed by the Valier-authorities. The answer was silence. Valinorian media explained the silence with “the disrespectful tone of the media-trick by the dwarves no decent Valar would pay heed to”.

But that explanation was not bought in Middle-Earth and many critical articles and blog-entries were written over the subject. In protest a host of dwarves from all over the M-E gathered in the Havens in their thousands as a check-out, and declared to the elves of Cirdan they had a right of passage because of the match between Misty Mts. and Pelori. A few hundred liberal activists from Minas Tirith and Dol Amroth joined the dwarves, calling for their dwarven rights and threatened to complain to Amnesty Interardan. The elves were reluctant to admit them into their ships, knowing the risks involved, but as soon as some captains decided the Dwarven gold and mithril was enough for them to take their chances, the seas arose into tumult and storm and there was no way they could make the trip.

Some of the most hot-headed dwarves then stole a few boats by night killing the elves guarding them – of which deed the activists separated themselves strongly. But anyway, it should be no news those boats never got far away from the port of Havens. The next morning Manwë made a press-release where he said that: “This unpredictability and harshness of the dwarves is just one of the reasons we don’t willingly admit them here at Valinor – and they have just showed it themselves to be true. Some things just are not going to happen whatever way you look at them. Eru’s song is the guideline for everyone to follow and we’re not willing nor able to do otherwise, whatever we or you others think.”

Saruman, of course, saw here a chance for bargaining, and announced Misty Mts. was not going to play at all unless their supporters were allowed to the venue to support them, but here his own team sadly let him down. Not knowing of their captain’s scheme, Landroval and Meneldor told the press how happy they were to play against Gwaihir and to see the land of the great Thorondor. And Durin’s Bane went on talking a lot about what it meant to him to go to the land of the creator of his grandfathers, the place he had never seen himself. And Caradhras was giving his own press-releases saying how wonderful it would be to meet the Pelori – the mountains.

~*~

The stadium at Valmar was buzzing with elves and Maiar – and a few of the Valar were also honoring the game with their presence. The only possible supporters of the visiting team were the eagles from the Middle-Earth – who had mixed feelings whether to champion Gwaihir, their leader, or his brother Landroval and Meneldor their mates – the Western Eagles had no problem in picking their favorites against the visitors even if they sympathized with their M-E –fellows. Also the few wizards were undecided as Saruman clearly was one of them, but he was a traitor as well and not that honored here in the West. So the fingers and toes of one would be enough to count the supporters of Misty Mts. from among the tens of thousands spectators gathered to the Valinor Arena.

And the stadium was roaring as the teams entered, hailing the home team Pelori who had beaten team Valinor in the last game of the group-stage. The crowds were confident Misty Mts. would be something the home team would just walk over. Even Saruman and Durin’s Bane seemed intimidated and nervous by the roar of the homecrowds – only Caradhras marched to the field proud and firm.

Team Pelori started the game in a typical way playing defensive and just trying to get the feel of the opponent. Misty Mts. knew they’d have their chance trying to hit into that with some really aggressive pressure-play from the very beginning, but Pelori managed to ward them off by holding the ball and annihilating the pressure with quick passing, forcing the Misty Mts. players to run for their life to try and exert the pressure – to no avail. On the contrary, the few counter-attacks by Pelori were getting close to a goal one by one.

To the honor of Misty Mts. it must be said they managed to keep Pelori away from scoring for half an hour, always finding someone who would end the passing-rally and turn the direction of the game for a while. But they couldn’t shut them out forever. After a lengthy build-up Pelori were playing their quick-pass game on Misty Mts.’ side of the field when Varda found a gap in Misty Mts. defenses – actually between Meneldor and Landroval – and Eönwë made a perfectly timed run into it receiving the ball from The Exalted just inside the box and comfortably hammered it in. The Herald was not used to fail on open positions like that one and Caradhras, even if he did fill most of the goal, was just such slow to move he had no time to react.

After the goal Pelori fell down to their infamous defense with the lead and just froze the game for the rest of the first half. The home-fans didn’t exactly love it but they appreciated it. This was the way their team marched from victory to victory. The half ended 1-0 to the Pelori.

Misty Mts. came to the second half enraged. They had been wronged before the game when their fans were not allowed into Valinor, they had been humiliated on the pitch with their opponents just toying with them… Could Durin’s Bane take that kind of treatment in the land of the maker of his kind? Could Narvi face one more humiliation against the dwarves? Could Azog just take in the dissing Valinor showed against his kind? Could Landroval and Meneldor see any righteousness in the way they were treated in comparison to Gwaihir? Could Caradhras stand the mocking in front of his brothers and sisters looming in the horizon outside the stadium? Could the Watcher just swallow the name and treatment of an odd-weirdo? How was it with the pride of the Chief Wolf, or the Great Goblin? Weren’t they proud and independent heroes each and every one of them? Wasn’t there an honor they needed to display? Wasn’t this the time they needed to stand tall and fight back – and show the vain Valar what they were made of? (We omitted William from the list for obvious reasons) Yes, it was the tongue of Saruman that got them into fury during the half-time.

And Saruman really rallied the team behind him. Misty Mts. came into the second half with fury and pressed strongly, forcing the Pelori to a more defensive position they liked. Narvi hit the rack after just a few minutes into the second half. Durin’s Bane boomed a cannon that hit Nahar sending it tumbling down – and it took a few minutes for the referees and first-aid troops to bring the horse back to it’s feet. On the next offence Saruman dribbled himself free from Gwaihir but his shot was denied at the last instance by a sliding tackle by Mandos. Just a moment later Azog was getting into a firing-range but after shoving Nienna down the referee whistled a free kick for Pelori…

Manwë didn’t exactly lose his cool but it was easy to see he was annoyed and displeased of what he saw in front of him when he shouted his orders to the players on the field. And they did pull themselves together at last coming back to their usual organized game. And boringly enough they scored from the second full attack they built-up after the panicky ten minutes in the beginning of the half. This time Varda was stuck beside the corner flag on the right flank Landroval closing on her. She made a quick pass backwards to Eönwë who volleyed the ball towards the left flank where Lórien was getting ready for a shot - but Ilmarë emerged from behind Meneldor and made a diving header to cut the pass and into the goal – totally surprising Caradhras. A handy performance from a maid!

But Landroval protested heatedly. He said Ilmarë had dragged his wing down unbalancing him before diving for the header thus denying him a chance to reach for the ball. The referees were unfair as they didn’t call off clear fouls made by the home team, but were whistling anytime one of his own team even touched one of the opponents. Hearing the complaining Gwaihir flew in and started publicly patronizing his brother for whining and bad conduct. At that point Meneldor couldn’t stay calm but got into the argument as well actually pushing Gwaihir back with his right wing and calling him a “blind self-righteous puppet of Manwë”. That did it for Gwaihir who pushed Meneldor back and started calling him names we can’t reproduce in this family-friendly site. But seeing his brother pushing his mate with blow after blow of his wings Landroval couldn’t but join the fray to help his friend. The wings were beating and the beaks were hewn dangerously as the three eagles were at it. The referees tried to separate them in vain – basically they lacked daring, authority and force to do that. But Manwë did that for them, growing in size towering the whole stadium and picking Gwaihir from the neck like a sparrow and carrying him away in between two of his fingers. Namo and Oromë had come to the situation and were giving Landroval and Meneldor the kind of looks saying “you better not follow them” that they thought it better not to.

The referees held council while Manwë had some serious words with Gwaihir, and Landroval and Maneldor were cooling down under the watchful eyes of Namo and Oromë. The final verdict was a yellow card to each of the three. And that probably was a wise decision from the referees as if they had shown them all red cards as the incident would have called for, Misty Mts. would have been reduced to one man short and they – like all their supporters and all the media – could have blamed everything on the referees if Misty Mts. lost the game. So instead of drastic measures they only carded the three.

But the steam was out of the match when it finally continued. Saruman and his team saw the impossibility of the situation being two goals down against such a mighty defence and ball-controlling machine while Pelori had no reason to stretch the lead any further. And seeing how the incident with the eagles had ended made even Durin’s Bane to think twice before starting any mayhem: the sight of a 35 feet Manwë carrying Gwaihir away was intimidating enough.

~*~

So Pelori won the game 2-0 and will continue to the quarterfinals. And even if it could be fairly said that a better team won, there was much left to grudge and to speculate upon. Here are a few comments from the media straight after the game.

Tumunzahar Weekly: "The despotic rule of Manwë must end! Arbitrary premises are no grounds for systematic killing or oppressing of other races. It has been an endemic fault in the world from the very beginning and this year’s Arda Cup has shown once more how thwarted it has become. Staying behind the gibberish of Eru’s vision is just cowardice hiding the real reasons that stem from vanity only. Why is Aulë so quiet – has he abandoned us or has his silence been forced upon him?"

The Armenelos Times: "The presumptuous behavior of the Valar must end! The current going is just insulting all the races great or insignificant. In next year’s Arda Cup let the Valinorians fight it out between each other and then come down from their heights to the play-offs into the M-E. That way we remove the hosting problem and all the races can enjoy football. Even better though would be the opening of the realm of Valinor to all at last with no reservations whatsoever! What is it they try to conceal there anyway?"

The Beleriander: "The West behaves scandalously and that needs to stop. Maybe teams from the west should be just banned from the tournament? Arda Cup would be much fairer and more inter-racially binding without them. The whole idea of bringing races together in the name of fair competition, even mixing different creatures together, has it’s greatest enemy in those who pray they are interpreting the holy visions of Ilúvatar himself! What an outrage! We hold the lands were our forefathers died holy, but that doesn’t mean we couldn’t let others to join us in festivities of peace for tomorrow in here. Inclusion is the way to peace and happiness, not exclusion."

Imladris Enquirer: "It is clear there are things that should be changed. It is totally unbearable to hear the news year after year about the mishaps happening to footballing tourists to the West – not to talk of some pretty straightforwards talk we have heard this year about the races welcome and the “undesirables” – the term itself mocks any moral person’s conscience. Just throwing it out as an idea that could be developed or challenged, how about the Valar would be spread the next year – like there would be no “Valinor-based”-team but the Vala who wished could still play in any team they wished to play for, as long as they didn’t have a clan there to call it a Valinor team?"

Moneybags Daily: "The current system of the Arda Cup seems to be at an end and new openings are required. How about we leave this buddy-buddying and anti-meritocratic scheming behind and leap into modernity making the Arda Cup a market-based enterprise like all other facets of our culture? So let those who have capital buy the teams for them and forget these race and age things. A football team should be as any other business: pick the right talent with the right price and you succeed. And to the aficionados afraid of our suggestion, pay heed to this as well: a smart investor takes notice of certain players performing profitably together and causing losses when in the wrong envirovment… so you romantics might get your fair share as well while we wealthier people would have some real opportunity to make some serious bucks."

Misty Mts 0-2 Pelori
tot shots 10-14
on target 4-6
GOALS:
*33, 0-1 Eonwe (Varda)
*65, 0-2 Ilmare (Eonwe)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Misty Mts- Watcher, William, Landroval, Meneldor
*Pelori- Ilmare, Gwaihir

Pelori goes through to meet the winner of the match between Lothlórien and Tirion in the quarterfinals.

the phantom

07-17-2011, 11:51 AM

Barad-Dur at Tol In Gaurhoth

After the Werewolves of Tol In Gaurhoth won their group, a debate started immediately as to where they would host their opening round playoff match. There was the obvious choice of playing on the Isle of Werewolves, but every member of the squad and most of their biggest supporters called The Barrow-Downs their home. What to do?

In the end it was their opponent that decided things. The Werewolves did much research into ticket sales and travel preferences and determined that they would be likely to receive the biggest share of support playing in Beleriand. The masses of Mordor had split their support between teams Mordor, Minas Morgul, Wilderland, and Barad-Dur, and it looked quite unlikely that many of them would be willing to travel such a long distance to support a team that did not include Sauron, Witch King, or Khamul, but did include historic Orc-banes Isildur, Anarion, Ohtar, Gil-galad, and Cirdan.

It was possible that an odd few supporters of Isildur and Anarion would come in from Numenor, but with team Westernesse playing at home it wouldn’t be many. Many of Cirdan’s supporters would be siphoned off by another contest as well- Ulmo and Tol Eressea at Angband, a contest scheduled to be played upon Angfauglith, a venue more hospitable to the Elves than the unsettled Werewolf-infested boggy mists of Tol In Gaurhoth. There were no lodgings in the area whatsoever. The only place to stay was within Sauron’s ancient fortress and dungeon that sat upon the island, and the place was simply crawling with nasty critters and any visitor was running the risk of death.

And indeed just as the wolves predicted the only Barad-Dur supporters that showed up were a knot of Elves from Lindon who camped two miles west of the river. It was hardly a picnic for these Elves, as their camp was ringed with all manner of creatures throughout the night, howling and wailing away. As the day of the game wore on the Elves left their camp and tramped down into the mists of the valley, getting one last glance of the highest towers of the fortress which towered over the stadium before their vision was limited to a mere ten feet.

A slow crescendo of noise from the path ahead was the only thing that warned the Elves they were approaching the arena. Quite suddenly a stone wall loomed in front of them, and a wooden sign pointed them to the right for visitor seating. The wall on their left ran straight for a time and then curved away from them upon reaching the southern end of the stadium. At the southernmost point there yawned an evil looking portal, framed with many burning torches and spikes protruding from the walls and ceiling. The Elves walked through it nervously- as it so resembled the hungry maw of some giant fearsome beast that they could not help but fear it would suddenly close on them.

Inside the arena they found the air somewhat clearer, as a massive tarp had been stretched over the top of the sunken arena. There were already thousands of Werewolves gathered, as well as a few thousand Wights, and even quite a few Orcs from the area that had served there once upon a time. Needless to say the Elves were hopelessly outnumbered, and they knew they would be unable to impact the game in any fashion. They only hoped they would at the least come away from the ordeal able to celebrate a victory.

Barad-Dur ran onto the pitch first, and the Elves cheered, but of course they were drowned out by their opposition, who did not boo, but rather laughed horribly, which was far worse. Booing would at least mean they disliked the squad and hoped they would lose. The laughter on the other hand- they thought Barad-Dur was no threat and knew they would lose.

And as Tol In Gaurhoth took the field the Elves knew why their fans were so confident. The Werewolves were just freaks! Not quite Wolves and not quite Wights, these things were something Middle-Earth had never seen before. The strategy of Men, the cunning of beasts, and the athleticism of Werwolves- a deadly combination. The Elves watched shaking their heads as the creatures warmed up. NogWolf and NerWolf were practicing a full speed counter, passing back and forth while sprinting at a ridiculous pace. GwathWolf and InzgilWolf were taking blasts at he net from 40 meters out, turning the ball into a blur. PhantomWolf, SallyWolf, and GaladWolf were warming up with various tricks, showing a surprising amount of dexterity and control given their size and strength. Meanwhile the defenders and keeper were warming up their muscles with various agility drills, leaps, and short runs. The Elves wondered how on earth Gil-galad and his helpers up front could hope to gain any separation from these athletes.

And they were right to worry, as Barad-Dur could get absolutely nothing going early on. The Werewolves were having fun, sending it to their opposition again and again and letting them take their best crack at their defense. Finally at 15 minutes Fellbeast managed to make ShastaWolf move, but he caught it easily and sent it back out. Five minutes later Gil-galad managed to trap his defender on his back and did a nice turn and shoot from just outside the box, but the defense was spread perfectly leaving only one avenue to the net, and ShastaWolf was in it.

At around 25 minutes captain NogWolf declared a shift of play and the Werewolves actually started holding it and going up to apply some pressure. Around the half-hour mark PhantomWolf found InzilWolf with a cross, but one of Barad-Dur’s rear defenders managed to clear it. Just a couple minutes later GwathWolf got around the edge and sent a rocket at the near post, but Ohtar leaped and batted it away.

But Barad-Dur could not hold off the WereWolves forever, and at 34 minutes InzilWolf realeased NogWolf behind the defense and he made Ohtar commit then chipped it to the empty side for the lead! The crowd celebrated wildly. Things were going exactly as expected! They cheered all the way to the end of the first half while the Werewolves went back to their defensive play.

Tol In Gaurhoth came out for the second half attacking, eager to put a bit of a cushion between them and their opponents. Barad-Dur staved them off for a bit, but Tol In Gaurhoth continued the pressure and soon had another score thanks to a mad scramble that followed a corner.

Tol In Gaurhoth went back to defense after that, and the Elves in the crowd noticed a change in the atmosphere. It was getting foggy in the arena. A look at the north end of the arena would confirm things, as the edges of the tarp had been removed allowing the mists to creep down into the stadium and over the field. The Elves yelled in protest, as they were losing sight of the match, but the TIG supporters howled with laughter, seemingly not bothered by the ploy.

Unable to see the match any more, the rabid crowd started getting out their noisemakers and meat and beer, kicking off celebrations early. No one can know for certain what happened under the fog, but when they closed the tarp ten minutes later and the fog finally started to clear, the Barad-Dur squad looked as if they’d been run over.

Their jerseys were ripped, and they were all bruised and bleeding. The Werewolves on the other hand looked as healthy as ever. All of Barad-Dur was more or less wandering about, simply trying to locate their opposition, but as the final bit of fog by the Barad-Dur goal vanished, there was suddenly a flurry of activity, as PhantomWolf was standing directly next to the keeper Ohtar with the ball at his feet!

Ohtar shouted with surprise and tried to leap upon the ball, but PhantomWolf pulled it away and whirled over towards the other post and stopped again, laughing. The whole defense was rushing to get back, but he didn’t move. Ohtar regained his feet and lunged again, but this time PhantomWolf whirled the opposite way and tapped the ball towards the far post. Time seemed to move in slow motion as Gothmog II and Nazgul #1 raced to clear the ball, but when they were within a step of it GwathWolf, who had been miles behind, came sliding between them and deflected the ball across the line for the three-goal lead.

GwathWolf laughed and trotted over to PhantomWolf, and was heard to shout, “What were you doing?” PhantomWolf grinned and shrugged, then replied, “I just wanted to see if you could get there first.”

The Wights and Wolves in the stands went into full party mode now, and the Elves exited, eager not to spend another night in the area. The tarp was opened again, and mist began spilling into the arena yet again. The players of Barad-Dur slumped- there would be no comeback. Even if they could put it in the net the refs would never see, and the WereWolves with their super hearing and smell would have better chances anyway.

Before the mist completely covered the field Gil-galad could be seen shaking hands with NogWolf, and mercifully NogWolf ordered possession only after that, and shouted for the mists to be cleared away. Barad-Dur exited the field as quickly as possible after the final whistle and the Tol In Gaurhoth players leaped into the stands to join in the celebrations. In dominating fashion the Werewolves were through to the quarterfinals.

Barad-Dur 0-3 Tol In Gaurhoth
tot shots 12-18
on target 4-8
GOALS:
*34, 0-1 NogWolf (InzilWolf)
*55, 0-2 GaladWolf (SallyWolf)
*72, 0-3 GwathWolf (PhantomWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Fellbeast #2, Gothmog, Isildur
*TIG- InzilWolf

Tol In Gaurhoth is through to face the winner of Angfauglith vs Westernesse.

Boromir88

07-17-2011, 11:55 AM

Tirion at Lothlorien

This was to be a contest between some of the greatest Elves in the history of Arda. There was also a story line of reunions to be followed. Galadriel would be up against her brother, Finrod, and any enthusiast of Arda football will remember Finrod has so far gotten the better of Galadriel's Lothlorien. Then there was Feanor who had left Tirion last year, to only see them here, in the first round of the playoffs. Feanor's spouse and mother may have left, but his beloved father remains still. The two will likely desire to meet and talk before and after the match.

The Stadium of Dreams in Caras Galadhon was packed with mostly Elves from Lothlorien. Not many locals made the games for Dunharrow, but now that Galadriel finally delivered a playoff caliber team, they were as excited as anyone else to see their home town team in action. Over 12,000 Noldor from Tirion made the journey, and were anticipating a competitive, but overall friendly contest. There may have been some bitterness in the Tirion fans, with Feanor defecting from their team and be drawn into Galadriel's service. They reasoned his temper was not welcome in Tirion, and Galadriel would learn her will was not strong enough to subdue Feanor's rashness. Lothlorien would fall to the careful and steady Finrod, they were sure of it. Whatever the Tirion elves said to try to convince themselves, they were still enamoured by the skill of Fearnor. And truth be told, anyone would rather have Feanor on their team rather than Feanor playing against their team.

*~*~*

As Boro88's whistle blew, starting the game, it appeared Galadriel had decided before she would play defensive and count on Tirion's over-aggression to catch them on counter attack opportunities. However, Finrod was resigned to playing a balanced game and would not make the mistake that Bombadil made, leaving his defense exposed, especially when it was Feanor on the other team. So, Tirion was holding most possession, looking for the lead, and whenever Lothlorien was able to try a counter, the balance of Finrod's plan made it easy for Aule's defense to stop any advance.

In the 16th minute Tirion gained the well deserved lead when Finrod fed Finwe with a tight pass. Finwe had a step on Celeborn, and was in close for a 1-on-1 against Galadriel. Galadriel was staring right into Finwe, trying to psych him out, but Finwe is a professional striker. He did not look at Galadriel, but instead stared straight down, made a clean strike and directed it to the far post beating Galadriel.

The Lady of Lothlorien was not happy with her husband or her defense on that play, as her brother yet again seemed to be getting the better of his sister. And the Tirion fans burst out in applause, blowing their horns. See, they were right, Finrod perceived the mind of Galadriel well. He knew how to beat it and Feanor was beginning to get flustered. Galadriel had ordered a lockdown in front of her net, and Feanor was looking quite alone up front.

Tirion continued to play the style that earned them the lead, and they were clearly looking to expand it. However, Finrod was not willing to commit greater efforts to expand their lead. Aule was doing just fine shutting down any counter attack, but knowing the extreme dangers in discounting Feanor's individual brilliance, Tirion would just stick to the game plan. If it's not broke, don't fix it right? However, in order to gain more goals, Tirion probably needed more players forward, as Gandalf was now up to the challenge at keeping Finwe and Aredhel at bay.

Tirion should have, and probably deserved a greater lead going into the break, but a spectacular display of goal-keeping by Galadriel in the final 5 minutes, kept the game 1-0. Finrod was content having the lead, while Lothlorien just looked relieved only to be down by 1.

Whatever fireworks were blasted off in the Lothlorien locker room at the half, they looked like a completely different team to start the 2nd. Many speculated that Feanor had appealed to Galadriel's desire to win by showing her that waiting for counter-attacking was simply not working against her brother's team. They were in front of a passionate Lothlorien crowd, and playing this negative brand of football. Lothlorien fans did not deserve this product, not with the talent the team had up front this year. Whatever was said, it was a whole new look to Lothlorien and it took Finrod and Aule completely by surprise.

Within 3 minutes Lothlorien was drawn equal. Legolas broke into the box, and Orodreth was anticipating him to shoot, but with a soft back-flip, he left it for Boromir, racing in right behind. Orodreth had no chance. He was getting ready to stop a precise shot to one of the corners by Legolas, not prepared to have to save a patented speeding bullet off Boromir's boot.

Lothlorien continued pressing and Tirion's defense was looking desperate and frantic. That desperation showed as Caranthir slid into his father just a few steps outside the penalty box. Boro88 signalled a free kick to Lothlorien, and it would be a yellow for Caranthir. Many fans of Tirion were not happy with the decision for a yellow, surely Caranthir had no intent to injure his father, and Feanor seemed more proud of his son by trying to stop him from scoring. Or maybe Feanor knew no matter what Caranthir tried, it wasn't going to stop Feanor from getting on the sheet. Caranthir had only delayed the inevitable, as Feanor was set to take a free kick from a dangerous and close position. And as reliable as always, Feanor bent the shot up over Tirion's wall of defenders and it was out of Orodreth's range.

By the time Aule got the defense calmed, only just over 10 minutes had gone by in the 2nd and Tirion was suddenly down 2-1. That lead was not enough for Lothlorien, and this is the dangers of Feanor when he was completely in the zone. He was simply unstoppable, and no other way around it. Not even another 10 minutes had passed from the last goal, and Feanor put in his 2nd goal of the match.

With the 3-1 lead, Lothlorien now withdrew and went into protect mode. But this time the Lothlorien fans were not disappointed, because they had just witnessed 20 minutes of the most offensive football they had every seen out of the Lothlorien team, and they were simply ecstatic. Legolas was actually seen getting his pack of travelling fangirls to start the Feanorian wave. Galadriel did not look thrilled as she was urging her team to stay focused, there was still over 20 minutes of game left and Finrod was not defeated yet.

In the group stages, Lothlorien was always able to comfortably hold onto big leads, but they had not played an offense anywhere near the talents of Tirion. And this time Finrod would be pushing in full gear, but really there was no other choice. It was do or die for Tirion, and they were not going to go down without a fight. Lothlorien missed their opportunity to deliver the killing blow as a 2-goal lead was not all that safe against Tirion. Now Aule and Caranthir began drawing closer, and in the 79th minute Aredhel brought the score to within 1, after Caranthir led her perfectly with a pass.

