Arda Cup Football 2013 [Archive] - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Nilpaurion Felagund

05-06-2013, 02:20 AM

Before the Arda Cup 2013 preseason madness of transfers and friendlies begin, ArdaCup.com writer Adam 'not the economist' Smith continues his look back at the worst and the best signings of Arda Cup 2012.

(The contents of this article have not been reviewed or endorsed by ArdaCup.com. All opinions expressed by Adam Smith are solely his own and do not reflect the opinions of ArdaCup.com or its staff, parent company, partners, or sponsors. His sources are not known to ArdaCup.com and he has no special access to information beyond the access and privileges that go along with being an Arda Cup accredited member of the media.

As you'll see, there's a reason we place this disclaimer only in his articles.)
____________________

I am much loved, it seems.

Less than 24 hours after posting my previous article, a deluge of letters overwhelmed our office. Many of them were sent by Orcs from Angband, Utumno, and Thangorodrim, each one containing a single letter in black speech. There was also a longer letter from an Angband address, this time in the common tongue, that said: 'If you put those letters together, they read: "We'll hang you by your intestines."'

I guess they're angry that two of their draconic comrades are in the list. Well, they're about to get more riled up: the next letter has a fair point regarding other members of the Angband squad.

Shouldn't we just lump all the high-salary players of Angband in your list? Despite Ancalagon's disappearing act in the Minas Tirith game, Tevildo's goal should have been enough for them to advance had Morgoth ($20 million), Balrog #1 ($15 million), or Carcaroth ($12 million) done a better job of keeping the Stewards from scoring.
-Araniel, Doriath

As I've said, a fair point. Even though Angband didn't let in more than two goals in any game, and those games where they let two in were against teams with a reputedly strong attack line, those teams also happen to be the most decaffeinated Tol-in-Gaurhoth team ever assembled, as well as Shire-Bree United, whose whole game plan seems to revolve around hoping Bombadil's head is on the game. Not to mention Angband really should have shut out the Downer and Minas Tirith. They had enough talent to.

You bash Ilmarë and Legolas in your article, but how could you ignore Saruman ($16 million) and Durin's Bane ($15 million), both of whom have the same goalscoring rate as Legolas? They're worse than the two you've mentioned because they don't even have a good defense to fall back on, so seeing those overpaid divas do so little effectively dashed their teams' hopes of advancing. Did you really watch all the games? I bet you're as overpaid and underperforming as these two.
-Miri, Greenwood the Great

You have a point (regarding Saruman and Durin's Bane, not the last part). But here's the thing--there never really was much expectation of these two teams--well, Misty Mts had a fair chance of advancing, but the quality gap between them and the two teams that did advance seemed so, well, gaping.

. . . But I'll concede that Saruman and Durin's Bane should have been in the top five. Maybe number two and three.

To start off:

Average salary of an Arda Cup player: $7.8 million
Average salary of an Arda Cup player in a round of sixteen team: $8.5 million
Average salary of an Arda Cup player in a quarterfinalist: $8.7 million
Average salary of an Arda Cup player in a semifinalist: $9.1 million
Average salary of an Arda Cup player in a finalist: $9.2 million

While I agree with Glaurung being the worst signing of 2012, how could Ilmarë and Legolas have made your list? Judging from the averages, Legolas is only $4.5 million overpaid, and Ilmarë $2.2 million over. Surely, Ar-Adûnakhôr ($15 million, 1 goal in three games) or Hador (exactly the same price and same scoring rate), both of whom came from teams that didn't advance past the group stage, are better shouts than the two I've mentioned.
-B, BD

First, thank you for doing my job for me.

Second, those two you've mentioned were not always that terrible. Hador scored four goals in three games in 2011, and that with a team that included Celegorm and Curufin. As for Ar-Adûnakhôr, he's a Cup winner and a very important teammate of Ar-Pharazôn. Armenelos and Hithlum were both in extremely tough groups, so they had mitigating circumstances. They're getting the same free pass as Túrin (most expensive signing at $24 million, his team eliminated in the group stage) is. If they do bomb again next year though . . .
____________________

And now I present the ten best contracts of 2012. Why ten? Because I found it easier to find underpaid players who stood out than the reverse (unlike my readers, it seems). In a world where negativity reigns, I am a breath of fresh air.

But first, honourable mentions, two names that cannot be ignored:

Fëanor (AC Beleriand): $22 million
Elrond (Eriador): $20 million
The very best there are at their positions. Painfully expensive for anyone on a shoestring budget, but if a team who can afford them needs a striker or goalkeeper, they should be the first names to look for. (Túrin should have been here, but he's held out because of his down year. Hopefully he bounces back--his 2011 performance was the best year any forward ever had.)

10. Melian (Doriath): $15 million
She's $5 million cheaper than Morgoth, had lower quality teammates than he had, and faced slightly better attackers than he did, but let in only two more goals in as many games! How did she do it?! Melian is one of the best all-around defenders in the game, and a very capable back line leader.

9. Glorfindel (Eriador): $13 million
Seven goals and six assists in twelve games over two seasons. Four and three in seven last year. If you want to say 'consistent' in Quenya or Sindarin, the word's 'Glorfindel'.