Anyone watching the game in the final 11 minutes would be tense and on the edge. Lothlorien was trying to hold on to the lead and found it difficult to switch gears to a more offensive plan. Tirion was going all out to get an equalizer and just get the game into overtime. However, Gandalf proved exactly why he was signed onto Lothlorien, as the defense was now suffocating. And others thought that maybe Tirion lost too much firepower with Miriel and Nerdanel's departure? Not trying to take anything away from Finwe, Aredhel and Finrod, but Tirion was lacking just that extra bit of skill that made them threats to score a goal at any time as Gandalf was locking down the box confidentally in the final minutes. Stopping any and all runs that Tirion could muster. Whatever one chooses to believe, all that matters to fans of the game was Tirion was defeated and Lothlorien would be advancing to the quarter-finals for the first time in Arda Cup history.

As Lothlorien exited the field, the home crowd was said to give a great applause to Feanor going into the locker room. Galadriel had always been the Lothlorien favorite, but had never gotten the team far until Feanor's arrival. So, one has to wonder if there was enough glory to go around for Lothlorien to advance further? Or maybe, just maybe, remembering Feanor's comments about the Valar before the tournament, there was enough fiery spirit to get revenge against Manwe in the next round? For Feanor had settled the score against Aule in this round.

Lothlorien 3-2 Tirion
tot shots 14-17
on target 7-8
GOALS:
*16, 0-1 Finwe (Finrod)
*48, 1-1 Boromir (Legolas)
*56, 2-1 Feanor
*63, 3-1 Feanor (Nimrodel)
*79, 3-2 Aredhel (Caranthir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Lothlorien- Gimli, Amroth
*Tirion- Mahtan, Caranthir, Elemmakil

Lothlorien advances to the quarter-finals to play Pelori

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-17-2011, 08:14 PM

Bracket:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-brkt-qf.png

Power Ranking:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-ro16-pr.png

(Teams in bold are quarterfinalists, teams in italics are eliminated.)

Greatest gain:
+6 Tol Eressëa*
+5 Tirion*
+4 Barad-dûr*
+2 Eregion
*[These teams were below the top 16 in the previous Power Ranking.]

Greatest loss:

-2 Wilderland, Valinor, Minas Morgul
-1 Tol-in-Gaurhoth, Misty Mts, The Forest

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking--the lower the aggregate, the higher the rank. Ties are broken by a) goal differential; and b) the Power Rank of their opponent.

The offensive ranking is based on the goals scored by the teams throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) greater number of shots made on target; and b) greater number of shots made.

The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed by the teams throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) least number of shots allowed on target; and b) least amount of shots allowed.

Phantasy Numbers:
(Players in italics are from eliminated teams.)

GOALS + ASSISTS
5+3
Túrin (Doriath)

5+0
Arien (Valinor)

4+0
Ancalagon (Angband)

3+4
Maeglin (Anfauglith)

3+3
Glorfindel (Eregion)
Elros (Westernesse)
Fëanor (Lothlórien)

3+2
Bombadil (The Forest)
Eönwë (Pelóri)
NogWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Legolas (Lothlórien)

3+1
Gothmog (Anfauglith)
Smaug (Wilderland)
Eärendil (Eregion)
GwathWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

3+0
Húrin (Doriath)
Scatha (Wilderland)

2+4
Sauron (Wilderland)

2+3
Míriel (Valinor)

2+2
Thuringwethil (Angband)
Ar-Pharazôn (Westernesse)

GOALKEEPER - RANKING
95.8% (23/24) Elrond (Eregion)
93.8% (15/16) Huan (Doriath)
92.3% (12/13) ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
88.9% (16/18) Tar-Atanamir (Westernesse)
84.2% (16/19) Galadriel (Lothlórien)
82.4% (14/17) Manwë (Pelóri)
82.4% (14/17) Amandil (Tol Eressëa)
79.0% (15/19) Ungoliant (Angband)
77.3% (17/22) Caradhras (Misty Mts)
73.9% (17/23) Ingwë (Valinor)
72.4% (21/29) Ohtar (Barad-dûr)
72.2% (13/18) Grimbeorn (Wilderland)
65.4% (17/26) Eärnur (Minas Morgul)
64.3% (18/28) Orodreth (Tirion)
61.5% (16/26) Old Man Willow (The Forest)
55.0% (11/20) Huor (Anfauglith)

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-17-2011, 09:25 PM

Doriath vs Valinor
Doriath Off > Valinor Def
Doriath Def = Valinor Off

Tirion had proven that Doriath's defence is not actually impregnable, and Valinor is a better team offensively than Tirion (averaging almost 3 goals and 16 shots (7 on target) vs almost 2 and 15 (7) for Tirion against non-Shire-Bree teams.) So they could score. The problem is how to stop Doriath's shooters from doing the same to them, or worse. The Valinorean defence conceded two early goals to Wilderland, necessitating a furious second-half rally. Allowing a much stronger Doriath team to do the same would dash their hopes of advancing to the semis.

Doriath 4:2 Valinor

Angband vs Eregion
Angband Off = Eregion Def
Angband Def = Eregion Off
We may have underestimated the resilience of Tol Eressëa's defence, limiting the Angband offensive machine to but a single goal. Amandil in particular has risen to the occasion, which makes us wonder how much Angband's front line could do against Elrond (a better GK than Amandil) and his defenders, who held a determined Bombadil and his inspired squad scoreless.

Eregion's 3rd goal against the Forest could be a message to their next opponent--yes, they are primarily a defensive team, but they can shoot, too. The problem is if they could do the same against Angband's defence, which has held up against all but most determined attackers (like the forwards of Hithlum and Anfauglith scoring 2 each against Ungoliant and Morgoth in an average of 13 shots (6 on target)). Eregion has managed just about the same number of shots and shots on targets against all their previous opponents, but none of them are of the same level defensively as Angband.

It may end up in a penalty shoot-out. Elrond and Ungoliant are not that far apart in skill, but Eregion has only Glorfindel and Eärendil as quality shooters. Angband has more.

Angband 2:2 Eregion (Angband wins in penalties 3-2.)

Tol-in-Gaurhoth vs Westernesse
Tol-in-Gaurhoth Off = Westernesse Def
Tol-in-Gaurhoth Def < Westernesse Off
This is Tol-in-Gaurhoth's first serious test, and what a test it is. The strength of the Westernesse offense has already been proven--scoring almost at will against quality defensive teams Númenor and Tol Eressëa, and bludgeoning the struggling Anfauglith back line (with defending champion GK Huor in front of the net) with three goals. ShastaWolf and the three defenders would be hard-pressed to stop them. And so the game would hinge on how well the Werewolves's offence would do against the Westron defence. Anfauglith has ended Tar-Atanamir's shutout streak, but they are a tested team that has fought against the defence of Morgoth's fortress and not come out lacking. The TiG strikers have had a cake walk so far. How would they fare against one of the best defences in the league?

Tol-in-Gaurhoth 1:3 Westernesse

Pelóri vs Lothlórien
Pelóri Off = Lothlórien Def
Pelóri Def < Lothlórien Off
Fëanor has woken up! And it bodes ill for their next opponents.

Lothlórien's defence faced its toughest test in their last match, and, despite yielding 2 goals and 17 shots (8 on target) against Tirion, they have done well enough. The Pelóri offence is not in the same level (averaging less than 2 goals in 13 shots (6 on target), which means the Golden Wood's back line would not be hard-pressed like they were in the Round of 16. (Although they would have to be alert against Eönwë and Varda's counter-attacks.)

Pelóri's defence has not been as impressive as it had been in the friendlies, but they have still been solid, winning the Group of Death by allowing only 1 goal and 11 shots (4 on target) per game, including against a high-octane Valinor offence. Most of Lothlórien's front line has not yet been tested against such a quality defensive team, but with Fëanor's resurgence and Galadriel listening to his wisdom, that might be enough to tip the scales.

Pelóri 1:2 Lothlórien

the phantom

07-18-2011, 12:53 PM

(Eliminated players in italics)

31

GK **Elrond (Eregion)

30

29

FW **Turin (Doriath)

28

27

MF *Glorfindel (Eregion)

26

25

24

FW *Maeglin (Angfauglith)

23

GK **Huan (Doriath)
DF **Melian (Doriath)

22

MF Legolas (Lothlorien)

21

FW **Feanor (Lothlorien)
FW Elros (Westernesse)

20

GK *Galadriel (Lothlorien)
GK *Tar Atanamir (Westernesse)
GK ShastaWolf (TIG)
DF *Beren (Doriath)
DF *Celebrimbor (Eregion)
FW *Sauron (Wilderland)

19

DF Elwe (Doriath)
FW Arien (Valinor)

18

FW *Bombadil (Forest)
FW Eonwe (Pelori)

17

DF **Fingolfin (Angfauglith)
DF Erestor (Eregion)
DF Malbeth (Westernesse)
MF *Hurin (Doriath)
FW *NogWolf (TIG)
FW *Miriel (Valinor)
FW Curufin (Hithlum)

16

GK *Manwe (Pelori)
GK Caradhras (Misty Mts)
GK Amandil (Tol Eressea)
DF *Ulmo (Tol Eressea)
DF *Namo (Pelori)
DF Carcharoth (Doriath)
DF Celeborn (Lothlorien)
MF *Finrod (Tirion)
MF Ar Adunakhor (Westernesse)
MF Leod (Anduin)
FW *Ancalagon (Angband)

Nogrod

07-18-2011, 03:27 PM

Doriath
vs. Tirion 4-1
vs. Himring 3-0
vs. Shire-Bree Utd. 4-0
vs. Minas Morgul 4-0

4-0-0
15-1
22,4% 37(67) – 16(48) 93,8%

Valinor
vs. Gondolin 3-1
vs. Beleriand 3-1
vs. Pelori 1-2
vs. Wilderland (OT) 3-2

3-0-1
10-6
15,6% 28(64) – 23(50) 73,9%

Looking at stats from any area of the play it looks like Doriath is about 25-30% better than Valinor, except in the overall shots taken and allowed where Doriath is only a marginal 5% better – and of course the goals allowed area where they are almost 85% on top of Valinor.

But what do these numbers tell us? Well, nothing and everything, as the statisticians tend to say. Let’s start with why the stats don’t matter here.

Which one would win the game if set against each other, Shire-Bree or Gondolin? Himring or Beleriand? Tirion or Pelori? Minas Morgul or Wilderland?

So if the stats give a general, say 30% advantage for Doriath, one could also say that the odds for the opponents Valinor has faced thus far to win the opponents Doriath has faced would be at least the same, if not higher. Thus making it more or less even.

To make a difference between the team one has then to go for some of the more independent stats. Two stats the AKM believes in more than others are the scoring percentage and the keeper’s saving percentage – and even if one can say Doriath played in a much easier group, both stats leaning stongly in Doriath’s favor can’t be dismissed.

So we’d say Doriath are the slight favourites to win, but not in a walk in the park –manner some see it, as they are really put to test here – one could say the first time in this year’s tournament. Anything could happen here, not the least because Valinor are Valar, and they have Nerdanel, Miriel and Arien…

Angband
vs. Hithlum 4-2
vs. TheDowner 3-0
vs. Anfaughlith 2-2
vs. Tol Eressea 1-0

3-1-0
10-4
18,2% 27(55) – 19(48) 79%

Eregion
vs. Gondor 2-0
vs. Barad Dûr 2-0
vs. Eregion 3-1
vs. The Forest 3-0

4-0-0
10-1
19,2% 27(52) – 24(52) 95,8%

The first glance at the teams would suggest the game would be played between two more or less even attackers, but that Eregion would have a way better defense, mainly because of heroic Elrond at their goal. But the AKM will not be satisfied with that kind of surface-analysis and is willing to go further with the game set-up here as well.

Let’s start with the big questinmark: is Angband’s defense that much weaker? To be honest it is not. Elrond is the leader of the goal-keeper stats and is a remarkably great keeper but the defense is not all about the goalie and also about the defenders, but is a lot about the opponent’s trigger-happiness – and the quality of the opposing offense overall too. And there we have clear difference.

Now Eregion has sailed to this stage without needing to face any offensive powerhouses, while Angband has played against both Hithlum (with Curufin and Celegorm & Hador) and Anfaughlith (with Maeglin, Gothmog and Fingolfin); two teams who live for attacking and have the quality to score. Looking at it from that POV makes Angband defense look a way better the stats show. Eregion has faced thus far Gondor, Eriador and Barad Dûr – and an anemic The Forest – and still they have allowed about as many shots as Angband has! And anyway: the three top teams on group C score together 26 goals – while the top three of group D scored only 16! So the challenge the defenses have met are far from equal.

On offence is tight as well. Tilion has only shown occasional sparks and Ancalagon and Thurihngwethil have carried the flag with some nice back up from Tevildo, and from Morgoth from defense. So even if their number one star has not been at his best yet, they have made a confident attack on a larger front. On Eregion’s side the things are more or less the same even if one could say they have no untapped hero-power that would have been sleeping thus far. Glorfindel has been his dashing self and Eärendil has been good beside him, while Elladan and Elrohir have been helping them out from behind.

So as the AKM sees it, it is a question of Eregion meeting their first offensive team with quality and at the same time the first team with solid defenses. So will Elrond stand as well against quality-opposition and will Glorfindel and Eärendil be able to score against a league tougher defense they have met thus far? If the answer to both these questions is no, then Angband will win easily. If it is yes, it will be a really tight match.

Tol-In-Gaurhoth
vs. The Forest 3-0
vs. Nargothrond 3-0
vs. Mordor 3-1
vs. Barad-Dur 3-0

4-0-0
12-1
18,2% 32(66) – 13(37) 92,3%

Westernesse
vs. Mithrim 4-0
vs. Tol Eressëa 2-0
vs. Númenor 2-0
vs. Angfauglith 3-2

4-0-0
11-2
19,3% 26(57) –18(38) 88,9%

Here again we find a statistician’s nightmare. Both teams look more or less equal on most areas: goals scored, goals allowed, the efficiency of shooting, total number of shots allowed, the goalkeepers saving percentage... But there are two stats that differ somewhat: the number of shots on goal and the number of shots on goal allowed. IN those two T-I-G seems to have something of an edge.
So the question then becomes: are those differences significant, and also, are the similarities actually telling of similarities? Time for the AKM to take a look at them.

First of all the number of shots allowed eg. the tightness of the defenses: after the group phase the numbers were basically even. After that Westernesse played Anfaughlith where as T-I-G played Barad Dûr. The ensuing difference is wiped away immediately. It’s also good to notice that Tar Atanamir’s saving percentage was 100% before meeting Anfaughlith – a kind of team T-I-G has yet to meet.

The number of shots and shots on goal on the other hand show a steady advance for the T-I-G. They have consistently shot a bit more. But a look at the group-stats makes an interesting reading here as well. Of the other teams in their groups only Mithrim from group F gave in as many shots as the three other teams from group E did. And to just make it more particular: Tol Eressëa is one of the tightest defending teams of the whole tournament, and Númenor were tough defenders as well – which can’t be said of Nargothrond, Mordor or The Forest at all. So suddenly the starts start to look a bit different as it looks only quite natural Westernesse hasn’t shot that much.

So all in all, even if the numbers say T-I-G has something like a slight advance we tend to think the tournament of the werewolves is over this time and predict Westernesse will win. It will be a tough game, but still. The final factor in here is that T-I-G hasn’t faced any real tough teams thus far while Westernesse has – and still the stats look pretty much equal.

Pelori
vs. Beleriand 1-1
vs. Gondolin 2-1
vs. Valinor 2-1
vs Misty Mts. 2-0

3-1-0
7-3
13,5% 23(52) – 17(44) 82,4%

Lothlórien
vs. Minas Morgul 2-1
vs. Minas Tirith 3-0
vs. Dunharrow 2-0
vs. Tirion 3-2

4-0-0
10-3
18,5% 30(54) – 19(49) 84,2%

This is one of the games one would not like to predict on. It always seems from the stats that Manwë’s teams are not that good and still, more often than not, they prevail in the end. Some say this will be a duel between Manwë and Fëanor. It might be that. But it is also a fight of Galadriel against Varda and Eönwë.

When meeting some real offensive talent against Tirion, Galadriel gave away two goals immediately. That doesn’t predict good on their side. Then again Pelori hasn’t played against the best goalies either.

On the other hand, both teams have met only one strongly attacking team. The results: Pelori beat Valinor 2-1 while Lothlórien beat Tirion 3-2. And as only a fool would say Tirion would have any chances beating Valinor (Doriath beat Tirion 4-1!), it looks like Pelori’s defences are stronger after all.

The attack then? Lothlórien has been scoring confidently 2 or 3 goals in every game. Legolas has been very good and Fëanor has flashed his talents a few times – but only flashed them. In previous years it was always Túrin and Fëanor going neck by neck leading the scoreboard, but this year Fëanor has given no real challenge to the son of Húrin. Will he set alight in this game – and is it enough facing the defense by Manwë and Mandos? But clearly he is not what he used to be as one can’t blame the toughness of the opposition this time around.

Honestly speaking, Pelori has met with tougher defenses than Lothlórien has and thus the difference in goals made and shots on goal that seem to favour Lothlórien diminish a lot in signifigance.

It would be so compelling to say it is a duel between Manwë and Fëanor and leave it at that. But that of course is not the way to do it. So the AKM hold Pelori slight favourites to the game, but if it comes to a shoot-out we would possibly predict a different outcome…

the phantom

07-20-2011, 01:57 PM

The Game Within The Game
The Phantom, "The Downer" Sporting News

We all know what is going on in the Arda Cup, so I won't waste any time writing about that. It's only the biggest sporting event in Middle Earth! It's receiving plenty of coverage from fine journalists. What I want to talk about is a game within the game that has been going on here on the Downs. I'm talking about the Arda Cup Phantasy Competition.

If you haven't checked the standings lately, guess who's back on top? None other than the winner from three years ago- Gwathagor. He has always sworn that he would win another title, and here he is threatening once again. If you'll recall he was also sitting in first place at this stage last year, but couldn't hold off the late charge of Boromir, and ended up in a jumble with Nog, Skip, and Nerwen in the final standings.

But this year he has a bit more of a cushion and will be more difficult to catch without help from pre-tournament predictions. Yes, don't forget those! They are worth a potential fifty points, so the championship is still wide open!

The ever competitive Nog is sitting in second place currently. He's been a hard-luck case in years past, always in the hunt but never on top at the end. Will luck be with him this year?

Next is Boro, who is looking to become the first ever repeat winner, and if anyone can mount a furious prediction-fueled comeback we know it's him.

Just behind him is Nilp and Eomer, who have been charging hard the past couple rounds. Watch out for them- they're on a roll.

A couple points down from there is the ever dangerous Skip, who is another one that has a reputation for strong finishes.

The next group down will have a bit more trouble coming back (they need pre-tournament predictions to hit for them), but they're all bunched tightly and there is pride at stake and no doubt they wish to at least beat those around them- Nerwen, Morm, Kuru, Shasta, and Galadriel. Bringing up the rear is Sally and Inzil, who are anxious to put on a spurt and send some of the group above them to the bottom of the standings. They are also keen to break the 200 point mark, as that would put them solidly ahead of last year's rear group and give them confidence for a change in luck next season.

And as a special treat, here is a brief statement from each of this year's participants.

Boro (They Have a Cave Troll): Guess who's within striking distance people? Ha ha- the comeback king, me! That trophy is going to stay in my living room this year.
Eomer (Bletherin’ Blellums): I had the most group prediction points, and you watch- I'll gain the most pre-tourney prediction points too. And combined with this nice run I'm having... This thing is mine.
Galadriel (Unnamed Horror): This is my first ever try at this and I'm probably going to finish in the top half. I'm a natural, aren't I? After I get some experience the rest of you won't stand a chance.
Gwath (The Lynch Mob): Guess who's sitting on top again? It's- no! Not Boro, it's- No! Not Skip or Nog either. I was implying that- NO! Not Saucepan Man! It's ME!! GWATH is on top! You need to give me my proper respect.
Inzil (Inzil’s Ignobles): You mean this isn't like golf? Oh dear... I've got some ground to make up then. No matter- with a late charge I will relegate someone else to the bottom. Simple as that.
Kuru (Kuru's Scrubs): I'm just not cut out for a long competition like this. I'm more of a natural sprinter.
Morm (Wrath of the Monkey): Six people ahead of me in the standings, six people behind. *sigh* Always mediocre.... Grrr! But I will change my fortunes with a strong finish!
Nerwen (Notorious Nerwenites): I seem to be a bit off my game this year. But it's not completely out of reach. I'll give it my best, and at the least I'll beat that blasted Shasta.
Nilp (The Numbering Horde): Oh yeah! On a hot streak! Just gotta keep it burning and I'll shoot past Boro this round, Nog in the next, and pass Gwath on the final turn. Boo-yah!
Nog (Noggportunistics): Always a bridesmaid never a bride, right? But sooner or later my superior strategies will pay off, I'm certain.
Sally (The Cupkicks): Without Wilwa here who am I supposed to be competing with? Meh- at least I have the coolest name.
Shasta (Wolf Pack): Well curses! That last round did not go as planned. But hey, everyone has one bad round. From here on out I'll be good. And at the least I'm going to beat my nemesis, Nerwen.
Skip (The Klong Toey Soi Dogs): Those guys in front of me are looking at each other and playing accordingly. Perfect... Just forget about old Skip here. Pay no attention. I'll just close the gap nice and innocent like, and then BANG! They won't see it coming.

Boromir88

07-21-2011, 06:45 AM

QUARTER-FINALS PREVIEW
BoroLXXXVIII Two Towers Network

We shall see if the Felagundian has the staying power to consistently put out those types of predictions. I know I already do. As far as AKM, that used to be one of the best football magazines, but it is so full of kick-backs and payoffs the biases of the sports-writers is clearly revealed.

Previous years the AKM had a love child with the Tirion trio, and seeing as the Tirion trio has split up, apparently they found a new one with the Westernesse team. They so desperately want Westernesse to win this year, they are starting to arbitrarily twist stats. Accuse me of ignoring stats, like Huor's save percentage? Ok, fair enough, but I was trying to weigh in the chances of Huor having a monster play off performance as he consistenly showed in the past. But the AKM is doing something far more dangerous by manipulating stats.

The stats tell the story and to try to factor in who's had the tougher competition to either downplay or boost a team's stats is just impossible. Has TIG played as tough of an opponent as Anfauglith yet? No. But you play the games you're given and all you can do is win them. TIG has been sharp and effective in all their games. While Westernesse has shown vulnerability, especially at the back.

Is it true I was favoring Anfauglith over Westernesse, because Anfauglith was my predicted champion at the beginning of the year? A bit. But keep in mind I was not way off in believing the possibility. They drew with Angband and Westernesse had to storm back with a 1-man advantage to get that win. But now, with my champion team gone, there is no more favoritism factor in these predictions, no more biases. That is not the case for AKM or the Felagundian.

Doriath vs Valinor

This is looking like one of the easier games of the quarter-finals to predict, but I think it's still going to be an exciting, tight game. Valinor's downfall is really their defense and they don't have the power to get into a scoring match with Doriath. And that's the big difference, Doriath is a balanced team that can play you either way you want. They can keep a low scoring defensive battle, or run up the score board. Doriath's talent is inferior to none and can win however way the other team wants to play it. Huan has shown he's not beyond making mistakes and has gotten beat when under pressure. But how much pressure can he be under with Melian's defense in front of him?
Doriath wins 3-2

Angband vs Eregion

This could very easily be another 1-0 win for Angband as this will be a defensive and goal keeping clinic for everyone watching. There is enough scoring talent to each score 1, but the question is who will get to 2 goals first then? Because it's probably going to take over time to get there. Here we favor Angband because Eregion's defense is pretty mediocre, but just looks better because of Elrond's divine goal keeping skill. Angband has to win it in OT, because if it goes to a shoot out we'd favor Eregion's strikers over Angband's. However, if anyone can grind out 2 goals against Elrond, it'll be Melkor.
Angband wins 2-1 in OT.

Tol in Gaurhoth vs Westernesse

Die, Westernesse, die! Oops, can't have any biases here. Ok, we imagine AKM has a love affair with this team because it looks similar to the 2009 champions, Armenolos. Similar, yes, but a few key differences. There is no lynchpin and architect in Sauron as there was in 2009. And instead of having a complete sturdy Numenorean team, they've filled some of the spots with men of a lesser age. Even if these men were some of the greater of their age, they are still lesser men from a lesser age. When up against an actual capable attack, Westernesse's defense does not look at impenetrable and that's what you get when you try to mix Numenoreans with others.

We know TIG can score, we know Westernesse can't keep their goal clean when playing against a team that can score. We also know the wolves have been a stronger and more athletic match up problem for the Numenoreans in the past. The problem has been TIG's aggressive wolvy personality, relying solely on athleticism. This looks like a different wolf pack this year though. They're playing far better as a unit and it's a proven fact that wolves will do anything for survival, even gnaw off their own paws.
TIG wins 3-2. This is another game that goes to OT

Lothlorien vs Pelori

Manwe's team actually shows some life and for the first time has made it into the quarter-finals. And the same goes for Galadriel's team. With a spot to the semi's, this will be interesting. We favor Lothlorien, simply by the past experiences of Feanor and Gandalf who can bring a championship mindset that settles the nerves of Lothlorien. Who on Pelori has made it this far, and what have the Valar ever won? I rest my case.

Not yet though. In all seriousness, this comes down to the talents of Feanor and Gandalf. There will be no question about inspiration for Feanor in this game. And Gandalf knows the mind of his Maiar and Valar very well. He will no doubt have the defense prepared for all the tricks Manwe wants to try to throw at the defense.
Lothlorien wins 2-1

Nogrod

07-21-2011, 02:30 PM

It is sad to see the venerable TTN is turning into a yellow paper. We hope we don't hear them getting caught of wiretapping the celebrities' phones and breaking into their voicemails as a standard practise.

--- end of the rhetorical part ---

Whatever TTN says, the AKM will stand for quality journalism backed by the most reliable data given and analyzed by the most cabable journalists in the bussiness. Our individual journalists may have some personal favourites of their own, like we think every enthusiastic football commentator will unavoidably have - a thing which even the TTN seems to acknowledge well themselves. But there is a great difference in liking certain playing-styles, teams, races or individual players and letting those affiliations to affect one's journalism.

The case - and the accusation - TTN brings forth, looks to the AKM both ridiculous and insulting. Here's what we are referring to.
They [The AKM] so desperately want Westernesse to win this year, they are starting to arbitrarily twist stats. Accuse me of ignoring stats, like Huor's save percentage? Ok, fair enough, but I was trying to weigh in the chances of Huor having a monster play off performance as he consistenly showed in the past. But the AKM is doing something far more dangerous by manipulating stats.

The stats tell the story and to try to factor in who's had the tougher competition to either downplay or boost a team's stats is just impossible. Has TIG played as tough of an opponent as Anfauglith yet? No. But you play the games you're given and all you can do is win them. TIG has been sharp and effective in all their games. While Westernesse has shown vulnerability, especially at the back.Let us make a few questions to the editor of the TTN.

How does TTN think that "us wishing for the Westernesse to win" would be in anyway advanced with us saying they could win the game against T-I-G? Does the TTN believe in some kind of incantational magic where if the AKM spells out a prediction it does happen in the real world (how else to interpret the line saying we're doing something "far more dangerous"?): and seemingly from their POV the wrong way as they wish for the T-I-G to win - thus doing just the thing they criticise us of doing aka. taking sides?

And to be true, the AKM does not wish anyone in particular to win or lose. The AKM is no individual blogger fighting his heart out to support a team or another but a respectable news organisation in the service of the public for enlightenment and entertainment.

Secondly, how does TTN think the AKM has "arbitrarily twisted the stats". The stats and their analysis are there in the open for anyone to consider (and in TTN's case, to re-consider) in the AKM article. All the points made by the AKM are fair and balanced. Cutting the main points into a few basic notions, what the AKM said was:

1)
Both teams are very much even statswise, but two differences.

a)
The number of the overall shots allowed (not those allowed on target) slightly favours T-I-G. The AKM reminded the readers that those stats between the two teams were more or less even before the first knock-out round where Westernesse faced the offensive powerhouse Anfaughlith and T-I-G faced the fiasco called Barad Dûr. Unlike TTN says, it is not impossible "to factor in who's had the tougher competition". Or does someone think the number of shots against you would be the same facing Anfaughlith or Barad Dûr?

b)
There is a slight difference in overall shooting (not in the shooting on target though) in favour of T-I-G. The AKM reminded the readers that overall in the group-phase the shots allowed were very different: in group E (T-I-G) the other teams allowed about 41 shots against them whereas on group F (Westernesse) only one team (Mithrim) let the others shot that much, while the two others (Tol Eressëa and Númenor) only allowed 28-30 shots - like 1/4 less. So that is a fac t to be considered. And that is what the AKM said. Nothing more.

2)
We notified the fact that even if Westernesse has conceded two goals while T-I-G has conceded only one, then they gave those two goals to Anfaughlith who has one of the most effective attack this tournament knows of (and here we think TTN can not but agree). Before that game Westernesse had allowed no goals at all and Tar Atanamir's saving percentage was pure 100%. So the comparison between the two goalies should take that into account as Shastawolf has not been tested by a team like Anfaughlith unlike Tar Atanamir has. From that perspective we find little evidence for TTN's claim that Westernesse "has shown vulnerability, especially at the back" - and that was what we wanted to remind our readers about.

3)
From 1a&b the AKM concluded that the stats were more or less equal (and they are equal on all the major parts of the game: the total shots allowed and total shots taken aren't the most important stats), and things being more or less equal statswise, the fact that Westernesse has faced a lot tougher opposition (Anfaughlith, Tol Eressëa) makes them the favourites for the game in the eyes of the AKM.

Let us conclude with a re-quote from TTN: Has TIG played as tough of an opponent as Anfauglith yet? No. But you play the games you're given and all you can do is win them.Exactly. But if two teams end up with similar stats when one plays some weaker opponents and another tougher ones, then it would be smart to infer there is a difference between the teams favouring the latter. Right? If T-I-G would be the better team they would outshine Westernesse in the stats now, but they don't.

And that's why the AKM believes Westernesse will win. But even there we are cautious, making it this way: It will be a tough game, but still. The final factor in here is that T-I-G hasn’t faced any real tough teams thus far while Westernesse has – and still the stats look pretty much equal.

No prejudice, no favouritism, no sympathetic magic - just rational inference based on the statistics.

We'd love to see the same attitude from the TTN.

Nogrod

07-21-2011, 03:40 PM

Last year the AFA authorities offered the Arthedain to host group C of the Arda Cup. Many an eyebrow was raised back then as everyone knew the ambitious rebuilding-project of Norbury was a huge venture demanding both time and capital – so why drain both of those precious assets with adding one more major project to it? There was no way they could manage it, said many. There were strong suspicions on the issue. But lo and behold! They built a beautiful stadion at Amon Sûl – rebuilding the tower itself for it as well, in time, in a luxurious manner though not in the grandest of scales.

Here’s how The AKM’s correspondent described the new venue last year:

“[the Arthedain] asked to host the games at Amon Sûl instead [of Norbury]. The fully rebuilt tower laid a majestic backdrop to the stadium they built on its feet.

The Weathertop-Arena was not the most grand or lavish venue there was, but it was dashingly modern while it’s architecture honoured the surroundings and the great tower of Amon Sûl. From far away it looked like the stadium was embedded into the hillside, being a part of it.

The most expensive suites at the tower offered some real glamour for the spectators able to finance such lodgings – and a great view to the game from individual balconies. As a bonus the spectators would be shown live-coverage from all the matches going on at other locations via the restored palantir of Amon Sûl.”

The games went peacefully, the crowd turn-out was impressive (full house for every match) and what is really important: the mood in and around the group-play was amiable and good-spirited; and the organization was greased and polished, working effortlessly top-level. So it was kind of natural the new venue would get a promotion and letting them to host two quarterfinals as the neutral ground was just a fitting way to appreciate the Arthedain. But after the initial nod and even cheers from them, it didn’t take long from the journalists attending the AFA “quarterfinal revealing dinner” to start thinking about it again. It was a neat stadium combining old and new; tradition and cutting-edge architecture shook hands there, the newest design and materials blended seamlessly into the ages old structures and formed a unity not only together but with the surrounding hills, plains and forests. And it was clean, working, efficient, comfortable to suit all tastes from a beggar to a king…

But it was so small! It housed only some 45000 spectators – and these were the quarterfinals of the Arda Cup, two games of the four to be played! There was no way the games could be played in front of such thin crowds. It was a yellow paper from Lothlórien who got the question in first.

Galadriel’s Daily Mirror: Half of Arda is crazed for tickets to see Galadriel and Fëanor play! And Elrond, and Legolas! And the Valar! Millions would die to catch an eye of Varda and Nienna in their evening gowns in the after-game party! And you give the games to this children’s playground in the middle of nowhere? This can’t be!

The AKM: If I may sir, it does sound peculiar you give the games to such a small arena with limited services. Even if we do not agree with all The Galadriel’s Daily Mirror says, we must join them in asking the sanity of the decision. There would be real big venues nearer some civilization to be used…

The AFA Chairman: Please, there is no reason to worry, everything’s thought about. The Arthedain have promised us there will be a stadium double the size from last year in place at the first kick off. I’ll give the chairman of the organizing committee a word here to give you some additional information…

Arveleg: Thank you Mr. Chairman. Oh, this place brings forth memories… *looks moved and sighs* And I’m proud and happy – if also very tired right now – to have been able to give my contribution to the quarterfinal-games of the AC11 to succeed on this hallowed ground. But as the Chairman just said, we will be seating double the amount of spectators this year, but that’s not the big thing. The big thing is, that with the enhanced Palantir Network Technologies ™, we can also share a new Palantir Projection View™ to all those venues that have Palantirs – and as we speak we are co-operating with the stadiums around the Arda to receive full stadiums to watch the games live on air – like they would be looking at the games taking place in front of their very eyes. This is cutting edge stuff, mind you. We deliver the “being there” feeling to full stadiums around Arda: Tol Eressëa stadium will be packed with the broadcast of Avallónë’s stone, and there will be nice crowds in Osgiliath, Minas Morgul, Minas Tirith and who knows were the lines can be connected before the games.

Arveleg and the AFA chairman looked pleased seeing the amazement of the media. Now the media really got a story to make headlines!

All these avant-garde-technologies apart, was the venue spoiled with the new enlargement of the stadium?

Not at all. Now it bound Weathertop and The Fortress Hill together, sitting on a saddle between them; and the ancient Banked Bridge was renovated to edge the western side of the stand. And as the stadium now reached both hills, there were new buildings on top of the Fortress Hill as well, nicely trailing the general shapes of the hills around and providing double the luxury box seats. And to top it all, they had built a kind of modernistic mirror-image of the tower of Amon Sûl itself on top of the Fortress Hill, rising from the ruins of the old Fortress’ walls. The walls of the new tower were built on steel-railings criss-crossing the structure and then covered with dampened ash-grey glass that reflected the surrounding scenery to a viewer outside the tower, but inside they had a bright view on the pitch and all the modern conveniences any spoilt celebrity could dream of.

But the commoners had not been forgotten either. Housing now 95000 spectators there was room enough – and with the Northern efficiency – the logistics worked marvelously and there were for once enough toilets and beer-stands so one didn’t need to use hours queuing to them.

It was an engineering and financing miracle and there were many who asked themselves the question: “how can this be?” Something was at works there but it was hard to say what – but questioning the Northern kings and their capability of ending great tasks was just an invitation to face a sword, every reporter knew that much...

the phantom

07-21-2011, 05:14 PM

Philip McPhantom
MESPN News, Doriath

What good fortune for the residents of Doriath! Not only is their team on a roll, undefeated through four friendlies, three group games, and the first playoff contest, but they can view their team close to home yet again, right in their historic underground Menegroth arena.

When Doriath was assigned to group A at next door Himring, there were mixed reactions- it was delightfully close to home, but a group with both Himring and Tirion wasn’t the easiest of the groups to go through. But Doriath rose to the challenge, beating both tough opponents solidly by three goals and qualifying first, gaining the right to host in the first playoff round.

Their first round opponent was Minas Morgul, not a bad team, but after Tirion and Himring they weren’t overly challenging and Doriath put them down with a sound four goal thumping, putting them through to the quarterfinals. But where would they play? That was the question.

The two quarterfinal host sites were already selected before the tournament- Doriath and Weathertop, but what was not known was which quarterfinals would be played at which location. It all depended on the locations of the teams that made it through. Had Wilderland defeated Valinor to move through to face Doriath, it’s very likely that the quarterfinal would have been shifted to the eastern site, particularly if the west-based Tirion would have defeated Lothlorien, or had The Forest upset Eregion. But as things turned out, Doriath is set to play their playoff contest in their home stadium for the second game in a row!

But this time around things in the Doriath stadium probably aren’t going to be a non-stop party. They weren’t worried about Minas Morgul, but their next opponent is much more intimidating- Valinor is coming to visit. Valinor, with their Tulkas anchored defense, Yavanna in the midfield, and the flashing trio of forwards- Arien, Miriel, and Nerdanel. Valinor- a battle-tested team, having played a solid Beleriand, the defending champs Gondolin, Manwe and his mighty Pelori squad, and Sauron’s dangerous Wilderland stars. Valinor would not be caught off guard by Doriath’s talent, but perhaps Doriath would be surprised?

Not according to co-captain Melian. “Certainly it’s fair to say that Valinor is the best overall team we’ve faced this tournament, but that doesn’t mean we are unprepared. Fingon and Maedhros from Himring are a very formidable pair of forwards, and Tirion is just completely stacked up front, with Finarfin, Mahtan, Finrod, Aredhel, and Finwe. And of course we just went up against The Witch King. No… I think we’ll be sharp and ready.”

But that remains to be seen. What we do know at this point is that the home field advantage will not be as pronounced in this match as in the last. Doriath is the host site but the team is not officially the host team, and thus tickets have been allotted equally between the participants, and Valinor is quite likely to at the least approach their assigned number. Pelori will likely be drawing large numbers of Valinor residents, but Valinor will probably be more popular given their diverse makeup. Not only will various Ainu be in attendance, but the Noldor will come to support Miriel and Nerdanel, the Teleri will come out for King Olwe, and the Vanyar will make the trip for King Ingwe and Indis. The crowd could very well end up split dead even, unless some Doriath residents can buy some tickets away from those unwilling to make the long trip across the sea.

Doriath vs Valinor is not the only match to be played, however. There is also the contest between Tol In Gaurhoth and Westernesse. No doubt a large contingent of Wights, Wolves, and Orcs will be streaming down the Sirion after they have finished celebrating their recent win upon their haunted isle, but they do not have the numbers to fill a stadium the size of Menegroth, and thus Westernesse is certain to have the crowd behind them. Supporters from Arnor have already started arriving, and residents of Gondor and Numenor are on the way, doubtless in greater numbers than even Valinor. But Doriath can handle a massive flood of visitors. That’s why it was selected as a host site.

The Westernesse supporters that have already arrived are taking over some of the local establishments, and they are confident that they will be going through to the semifinals. “This is a team of destiny!” said King Arvedui earlier today. “I gave my best effort with my Eriador squad of course, but I’ve also been following Westernesse through the tournament with great interest. Armenelos took home the Arda Cup two years ago, and this year they have a similar team, only with more diverse talent. They’re so big, and strong, and calculating, and mistake-free, and work together so well. This team is going all the way!”

But Tol In Gaurhoth supporters do not agree with Arvedui. One of the only early arriving TIG supporters, MormWight, had this to say. “Westernesse going all the way? Don’t make me laugh. We Werewolves beat them for the bronze three years ago and we’ll beat them again this time. Sure, they’re physically imposing against other teams, but it doesn’t mean anything against us Werewolves! We’re just as strong, but faster- and we’ve got the flash to come back if we’re behind, and the killer instinct to put a game away if we’re ahead. This is our year!”

All opinions aside, it looks to be a great pair of games here in Doriath. Which two will move forward to the semifinals at the grand coliseum at Amon Hen? We can’t wait to find out!

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-21-2011, 06:04 PM

Woe is me, for I am an Elf of eliminated players!

The Felagundion has been founded on three very simple principles: Support Finrod and Tar-Míriel with all its heart; oppose Sauron and Pharazôn will all its strength; and enjoy awe-inspiring plays by great players with all its soul (provided it doesn't clash with the two abovementioned principles).

Now the fairest of mortal queens has been eliminated in the group stage (by her hateful cousin, no less), and the Lord of Narog has joined her in the first knockout stage (eliminated by his sister and half-uncle). Arien and Elrond, the new darlings of the Felagundion according to the third principle, are still playing, that is true, and Gorthaur has been eliminated (by Arien, no less), but the first principle was the sine qua non of this venture. Without it we couldn't enjoy the games fully even if the Sun-Lady scores a hat-trick against Doriath, or if Elrond shuts Ancalagon, Tilion, and Morgoth out, or even if the Werewolves humiliate Tar-Calion with a ten-nil drubbing (something Anfauglith, regretfully, failed to do).

Due to these events the Felagundion regretfully decides to close shop, watch the coming games in silence, and await the next Arda Cup, hoping for better fortunes for the son of Finarfin and the daughter of Tar-Palantir.

Felagundion,
Exactly what it says on the tin.

Post-scriptum. 6/8, hah! (Those two mistakes were real painful, though.)

Nogrod

07-24-2011, 12:47 PM

Angband vs. Eregion

The day emerged warm but still crispy – like it could be only in the northern mountains ranges. “The Village”, west of the stadium, that had emerged for the high numbers of ordinary human tourists and local fans willing to attend the quarterfinals was busy from the early morning hours on – and that was early as the sun rose already around 3.30AM. The elves of Lothlórien and Rivendell had set up a joint camp south of Weathertop inviting all the elves from other realms to join them, while the Angband supporters were shown the fields north-east of the hills for camping. The players and their more high-brow supporters and all the starring guests had accommodation at the splendid new Norbury High hotel where they would be driven to the stadium with carts in the afternoon.

But “the Village” was the focal point for those attending the games; the place where all the vendors came to sell their exotic foods, Arda Cup related merchandise (mostly pirated), handcraft, sweets… and all the non-profit organizations had their stands there. Amnesty Interardan did especially draw a lot of folks around them, many of them signing the petition of “No more games in Valinor” –list. And all the performers: musicians, jugglers, live-statues, comedians, theatre groups, fortune-tellers, acrobats, dancers, prophets, gamblers, pick-pockets, tramps, hobos, hookers… all there to pick the pocket or the mind of the football tourists all around Arda, fairly or unfairly, but just to make a living.

~*~

The pre-games press conference was held at mid-day at the slopes of Weathertop where a theater-like stand had been constructed for such events – and to any theatrical performances after the games. All the captains praised the pitch and the stands, and the overall fluency of the organizations. And it was also predictable the captains made the normal mumbo-jumbo about the games ahead.

Let’s get the baseline…

Melkor of Angband: Elrond is a tough goalie to be the youngster he is, but we will prevail in the end with our experience and stamina. And it takes more than one Glorfindel to score against us, he should remember as he has met my Balrogs earlier.

Elrond of Eregion: I know Melkor talks tough but he has been defeated many times in history – and I’m confident we’ll be ones to add to that list today – even if we can’t send him anywhere in chains after we shut them down.

Manwë of Pelori: We appreciate Galadriel and many of her host, but Fëanor will never champion against a team led by me. Rest assured of that. A ban is a ban.

Galadriel of Lothlórien: We have a competitive team this year and Fëanor is not the only one who knows how to score for us. You media-guys over-estimate him – and you Manwë. We play our game, we, and then we’ll see who laughs in the end…

~*~

It's Psychology, stupid!

The first match between Angband and Eregion was about to start and the Weathertop Arena was full to the last bench. Just before the teams entered the pitch The Witch King came out from his private luxury-balcony from on top of the new tower of the Fortress Hill, one of the most luxurious of them all, and waved to the Angband crowds just beneath him on the north-east side of the stadium. The band of orcs, balrogs and other creatures of darkness cheered to him looking quite comfortable from that section of the stand – and many people realized only now that the north-eastern quarter of the stadium was a bit different than the rest of the venue; there were no benches to sit down, the steps were more rugged – as to “reflect the original mountainside” the leaflet introducing the stadium no-one had read said – and the sun was not shining there even if it was an afternoon match because of the new modernistic tower on top of the Fortress Hill cast a steady shadow over it.

But then the teams emerged from the tube beneath the pitch and the whole stadium went crying out aloud to cheer for their favourites. During the opening handshakes the racket was so loud no one heard the announcers’ introductions to the game. Some people thought they caught The Witch King to cheer quite loudly for Elrond as well when he was introduced. Odd or not, who knows?

The name of the game became obvious after the few testing minutes to start the game. Eregion played actively from defense looking for chances to make fast counters and Angband spread evenly across the field trying to avoid packing their players in a lump and looking to cut off any long balls forwards Eregion might try out. Supported by the majority of the crowd Eregion was really trying to make a game.

Anytime they had a chance, Elladan and Elrohir did their best to open runs for Glorfindel and Eärendil but the Balrogs, Morgoth and the Great Werewolf of Angband managed to cut the runs – forcing the Eregion forwards off the ball or to shoot it wide if they got it. Ungoliant was having an easy game even if it looked like Eregion was the more active team. And yes, that is true. To the growing astonishment of all the crowds Angband played it cool and almost passive the first half an hour with no hurry to go on offence, just cutting the Eregion attacks and laying low letting Eregion do the running.

But suddenly they just changed gear. Eregion’s defenses were totally taken by surprise by Angband becoming serious in the offence just out of the blue – and for a moment it seemed there was nothing to do for team Eregion but to hope Elrond would save them. And he did!

Shots were raining down on Elrond – and he denied them!

Ancalagon shot it towards the upper left corner from thirty meters but Elrond tipped it away with his fingers at the last moment.

Thuringwethil sent Tevildo free from the right corner of the box but the one-timer went just inches past the right pole of the goal.

Tilion got into one on one with Elrond but the linesman called it off-side.

Morgoth gave a free kick from 25 meters and hit the crossbar – from the rebound Tevildo headed the Ball to the lower corner of the goal… just for Elrond to deny him!

The teams went into the half-time with 0-0. The crowds were nervous but also excited about the game turning into a classic under their very eyes. The men and elves were anxious about the strong show team Angband made the last fifteen minutes of the first half, and the coolness of the Angband team; the feeling that they hadn’t really tried their best thus far just send shivers to the fans of Eregion who made the majority of the crowd.

As anticipated, the second half was more lively than the first as it seemed the courtesies had been paid and the opponent had been checked – and now both teams went for it in earnest. At the early stages of the half Eärendil shot a nice volley forcing Ungoliant to a parade-save – only to be countered by Tilion hammering a shot just past the post as Asfaloth had it’s hoof to meddle with the shot. But the Eregion team were forced to defend more and more by the minute as Angband was just forcing it their way. Glorfindel was calling for passes but Balrogs #1 and #2 kept him away from any coming his way totally frustrating him – and making him look smaller and insecurer minute by minute.

And when Angband really started rolling their attacks forwards, Eregion players seemed to be a step behind more often than not – and that resulted in some card-taking from late tackles: both Elrohir and Eärendil took yellow cards, the latter one causing a free kick from about thirty meters for gripping the wing of Thuringwethil when she was about to receive a pass from Morgoth. To their luck the tremendous shot from the free-kick by Tevildo went just over the crossbar as Elrond would have had no chance to stop it.

And little by little the chances for any counter-attacks by Eregion died down as Angband pressed ever more fiercely. And finally Ancalagon beat the ball in from a nice pass by Thuringwethil. It was a classic “twist of the tail” shot that left Elrond armless against it.

There were still twenty minutes to go and Eregion threw in all they had to gain an equalizer, but Angband introduced their pressure-defense basically disarming Eregion from all the weapons they might have. Angband cut away all the offensive passes, they cut away all the lines of passing by fast movement as well, they cut away the forwards from receiving the ball and pressed on anyone trying to bring the ball upwards in the first place.

At the last moments Glorfindel made a run sneaking off from the pressure of the midfielders and got the pass from Eärendil to speed his way. And he was just reaching the box when he heard a Balrog yelling at him “Eagle’s cleft!” from behind – for a wink of an eye he was baffled, and before he could react again the great beast was on him and they both rolled down to the ground. The referee judged the Balrog had touched the ball first before hitting Glorfindel and it was a goal kick to Angband.

Glorfindel’s runs were much more timid after that incident and Eärendil was just too closely watched by Morgoth watching he wouldn't escape him this time. So there pretty little for Eregion to do any counterplay: Angband’s midfield and defenses were simply overpowering them. And so it was that Angband won, 1-0, after a really strong performance.

There was no question about which team dominated the field and many elves and men gave the Angband-team their due respects when they went on cheering around the pitch for their victory. Eregion offense only managed three shots towards Ungoliant under the formidable pressure of Angband defenses – and against such a quality keeper that was just too little – and most people in the audience realized that. Eregion had been just shut out, ironically that had been the way they themselves had marched to reach this stage of the tournament.

~*~

After the game the AKM met two celebrities having a chat with champagne and oysters in the Fortress Hill Tower’s lofty upper lobby.

The AKM: So what did you think about the game?

The Witch King: Well, the right team won. And please note, because they defended better.

Gil-Galad: It must be sadly accepted that it was also the better team that won. Even my younger nephew and great friend can’t do it quite alone.

The Witch King: Agreed. Elrond played marvelously yet again. If he’d be keeping the goal behind a stronger team he could be a title-winning goalie.

The AKM: Could I ask what brought you here to see the quarterfinals?

Gil-Galad: Did you know I met Elendil here back then, and then we marched to Mordor for the Last Alliance… oh, those were the days. So it was quite simple: I wished to pay my homage to this place which will always have a special place in my heart.

The Witch King: I have some strong memories relating to this place as well. It was here we were actually nearest to destroy Mithrandir’s plan… you know I have pondered many times if I’d be given a new chance to perform better here at Amon Sûl, could I find that little extra to make it? It was so close we got the most sought after prize there is… but alas we failed then.

The AKM: Would you be willing to reflect on your own tournament this year, or even sharing some of your plan s for AC12?

Gil-Galad: It was a spiritless performance we gave this year, quite tame. I think some changing of climate would be welcome for the next season. Deciding to play in Mordor two years ago was a fresh idea but it wasn’t that any more this year.

The Witch King: Couldn’t agree more. I just felt the whole tournament that I couldn’t find that spark to light my game and am seriously planning to do something radically different the next season, actually I have invested quite a lot for it already, but let’s come back to the details when the plans get further.

Gil-Galad: Hey, we should form a team for next year called “The Lifeless Forwards”!

The Witch King: Hehe.

~*~

Team Angband had made it plain they were not going to tolerate any journalists hanging outside their lockers after the game, but happily our reporter caught two shower-fresh players from team Eregion as they were exiting.

The AKM: So, how do you feel?

Elrond: What do you think?

Glorfindel: Losing never feels right, but I do think I have myself partly to blame. I was just not playing at my level.

Elrond: Oh, don’t blame yourself. I mean looking at your history it must have been quite agonizing to try and make play in between that special guard by the balrogs. Must have kindled dark memories…

Glorfindel: I thought before the game it wouldn’t affect my game, but maybe it did. Had I just scored, I had a chance!

Elrond: You could as well say that if I hadn’t let that tail-twist shot by Ancalagon in we’d have a different situation… So let’s not dwell on that.

The AKM: What would be the positive thoughts from you at the moment then?

Glorfindel: Well you know, even in defeat it was a real pleasure to play here. With all our involvement in something you could call Eriador at large, this must be the closest to being like a second home to us.

Elrond: We built the great stadium down to Rivendell two years ago, but this was as close one could get to playing at a home-venue. Real treat.

Glorfindel: We just need to make it better the next year.

The AKM: Before I’ll let you go, just your quick predictions for the final-match?

Elrond: Doriath wins Pelori 2-1.

Glorfindel: Angband wins Tol-In-Gaurhoth in a penalty shoot out.

Angband 1-0 Eregion
tot shots 17-13
on target 7-3
GOALS:
*71, 1-0 Ancalagon (Thuringwethil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Morgoth, Balrog #1
*Eregion- Asfaloth, Figwit, Elrohir, Earendil

the phantom

07-24-2011, 02:20 PM

(Doriath preview here (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=658998&postcount=119).)

Doriath vs Valinor

There was quite a bit of surprise when it was announced that the match between Doriath and Valinor would be the first to be played, but it made sense. There was going to be a rocking full house for both contests, and the host committee did not wish to appear prejudiced making the night-loving Werewolves play too early. In addition, Tol In Gaurhoth certainly had the most unruly fans, and the hosts didn’t like the idea of attempting to start another game directly after a Tol In Gaurhoth win (which would mean riotous partying around the stadium or possibly in the stadium or on the actual field), or after a Tol In Gaurhoth loss (which might set off their supporters on a destructive rampage).

In previous years Elwe might have tried something to limit the number Tol In Gaurhoth supporters in his realm, but in the present climate it seemed too risky. There were more than a few rumblings regarding the Valar and the Valinorean host committee's treatment of “outsiders” these past few years, and there were rumors that the Blessed Realm would not be allowed to host any matches next Arda Cup, and Elwe did not want to give up the potential for an economic boost in the future.

And so it was that in the early evening Doriath residents were pouring from their homes and Valinor supporters from their inns, making their way down into beautiful Menegroth Stadium. The locals knew what to expect, but never ceased to be impressed by the workmanship of the Elves and Dwarves of old. Most of the Noldorin supporters of Valinor had also seen the stadium before, having been in attendance at the 2008 Arda Cup final when Formenos took home the title. Not to mention that Formenos had been in group C that year, which was hosted in Doriath as well. And even a few had been around to support Fingolfin and Aredhel’s Gondolin squad last year, which played in the Doriath hosted group G.

Some of Olwe’s supporters were familiar with the place as well, as Alqualonde had also been a group C guest in 2008, but for quite a few of the Vanyar, Teleri, and Ainu, the experience was brand new. The tickets were expensive as always, but free wine-stands and snack-bars are always a part of the package at Menegroth, so guests can easily get their money’s worth. The silver fountains and marble basins set in the floors and jutting from the walls and sitting astride various dividing walls looked magnificent as always, and the many carved figures and pillars designed as trees and branches and woven hangings completed the look.

Due to the distractions of the venue, the pre-game chants were heavily favoring the home side, but as game time approached all of the wandering Valinor fans got themselves to their seats and prepared to make some noise for their team. Doriath and Valinor both received great cheers and polite applause when they made their entrances. There was little in the way of feuds between the two squads, except perhaps Eol having a bit of a problem with Miriel and Nerdanel, the foremothers of Feanor’s sons, but he had not said anything leading up to the match and so most assumed there was nothing there other than shoddy journalists trying to create some bad blood.

And finally after so much anticipation the game was underway- a heavyweight battle between Valinor and Doriath!

The juggernaut offenses were what everyone was watching for, but in the early going both squads proved themselves to be complete teams, closing nicely and always pushing the action away from goal. The dashing speed of the Valinor trio was matched by Melian and Carcharoth, and the giant Elwe kept mighty Arien from having a chance at an aerial assault. And Beren and Mablung were always around to help in any way they could.

On the other side Tulkas marked Turin to keep him at bay, and Indis stayed with his partner Beleg, and Vaire and Nessa positioned themselves perfectly and without tiring as only the Ainu can. It seemed that Melian was keen to have her precise midfield push forward to try and overwhelm Valinor’s defense, but Elwe was frightened by the prospect of sudden counters without anyone to help and convinced Melian to continue playing it straight.

Instead it was Valinor that tried the idea first, exerting great pressure on Doriath. The forest realm broke away for a quick attack three times, but one pass sailed just barely over the end line before Beleg could snatch it, another one was won away by Tulkas, and the last yielded a snipe from Hurin, but Ingwe went down and smothered it.

Despite the threat Tulkas continued urging his squad ahead, and at minute 36 he was rewarded with a great passing series from the girls up front and Olwe, which led to Arien running in and leaving it unexpectedly behind her, drawing the knot of defenders away for just long enough to give Nerdanel an open strike and she sent it precisely through an opening into the net for the opening score of the contest!

Onlookers wondered whether Valinor would attempt to push even more after that in an attempt to really seize the momentum, but Tulkas decided he had better try and defend the lead going into the halftime break. Doriath had put together some dangerous runs while Valinor was attacking and he did not wish to tempt fate any longer, and as their defense had worked fine against Doriath’s strategy in the early going he trusted his decision. And indeed as the teams broke for halftime, Valinor still had their 1-0 lead, and Doriath had only managed a couple low-percentage shots that went up and over Ingwe.

When the game resumed it looked similar, with both sides spreading the field and not exerting too much pressure, but Doriath was definitely dominating possession. Thanks to some nifty solo runs Eol for Doriath and Miriel for Valinor both gained decent looks at the goal, but both keepers rose to the occasion to preserve the score. As the minutes ticked along Tulkas became uncomfortable with how much of the game was being played in their own half of the field with Doriath in possession, and how many corner opportunities they were gaining.

Feeling it was only a matter of time before the equalizer came, Tulkas ordered Valinor to push forward again and gain a two goal cushion on their opposition. They outmanned Doriath in the offensive zone and for a time it looked like they’d get their wish, but Melian and her defense always did enough to toe balls away and deflect shots or force them wide, and Elwe looked pleased, knowing Valinor was now open to the counter again. And finally, at minute sixty, Doriath sprang it. Carcharoth beat Miriel to the ball and touched it to Beren who one-timed it forward to Luthien who booted it low all the way down the left side.

Like magic the ball slowed drastically as it approached the end line right along the penalty box line, allowing Doriath to get it before it went out. Rushing to it was Nessa and Hurin and from the inside Vaire, but Hurin got there first and immediately sent it screaming in towards the keeper. Ingwe went to grab it or at least bat it away, but the ball hooked away from the goal just enough to allow the onrushing Mablung, just half a step in front of his mark, to get it first, and he delivered a flying header right inside the near post and the game was level!

Taking advantage of the celebration delay, Tulkas swiftly consulted his fellows as to what strategy to follow next. Play it straight and go for the win at the end? Dial up the pressure immediately? Try to send it to overtime as is? In the end everyone was worried about another Doriath quick-strike and decided to go back on an even keel and see what Doriath did about it.

For the next several minutes the game was played level, but then Elwe and Melian unexpectedly ordered big time pressure, and Valinor decided to try and weather the storm and provide their forwards with a chance at a clever quick strike. But they never got the chance, as Doriath’s passing was just out of this world, and the pushed and prodded and tested until finally Beleg had a point blank drive. Ingwe managed to get in front of it, but it ricocheted away from him and out to Melian on the penalty spot, and she sent it back to the box line in the air for Beren who booted it out of the air with an athletic spinning kick and sent the ball over top of the defenders but with just enough topspin to come down and ring off the crossbar and down into the goal!

It was a fantastic kick, and the Doraith faithful just went wild! They had never lost confidence in their team, and now they were where they ought to be- in the lead as the clock ticked down.

Knowing they could not afford to give up another goal, Valinor pulled back to defend and collect themselves, and then with about ten minutes left they went forward more aggressively than ever. Arien gained a header but sent it over, and Melian pulled all the midfielders back to help. Miriel and Nerdanel played a brilliant combination to fool the defense and Nerdanel slid one to the post, but Huan made a leap that only the great hound could and tipped it away! And then- disaster.

Yavanna sent a high hanging corner in, and Elwe rose up above the field and headed it mightily back towards midfield. Indis and Vaire were waiting there for Valinor to send anything that direction back forward, but Doriath was gambling one of their defenders would manage to send it out and Beleg, Turin, and Hurin were already rushing out. Before Vaire could touch it, Hurin flashed in front of her and knocked it sideways to Beleg who sent it straight down the middle, perfectly releasing Turin all by himself into the Valinor half of the field! Valinor rushed to catch up, but they were too far behind to help Ingwe, and he just had no chance one on one with the goal-scoring leader and just like that Doriath was up by two goals!

The noise in the Doriath half of the arena was ear-bleeding, and players up and down the field were celebrating- Beleg and Hurin picked up Turin in a jumbled hug, Melian and Elwe embraced, so very proud of the team they’d put together and trained, and Carcharoth and Huan barked and howled in unison! With their defense the opposition was not going to score twice in the final few minutes, and indeed Valinor didn’t score even one desperate goal at the end, and after swiftly exchanging polite words and jerseys with the opposition team Doriath leaped into the stands to celebrate with their fans. They were headed to the grand coliseum of Amon Hen! They were into the semifinals!

Doriath 3-1 Valinor
tot shots 18-17
on target 8-5
GOALS:
*36, 0-1 Nerdanel (Arien)
*60, 1-1 Mablung (Hurin)
*72, 2-1 Beren (Melian)
*86, 3-1 Turin (Beleg)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Elwe
*Valinor- Olwe, Nessa

Following the match the players from Valinor were largely unavailable, understandably heartbroken from the loss, but the captain Tulkas made his required media appearance a few minutes after the game ended.

MESPN: Are you going to captain your own team again next year, or try something different?

Tulkas: Well, nothing is set in stone, but I would lean strongly towards captaining my own side yet again.

MESPN: What sort of team will you be looking to put together next time around?

Tulkas: Honestly, I was quite happy with this team. We had the bad luck of running into the hottest team in the tourney playing in their home stadium in the quarterfinals. I think anything less than that we would've overcome.

MESPN: So, have you already spoken with your players about re-signing?

Tulkas: Not specifically, no, it's too soon to be talking business at this point, but I think there is a basic understanding I have with some of them. I'm certain my beloved Nessa will continue on with me, and we've really hit it off with Arien and I'm fairly certain she's on board with any plans. Not to mention Arien loves having Nerdanel and Miriel feeding her up front, so I'm hopeful that they will be back, and I've spoken to Nerdanel regarding one of her sons being interested in joining her, so, we'll see...

the phantom

07-25-2011, 12:08 AM

Tol In Gaurhoth vs Westernesse

The halls and tunnels leading into the arena were absolutely packed- the celebrating Doriath fans were pushing their way out to go party, while the excited Westernesse and Tol In Gaurhoth fans were rushing in for the night match. Some of the Westernesse fans from Numenor were familiar with the place, having visited Doriath during the 2008 finals where team Armenelos played in the third-place match (against Tol In Gaurhoth no less)- though that particular match had taken place in the secondary stadium a little ways away in the forest.

While Tol In Gaurhoth had also played in that match, their fans had not taken so much time to tour the area and experience the culture, and so the stadium was quite new to them. Many of the Wights and Werewolves appreciated the beauty, but not surprisingly given their natures many of them were noting the beauty with a mind towards damaging it should their squad be cheated in any way. NiennaWight and FeaWight in particular had an eye towards the sculptures, wondering what “improvements” they might make with their painting tools. AganWight and LegateWight on the other hand were keen to take a closer look at the woven hangings, in order to determine how easily they might burn.

But there was no time to linger- the game would not wait on them, and it was starting soon. In fact the end of the lines had not yet reached their seats when the teams were introduced, and everyone hastened all the more. Westernesse looked proud and confident taking the field, but the Werewolves more so. Tol In Gaurhoth and their fans were still holding the same attitude as in the last round, where they simply laughed at the thought that their opposition could challenge them. “Westernesse- ha! Mere mortals cannot hope to challenge the might of our Wight-Wolf hybrids!” shouted The GreatElvenWight, facing the TIG section of fans and whipping them into a frenzy.

As the game began, however, things weren’t so simple. Tol In Gaurhoth was quick and strong and fearsome, but they could gain no ground on the mighty men and women of Westernesse, whose tactics and positioning and discipline outshone the TIGites. The forwards and midfielders of TIG were trying to make lengthy runs as if they were playing lesser competition, and their fellows too often were caught just watching and not preparing to receive it so early, and so Westernesse took it time after time and got things going on the other end.

When Westernesse put on the pressure TIG refused to help their defense too much, as they were chomping at the bit to be released for a long counter, but Westernesse played it smart and beautifully and didn’t give them the chance, but instead gained decent opportunities for their scorers. Ar Pharazon deflected one wide off a corner, Elros drove one wide from 35 meters, and Ar Adunakhor placed a beautiful header that forced ShastaWolf to make a tough save indeed.

The crowd was just shocked, but NogWolf wasn’t caught off guard on the field. “I told you it would be like this! We can’t be showing off. Let’s bring it back in a bit. Carefully- let’s show them we’re more than animals.”

And quite swiftly most of TIG went along with him, and for the first time they looked somewhat threatening, now taking their own turns controlling the ball and turning away Westernesse more quickly with defensive help. Finally around the 30 minute mark TIG gained their first substantial threat when InzilWolf sent it forward and across the goal box, where GwathWolf managed to nudge the ball’s course towards the net. Tar Atanamir however sprawled out to bat it aside however, and the Westernesse supporters gave him a great ovation.

But just minutes later those same fans found themselves quite silent, as TIG built up another nice attack and NogWolf found himself unmarked only 20 meters out and blasted it through an empty slot. Tar Atanamir deflected it, but not well, and the ever pounce-ready NerWolf swiftly kneed the bouncing ball back towards the net and gained her side the lead!

For the remaining ten minutes of the half TIG played a possession game, and did surprisingly well at it for Werewolves- much better than Westernesse was expecting anyway, who managed only an awkward deflection and a weak off-balance header against the Werewolf defense. The Wights and Wolves applauded their team as they went to the lockers, but also urged them on to greater heights. “Come on!” screamed BrinWight. “Get your act together in there and come out and beat them into submission!”

As the second half started it looked like TIG was keen to do just that, but playing more frantically and less controlled did not help against Westernesse despite TIG’s athleticism, and the game began to turn towards the mortals. At minute 63 it turned fully, as Tar Telperien toed a pass away to Malbeth, and with his gift of foresight in full operation he boomed it forward and to the right, knowing things would somehow work out that direction. NilpWolf was first to it, but he couldn’t control the ball coming down and when it squirted away Ar Adunakhor was first to it and he sent the ball skidding towards the goal into the middle of the field. The other defenders were completely wrong-footed, as they had slowed up and started turning when they saw NilpWolf would clearly be receiving it, and they allowed Elros and Ar Pharazon to dash right past them, breaking behind them at the precise moment Ar Adunakhor sent his pass.

ShastaWolf was a fine keeper, but had no prayer with both High King Elros and the legendary Golden-boot Ar Pharazon running in unopposed, and the game was level with 25 minutes left!

The TIG supporters were now quite shaken with what they were witnessing. Their team was not invincible after all, and after having long enough to observe Westernesse’s game they were impressed against their will. It would take a quality effort to get through this match!

On the field, TIG debated what course of action to take. They figured Westernesse wouldn’t change what they were doing, so it was up to them to dictate how the game would finish. Defend for overtime? Defend for a shootout perhaps? They felt they had an advantage there for certain. But Westernesse was scrappy and could sneak in a last second goal, so perhaps they should push for a goal in regulation to win it?

NogWolf was undecided, and he was getting different input from different teammates. The defenders did not want to suffer the embarrassment of giving up a late goal to Westernesse, and preferred to go full-barrel attack, as that way they would be said to be at a disadvantage if Westernesse got a quick counter for the win. But NogWolf thought it was bad policy to base the strategy on protecting the pride of a few people.

NerWolf and GwathWolf both favored going full-bore lockdown defense, including assigning them and PhantomWolf to defensive duty. Surely with their athletic skills they could shut Westernesse out and get to a shootout, where GwathWolf and NerWolf were both quite confident that both they and their other shooters would score, while ShastaWolf would come up with a save, or pressure the Westernesse shooters into missing.

Not completely settled on the idea, NogWolf ordered a lockdown for the time being, figuring it couldn’t be bad to cut off Westernesse’s attack. And cut it off they did. Westernesse could do nothing at all with each Werewolf marking a man one on one. Normally such a strategy would be too tiring for a squad, but these were Werewolves, and they had played some good possession game in the first half of the contest and were thus fresher than they might have been, and Westernesse suddenly looked quite impotent.

As the minutes of this treatment ticked past, those two instigators SallyWolf and PhantomWolf began to feel offended by the idea that they were going to go into overtime against a squad that was so obviously inferior. Finally PhantomWolf began begging NogWolf, “Let me loose, Noggins, let me loose on them!” NogWolf stared thoughtfully at the clock and scoreboard and at the Westernesse players and then whispered something to PhantomWolf that seemed to calm him down, and then proceeded to hold up five fingers and wave them in a circle. The Werewolves all noticed, but did not change their gameplay in the least, defending doggedly, kicking it around in back, then lobbing it to the other end to make Westernesse start over.

And then suddenly at minute 81, (five minutes after NogWolf had made his signal), KuruWolf took a standard time-wasting pass and launched it straight down the middle. This wasn’t completely surprising, as TIG had been booting it away to Westernesse occasionally, but this time PhantomWolf was already tearing down the field towards the goal, completely catching Westernesse off guard. The ball came down in front of PhantomWolf and on the second bounce reached the box at the same time as he did, and the Wights and Wolves in the crowd were just screaming! He touched it deftly down and rushed in, made the keeper commit and banged it to the other side!

But no- he was called off side! Westernesse breathed a huge sigh of relief as TIG supporters angrily clamored for a replay to be shown, and the hanging screen gave them their wish, and to their great anger it showed that PhantomWolf had clearly been nothing more than level when the pass was sent! Evidently the speed of the Werewolves was confusing to the refs, who didn’t see how he could have received it as far behind the defenders as he did while still being on side.

Even the cool-headed NogWolf was furious, and nearly joined KuruWolf in being written up for threatening the officials. But that was nothing compared to the reactions in the audience. Goblets, wrappers, little boxes- anything that could be thrown onto the field began raining down, and Westernesse fans and site officials began getting extremely nervous. If Westernesse now pulled out a late win, things were going to get extremely out of hand. Already many of the Wights were making preparations for causing property damage no matter what the outcome.

But Elwe and Melian were in attendance after their sovereign victory in the first game, and the pair was very wise, and sporting as well. And so it was that the big screen displayed an image of the pair booing the refs, looking quite severe and indignant, and the TIG supporters were mollified. How could they wreck the realm of a King and Queen that so rightly supported them?

And then it happened- Westernesse threw it in and booted it to the corner for Elros, but SkipWolf put on an astounding turn of speed and coming out from the goal box somehow beat everyone to it and clubbed the ball straight up the sideline. For the second time the ball found a streaking PhantomWolf, only this time he was obviously on side, as Tar Palantir and Malbeth were back in reserve. Rather than wait for the other forwards, a furious PhantomWolf angled towards the goal and rushed madly forward.

Tar Telperien was coming straight up the middle and had the angle to halt him, but PhantomWolf went headlong into her and though it was just a blur it seemed clear he had taken her and thrown her like a rag doll. The refs kept their cards in their pockets however- a makeup call for their blown off sides ruling perhaps? Then it was only the two far-sighted defenders left- Tar Palantir and Malbeth. PhantomWolf crushed the ball directly into the chin of Malbeth, felling him and amazingly receiving the ball right back to his feet without losing a step. Whether or not it was intentional no one may ever know. Then Tar Palantir went to the ground to block the way, but PhantomWolf hopped the ball over him and stepped over alongside it, making certain to stamp on Tar Palantir’s ribs as he did so.

And then it was just the keeper- Tar Atanamir. NogWolf could be heard howling, “Kill him!!” as PhantomWolf rushed towards the goal, and NerWolf boomed, “Plus plus Atanamir!!” Meanwhile the crowd had, as soon as the run started, begun chanting “Blood! Blood! Blood!” Tar Atanamir was no coward, but it was simply a bit much for him. PhantomWolf’s face simply screamed “murder” and given the attitude of the team and crowd the thought flashed through Tar Atanamir’s mind that the angry Werewolf might very well fatally bite him and screw the consequences. Tar Atanamir’s knees gave way and he crumpled backwards into the goal leaving PhantomWolf free to slot it home, and Tol In Gaurhoth was back in front!

The roar of the TIG supporters was beyond deafening, meanwhile NogWolf signaled to the squad to lock down and shut Westernesse out the rest of the way. And indeed it was just as easily done as said given that Tar Palantir had cracked ribs and possibly worse, Malbeth had a broken jaw and a concussion, and Tar Telperien had a nasty gash on her shoulder, a badly twisted knee, and an arm that appeared to be out of socket. The Werewolves could sag off of them and focus on the rest of the team, making it impossible for Westernesse to mount any sort of attack.

In no time at all the contest was over and the Tol In Gaurhoth team was tearing the goalposts apart, intending to keep the pieces as a trophy. Their fans rushed onto the field to join them. Security looked for a minute like they may try and stop them, but Elwe waved them to stand down. It wouldn’t do any good, and might make things turn violent. Westernesse and their supporters fled the arena as swiftly as possible, feeling somewhat ashamed but refusing to slow their retreat nonetheless. They were a great and proud team that had championship potential and they had played their very very best, but the creatures of Tol In Gaurhoth were just a bad matchup for them.

Meanwhile the TIG fans continued to party on the field, thrilled to be headed to Arda Cup’s biggest stage, which was exactly where they belonged!

Tol In Gaurhoth 2-1 Westernesse
tot shots 19-14
on target 7-4
GOALS:
*35, 1-0 NerWolf (NogWolf)
*63, 1-1 Ar Pharazon (Elros)
*82, 2-1 PhantomWolf (SkipWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*TIG- SallyWolf, NerWolf, KuruWolf
*Westernesse- Ar Adunakhor, Elendil

Boromir88

07-25-2011, 07:58 AM

Lothlorien vs. Pelori

As the stadium at Weathertop was filling for the 2nd match, tensions on the ancient hill were rising. It was expected Lothlorien would have the crowd advantage being the Middle-earth team, but who would dare root against the Vala, unless you were an orc or vile, dark creature of an old world. No such creature could be found at Amon Sul for this match.

A wolf from the Misty Mts who cheered for Angband in their game against Eregion said to reporters afterward: "Why would I watch these losers play? Wake me up when the Angband plays again and the moon has risen."

So, the stadium was being filled when many Elves and Men in the area and while everything was expected to remain friendly, Lothlorien probably would not receive a huge crowd advantage, playing in Middle-earth against Pelori. As much as the Elves and Men wanted to get behind Lothlorien, they couldn't disrespect the Valar. Then thousands of Hobbits were also turning up at the gates and they were fully behind the Valar. Even with the misfortunes of their own team this year, The Shire is a great footballing nation and the Hobbits would not sit brooding at home, waiting for next year. Feeling disrespected in Beleriand, they would get behind the mighty Valar who had always treated them kindly and graciously.

*~*~*

The Pelori came looking quite normal and average. You could not tell by looking at their appearance, it was just something in their aura that carried both majesty and power, and respect. Lothlorien was trying to look unimpressed and Galadriel was trying to keep her team focused on the task at hand. If they kept to the gameplan, she was confident her team would triumph on this day.

Before the first whistle, however, Feanor had something he wanted to say to Manwe and company: "You may be able to dispossess me, and ban me from Valinor, but we're in Middle-earth. You hath not the power here as you do in your own lands."

Manwe stayed expressionless and it was Mandos who replied: "You know not of what you speak. We were always caring over Middle-earth as much as we cared over our children in Valinor. You forget we know how many things will unfold and, we understood what Eru saw in the brave Hobbit-folk. We had seen the courage and humility of Hobbits and knew they would not need our help in their troubles, my young Feanor."

Feanor was steaming and shot back wondering how Mandos feels being the mouthpiece of his greater brother. And a mouthpiece of a mouthpiece, to be completely honest, since Manwe was only the representative of Eru. "This makes you what, Namo, assistant to the regional manager?" But seeing as neither Mandos, nor Manwe, nor any of the Valar were responding, Feanor barked at the ref to blow his whistle.

Feanor's trash talking was of no benefit to Lothlorien as he was completely erratic to begin the game. Running around, almost like he didn't have a head, trying to challenge the Valar who were ever so smoothly passing it around and holding possession.

The pre-whistle chatter was actually more entertaining then the whole of the first half. Lothlorien was shutting Pelori down defensively, but spectators had to wonder how much was Manwe really pushing the action? Even if none could surpass the sublime skill of the Valar passing game, it wasn't materializing into any further excitement. If there was no opening, Pelori would just pull everything back to the mid-field and try to start all over again. The problem was, against Gandalf's defense there wasn't going to be any openings and so fans suspected you have to play riskier and put pressure on the wizard, but was Manwe willing to do that? Probably not most judged. Feanor was trying his hardest to steal possession and get a counter started, but for the most part he was unsuccessful. Galadriel was yelling orders at him to defend and he would not be getting any help until he cooled down.

As the 1st half was winding down and many in the stands began exiting to get ahead of the rush for the restrooms and concession lines, they missed the only excitement and goal of the 1st period. There wasn't anything particularly beautiful or brilliant, it was just a solid and (admittedly) deserved goal. After about 10 minutes where Pelori was able to keep possession in Lothlorien's back-third, some of the deeper Valar finally started venturing forward and forced Lothlorien to seriously defend for the first time in the match.

Pelori's first corner was directed towards Varda who made contact with her head but the attempt went inches wide. Galadriel collected the ball and was going to try to take a quick goal kick and perhaps start a counter, but the ref had judged Varda's header took a slight deflection off Haldir's leg and thus Pelori would receive another corner-kick. Haldir was then booked for unsportsmanlike conduct as he screamed at the ref "If you were a bit shorter I'd think you a dwarf, but your eyes are worse than the Naugrim!"

So, Pelori was given another corner, and they are too good of a team not to capitalize on this opportunity. And this time when Eonwe and Varda were under heavy guard, Ilmare passed it wide to Irmo and no one on Lothlorien marked Vana for it was most unusual to see her up this far. She was positioned at the near post, Galadriel was late anticipating where the ball was going and Vana had an easy time knocking it into the empty net. After the goal Gimli was then given a yellow for the ref heard the dwarf tell Haldir "I would cut him down to size for you, but he would be an insult to all of my folk."

The referee looked relieved to see the teams head into the lockerroom and who knew what was going to take place in the Lothlorien room? Feanor was clearly trying to supress his anger, but would he let it out and inspire Lothlorien to better efforts, or keep shutting down, trying to do it all on his own? And Galadriel was also angry, angered by her team's 1st half performance and how they played the last 5 minutes.

The 2nd began and Pelori again went straight to their masterful possession game. Indeed, nothing seemed different about the Lothlorien play at all. Was anything said to inspire them at half time, or were they mentally shutting down already? Well there was a few things different with Lothlorien, they were looking more frantic and uncontrolled. They were completely off the game plan though, as they tried to rough up the Valar in order to knock them off their possession game.

All it did though was get Lothlorien more cards. Galadriel had prided herself on good team work, and it seemed to have been working great the first few rounds, but now that was falling apart. The maverick attitude had seemed to sweep over the entire Lothlorien and it was toxic. As Haldir was sent off on a rough challenge only 11 minutes into the 2nd. Already down 1-0 against the Valar, now Lothlorien was one player short.

The crowd started murmuring on whether this would be the end score (and many had missed the only goal!). Despite Feanor's temperment and Lothlorien getting rougher, they were still technically a good team and the Valar had much respect for Gandalf and Galadriel, even if they might have disagreed with some of her decisions. Would they want to put this game out of reach and run up the score then?

All the speculation of what Manwe would do was just that, speculation and in the 71st minute an opportunity to score again presented itself to Pelori, and Manwe would be foolish to not try to take advantage. Irmo beat Celeborn and was wide outside the box, Eonwe appeared to have a step on Gandalf as Irmo looked to find him with a cross. However, Boromir pulled out and blasted his horn, Irmo flubbed the cross and Eonwe stopped his run as Galadriel had an easy time catching it. The ref stopped play and looked to his assistants, as they knew Gandalf was forbidden blinding anyone with his fireworks, but weren't sure of the rules about the renown horn of Gondor. And was this a denial of a clear goal-scoring opportunity which would mean Boromic could be sent off with a straight red card? After some discussion the official awarded a free kick from Irmo's position and a yellow to Boromir.

Ilmare stepped in to give the free kick and connected with Varda who yet again made perfect contact with her head. Only this time, it didn't go wide, it didn't take any slight deflection, it was in the back of the net. 2-0 Pelori, the Hobbits in the stands went crazy and were probably just happy to cheer for a team that could, I don't know...play? The Elves and Men in support of Lothlorien clapped politely and seemed about ready to accept the reality of the situation.

This time Manwe did pull everything back and even then had a fairly easy time keeping the ball away from Feanor. Lothlorien had not been a threat on offense all day and Feanor still wasn't getting any help up front, as the back of Lothlorien appeared broken. Either that or they had run out of gas chasing after and trying to rough up the Valar in this half and were worn out playing with 10 people for nearly 30 minutes.

Some carelessness by Nahar, who tried to play a sloppy pass to Mandos was intercepted by Boromir and it led to a Feanor goal in the 84th minute. Feanor had a fun time faking Mandos out of the play and on speed alone raced passed Gwaihir. He pounded a close distance rocket passed a diving Manwe. Feanor smirked at seeing Manwe on the ground, but Manwe slowly collected the ball and handed it back to the ref.

The remaining 6 minutes was completely undramatic as Pelori was not going to let Lothlorien come even, especially with Lothlorien being a player-short. The Hobbits had figured in the stands that Manwe and his defenders made that mistake on purpose, because Eru had commanded it. It was a question of honor with Pelori, despite whatever feelings they had for Feanor, Lothlorien was a 'good' team, and thus Pelori was only permitted to win by 1-goal.

That was it. Pelori would for the first time advance to the Final 4 to play the odd-ones werewolf and despite Lothlorien advancing well beyond what they had before, you could not help but feel they were disappointed to not making it further. And as for Feanor, he was down right fuming when both teams met at mid-circle to shake hands and exchanged well wishes and hugs. For Mandos said after Feanor walked away, refusing to congradulate Pelori on their advancement: "You were allowed to add another goal to your name, but it will be a long time before you get what you truly seek."

Lothlorien 1-2 Pelori
tot shots 10-15
on target 4-6
GOALS:
*40, 0-1 Vana (Irmo)
*74, 0-2 Varda (Ilmare)
*84, 1-2 Feanor (Boromir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Lothlorien- Boromir, Haldir, Gimli, Amroth
*Pelori- Gwaihir, Namo
RED CARDS:
*Lothlorien- Haldir (56, second yellow)

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-25-2011, 08:40 AM

Bracket:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-brkt-sf-1.png

Power Ranking:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-qf-pr-1.png

(Teams in bold are semifinalists, teams in italics are eliminated.)

Greatest gain:
+3 Angband
+2 Pelóri*, Valinor*
*[These teams were below the top 8 in the previous Power Ranking.]

Greatest loss:
-1 Eregion, Lothlórien

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking--the lower the aggregate, the higher the rank. Ties are broken by a) goal differential; and b) the Power Rank of their opponent.

The offensive ranking is based on the goals scored by the teams throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) greater number of shots made on target; and b) greater number of shots made.

The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed by the teams throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) least number of shots allowed on target; and b) least amount of shots allowed.

Phantasy Numbers:
(Players in italics are from eliminated teams.)

GOALS + ASSISTS
6+3
Túrin (Doriath)

5+1
Arien (Valinor)

5+0
Ancalagon (Angband)

4+3
Fëanor (Lothlórien)

3+4
Maeglin (Anfauglith)
Elros (Westernesse)

3+3
Glorfindel (Eregion)
NogWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

3+2
Eönwë (Pelóri)
Legolas (Lothlórien)
Ar-Pharazôn (Westernesse)

3+1
Húrin (Doriath)
Eärendil (Eregion)
GwathWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
NerWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

2+4
Sauron (Wilderland)

2+3
Míriel (Valinor)
Thuringwethil (Angband)
Nerdanel (Valinor)
Varda (Pelóri)

1+4
Beleg (Doriath)

GOALKEEPER - RANKING
93.6% (29/31) Elrond (Eregion)
90.5% (19/21) Huan (Doriath)
88.2% (15/17) ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
84.0% (21/25) Tar-Atanamir (Westernesse)
81.8% (18/22) Ungoliant (Angband)
81.0% (17/21) Manwë (Pelóri)
80.0% (20/25) Galadriel (Lothlórien)
71.0% (22/31) Ingwë (Valinor)

the phantom

07-25-2011, 09:55 AM

(Eliminated players in italics)

37

GK **Elrond (Eregion)

36

35

34

33

FW **Turin (Doriath)

32

31

30

29

28

DF **Melian (Doriath)
DF *Beren (Doriath)

27

GK **Huan (Doriath)
MF *Glorfindel (Eregion)

26

25

FW **Feanor (Lothlorien)

24

GK *Tar Atanamir (Westernesse)
GK ShastaWolf (TIG)
FW *Maeglin (Angfauglith)
FW Elros (Westernesse)

23

22

GK *Galadriel (Lothlorien)
DF *Celebrimbor (Eregion)
MF Legolas (Lothlorien)
FW Arien (Valinor)

21

20

GK **Ungoliant (Angband)
GK *Manwe (Pelori)
DF Elwe (Doriath)
MF *Hurin (Doriath)
MF *Varda (Pelori)
FW *Sauron (Wilderland)
FW *Ancalagon (Angband)
FW *NogWolf (TIG)

19

DF Erestor (Eregion)
MF *PhantomWolf (TIG)

18

DF *SkipWolf (TIG)
DF Carcharoth (Doriath)
FW *Bombadil (Forest)
FW Eonwe (Pelori)

17

DF **Fingolfin (Angfauglith)
DF *Namo (Pelori)
DF Malbeth (Westernesse)
MF Boromir II (Lothlorien)
FW *Miriel (Valinor)
FW Curufin (Hithlum)
FW Nerdanel (Valinor)
FW Ar Pharazon (Westernesse)

16

GK Caradhras (Misty Mts)
GK Amandil (Tol Eressea)
GK Ingwe (Valinor)
DF **Morgoth (Angband)
DF *Ulmo (Tol Eressea)
DF Celeborn (Lothlorien)
MF *Finrod (Tirion)
MF Ar Adunakhor (Westernesse)
MF Leod (Anduin)
MF Mablung (Doriath)
FW Thuringwethil (Angband)
FW Beleg (Doriath)

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-25-2011, 10:59 PM

The ArdaCup.com Stats Report team regrets its failure to predict half of the quarterfinals results accurately. The team has done its best to analyse the stats, but somehow two wildcard teams have gone beyond what their numbers have shown so far. ArdaCup.com Stats Report will be taking the previous round's intangibles into account and do its best to ensure that it predicts the results of the remaining four games perfectly.

Doriath vs Angband
Doriath Off > Angband Def
Doriath Def = Angband Off

Pretty much a straightforward affair on this side of the bracket.

This is Doriath's first test against a quality defensive team, but the fortress of Morgoth has not been as solid as it seems. Angband has shut out The Downer, Tol Eressëa, and Eregion, true, but only The Downer could be considered offensively-oriented among those teams (and they've been a bunch of oddballs who have had more pressing concerns on their minds than the game at hand). When Angband fought against teams with firepower (like Hithlum and Anfauglith), they conceded two goals. Doriath is at the very least on the level of those two teams in offensive intensity, and they will similarly expose weaknesses in Morgoth's back line.

Doriath's defence, which has already been tested against Tirion and Himring in the group stage, has proven its worth in that match with Valinor, allowing just a single goal despite facing the best forward line-up of the tournament (9 goals in 5 games). Angband has up front Ancalagon and Thuringwethil (and also Tilion, who, curiously, has failed to show up so far), but Melian's girdle and Huan's keen goalkeeping, having already been tested against godly boots, seem up to the task of turning even their monstrous might away.

Doriath 2:1 Angband

Pelóri vs Tol-in-Gaurhoth
Pelóri Off = Tol-in-Gaurhoth Def
Pelóri Def = Tol-in-Gaurhoth Off

These were the wildcards we mentioned. These teams play a gear higher when faced against opponents of a certain calibre or affiliation, and that makes predicting their games a difficult affair at best. And since they are playing against each other, it requires a thorough scrutiny of their stats, their previous games, and their mentality for the upcoming game to ensure that our predictions are, if not accurately done, then at least pointing in the right direction.

First, we examine Manwë's motivation--perhaps it'll be there, considering that their opponents are baddies. As they have shown in the friendlies and in the tournament games, they have played much better against either teams of evil affiliation, like Angband or Misty Mts, or teams rebelling against what they deem is the proper authority on Arda (meaning themselves), like Valinor or Fëanor's Lothlórien. Pelóri's defence has already been tested against Valinor (allowing just a single goal), and their offence similarly tempered against Lothlórien (scoring two against Galadriel and Gandalf), so the ability is there. Will they use it to the fullest, though?

Tol-in-Gaurhoth, as we have pointed out in Report 7.5, had not faced quality opponents in the tournament--until their last match. They faced a Westernesse team that has always been on of the top three teams in the ArdaCup.com Stats Report Power Ranking, even back in the friendlies, and has always been in the top ten both offensively and defensively of the same ranking. The Westrons were considered one of the favourites to win it all, but such meant little against the Werewolves; they blunted Westernesse's attack (allowing only 1 goal and 4 shots on target to a team that averaged about 3 goals in 6 attempts on target), and they swept aside (literally, in that last play) the smothering defence of the Dúnedain. Although we doubt that such a tactic would work against the Powers themselves, the Werewolves have proven their cunning, and they may try to take advantage of some other weakness of the Valar. They might recall the Norbury-Valimar game from last season, and play as humans with sportsmanlike conduct, lulling the Ainur into a false sense of peace and then taking over the game with their athleticism.

Tol-in-Gaurhoth 2:1 Pelóri

Galadriel55

07-26-2011, 08:06 AM

Doriath vs Angband – First Age repeated?

Pretty much yes, says reporter, except that in the First Age they took a round object out instead of putting one in. However, at that time Beren and Luthien have proven that Angband’s defense is not without cracks, and not impossible to break through.

Will Melian and Elwe risk sending their child and son-in-law into the thick of the Enemy’s clutches once again? No, says reporter. It is not to be forgotten that this year they are not forwards – one is a defender and another a midfielder. Instead, two brave men volunteered to do the work. Turin Turambar took the challenge upon himself, and his loyal friend Beleg would not be held behind. Turin wishes to prove that he is worthy of being on the same team as his kinsman Beren by scoring a goal or two against the mighty Ungoliant.

When Beren first did that, he lost a hand. What will be the cost of Turin’s daring? Turin laughed in response. “I am Turambar, Master of Fate!” he answered, “I have faced Glaurung before, and that Worm met his death! Ancalagon shall see that he is no match for me either!”

Another question raised is the behavior of Carcharoth during the match. Will he remain loyal to Doriath, or switch back to his old side and old ways? He and Huan got along fairly well throughout the tournament, but will facing his old friends make the wolf doubt his choice of sides?

All in all, though, Morgoth has made many enemies during the First Age. All of them will seek revenge. This will be a tough battle… erm, game.

Nogrod

07-27-2011, 06:40 PM

Doriath
vs. Tirion 4-1
vs. Himring 3-0
vs. Shire-Bree Utd. 4-0
vs. Minas Morgul 4-0
vs. Valinor 3-1

Doriath 5-0-0 18-2 21,2% 45(85) – 21(65) 90,5%

Angband
vs. Hithlum 4-2
vs. TheDowner 3-0
vs. Anfaughlith 2-2
vs. Tol Eressea 1-0
vs. Eregion 1-0

Angband 4-1-0 11-4 15,3% 34(72) – 22(61) 81,8%

Doriath vs. Angband

Doriath seems to be the sovereign team sailing for the gold this year. Every stat tells one so. So are there any reasons to doubt that?

One could look at the opponents they have faced. The tremendous number of goals Doriath has made can be seen not only as a result of their flashing forwards (which they do indeed have), but also as a consequence of them meeting only badly defending teams. Their last game against Valinor is a case in point: it was cool defending they kept the Valinor attacks at bay but the Valinor defences have not been the tightest ones either. But Angband will really put Doriath attack into the test. Looking at the teams they have faced it easy to say, for the first time. This time scoring three or four goals will not be like a walk in the park to them as Angband will be forcing them to really perform.

But how does it work the other way around then? Both offensive powerhouses Hithlum and Anfaughlith managed to score twice into Angband goal. Doriath is no lesser attacker than the two, so Doriath scores at least two goals?

But then again, looking at the opponents Angband has met we find both “crazy attack” teams (Hithlum, Downer, Anfaughlith) and “hedgehog-defense” teams (Tol Eressëa, Eregion), so actually relating their scoring and goals allowed becomes an entangled issue. Would Doriath had scored more against Tol Eressëa or Eregion? Would Anfaughlith or Hithlum have scored more against Doriath? How many goals Angband would have made against the opponents Doriath has faced?

Without needing to meet the two most qualified defending teams of the tournament Angband’s stats on scoring would be different indeed – and without needing to meet the two of the top offensive teams their stats on defense would be different as well.

So Doriath is not having an easy afternoon ahead of them. On the contrary: Morgoth will whip his team into their best game thus far and it most probably ends in a 2-2 draw. What happens then, that’s anybody’s guess…

~*~

Tol-In-Gaurhoth
vs. The Forest 3-0
vs. Nargothrond 3-0
vs. Mordor 3-1
vs. Barad-Dur 3-0
vs. Westernesse 2-1

T-I-G 5-0-0 14-2 16,5% 40(85) – 17(51) 88,2%

Pelori
vs. Beleriand 1-1
vs. Gondolin 2-1
vs. Valinor 2-1
vs Misty Mts. 2-0
vs. Lothlórien 2-1

Pelori 4-1-0 9-4 13,4% 29(67) – 21(54) 81%

Tol-In-Gaurhoth vs. Pelori

Here we have the familiar problem: the one team is a clear favourite due to the stats but then there are objections to be made: the fact that the other team is a Valinor team led by Manwë is not the smallest of those…

To be kind of rude, one could say that the T-I-G has only faced one really tough opponent (they beat Westernesse 2-1) whereas Pelori has met two (they beat both Valinor and Lothlórien 2-1). Of the other teams the two have met, it is quite clear Pelori has played the tougher teams than the T-I-G.

So the difference in the stats should be, if not totally ignored, put in brackets. T-I-G has scored more but against weaker opponents; they have admitted less goals but have only faced one attacking team with quality. Pelori in turn has scored less but against some really tough defenses and they have admitted a few more goals – against some attacking ingenuity.

And the fact that Manwë’s team always prevails with one goal (well against Misty Mts- with 2-0) makes one wonder. Somehow the stats just don’t seem to affect Manwë-driven teams.
But even these “outside the stats” speculations have their limits. Last year they scandalously lost to Norbury in the quarters and this year they started with a draw with the Beleriand as the opponent scored at the last minutes to make it even.

T-I-G will score one – and with luck two. Pelori will score one -and with luck two. What happens thereafter is anybody’s guess.

the phantom

07-30-2011, 03:27 PM

All the peoples of Arda were awed by the 2010 debut of the Amon Hen Coliseum, built in secret by the Gondor Arda Cup Host Committee in return for a promise of hosting the semis and finals two consecutive years, with options to return to the site before the normal mandatory gap between hosting Arda Cup finals.

There was no question that The Coliseum was the largest venue in all of Arda, thanks largely to the magic of Amon Hen, the “hill of seeing”, which allowed the stadium to climb far higher than others so long as it went up the side of Amon Hen which was found to amplify the natural visionary capabilities of anyone upon it, and more so as one neared the pinnacle of the hill.

Because of this the stadium appeared extremely lopsided. The east quarter of the stadium overlooked the great falls of Rauros and seated around 20,000, while the north quarter hugged the shores of the lake and seated slightly more. But as the stadium ran to the south-southwest up the slopes of Amon Hen, the seats just piled higher and higher, and after two brand new additions this past offseason the total seating for the stadium was now in excess of 160,000!

But believe it or not the whopping size of the monstrous arena was not the number one thing that arrested the attention of critics, but rather it was the architecture. The stadium was a tribute to the history of football in Arda, featuring sections which expertly mimicked the architecture, décor, and adornments of various famous stadiums from the history of Arda. Any walkway, restroom, eatery, and entrance in a given section also mirrored the style, making visitors feel as if they were actually in a different stadium.

The initial construction featured sections from Valimar, Utumno, Tirion, Angband, Gondolin, Doriath, Numenor, Mordor, Mirkwood, and Rohan. The two new additions this year were Moria and The Shire. “They were on the list to be included with the initial construction,” said Gondor Arda Cup Host Committee chairman Meneldil, “But it just didn’t work out that way. We wished to have all peoples well represented in our sections, but we wanted them to be authentic, with craftsmen from the locations brought in to advise and oversee. The dwarves we wanted to bring in were busy with other projects such as Vinyamar, and we were worried that the Halflings would have let the cat out of the bag had we brought them in on it. As you know we were keen to keep the Coliseum a secret until the last possible moment, and Hobbits, well… their tongues have a habit of wagging- especially in a pub.”

“So instead of those two we added Mirkwood and Rohan, which we originally planned to add later.” When asked if there were more sections in the works, Meneldil said that there definitely were. “Oh yes, we already have a team from Alqualonde ready to start as soon as the finals are over, and we’re in talks with Gundabad as well. Sure, some may say that the Orcs already have Angband and Mordor, but we want to include something that is very uniquely Orcish.”

Meneldil also mentioned a desire for an Entish section in the future, but said that such a thing would be understandably slow in developing. Nargothrond however was a comparably quicker option, and an exploratory committee is currently debating the merits of other locations, such as Angmar, Rivendell, and Lothlorien.

But the stadium wasn’t the only thing around Amon Hen was expanding. There was also the infrastructure. There were a good number of inns, pubs, and rentable homes in a brand new town a short distance west of the stadium along the shores of the lake, and a good number of cabins farther along, or in the woods higher up on the slopes of the surrounding hills. It was the same last year, only this year there were more of them, as well as several permanent residents now that Gondor had opened the area to settlement. There was also a good deal of boating on the lake, and the marinas to accommodate it. A bit farther up the lake there were ski lodges. It was not the season for snow obviously, but the lodges had remained open to host guests and show off their facilities and runs, hoping that the visitors would return in the winter.

The docks beneath Rauros and the ingenious series of lifts that transported travelers up to lake-level had been improved as well. Specifically, the docks were larger, and a third lift path had been installed to allow for shorter waiting times. Additionally a winding nature trail had been constructed that wound around the west side of Amon Hen for anyone so inclined to enjoy a challenging day-long hike to their destination. All in all the committee had done all they could to ensure that the Amon Hen Coliseum would be recognized as the king of match locations.

Nogrod

07-31-2011, 04:41 PM

Pelori vs. Tol-In-Gaurhoth

Oromë: I’m getting done with you! You’re just parasites so just shut your mouths!

Phantomwolf: Now who’s a parasite?

Nogwolf: Yeah. Let us hear your version of this: we say we are fully capable of using our own minds and reaching for the goals we set ourselves – also the goal Manwë protects – but you then, you only come tied with lashes from both Manwë and Eru.

Lórien: Now what comes to your mind as the goals “you set yourselves”, where do they come from if not from me, and by implication through Ilúvatar himself?

Phantomwolf: So it is Ilúvatar himself who thus makes us desiring to be defiant in front of you “Master of Desire”? *smiles defiantly*

Oromë: Don’t listen to those double-tongued rhetoricians Irmo. They have no claim to truth as they are outsiders… just some odd third generation mimicking werewolves who don’t even belong to the Arda proper. Parasites, as I told you.

Nogwolf: Now you forget where all this started. I only said we have a stronger will to win this game and the stamina to do it. And that is true. You guys have just lazed on your own reality thinking how marvelous you are, but we have been living in a world reduced from magic and any great plans – and we have learned to gain what we crave for ourselves.

Lórien: But you’re no part of Eru’s plan. You’re just an off-shoot of the legendarium, having no part in the story – like my colleague says, you’re just parasites trailing this history unfolding on a Website dedicated to us. The prophet that was the Prof, and he never mentioned you when he told the stories – you have clinged into this yourselves with no authorization at all by the forces above you, like us, at all.

Nogwolf: And therefore we’re also free from the constraints of fate that tie you into the story written by others but not yourselves, eh? *gives a snug smile*

Phantomwolf: And thus able to break your circle of winning like Eru wishes you to do every time you play against a team that is under his control… *triumphs*

Oromë: Now that is blasphemy! We are pretty much able to do things ourselves and Eru doesn’t need to follow our footsteps all the time. Just quit that like now until you annoy me for good.

Nogwolf: As you wish sir.

Phantomwolf: No offense, sir… but we will win.

So here we were live in the press-conference, sorry to have started the covering only after the discussion gathered some heat as it went off somewhat prematurely and the AKM microphones were not set until the row was already heated. But one can get the tone of the discussion even from that short exchange of views.

~*~

The huge crowds at Amon Hen Colosseum were having great problems with their loyalties. There were no warm feelings towards the T-I-G team as they were largely considered kind of outsiders, but then again many had misgivings toward the Pelori team after all that happened in the West once again this year. The Angband and Mordor fans cheered for T-I-G just because it was opposing the Valar in the game, and the Teleri and other Western elves, and most of the Maiar, naturally supported Pelori; but almost all others had problems in choosing a side. The T-I-G were darn good at playing the ball, but they were still odd outsiders, but how could they back these arrogant Valar who were shying away at nothing to keep their West “clean”?

Tol-In-Gaurhoth had it’s own fans at the Arena for sure, and even if the gang was small it made a lot of noise. Morthoron was mocking anything he could catch a glimpse of, Rikae was having a guitar and she played it like a mad Jimmy Hendrix – and the others led by Mac joined the chorus on “All along the Wathctower” – “Tol-In-Gaurhoth!” – with Pitchwife doing the add-on every time with his baritone voice. Fea and Lhuna were making the cheer-leading, forcing the willful eyes of the nearest male spectators to stare at them more their wives would have liked… while Morm and Rune looked after the security of the ladies looking grimly at anyone stalking them too long.

And a kind of a fuzz was created when The ‘Downer players and their few fans appeared to the stadium led by The Saucepan Man banging the beat with his pans – joining the T-I-G fans they made even more noise than before – to the annoyance to any decent football audiences.

But most of the crowds had decided to cheer to both teams, at least to begin with – and thus both sides got a thunderous welcome to the pitch – even if it wasn’t the most enthusiastic welcome ever given, but just having 160 000 people making a noise makes anything thunderous.

As the game kicked off T-I-G took the initiative and started rolling their attacks towards the Pelori goal one after another – jumping over the “reconnaissance-period” from the first minutes of the game T-I-G clearly wished to surprise the Pelori team – and they were seriously after a goal from the very first minutes. But Pelori defenses were alert from the beginning as well and most of the shots T-I-G managed to make went off the target, but it clearly looked like the outsiders were calling the shots in the beginning – until they shifted their play and fell back a little to ease their burden. With T-I-G leaving more room to the middle-field Pelori started having some quite nice chances as well and the game became more even – and after the first rush by T-I-G it seemed that now even they had fell back to testing their opponent.

But even if both teams were mainly trying to look for any weaknesses on each other’s defense while trying to keep their own goal guarded, there were some quality performances on both sides at the last half of the first period.

After a long build-up Oromë ended up near the corner flag but managed to dribble Nilpwolf aside for a fleeting moment to center the ball – and Varda made a nice diving header for it only to be caught by Shastawolf.

Some five minutes later Galadwolf robbed the ball from Vana in mid-field and sent it fast forwards to Gwathwolf who had anticipated the change of direction and ran for it like mad ridding himself from Gwaihir and Nahar: and he was one on one with Manwë and was just about to shoot when the referee whistled it off-side. T-I-G protested loudly for the late whistle but the referee kept his mind with it.

Shastawolf was forced into a real test at 42nd minute when Eönwë cut the T-I-G defenses square and went after a long ball from Nienna in a counter-attack and faced Shasta alone from thirty meters – running towards him. Eönwë faked a shot at around the box when he saw Shasta, who had ran to meet him, diving for it just a few meters before his eyes… Eönwë made a quick turn right and was looking for a foothold to shoot when Shasta knocked the ball off with his fist and Eönwë’s kick hit Shasta to his right arm. Shasta was howling in pain and the first aid unit was summoned to the field.

The T-I-G players were calling for a straight red card for Eönwë from intentionally trying to injure their goalie but the referee stood firm and a free kick was all T-I-G earned from the situation.

After Shasta was up again and returning to his goal something quite unexpected happened. T-I-G forwards and midfielders started jogging forwards while the Pelori team jogged backwards to lower their field. Manwë had come far away from his goal, actually to mid-field, to follow the injury-situation and was slowly backing towards his posts. And here Phantomwolf saw an opportunity. So instead of jogging forwards to the midfield he ran to the ball whispering something to Skipwolf who had just settled the ball down for the free-kick a meter forwards from the edge of the T-I-G box. He walked a few steps towards Shasta and suddenly turned around, took a quick run of a few steps and sent the ball forwards high into the air bringing all his force to the shot.

Manwë was walking briskly towards his goal with the lowest defenders by his side. They were about thirty meters from the goal when the cry stopped him. “Run!”, it was Varda calling him from the other end of the pitch. Manwë turned around and glanced upwards only to see the ball flying some ten meters over him and falling dangerously fast… towards the goal! Gwaihir had noticed the situation as well and waved it’s giant wings to try and cut the flight of the ball while Manwë dashed towards the goal trying to prevent the obvious from happening. But there was nothing they could do as the ball flew in the air and went into the Pelori goal right in the middle when Gwaihir had just lifted off the ground and Manwë was still about twenty meters away from his goal.

Even the staunchest Valar-fans had to admit that was both a brilliant idea and a brilliant execution of that idea. The few T-I-G supporters at the colosseum went just mad with joy: they were leading 1-0 just a minute before the half-time! With most of the 160 000 spectators making a standing ovation to the Phantomwolf even he did look a bit embarrassed about the roar and thunder the applauses created.

Pelori came to the second half composed and effective. Their fast passing game created some nice opportunities in the beginning of the half but after T-I-G adjusted their game to match that of Pelori the game evened again. It was anybody’s game now as without some masterful performances by both goalies either team could have added to the scoreboard.

8 minutes into the second half Nerwolf showed some flare releasing herself from both Namo and Gwaihir – but doing that she had drifted to such a narrow angle Manwë looked confident to deny the shot. But Nerwolf put such a swerve into the shot Manwë wasn’t able to hold it and it slipped from his fingers. Gwathwolf was there for the rebound but his shot missed the goal totally, from ten meters away. Gwath fell on his knees and ripped his hair in agony and promised he would get back up again only after someone poured some ash over his head.

12 minutes into the second half Pelori was pressing on letting the passes mess the T-I-G defenses as well as they could – and Eönwë did find a line of passing between Sallywolf and Nilpwolf. Before the two had time to turn around Varda was already there reaching for the ball. Kuruwolf saw what was happening and slid towards the ball hoping to cut the imminent shot coming… but Varda was one mental step ahead and instead of shooting he just flipped the ball left to where Eönwë had rushed. The crowds went “uhhh!” seeing Varda surrounded by three defenders and Eönwë getting the ball to his feet ten meters to their left – and all alone!

And Eönwë’s shot was a real beauty: accurate and powerful, heading towards the top right corner of the goal. But somehow Shastawolf managed to make an impossible looking dive reaching to get his fingertips in the way enough to change the trajectory of the ball so that it hit the post and flew over the goal.

17 minutes into the half T-I-G was pressing for a change and got a throw-in from near the right corner-flag. Inzilwolf threw the ball far to the left side of the pitch (no one thought someone could throw the ball that far) – and as the defenses turned towards the left side of the pitch and started orienting to the new situation Phantomwolf crossed the ball diagonally back to the right – just where Nogwolf had made a sudden run into the middle. Nogwolf took the ball down with his chest, leaped forwards beside Namo and hammered the ball in with a mighty cannon leaving Manwë no chance to even begin guessing where the shot would land.

Tol-In-Gaurhoth had claimed a two goal lead with little less than half an hour of the game left. The crowds were totally baffled and confused – except for the T-I-G and ‘Downer fans who were making such a noise it was probably heard at the sea in the end. Coming from behind hadn’t been exactly Pelori’s strongpoint in this tournament as they had always more or less had the control of the game in their hands – so what would they do now?

To the disappointment of most Pelori fans it first looked like Manwë wasn’t going to surprise them with radical tactical changes to try and turn the tables, but little by little they started coming forwards with more energy. But T-I-G let them drink their very own medicine retreating into a kind of suffocating defense even Manwë would have been proud of if it was his team doing it.

Only with pure immortal willpower were the Valar able to push through the T-I-G defenses but even then they were forced into off-side positions (T-I-G’s off-side trap worked ingeniously in the end giving T-I-G five free-kicks from off-sides – all from situations which might have ended up in a goal to Pelori had the trap not worked), driven to the edges and corners of the field, denied decent shooting opportunities… It seemed the T-I-G defenses were all around and when Manwë dared not to bring all his team up to attack Pelori was practically playing shorthanded all the time.

So Pelori put all their hopes into the free-kicks – and with T-I-G’s abrasive game (when needed, the wolves bit, scratched, tackled, howled and basically played every dirty trick in the menu) to distract and annoy the opponent) they got a host of them from various positions. But Shastawolf was firm and took couple of important saves in the end.

And finally the referee blew his whistle and the game was over. And it was game-over for team Pelori! T-I-G was marching to the finals, shutting out Pelori and scoring two against the Valar! That, one could say, was a piece of Arda’s football history.

~*~

In the post-game press conference Manwë was not forthcoming and actually answered every question with “no comments”, was it a question about their feelings, the causes of their loss, the speculation about the re-organisation of the Arda Cup, especially as it came to Valar or playing the games in the Blessed Realm.

T-I-G representative never appeared to the press conference as the whole team had jumped up to the stands and joined their fans there starting a party of their own straight after the final whistle. When an hour later some Stadion officials were kindly asking them to move their parties maybe to some other location as they would close the colosseum for the night, the werewolves showed them their teeth and warned that anyone suggesting the finalists couldn’t party in the stadium witnessing their glory would get torn into pieces. Understandably, they were allowed to have their party.

Pelori 0-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
tot shots 12-17
on target 5-5
GOALS:
*44, 0-1 PhantomWolf
*62, 0-2 NogWolf (GwathWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Pelori- Vana, Nahar, Namo, Varda
*TIG- NilpWolf, SallyWolf

T-I-G to the final, Pelori to the Bronze-game.

Pitchwife

07-31-2011, 06:47 PM

YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!! !!!!!!!!!!
GO TOL-IN-GAURHOTH! GO!

And
the others led by Mac joined the chorus on “All along the Watchtower” – “Tol-In-Gaurhoth!”
if my plane wasn't flying in five hours, I'd so totally do a song parody now. Awesome!

Nerwen

08-03-2011, 09:27 PM

YES! I knew we'd make it! :D:smokin::cool:

Boromir88

08-04-2011, 09:23 AM

Angband vs Doriath

Nothing against the two teams who played earlier, but this wa the premier match of the semi finals. Angband vs Doriath, a game that could very easily have been the final.

In the pre-game press conferences Morgoth was trying to downplay the famed Girdle of Melian. The colloquial name for Doriath's defenses as it was anchored by their queen. "No one can score against the will of Melian, you say? Maybe I've got a plan to go after someone else and in doing so, make Melian a non-factor." smirked Morgoth to a MESPN reporter. "Besides if you think a bunch of cursed attackers will score against this defense, think again."

In the other press conference that was the talk of it all, the curse of Hurin and how would it effect Turin? Turin has longed for an Arda Cup trophy but has a history of falling short. He can certainly rack up all the goals to his name, but in the biggest situations, he will uncharacterically fire missed shots, turnover possession, or just flat disappear. Leaving people to always question are their curses in sports, because if so, Turin is the most unlucky man in Arda.

It's always a comfort when his trusted friend Beleg continues to follow Turin, but an even greater comfort came when his steadfast father signed with Doriath. "I've seen Morgoth face-to-face, I'm not intimidated by his tricks and curses. And that keeper of Angband, thrives off fear, but its his pet spider. We won't be intimidated."

"The destined ones? The Dream Team, they're called? Ha!" the cruel laugh of Morgoth caused most reporters to jump out of their seats and believe that would be the very last thing they heard in this life. "The keep dreaming team, destined to be crushed under my power. That sounds more like it."

The time for talk was over, the teams' warm-ups were complete as all the players came back onto the field. Everyone in Amon Hen and who were watching elsewhere, poised for this colossal showdown of the giants of the Arda footballing world.

Angband went right to work on their normal style of game, possessing, pressuring and desiring to build a lead that they could hold onto. But Doriath's defenses were as stingy as ever. Everyone was wondering what Morgoth's plan that he hinted at was, and if this was the plan, it appeared Angband needed to go to Plan B already. Whatever the plan was, it wasn't working.

We've held off on saying it, but there's no way to escape the truth now. Not after seeing the totality of this match. Tilion has had breakout performances under Morgoth's leadership, but he simply wasn't getting the job done this year. Expected to anchor the mid-field, Tilion was simply being outshined by Hurin and Eol. There's no other way around it. In the brief time it took for Angband to regather and try plan B, that was all the break Doriath's defense needed to steal away possession and begin their own attacks.

Much was made in the pre-game about the battle between Hurin and Turin against Morgoth and Ungoliant. However, one of the darkhorses, who always seems to be disregarded because he doesn't have a personality that attracts attention. Many fans of a team when they hear Eol is on it, actually get more nervous than joyful. Eol never does press conferences at any time, and because of that he is viewed as not having friendly relations with the media, and is possibly a team "cancer." The truth is, if you pardon my poor vocabulary, Eol is a baller. He puts his head down and straight up works hard for the full 90 minutes.

In the 27th minute, Doriath fans stood up waiting to burst out in applause as Hurin's shot looked dead on target, but Ungoliant reached out one of her legs and poked it away. The ball was rolling towards the out of bounds line where it looked like Angband was planning to concede a corner. However, there would be no corner, as Eol raced to it just before going over the endline. The Dark Elf passed it between the legs of the 2nd Balrog and to the left boot of Beleg. It was a perfect pass capped off by a perfect drive. Beleg got it up over Ungoliant's reach, but kept it down just enough to scrape under the top cross bar. Morgoth was irate at the defensive lapse, but in truth he was the one setting the defense up to defend a corner, and not paying attention to the fact the ball was still in play.

No one wanted to be near Morgoth after the goal and the Angband team came forward in full fury that hadn't been seen before since the Dagor Bragollach. And quickly Angband got their equalizer simply by overwhelming the Girdle of Melian. One of Angband's deepest defenders came forward, Balrog #1, sent a cross into Doriath's box. With how many bodies were scrapping and fighting for position, the ball was bound to hit someone, and it did. Thuringwethil swooped in, just above the great leap of Carcharoth. Huan went high, but Thuringwethil batted the ball low, straight down into the ground and Angband was level only 8 minutes after Doriath had grabbed the lead.

The game slowed down after it was 1-1, but that doesn't mean fans were disappointed or wavered in any sort of excitement. They were witnessing a truly great battle of precision, skill, and might. Doriath looked like the better team in the 1st, but Angband was even, which meant it was anyone's game to win in the 2nd. And no one wanted to miss a second of it. Although, a neutral fan did have to wonder if it took the entire Angband team in full force to score against Doriath, how would they fair in the 2nd? They'd certainly need to come up with a better attack strategy, because Tilion and Ancalagon had all but pulled a disappearing act like they were Bombadil or something. They were non-factors to say the least.

When the 2nd kicked off it was Doriath this time who wanted to control the action and pace. It was actually becoming a problem, as Doriath looked ready to take the lead again and it was causing Morgoth fits. He had Turin, Beleg, and Hurin marked fairly well, but there was no answer for Eol who was a master of the mid-field today. It appeared Morgoth decided they better try to disrupt and slow down Doriath's attack by giving up a free kick. As a few meters outside Angband's penalty, Thuringwethil suddenly latched onto Eol's waste and brought him down. It was a clear yellow, and free kick to Doriath.

Turin was walking up to take it, which meant there was no debate about it, Doriath was planning to take the lead right now on this kick. Morgoth thought, come up with a stop here and they would have weathered Doriath's attack. Turin was an expert at free kicks, but in these pressure situations before, many said the ugly curse of Morgoth on Hurin would rear it's head. Hurin grabbed his son's shoulder firmly and what was spoken would never be known. Turin just nodded and kept his eyes down. Ungoliant had the defense lined the way she wanted, believing all possible scoring angles were cut off. It would take the greatest of strikes to score. That's exactly what the Amon Hen crowd witnessed, the greatest of strikes! Well, to call it 'greatest,' might be called being a prisoner of the moment, but it was certainly a spectacle to behold. The ball was lined low, and at the last moment curved away from Ungoliant's reach. 2-1 DORIATH!

Everyone on Doriath mobbed Turin who looked both relieved and over joyed. Morgoth was barking furiously at Ungoliant and Ungoliant was responding in like. The unlight and poison was spewing out from her monstrous form (after there was a permanent ugly black mark on the pitch where Ungoliant had stood). The Balrogs had to separate the two players before anything else happened. Meanwhile, Melian was kindly reminding her team to remember what happened, Angband would be thundering forward, so be prepared.

And indeed Melian was right, Angband was on them again in full force, and Angband was still skilled enough to not turn the ball over to allow Doriath to counter. Hurin seeing though that Melkor was on the verge of becoming a loose cannon, and Doriath needing a stop before Angband became equal again, gave as hard of a flying shoulder to Morgoth's stomach that he could muster. It was again a yellow, and again Morgoth was fuming, not so much that he was in anyway hurt or that it was a clear cheap shot, but that a pathetic mortal had actually dared challenge him.

So, Morgoth was ready to take a free kick and maybe trying too much to be the star, and to show that it's his boot that is greater than Turin's, he blasted the kick towards goal. It was certainly well-hit and it probably would have beaten any lesser keeper. But it wasn't as well-placed as Turin's and we're talking about Huan here. The great hound stopped it dead.

Hurin's ploy had worked as Morgoth was blinded by wrath. Too slow to spot where Hurin was, as Hurin was already racing down field with several other Doriath's stars on a counter. The Balrogs burst into a new flame to try to scare Beleg, Eol, and Hurin all rushing in on goal. But as Hurin's words rang true "We would not be intimidated," it was no surprise to see Eol and Hurin in the action yet again. This time it was Hurin's turn to get on the sheet as he split between the two Balrogs and led by Eol, Hurin pounded it passed the spider who conceded her 3rd goal of the match.

With the 2 goal lead, Melian was confident with a united team effort they could hold with 11 minutes to go. Morgoth was determined not to go down in this embarassing fashion, as this time it looked like the Nirnaeth Arnoediad on the pitch. It was a battle, but Morgoth could do nothing to narrow the defecit. Doriath would hold onto a hard fought, but convincing 3-1 victory.

Many Angband supporters after were just waiting for what Morgoth had to say about this match. For the 2nd straight year he came up 1 game short of the championship. But this time, there was no beating around the bushes, Ancalagon and Tilion had disappeared completely. What would Morgoth do about them and what would he do about Ungoliant? As the two were looking like they could murder eachother after the game and Ungoliant did not return to the locker rooms with the rest of the Angband team.

The Doriath fans mocked she scurried back to whatever dark hole she spawned out of in shame. They were merry and the true celebration would begin. Behind their great leaders Elwe and Melian. Joined with their greater heroes Beren and Luthien, Huan and Carcharoth. Their captain Mablung, and Beleg, Hurin, and Turin. Even the withdrawn Eol was seen in the mass of Doriath fans on the field, receiving handshakes, hugs, and praises. These great ones in the history of Arda were onto the championship and their fans had no doubts they would dispatch the odd wolves with ease. How could they not? This team was destined for the greatest of glories.

Angband 1-3 Doriath
tot shots 14-13
on target 5-6
GOALS:
*27, 0-1 Beleg (Eol)
*35, 1-1 Thuringwethil (Balrog #1)
*68, 1-2 Turin
*79, 1-3 Hurin (Eol)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Balrog #3, Thuringwethil
*Doriath- Luthien, Hurin, Carcharoth

satansaloser2005

08-04-2011, 01:27 PM

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

You have got to be kidding, right? Right? :(

Nilpaurion Felagund

08-04-2011, 05:08 PM

Bracket:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-brkt-f3.png

Power Ranking - The Numbers:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-sf-pr-1.png

(Teams in bold are finalists.)

G - goals
S - shots
OT - shots on target
GA - goals allowed
GA - shots allowed
OTA - shots allowed on target
YC - yellow cards

Phantasy Numbers:
(Players in italics are from eliminated teams.)

GOALS + ASSISTS
7+3
Túrin (Doriath)

5+0
Ancalagon (Angband)

4+3
NogWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

4+1
Húrin (Doriath)

3+4
Maeglin (Anfauglith)
Elros (Westernesse)

3+3
Thuringwethil (Angband)

3+2
Eönwë (Pelóri)
PhantomWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
GwathWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

2+4
Sauron (Wilderland)
Beleg (Doriath)

1+4
Eöl (Doriath)

GOALKEEPER - RANKING

91.0% (20/22) ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
88.5% (23/26) Huan (Doriath)
76.9% (20/26) Manwë (Pelóri)
75.0% (21/28) Ungoliant (Angband)

the phantom

08-11-2011, 05:32 PM

(Eliminated players in italics)

37

GK **Elrond (Eregion)
FW **Turin (Doriath)

36

35

34

33

32

31

GK **Huan (Doriath)

30

GK ShastaWolf (TIG)
DF **Melian (Doriath)
DF *Beren (Doriath)

29

28

27

MF *Glorfindel (Eregion)

26

25

FW **Feanor (Lothlorien)

24

GK *Tar Atanamir (Westernesse)
MF *Hurin (Doriath)
MF *PhantomWolf (TIG)
FW *Maeglin (Angfauglith)
FW Elros (Westernesse)
FW *NogWolf (TIG)

23

22

GK **Ungoliant (Angband)
GK *Manwe (Pelori)
GK *Galadriel (Lothlorien)
DF *Celebrimbor (Eregion)
DF *SkipWolf (TIG)
DF Elwe (Doriath)
MF Legolas (Lothlorien)
FW Arien (Valinor)

21

20

FW *Sauron (Wilderland)
FW *Ancalagon (Angband)
FW Beleg (Doriath)

19

DF Erestor (Eregion)
DF Carcharoth (Doriath)
MF *Eol (Doriath)
MF *Varda (Pelori)
FW Thuringwethil (Angband)

18

DF KuruWolf (TIG)
FW *Bombadil (Forest)
FW Eonwe (Pelori)
FW GwathWolf (TIG)

17

DF **Fingolfin (Angfauglith)
DF Malbeth (Westernesse)
DF NilpWolf (TIG)
MF Boromir II (Lothlorien)
FW *Miriel (Valinor)
FW Curufin (Hithlum)
FW Nerdanel (Valinor)
FW Ar Pharazon (Westernesse)

16

GK Caradhras (Misty Mts)
GK Amandil (Tol Eressea)
GK Ingwe (Valinor)
DF **Morgoth (Angband)
DF *Ulmo (Tol Eressea)
DF *Namo (Pelori)
DF Celeborn (Lothlorien)
MF *Finrod (Tirion)
MF Ar Adunakhor (Westernesse)
MF Leod (Anduin)
MF Mablung (Doriath)

the phantom

08-13-2011, 03:06 PM

(In case you missed it last round, The venue- Amon Hen (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=659476&postcount=130))

There have been years when the bronze medal match received little discussion in the shadow of the championship contest, but not so this year. The anticipation is unbelievably high- Angband versus Pelori! Morgoth versus Manwe! Evil versus Good!

Morgoth’s Utumno squad played in the 2010 bronze medal match, losing to Turin and team Mithrim. The blame for the loss was placed on the attitude that infected Morgoth and his squad, largely spurred on by the taunting of Celegorm and Curufin regarding the futility of giving full effort in a “meaningless game”, as anything less than a championship was a failure for someone like Morgoth and the powerful team he had assembled.

This year is an entirely different story, however. In recent press conferences, Morgoth has been extremely critical of the way he handled the end of last year’s tournament. “I’m not proud of it. I allowed the Sons of Feanor to get to me last year, and cloud my thinking. The bronze match isn’t meaningless- no match is meaningless. There is pride on the line, and your greatness is judged every time you step onto the field. People left last year’s tournament thinking Utumno was inferior to Mithrim, and that matters.”

“I want to win it all. If I can’t, I will be second. If I can’t be second, I’ll be third. Every year I desire to achieve as much as I can. There are many great talents and teams out there, so no one can win it every year, so the way to separate myself from others is to not only win titles, but in the years where I don’t win, still come close. That sort of consistency is a testament to greatness.”

And while Morgoth may in truth believe everything he’s been saying in the lead up to the game, most suspect that the opponent is partly responsible for his new outlook. Morgoth has set himself against Manwe and his friends for years beyond count, and doubtless this contest is the definition of a grudge match with serious bragging rights on the line (though Manwe is widely considered too polite and/or boring to rub it in should Pelori triumph).

In years past it has been quite common for Arda Cup to hold the bronze match in the afternoon and the championship in the evening of the same day, but this year interest in the bronze match is so high that the Cup Committee elected to hold both as night matches on consecutive days.

The Coliseum is expected to be at full capacity for both matches. Angband supporters have already bought out the Utumno, Angband, Mordor, and Moria sections of the stadium, while the Ainu and Elves of Valinor have filled the slots in the Valimar and Tirion sections, and portions of Gondolin and Doriath sections. General football fans, mostly from Gondor, bought out the Numenor and Rohan sections early on, and so there will only be the minimum 40,000 seats available to the masses on the day of the match, and from the look of things more than that will turn out to scoop the tickets up, and many will go home empty handed.

The title match, on the other hand, will be much more friendly to travelers that showed up at Amon Hen without tickets in hand. The allowed number of general seats are already filled of course, and Doriath wasted no time in nabbing the Gondolin and Mirkwood sections, parts of the Tirion and Valimar sections, and of course the Doriath section. But Tol In Gaurhoth was another matter. Their fans are very vocal and very loyal, but the fan base is not terribly extensive, and so there will be many tickets available to the masses.

When asked about how much support his squad would receive in the final, NogWolf had this to say. “Doriath will be out in force, no question about that, but most of the stadium will not have a hard-line affiliation, so they shouldn’t be terribly rowdy or rabid. I expect they’ll be on Doriath’s side 90-10, but we may sway them with our play. But in the end it doesn’t matter- we’re going to play our game, and that will decide things. We’re too battle-tested to be impacted by external factors.”

It is possible, however, that NogWolf is underestimating TIG’s fanbase, primarily because of Sauron. The longtime ruler of Mordor has always been a strong supporter of Tol In Gaurhoth, ever since he first founded the squad late in the first age. Mordor and Dol Guldur are in fairly close proximity to Amon Hen, and Orcs, Trolls, and other creatures have been steadily trickling into the area sporting TIG jerseys and personalized shirts that TIG has released recently that have been all the rage in the football world.

Among the more popular shirts is one featuring NerWolf sporting a crown, with text below reading “All shall love me and despair- or I’ll rip their heads off!” Also popular is the KuruWolf shirt, reading “I’m not a Werewolf- my dwarfish beard is just really out of control.” And of course there’s the PhantomWolf shirt that kicked off the campaign early in the spring- “PhantomWolf is here. This game is now important.”

Oddly enough, when team Doriath showed up for their first in-stadium practice earlier this week, Carcharoth was wearing a ShastaWolf shirt (“If we don’t win this game, my head will explode!”). When questioned about his loyalty to team Doriath, Carcharoth waved his paw and chuckled. “No, no, I have no problems here. We’ve worked very hard to get here and I’m going to do everything I can to make certain Doriath comes out on top. I just happen to like the shirt, and I’m a big fan of ShastaWolf. He plays the game so passionately and invests everything he has in every second of any contest, and this shirt exemplifies his attitude. Anyway, I bought it well before we knew we’d be playing Tol In Gaurhoth.”

In general all the finalists have been quite complimentary towards their opposition. Surprisingly, even NilpWolf, SallyWolf, and PhantomWolf have refrained from taking jabs at Doriath, and have restrained their customary arrogance, no doubt thanks to pressure from their teammates concerned about provoking an already challenging opponent.

We’re seeing quite the opposite from the bronze match, where Morgoth and his Balrogs have traded subtle barbs with Namo and Orome ever since the semis. And so it is that two rather different but equally exciting matches are shaping up- the heated rivalry of Angband versus Pelori, and the supreme athleticism and skill of this year’s best squads- Doriath and Tol In Gaurhoth.

the phantom

08-14-2011, 09:13 PM

Angband and Pelori warmed up in front of a packed out Coliseum as the fading yellow light of the sun was slowly replaced with the glow of high suspended Feanorian lamps. Pelori looked focused and sharp, with Manwe calmly organizing things, while Angband had an angry edge about them, shooting occasional hostile glances towards the Pelori half of the pitch.

The split in support was roughly 50-50 when all the lucky viewers found their seats, and head referee Boromir88 made his way onto the pitch to get things rolling. Knowing the climate, he gave both sides a warning to keep things clean, and as the game began things were clean indeed. Despite the intense feelings neither side was keen to give the refs a reason to card them and give the opposition an opening, and the squads kept things tight.

Pelori's passing was brilliant and efficient, but any time they worked it in close they couldn't crack Morgoth and the Balrogs. When Angband was in possession they were able to look dangerous temporarily by getting it to the forwards quickly, but Pelori always brought back tons of help and clogged things up. If Angband was going to score, it would need to be quick rather than built up, or on a set piece.

As the half wore on the same pattern continued- both sides were able to hold some possession, Pelori more so, but decent scoring chances were impossible to find. Ungoliant was forced to stop an Irmo header, but it wasn't a challenge, and neither was Orome's distant snipe. On the other side Manwe had little to do. Through more than 30 minutes he was only forced to make one save- an off-balanced kick from Telvildo booting the ball out of midair with little hope of careful aiming. Angband's best chance was off a quick attack where Ancalagon released Tilion nicely but Gwaihir forced Tilion's shot wide.

As the end of the half neared Pelori had possession near midfield and Manwe gave a signal, and unexpectedly all of Pelori pushed forward. The offense of Angband stayed put, staring back at Morgoth hoping for instructions. This was not in the game-plans. Pelori never did this sort of thing. And yet there they were, doing it. In the closer space they shifted to a rapidly moving one-touch passing mode, and worked the ball towards the top of the box again and again with undeniable efficiency.

With their teammates supporting them Morgoth and the Balrogs could no longer turn Pelori aside with ease, and Ilmare managed an opening for a boot. She skipped it off the ground straight off the feed, and Ungoliant barely handled the ball, deflecting it away. The defense closed, but Varda slid in first to it and sent it bounding away towards the far side, and Eonwe rose high and sent it in, and Pelori had the lead!

During the extended halftime the Pelori supporters bounced gleefully through the aisles, high-fiving and singing and grabbing refreshments. The Angband supporters on the other hand slumped about, and didn't purchase nearly as much food, though a great deal of beer was definitely handed out.

The second half started much as the first, but Pelori seemed quicker to defend than before. The commentators immediately started making comments, both positive and negative. Some pointed out how effective Pelori's defense was, and how it was their game, and that they were right to go to it. But others insisted that it was impossible to keep Angband off the scoreboard for an entire game, and that Pelori had better have something in the works to gain a second goal.

And it was the former that looked to be correct, as again and again Pelori turned Angband away. Morgoth was growing incredibly frustrated, and so did his teammates, and slowly Angband began getting violent. Pelori might have taken advantage of this, but Angband went after the right targets at the right times and instead provoked Pelori into pushing back. But despite this Pelori stayed as defensive as ever, and noting his opponent's tactics Morgoth decided to go all-in attack. Pelori bent a bit, and Manwe looked nervous, but Pelori held. And then around the 70 minute mark the thing Morgoth feared happened- Pelori let loose a surprisingly swift counter after winning possession.

Before the Balrogs could get organized, Pelori had their entire midfield up in support and Orome found a sneaky Irmo for a point blank shot. The Pelori fans shouted and rocketed from their seats, but no! Ungoliant closed the distance and deflected the shot straight into the ground, and Drauglin dove to the rolling ball and sent it away!

Taking advantage of the sudden shift of momentum, Morgoth spurred his team to move forward quickly while Pelori was still lingering in disappointment, hands on heads. Balrog #2 sent it up to Tilion, he sent it to a dashing Telvildo, who sent it towards the middle for Thuringwethil, who left it for Ulfang, who sent it to the left side to Tilion. Namo and Nahar closed on Tilion, but he chipped it immediately over them, and it appeared to all spectators as if the ball was headed directly to the defending Gwaihir. But in fact Tilion had seen a dark blur headed towards the spot, and indeed a fraction of a second before Gwaihir contacted the ball, the unmistakable muscly black tail of the fearsome Ancalagon nudged the ball back to the left post to Tilion, who had never stopped his run, and he pounded it past Manwe and into the goal for the equalizer!

Angband erupted with celebration, while Pelori screamed in protest, certain that Ancalagon had not contacted the ball legally- flying creatures are not allowed to contact the ball without some portion of their body contacting the ground. The refs hadn't seen it that way, however, and the goal stood. Even on replay it was unclear, though in slow motion it appeared that the Pelori protests may have been valid.

But nonetheless the game continued on- a sprint to the finish, tied with around 25 minutes left! Morgoth pulled his troops back, keen on giving them a bit of rest before a final push. Manwe was keen to do the same thing, though, and the game stalled before the eyes of the anxious spectators. Looking to surprise the opposition again, Pelori was the first to break the stalemate, but Morgoth was ready for them, and had his team playing fine organized defense.

As the seconds ticked away Pelori stagnated and Angband began taking over. Tilion earned a lane to drive through, but Manwe batted it aside. Thuringwethil leaped high for a header, but it went wide. Ancalagon crushed a nice Telvildo cross, but Nahar got in the way and deflected it out of bounds.

With only one minute left until full time, Angband lined up for the corner. The strong leg of Tilion was to send it in, and Morgoth brought everyone forward to force the issue. Tilion rushed forward, but he sent a shockingly weak and loopy ball in that looked set to fall right on the nearest side of the box. Both teams surged towards the ball, but as Morgoth knew would happen, the strong lean vampire Thuringwethil rose above all others- upside down, and booted the ball high to the top of the opposite side of the box, where the forgotten Balrog #2 was standing with his back to the goal, waiting just as he had so many times in practice. As the ball left Thuringwethil's foot, the mighty Balrog bent his legs and rocketed into the air, and he met the pass perfectly with a thunderous bicycle kick, nearly flattening the ball before sending it on its path rocketing into the goal!

"GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAL!!!!!!!" The Pelori announcers shielded their microphones from the howling of their Angband counterparts and drooped their heads in anguish. The pro-Angband portion of the stands turned into a boiling sea of bodies! Objects were flying everywhere, and orcs were leaping onto their neighbors, some sections featuring crowd-surfing, and others just dissolving into a heap of flailing arms and legs!

Manwe called out to his team not to give up and to try to tie it up again, but his face and voice held little conviction. He knew the battle was lost. In no time at all the game was declared over and the Angband faithful spilled onto the field to celebrate with the team. Nearly all of team Pelori ducked off the field immediately, but Manwe made the trek towards Morgoth to shake his hand as tradition dictated.

Team Angband mock-bowed to Manwe as he made his way past, and Morgoth smiled maliciously as he handed over his jersey. Some eye-witnesses report that Morgoth told Manwe, "Here, wear this. Maybe a little talent will rub off on you." But whatever was said, Manwe maintained a straight face and exited without saying a word, leaving Morgoth and company to party the night away.

The grudge match was over. Evil had triumphed!

Angband 2-1 Pelori
tot shots 16-12
on target 7-5
GOALS:
*43, 0-1 Eonwe (Varda)
*72, 1-1 Tilion (Ancalagon)
*89, 2-1 Balrog #2 (Thuringwethil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Ulfang, Drauglin, Balrog #3, Ancalagon, Balrog #1
*Pelori- Vana, Nahar, Eonwe, Gwaihir

the phantom

08-16-2011, 12:20 AM

The falls of Rauros roared on unchanging through the morning and into the afternoon, oblivious to the stir and bustle above and below. Late-arriving fans with reserved tickets and those just showing up to party sailed into the lower docks on the Anduin in the morning hours, and the hydro-powered lifts had them up on lake level in no time.

The spectators already staying in the various inns, condos, and houses around the lake slowly trickled into the heavily built up area surrounding the Coliseum as the day wore on. The pubs and restaurants were overflowing, and spirits were high. The areas bordering the lake were largely dominated by Men and Elves, while the forested slopes climbing up from the south side of the stadium were infested with Orcs, Wights, and Wolves.

In the early evening the great Coliseum bells sounded and the revelers paid their bills and streamed towards one of the six entrances. As the seats filled in, it became clear that Tol In Gaurhoth would own the eastern portion of the arena, but the north and west were dominated by Doriath. The high-climbing southern portion of the arena was a mix of unaffiliated football fans and Doriath supporters.

All the game-goers were united in anticipation, and fans of both sides betrayed an unusual amount of nerves. Throughout the tournament Doriath and Tol In Gaurhoth had crushed every obstacle placed in their path, both of them winning by an average margin of greater than two goals per contest! Such dominant performances had pumped up the already lofty expectations of their supporters, and more confident fans could not be found anywhere.

But now they were meeting head to head- the clash of the titans! Who would cap off one of the greatest runs in the history of the tournament? All of Arda couldn’t wait to find out.

Teams Doriath and Tol In Gaurhoth made their way onto the field to enormous applause from friend and foe alike. Doriath fans were polite in general, so their reaction was expected, but some were surprised by the less than hostile greeting the Wights and Wolves gave Doriath. In this the fans were merely following the lead of their own team- NogWolf and SkipWolf always displayed a level of civility, and the more rowdy members of the squad had reigned in their insults in the various interviews leading up to the match.

In fact the starting TIG goal keeper, ShastaWolf, had admitted to being a longtime fan of both defensive stopper Carcharoth and the expert keeper Huan. “I watch their matches every chance I get. They’re very talented and a thrill to watch, and I love how they play as well. I have great respect for those two.”

Even the most overconfident and insulting member of the squad, PhantomWolf, was somewhat complimentary in the rambling statement he gave reporters on the way into the Coliseum. “They’re good, no doubt. I’ve always thought Turin was great- I mean, I actually developed parts of my game by watching film of him. I’m faster of course, but still… And yeah, their defense has been very sound. Though I think it’s a bit unfair having Melian and Luthien on the team. Come on- what guy can concentrate properly with one of those two jostling him? But thankfully when we’re in WereWight form that sort of thing doesn’t bother us. But of course NerWolf, SallyWolf, and GaladWolf become huge distractions at that point. Like last game, I was about to send it to NogWolf when NerWolf sprinted by, and I completely lost focus. She just has the most perfectly even, gleaming, deadly teeth, and that sleek long tail…. Wait, what was the question?”

The TIG faithful fervently hoped that PhantomWolf and friends would not be distracted on this day, with everything on the line, and as warm ups began TIG definitely looked focused. The WereWolfed Wights went through their usual exercises, wowing those that had never seen the freakish beasts do their pregame routine. Their balance, flexibility, and strength were just inhuman!

But thankfully for Doriath, their players weren’t exactly normal either. Hurin the Steadfast never tires and can never be caught out of position, Beleg Strongboot boots it hard and as accurately as anyone, Eol with his incredible creativity and dexterity, and of course Turin- as agile as any Elf, but stronger.

And then there was the middle of the team- Luthien, swift and bold. Mablung, dependable and hardy. Melian, wise and intuitive, and able to boost the defenders around her with her defensive mental net.

And then at the rear- Beren, determined and athletic. Elwe, tall and intimidating. Carcharoth, fast and physical. And of course the keeper- Huan, lightning quick and battle-tested.

Without a doubt team Doriath was the most diverse and talented squad TIG had faced, and they would not go down easily.

And as top tournament official and referee Boromir88 started the contest, Doriath indeed played as if losing was simply not possible, sending the ball back and forth with astonishing speed, and releasing their forwards in on ShastaWolf within the first two minutes! Only a miraculous save by the keeper kept Doriath off the board. But not for long. Just four minutes into the game Doriath sent the TIG defense into disarray with a blinding series of passes that culminated with Hurin working his way to the end line and sending the ball across the face of the goal where the practiced foot of Eol deflected it in for the early lead!

The eastern portion of the Coliseum fell dead quiet while delighted cheers broke out elsewhere. It was quite loud, but not as much as it could’ve been, as the early score actually seemed to catch the crowd unprepared. But the Doriath supporters slowly found their voices as play continued on, and various support chants popped up all around. Doriath looked as dangerous as ever and continued their fine play, and the Wolves were scrambling to keep up and adjust their strategy on the fly.

After a few near shaves barely staved off by KuruWolf and NilpWolf, Beleg burst through the defense and as if he had a telepathic link he left it back for Turin who took it in stride and struck the ball like Gurthang striking down a troll, and ShastaWolf had no hope of reacting and barely more than twenty minutes in it was Doriath with a two goal lead!

Some TIG supporters merely stared open-mouthed in shock, while others reacted angrily. MithalWight stomped and put a hole in the bench in front of her, Mr. UnderWight fell to his knees and tore his clothing, and A Little Wight cursed loudly and broke her kantele over the head of the Orc sitting next to her. This was not how the game was supposed to go!

On the field things were little better, as nearly every TIG player appeared dazed and unsure of what to do. Predictably it was NogWolf that pulled them together, encouraging them to stick with things. “We knew they’d make a great run this game. They happened to make it early. No big deal.”

But despite the renewed effort things looked quite dire indeed around the 30 minute mark, as Doriath twice nearly added another goal to the tally, once off a free kick and a second time thanks to a ridiculous solo run from Eol.

As the clock ticked towards halftime, however, the Wolves finally began making headway. Doriath was well trained and efficient, but no team is entirely immune to fatigue, and the Doriath offense in particular had been running at a breakneck pace from the very start, and no race can outlast WereWolf Wights. As the clock flipped past 40 minutes, TIG earned their first serious opportunity, but Carcharoth forced NogWolf’s deflection wide. A minute later SkipWolf headed a corner nicely, but Huan was there to gather it in. And then with only seconds left in the half, GwathWolf really made Doriath squirm with a whizzing drive that Huan barely tipped away.

And so it was that despite the two-goal lead Doriath supporters were not quite ready to celebrate as the teams went to the locker rooms to prepare for the second half. The TIG section was still depressing, but not to the level that it was earlier. There was hope. Slim hope, but it was there.

As the second half began, team Tol In Gaurhoth grasped that hope and breathed new life into it. Doriath started the second as they had started the first, but a determined and motivated GaladWolf managed to steal away a pass and immediately sent it forward to PhantomWolf who was ahead of everyone down the right side. As he angled in at the post it was clear that Carcharoth and Melian coming from the middle would be there in time to prevent him from finding a better angle, but PhantomWolf went ahead and forced the issue.

As the pair of defenders was forced to close on him, PhantomWolf whirled between them and heeled the ball forcefully to the other side barely past Beren to a sprinting NerWolf who on one touch sent it perfectly back to the right post and in. Just like that, the lead was down to one goal!

Melian and Elwe called out to their squad, telling them to just continue as they had, and soon Doriath was in possession and looking dangerous again. But this time around they could no longer gain decent shots, as Tol In Gaurhoth had changed up the defense, refusing to chase the ball around and only offering help to defenders when it was Luthien or Eol with the ball, as they were judged to be the biggest threats to make a move to get entirely free of their defender and make a long run. Meanwhile Turin was bracketed by SkipWolf and KuruWolf, and he could find no openings.

As the clock went past 65 minutes the game once again turned in favor of TIG, and Doriath was put to the test. SallyWolf had a chance to chip in an awkward bouncer, but it went off the post, and InzilWolf pinged the crossbar with a header. At 74 minutes NogWolf somehow came free in the middle of the box and turned and shot, but Huan guessed right and smothered it. And then disaster!

Huan sent it over to Beren and he took off with it up the side until a defender found him at which time he sent it up and over to Luthien who controlled the ball beautifully out of the air and split right through her surprised defenders. SkipWolf looked to leave Turin and challenge her, but a motion of Luthien’s foot stopped him, thinking she was sending it to Turin in his absence. Finally NilpWolf caught up to her and forced her to give it up, and Luthien with a lovely piece of footwork lofted the ball to Turin’s head. But no! It was too high for Turin, as he well knew when he leaped up pretending to make a play on the ball, and the move froze TIG just long enough for Beleg to run in behind Turin and kick the ball out of the air on its way down! ShastaWolf guessed correctly and gave his best leap, but Beleg’s ball was the definition of perfection, scraping both the side and cross bar on its way into the net!

The Doriath portion of the stadium erupted with screams of joy! Their beloved team was up by two goals with 25 minutes left! “This isn’t over!” called several of the TIG players, attempting to encourage their fellows, but Melian put her troops into lockdown mode and TIG was frustrated again and again as time trickled away.

And then, agonizingly, it began to sink in that it was too late. The Wolves and Wights sank lower and lower in their seats, and the Orcs turned in disgust and streamed out. After they were turned away on a last minute corner, NogWolf and company conceded defeat on the field, and as they made their way to shake hands (or paws) with their opponents, Boromir88 blew the final whistle.

Arda Cup 2011 was at an end! Doriath had achieved immortality, cementing their name alongside all past Arda Cup champions, and in dominating fashion! The only thing left undecided was how high the experts would place them on the list of all-time great champions.

Doriath 3-1 Tol In Gaurhoth
tot shots 21-19
on target 9-8
GOALS:
*4, 1-0 Eol (Hurin)
*22, 2-0 Turin (Beleg)
*49, 2-1 NerWolf (PhantomWolf)
*74, 3-1 Beleg (Luthien)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Elwe, Beleg
*TIG- KuruWolf, GwathWolf

the phantom

08-16-2011, 01:30 PM

Anduin (3 matches)
GK Fram (12)
DF Frumgar (4)
DF Rumil (3)
DF Orophin (1)
MF Falastur (5)
MF Calimehtar (0)
MF Durin (1)
MF Leód (16)
MF *Beorn (7)
FW Telumehtar (2)
FW Earnil II (3)

Angband (7 matches)
GK **Ungoliant (26)
DF Drauglin (11)
DF Balrog #1 (14)
DF *Balrog #2 (19)
DF **Morgoth (18)
MF Balrog #3 (6)
MF Ulfang (6)
MF *Tilion (19)
FW Telvildo (10)
FW Thuringwethil (22)
FW *Ancalagon (22)

Angfauglith (4 matches)
GK Huor (8)
DF Rochallor (-2)
DF Balrog #4 (-1)
DF *Balrog #5 (0)
DF **Fingolfin (17)
MF Rían (6)
MF Azaghål (0)
MF Ecthelion (10)
FW Gwindor (8)
FW *Maeglin (24)
FW *Gothmog (14)

Barad-Dur (4 matches)
GK Ohtar (12)
DF Fellbeast #1 (1)
DF Nazgul #1 (0)
DF Gothmog II (0)
DF Anarion (2)
MF Shagrat (-1)
MF Fellbeast #2 (3)
MF Mouth (7)
MF Cirdan (2)
MF *Gil-galad (10)
FW Isildur (4)

Beleriand (3 matches)
GK Halmir (8)
DF Bregor (1)
DF Daeron (1)
DF Handir (2)
DF Gamil Zirak (5)
MF Nellas (3)
MF Telchar (-3)
MF Aegnor (7)
MF Belegund (5)
MF Angrod (2)
FW Marach (7)

Doriath (7 matches)
GK **Huan (37)
DF Carcharoth (21)
DF Elwe (23)
DF *Beren (32)
DF **Melian (32)
MF Mablung (16)
MF Luthien (16)
MF *Eol (24)
MF *Hurin (27)
FW Beleg (26)
FW **Turin (41)

Dunharrow (3 matches)
GK Aldor (10)
DF Hama (2)
DF Brego (1)
DF Snowmane (1)
DF Theoden (2)
DF Walda (5)
MF Folca (-2)
MF Thengel (4)
MF Brytta (5)
MF Theodred (6)
FW Helm (-1)

Eregion (5 matches)
GK **Elrond (37)
DF Asfaloth (14)
DF Valandil (15)
DF Erestor (19)
DF *Celebrimbor (22)
MF Lindir (9)
MF Elladen (13)
MF Figwit (4)
MF Elrohir (8)
MF *Glorfindel (27)
FW *Earendil (14)

Eriador (3 matches)
GK Arvedui (6)
DF Tom (-2)
DF Valandur (0)
DF Bert (-2)
DF Amlaith (3)
MF Argeleb (0)
MF Halbarad (4)
MF Aranarth (2)
MF Barrow-Wight (3)
MF *Aragorn (13)
FW Araphor (11)

Esgaroth (3 matches)
GK Brand (4)
DF Mayor (-1)
DF Balin (-1)
DF Thorin (-2)
MF Galion (0)
MF Attercop (0)
MF Bain (-1)
MF Tomnoddy (-2)
MF Girion (3)
FW Dain (-1)
FW Bard (4)

Gondolin (3 matches)
GK *Rog (6)
DF Penlod (0)
DF Galdor (-1)
DF Meleth (-1)
DF Thorondor (-1)
MF Elenwe (0)
MF Salgant (1)
MF Idril (6)
MF *Turgon (9)
FW Duilin (7)
FW Egalmoth (4)

Gondor (3 matches)
GK *Ecthelion II (7)
DF Romendacil (0)
DF Felarof (0)
DF Boromir I (0)
MF Folcwine (-1)
MF Narmacil (2)
MF Ostoher (0)
MF Turambar (5)
MF *Arwen (2)
FW Eldacar (8)
FW Eorl (2)

Himring (3 matches)
GK Maglor (10)
DF Uldor (3)
DF Amrod (1)
DF Ulwarth (3)
DF Amras (4)
MF Borlach (1)
MF Ulfast (5)
MF Borthond (3)
MF Bór (4)
FW Fingon (11)
FW *Maedhros (14)

Hithlum (3 matches)
GK Imlach (6)
DF Baragund (-1)
DF Lorgan (1)
DF Algund (-1)
DF Galdor (1)
MF Gloredhel (0)
MF Gundor (-2)
MF Aradan (2)
FW Celegorm (14)
FW Curufin (17)
FW Hador (16)

Lothlorien (5 matches)
GK *Galadriel (22)
DF Amroth (8)
DF Shadowfax (9)
DF Celeborn (16)
DF **Gandalf (10)
MF Gimli (3)
MF Nimrodel (7)
MF Haldir (4)
MF Boromir II (17)
MF Legolas (22)
FW **Feanor (25)

Minas Morgul (4 matches)
GK Earnur (10)
DF Nazgul #2 (1)
DF Angamaite (-1)
DF Sangahyando (2)
DF *Nazgul #3 (7)
MF Fuinur (-3)
MF Herumor (7)
MF King Dead (8)
FW Beruthiel (1)
FW Castamir (3)
FW *Witch King (8)

Minas Tirith (3 matches)
GK Cirion (6)
DF Grimbold (-2)
DF Firefoot (-2)
DF Denethor II (-3)
DF Beregond (-1)
MF Elfhelm (4)
MF Imrahil (3)
MF Eowyn (3)
MF Faramir (0)
FW Tarondor (7)
FW Eomer (2)

Misty Mts (4 matches)
GK Caradhras (16)
DF Chief Wolf (5)
DF Landroval (4)
DF Meneldor (4)
DF Watcher (5)
MF Great Goblin (2)
MF William (-2)
MF Narvi (3)
MF Saruman (13)
MF *Durin’s Bane (11)
FW Azog (7)

Mithrim (3 matches)
GK Tuor (8)
DF Sador (-1)
DF Brodda (0)
DF Gethron (-1)
DF Grithnir (-1)
DF Annael (0)
MF Aerin (-2)
MF Morwen (5)
MF Asgon (-1)
MF Nienor (0)
FW Andróg (3)

Mordor (3 matches)
GK Silent Watcher (8)
DF Gollum (1)
DF Nazgul #4 (0)
DF Radbug (2)
DF *Nazgul #5 (5)
MF Gorbag (4)
MF Snaga (-1)
MF Nazgul #6 (2)
MF Grishnakh (8)
MF *Nazgul #7 (11)
FW Shelob (6)

Nargothrond (3 matches)
GK Barahir (6)
DF Baran (0)
DF Guilen (-1)
DF Gelmir (-1)
DF Arminas (-1)
MF Mim (-1)
MF Gildor (0)
MF Emeldir (0)
MF *Glaurung (14)
MF Finduilas (6)
FW Beor (2)

Numenor (3 matches)
GK Silmariën (8)
DF Tar Meneldur (3)
DF Tar Cirytan (4)
DF Tar Calmacil (4)
DF *Ar Zimrathan (3)
MF Tar Elendil (-1)
MF Ar Gimilzor (-1)
MF Tar Ancalimon (3)
MF Vardamir (-1)
MF *Tar Miriel (8)
FW Tar Surion (4)

Pelori (7 matches)
GK *Manwe (24)
DF Gwaihir (8)
DF Nahar (8)
DF Nienna (15)
DF *Namo (16)
MF Vana (4)
MF Orome (6)
MF Irmo (3)
MF Ilmare (11)
MF *Varda (22)
FW Eonwe (21)

Shire-Bree United (3 matches)
GK Butterbur (6)
DF Harry (0)
DF Bill (0)
DF Lumpkin (-1)
DF Ferny (-2)
MF Gerontius (-1)
MF Frodo (0)
MF Samwise (4)
MF Pippin (-2)
FW Bandobras (2)
FW Merry (0)

The Downer (3 matches)
GK King Bus (8)
DF Soap Pope (0)
DF Burnt Bert (-2)
DF Philip Hampton (-1)
MF John Fillis (1)
MF Morsul (-2)
MF Lalwende MP (5)
MF Saucepan Man (5)
MF Peter Hampton (2)
MF Hookbill (2)
FW Alien (1)

The Forest (4 matches)
GK Old Man Willow (8)
DF Haleth (-3)
DF Fimbrethil (-1)
DF Treebeard (-2)
MF Goldberry (0)
MF Quickbeam (5)
MF Skinbark (-2)
MF River Woman (8)
FW Saeros (1)
FW Thranduil (10)
FW *Bombadil (18)

Tirion (4 matches)
GK Orodreth (12)
DF Elemmakil (0)
DF Elemmírë (2)
DF Caranthir (9)
DF *Aule (5)
MF Enerdhil (-1)
MF Finarfin (6)
MF Mahtan (3)
MF *Finrod (16)
FW Aredhel (14)
FW Finwe (15)

Tol Eressea (4 matches)
GK Amandil (16)
DF Tar Aldarion (10)
DF Osse (7)
DF *Salmar (9)
DF *Ulmo (16)
MF Voronwe (1)
MF Lindo (5)
MF Eriol (1)
MF Earwen (7)
MF Elwing (10)
FW Uinen (2)

Tol In Gaurhoth (7 matches)
GK ShastaWolf (34)
DF KuruWolf (17)
DF NilpWolf (17)
DF *SkipWolf (22)
MF GaladWolf (12)
MF SallyWolf (12)
MF InzilWolf (11)
MF *PhantomWolf (27)
FW GwathWolf (17)
FW NerWolf (18)
FW *NogWolf (24)

Valinor (5 matches)
GK Ingwe (16)
DF Indis (3)
DF Vaire (3)
DF Tulkas (3)
MF Nessa (1)
MF Este (2)
MF Yavanna (9)
MF Olwe (2)
FW Nerdanel (17)
FW *Miriel (17)
FW Arien (22)

Westernesse (5 matches)
GK *Tar Atanamir (24)
DF Tar Palantir (10)
DF Elendil (10)
DF Malbeth (17)
DF **Tar Telperien (15)
MF Hyarmendacil (8)
MF Mardil (9)
MF Ar Adunakhor (15)
FW Tar Minastir (11)
FW Elros (24)
FW Ar Pharazon (17)

Wilderland (4 matches)
GK Grimbeorn (14)
DF Great Warg (5)
DF Alatar (10)
DF Oropher (8)
DF *Pallando (9)
MF Radagast (4)
MF Bolg (2)
MF Khamul (11)
FW Smaug (14)
FW *Sauron (20)
FW Scatha (9)

the phantom

08-16-2011, 02:39 PM

Every year there are players that rise above the rest when it comes to earning their owners Phantasy points. This year, these are the players that really knew how to light up the score sheet on a per-game basis.

Phantasy All-Star Team

GK **Elrond (Eregion)
DF **Fingolfin (Angfauglith)
DF *Celebrimbor (Eregion)
DF *Beren (Doriath)
DF **Melian (Doriath)
MF *Glaurung (Nargothrond)
MF Leod (Anduin)
MF *Glorfindel (Eregion)
FW Curufin (Hithlum)
FW **Turin (Doriath)
FW *Maeglin (Angfauglith)

the phantom

08-16-2011, 03:33 PM

There were a lot of standout performers in this year's Arda Cup, so the choices were difficult, but in the end we feel we have selected a very worthy collection of players who really produced for their teams and did everything they could to push their sides towards the ultimate prize.

AFA First Team

GK **Elrond (Eregion)
DF *SkipWolf (TIG)
DF *Celebrimbor (Eregion)
DF *Beren (Doriath)
DF **Melian (Doriath)
MF *PhantomWolf (TIG)
MF *Hurin (Doriath)
MF *Glorfindel (Eregion)
FW *NogWolf (TIG)
FW **Feanor (Lothlorien)
FW **Turin (Doriath)

AFA Second Team

GK **Huan (Doriath)
DF Malbeth (Westernesse)
DF *Ulmo (Tol Eressea)
DF **Fingolfin (Angfauglith)
DF *Balrog #2 (Angband)
MF Legolas (Lothlorien)
MF *Finrod (Tirion)
MF *Varda (Pelori)
FW Elros (Westernesse)
FW *Maeglin (Angfauglith)
FW Thuringwethil (Angband)

Nilpaurion Felagund

08-16-2011, 08:37 PM

Bracket:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-brkt-end.png

Power Ranking - Per Game Statistics:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-end-pr-2.png

(1) - champion
(2) - runner-up
(3) - 2nd runner-up
(4) - 3rd runner-up
(q) - quarterfinalist
(o) - reached knockout stage
(x) - failed to reach knockout stage

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking--the lower the aggregate, the higher the rank. Ties are broken by a) better final rank in the standings; and b) better goal differential.

The offensive ranking is based on the average number of goals scored by the teams per game. Ties are broken by a) greater average number of shots made on target per game; b) greater average number of shots made per game; and c) better final rank in the standings.

The defensive ranking is based on the average number of goals allowed by the teams per game. Ties are broken by a) least average number of shots allowed on target per game; b) least average number of shots allowed per game; and c) better final rank in the standings.

Final Standings

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ardacup2011-end-1.png

Phantasy Numbers - Top Performers:

GOALS
8
Túrin (Doriath)

5
Arien (Valinor)
Ancalagon (Angband)

4
NogWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Fëanor (Lothlórien)
Húrin (Doriath)
Eönwë (Pelóri)
NerWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Hador (Hithlum)

ASSISTS
5
Beleg (Doriath)

4
Maeglin (Anfauglith)
Elros (Westernesse)
Thuringwethil (Angband)
Sauron (Wilderland)
Eöl (Doriath)
Varda (Pelóri)

3
Túrin (Doriath)
NogWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
PhantomWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Curufin (Hithlum)
Míriel (Valinor)
Nerdanel (Valinor)
Lúthien (Doriath)
InzilWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

GOALKEEPER
93.6% (29/31) Elrond (Eregion)
88.2% (30/34) Huan (Doriath)
84.0% (21/25) Tar-Atanamir (Westernesse)
83.9% (26/31) ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
82.4% (14/17) Amandil (Tol Eressëa)
80.0% (20/25) Galadriel (Lothlórien)
77.8% (14/18) Fram (Anduin)
77.3% (17/22) Caradhras (Misty Mts)
76.2% (16/21) Aldor (Dunharrow)
75.8% (25/33) Ungoliant (Angband)
75.8% (25/33) Manwë (Pelóri)

Galadriel55

08-17-2011, 03:31 PM

It has been discovered that the owner and publisher of EAisticle is the same person who got a certain place in the Phantasy Football competition. We stalked her all Day... day long, waiting for her to finish playing Werewolf already so that we could interview her. When we finally caught her, we bound and gagged her and threatened to dump her in evil mayo if she doesn't answer our questions.

And she didn't.

But then we realised that we gagged her, so we took out the gag. This is what the conversation looked like:

Reporter: Galadriel55, isn't it?

G55: Miss Galadriel55, you snaga.

Reporter: Oh whatever. What is your final standing in the Fantasy Phootball?

G55: It's Phantasy Football.

Reporter: Oh whatever. What is your final standing?

G55: My final is not standing. It is sitting.

Reporter: Whatever! How did you finish?

G55: I didn't finish! I'm not done with them yet!

Reporter: I don't care! What place did you get?

G55: Third.

Reporter: ...Third?

G55: Last.

Reporter: So third or last?

G55: Third last.

Reporter: ...Whatever.

At this point, a corrsepondent came running from the pitch with new news. He handed us a piece of paper where we read all the truth about our boss.

Reporter: It says here that you are on the Werewolves' team. Are you?

G55: Am not! What a way to accuse people! I'm an ordo!

Reporter: But you are! You're on the T-I-G team. And yet you predicted that Doriath will win the finals. Is that right?

G55: There's only one final, and it's sitting!

Reporter: Yes, we heard that already. But we want to find out something else. We have a hutch - just the teensiest suspicion - that you purposely let your team down to get those prediction points. Is that true?

G55: Prediction points are always true if you predict the right thing.

Reporter: No, I meant, is it true that you subtly stopped your team from winning to get those prediction points?

G55: What? How DARE you suggest that?! You're the wolf! Lynch him!

Reporter: ...Whatever.

G55: That's it! You're fired! And you're not allowed to publish this issue! I forbid you!

At this point we decided that we don't need any more information, so we thought it's high time to dump her in evil mayo. But since we couldn't find any, we just let her go.

We still published the interview, but we were fired and we couldn't do anything about that. We are now looking for a place to work with The Downer. If there will not be any such, we will work there illegally.

_____________________________

Thank you for reading! :D

the phantom

08-18-2011, 03:44 PM

Our MESPN reporters managed to get some quotes from various finals participants over the past couple days. Here they are for your reading pleasure.

************
MESPN: Hey, Ancalagon- congrats on beating Pelori.
Ancalagon: Thanks. We really wanted that one.
MESPN: What was your favorite thing in or about the match?
Ancalagon: I love that my various relations got to see it. Most places won't let dragons watch, but with this magic hill here they found a nice perch where they could view the whole thing.
MESPN: Have you thought about next year yet?
Ancalagon: Not really, but no need. I can't see any reason why things would need to change for me.
************
************
MESPN: Thuringwethil, I'm with MESPN- nice playing.
Thuringwethil: Thanks. I was rather fabulous, wasn't I?
MESPN: What did it mean to you to beat Pelori?
Thuringwethil: It wasn't nearly so important to me as Morgoth, Ancalagon, Ungoliant, and the Balrogs. I've always been more about the smaller battles in Beleriand than the grand scale conflict.
MESPN: Does that mean you may look for a team that better fits you next year?
Thuringwethil: I'm not set on it, but leaning that direction. All the training and bunking in Angband is a bit claustrophobic for me. I'd prefer someplace where I can stretch my wings more often.
MESPN: All right, we wish you luck.
************
************
MESPN: Manwe, MESPN here. Any words to your supporters?
Manwe: Events unfolded as we knew they would.
MESPN: Okay- any changes for next year?
Manwe: Indeed, yes. I have foreseen that entire teams will be scattered, and new teams will emerge, and that there will be no games played in the Blessed Realm.
MESPN: So, you don't plan to have a team next year?
Manwe: That is not what I said.
************
************
MESPN: Excuse me, Namo! MESPN, here-
Namo: Yes, I knew you'd show up.
MESPN: Well right. Could you clarify some statements from your captain, Manwe?
Namo: I can only confirm everything he has said.
MESPN: Well, what about Pelori's roster then? Will you bring back the same team?
Namo: No. No team is safe from this off-season. I have divined that we will lose at least a third of our team.
MESPN: Any names?
Namo: Important ones.
************
************
MESPN: Hey, NogWolf, do you have any final words about the tournament?
NogWolf: We fell short, I'm sorry to say. But we had a great run.
MESPN: Your squad has been solid every year. What's the secret?
NogWolf: Good team spirit, strategy, and experience together. And of course this year our new and improved Werewolf forms.
MESPN: There have been rumors that you will not be allowed to compete in these forms again, as they have been judged unnatural and too stiff a competitive advantage.
NogWolf: What happens will happen. No matter what we'll be back competing to the fullest.
************
************
MESPN: Hey, Thingol!
Elwe: Hello! Splendid tournament, wasn't it?
MESPN: Yes, you guys were fantastic.
Elwe: We had a diverse soup of strengths and talents, and everyone was committed to hard work and team play. So naturally we did well. That's what it takes!
MESPN: So- greatest team of all time?
Elwe: Oh, I can't say that definitively. The dawn of time Utumno and Valinor squads were rather strong. And during my lifetime Angband had a couple amazing teams, as did Mithrim, Gondolin, and Nargothrond. And of course that Union of Maedhros team was spectacular. But I think we could give anyone a fight.
MESPN: So, is it a repeat next year?
Elwe: We'd love to, but we're hearing there is going to be a major reformation next year with salary crackdowns. If the rumors are true I'm not certain we can keep this team together.
MESPN: Well then, better enjoy this one to the fullest then?
Elwe: Absolutely! I'll be partying all month!
************
************
MESPN: Turin, MESPN news. Was this your best season ever?
Turin: It was very good, but I'm not certain if it eclipsed Arda Cup XXXVII with Nargothrond. But this team might be better.
MESPN: Elwe spoke of salary difficulties next year. Have you heard about that?
Turin: Yes, yes, it's too bad, but something needed to be done to even things out competitively, so I'll just roll with it.
MESPN: Any idea about where you'll be next season?
Turin: Well, I am a bit homesick, so I'll certainly be looking for a chance to go back to the north if the offer is right. But if Doriath pays me best, I might just stay here.
MESPN: What about your dad?
Turin: Well yes, if he sticks around I'll be more likely to. We've talked about it and we'd love to play together again, wherever we end up.
************
************

Boromir88

09-01-2011, 08:43 PM

2011 Arda Cup in Review
BoroLXXXVIII, Two Towers Network

Well, we are aware it's been a while since Doriath steamrolled their way through the Championship (+20 goal differential...Inconceivable!), but decided to have a look back at some of the highlights (and lowlights) in 2011. We were planning on doing final power rankings, but seeing as there is not much disagreement with ArdaCup.com's ranks, there was no point to be redundant.

So, what we have done as we take "a look back" is note some of this year's disappointments, and teams we believe are on the rise to better fortunes, as well as those falling from the pinnacle.

The polarity of the Goal-keeping. This was something peculiar about 2011. Never before have we seen GKs rise to the level of Elrond or Huan (plus a handful of others in the mid to low-80% saves). However, never before have we seen such an atrocious display of "the rest." 8 of 32 teams had goalies with a save% of 60% or below. And over half the teams (17) had GKs with a save% of below 70%. It was feast of famine this year for most teams and one of the most important positions, goal keeper.

The poor quality of the Gondor teams. It was a bad year for any loyal Gondorian. Minas Tirith and Gondor only finished with 1 pt. each and both were last in their groups. Plus, it's not like they played in any of the insurmountable groups of death. Both Gondor teams attempted to ally with their Rohirric friends, but that experiment failed.

Despite having a strong bond of friendship, Gondor and Rohan's playing styles are too different to mesh together. Gondor's legendary Steward defenders know how to defend in times of trouble. And Gondor will look to wear you down with mistake free football. Rohan on the other hand likes to run up and down the pitch, and count on their tireless horses in defense to do just enough to get in the way. The attempt to fuse the two styles together backfired. I would not be surprised to see at least Eorl and Eomer return to Rohan (possibly Eowyn), and Gondor should make a heavy push to bring back the talents of Aragorn and Boromir II.

*We will also make brief mention here of our disappointment with the way Valinor handled hosting their games. You would think the Valar would have their act and organization together better than most, as Aman could be a beautiful venue to host games. Instead the planning committees every year have a laundry list of allegations of corruption and foul play. Either the Blessed Realm gets it's act together or we would like to see strict punishments levied against Manwe and the Valar. But who would have the authority to enforce such punishment?

Stocks Rising and Falling

For this part, we will look ahead and try to project teams who are going to be on the rise, or decline, in 2012. A few clarifications first.

To qualify as being a team on the rise/decline, we're not looking for simply improved performance, but a marked and visible improvement. For instance, we find it hard to believe Esgaroth could get any worse than they showed this year (I guess if their only change was to sell Girion and bring in Oin?) Esgaroth has to be better than 2011, they really can't get worse. However, they would need a complete overhaul in personel to show any sign of significant improvement.

So, when putting this together section together, I am looking at teams who will make the jump from eliminated in group play to the playoffs (and possibly further in the playoffs) or teams who made it to the playoffs this year, but will drop out in 2012 due to their stocks falling.

Let's begin on the brighter side with a few teams we anticipate to be on the rise:

5. Hithlum: This will depend on if Celegorm and Curufin decide to stay. If they do, I can't see how these skilled sons of Feanor will miss out on the playoffs for 2 straight tournaments. The reason Hithlum didn't advance was a tough draw, with Angband and Anfauglith, and their defenses were awful. We don't expect Celegorm and Curufin will stick around if Hador wants to move them back on defense. However, Hador has shown a willingness to do whatever it takes to field a solid team. Hador's been a solid defender for Hithlum in the past, don't be surprised if he comes back to shore up the defense and maybe replace Imlach with a much better keeper. Thus keeping Celegorm and Curufin happy as the FWs.

4. Eriador: After a surprising quarter finals appearance in 2010, 2011 was a big disappointment for Arvedui's team. However, we expect the core players (Arvedui, obviously, and Araphor) to stick around. The gamble with the troll defenders failed, but we are curious to what Arvedui hinted at after Eriador's elimination in group play. He's wanted to put something to work the past few years, but didn't have the budget to pull it off. Do they for 2012? And what could that be? Needless to say TTN is intrigued, because I feel, after Minas Morgul's lackluster showing, we might be seeing The Witch-King (and maybe some of his fellow Nazgul's) back on top the great Watch Tower? Hmmm...

3. Himring: Kind of similar to Hithlum's situation, we just can't see Maedhras and Fingon being kept out of the playoffs for 2 straight years. They are too good of talents to be kept out back-to-back cups. Also, the two friends are committed to staying together to create a true contender. With more time, expect Maedhros and Fingon to be hard at work bringing in better defensive stars than the alliance of the Faithful and Treacherous men they had this year.

2. Numenor: This team more or less formed without even trying to form. These cast-off Numenoreans were waiting for Elros or Ar-Pharazon, but they hadn't known that Elros had secretly formed the super-power Westernessed team. The Numenorean nation may realize they are strongest when they're all together. Despite this accidental formation of team Numenor this year, they to no surprise put together a stingy defense. Clearly they will need strikers. And maybe with Westernesse falling short of their goal this year, we see Ar-Pharazon and/or Elros return to Numenor. This will provide a proven leader, and striker, to a Numenor team that desperately lacked them this year.

1. Nargothrond: Nargothrond's been on the decline for several years, but TTN believes they truly hit rock bottom this year. Normally they were the toughest of opponents, grinding out hard fought 1-goal victories. The past couple years, they've lost the 1-goal games and were simply overrun this year by some pretty mediocre teams. Don't worry Master Felagund, your Nargothrondians will be back and stronger than ever. Especially with Finduilas having the humility to know she made a mistake taking over the team, expect the ancient leaders, Finrod and Orodreth, to return, restoring the roar back to Nargothrond.

Now the teams with falling stocks:

5. Gondolin: We're starting off with Gondolin and it may be a surprise, because Gondolin finished 25th this year. How can they get worse, right? Well, they might finish higher in the overall standings in 2012, but honestly I can't see this team (as is) competing to make the playoffs. The truth of the matter is, Gondolin was in a ridiculously difficult group, and true Turgon had aligned a much depleted team from Gondolin's 2010 Arda Cup winning team. Problem is, Gondolin appears to be panicking and laying all the blame on Turgon. Turgon could be forced out of Gondolin and that, in my opinion, is a big mistake. You had a down year, Gondolin fans, that's not a reason to panic and burn the bridge with your leader, Turgon.

4. Pelori: I think Pelori's maxed out, they've gone as far as they can go with Manwe's style, and that was only good enough for 4th place. With the recent dissensions of Tulkas (going off to form Valinor) and Aule (Tirion) plus the less publicized split with Ulmo, I don't see Pelori being able to hold together. Since Manwe likes visions, I'll give him a TTN envision. The Valar continue to break apart in attempts of indirectly rebelling against Manwe.

3. Misty Mountains: Sort of like Pelori, I just think the Misty Mountains has gone as far as they're going to go. Caradhras was a pleasant addition and will likely stick around. It solved Misty Mountains goal-keeping problems, when they had The Watcher, between the posts. But what will happen with Saruman and Durin's Bane? Do they plan to stick around and maybe add another goal-scorer to help the Misty Mountains progress further? I don't think so.

2. Lothlorien: Lothlorien will probably make one of the bigger drops, because I have no doubts Feanor will be gone. Feanor never sticks around in one place for more than a year. Wherever Feanor goes, the team he goes on improves. The team he leaves from declines. The more wealthy Noldor teams, like Tirion, can in some ways make up for the void left by Feanor. However, you'll note Tirion declined in 2011. So, what's going to happen to Lothlorien who never made the playoffs before Feanor arrived? Add on top of that Galadriel will never surrender power over her Guarded Realm. They should be a stout defensive team again, but their offense is going to go in the gutters.

1. Doriath: Same reasons as Lothlorien, they're going to lose too much when they lose Turin. Turin never stays in one place for more than a year either, and his asking price is rumored to be extremely high. Thingol emptied the bank to put all of his eggs into this years basket. It worked, but TTN expects the championship players to be wanting too much money to stay together again. Turin will go, and surely that means Hurin will follow, along with Beleg. That's a lot of talent to lose and have to replace. We can know this will happen with 90% certainty.

Thingol and Melian will also likely stay together, those two are inseperable. But how far has Doriath gone with those two alone? So the trickier question becomes what will happen to Eol, Beren, Luthien, Mablung, Carcharoth and Huan? If that core can be afforded than Doriath will still be able to field quite a strong and dangerous team. Although, we must say that we can't see all of those players coming back. Perhaps Thingol can keep Beren, Luthien and Mablung. But doubtful with regards to Eol, Carcharoth and Huan.