8. Bard (Erebor): $8 million
7. Arveleg (Eriador): $8 million
Both played significant roles at important junctures with Cup contenders, while collecting below average market salary (see the letter above). Bard scored the second vs Wilderland in the group stage and the equaliser vs FC Valinor in the quarterfinals. Arveleg assisted Glorfindel's winner vs Minas Tirith in the quarterfinals and scored the opener vs Erebor in the semifinals. Best $8 million ever spent, those teams' owners surely thought.

6. Anarion (Gondor): $11 million
If, before the start of the 2012 Arda Cup, you told any owner that they could have a franchise goalscorer for $11 million, they would have laughed at you. Though it remains to be seen if he could be consistently good--he did almost nothing as a defender in the 2011 Barad-dûr squad.

5. Beorn (Erebor): $10 million
He did better than Huan in every existing metric! His team advanced further, he saved more shots (32 to Huan's 18), had a better save rate (80% to Huan's 78.3%), and he even saved more penalties in that shootout between their teams! Remember in 2011 when Grimbeorn looked like he was a really good goalkeeper in Sauron's Wilderland team (before they ran into the Valinor buzz saw)? Apparently his talent was hereditary.

4. Míriel (Real Valinor): $14 million
3. Arien (Real Valinor): $14 million
Three goals and four assist for Serindë, 6+1 for the Sun-maiden. That's right--of the twelve goals for their team, these two scored three-fourths of them. But wait, there's a missing name.

(Nerdanel may have found a good way to mess with statheads--no matter if her team reaches the final or gets eliminated in the quarterfinals, she would always put up two goals and three assists.)

2. Curufin (FC Valinor): $14 million
Remember, he had exactly the same stats as Arien--in two less games. Not only that, he's comfortable as a centre forward or out wide, and, since he's a converted defender, he doesn't shy away from defensive work. In the Valinor derby, with his brother Celegorm, he hounded Real Valinor's defenders to the point that Tilion and Caranthir had difficulty passing the ball to the midfield.

Let's see: had Finrod put him in place of Glaurung, not only would they have saved $2 million, their lack of defence wouldn't have been a problem because they'd win every game 4-3 or 5-4.

And the biggest bargain of 2012:

1. Beren (AC Beleriand): $12 million
'He had almost the same stats as Glorfindel, and scored one goal less than Curufin or Arien; how come he's ranked higher?' some would surely moan. But here's the thing--Beren is way more than a goalscorer. Remember that he was also a defender in the juggernaut 2011 Doriath squad. Remember that he was often tasked to mark the opposing squad's most dangerous midfielder or fullback without forgetting to be a goal threat. He had a higher work rate than the entire Angband back line, or eleven Glaurungs. I doubt you would find another player who can do everything short of goalkeeping at his price.

the phantom

05-06-2013, 09:24 PM

Everyone knows that off-season moves are nearly as important as the season itself- a team needs players, after all! Here are a few squads and the rumors surrounding them...

Rohan- After a strong showing last year Rohan fans haven't heard much good news this off-season, as several of their biggest stars seemed reluctant to guarantee they're returning for this year. At this point it's pretty well settled that Gandalf is wandering off (and Shadowfax with him), and it seems Rohan will be losing their other primary horse-and-rider pair because...

Anduin- Multiple sources are confirming that Eorl and Felarof are deep in negotiations with Anduin, and with their major players from last season confirmed to return (Grimbeorn, Celeborn, etc.) Anduin supporters are feeling pretty good. Almost as good as...

The Barrow-Downs- They've complied with Eru's "Tolkien Mandate" and added several Middle-Earth talents. Yep, it's official- Bombadil and a few of his friends will be joining Hookbill and his crew of characters. Their payroll will probably still be on the low side, but for the first time this squad appears to be a threat to make it out of the group stage.

Armenelos- On the flip-side, these guys are used to advancing, and last year is looked on as an anomaly (they were in the "Group of Death" after all). No word has reached anyone of significant departures, and rumors of Elros are swirling after he declined to renew his contract with Imladris.

Valimar- Another perennial contender is feeling good about their status- it seems clear that Valimar has been successful at knocking their payroll down for their returners. And more interestingly, Manwe has scheduled a press conference for the end of the week, and he promises that he will be sharing "some extremely exciting news".

The Havens- Fans of The Havens are still waiting for a bit of excitement. While they were pleased last week to hear that Earendil and Cirdan would be re-signing, Angrod and Aegnor stated that they would be jumping ship (but to where?).

Mordor- Similarly, Mordor has heard more about departures than signings, with not one, not two, but three Nazgul apparently going elsewhere. Of course Sauron can fill the slots, but will he choose to go budget or quality?

Arnor- These guys have managed to do both thus far, cutting costs ever so slightly while looking to be improved. Thanks to their financial ties to team Eriador (through Elrond and Norbury Sport), it appears Isildur is headed to Eriador while the Witch King and Malbeth will be joining Arnor.

Boromir88

05-07-2013, 09:50 AM

TTN will be back for another season of the Arda Cup to bring more variety to its readers and listeners.

Besides our traditional regional coverage, reporting on the happenings in Mordor and Gondor and match predictions from the esteemed Boro, TTN will offer more of a phantasy perspective than in years past. Pitting old school knowledge and history against new age projections to determine breakout stars in this year's tournament and much more analysis.

Stay tuned. :cool:

Nogrod

05-08-2013, 03:17 PM

The Arda Kicker Magazine's (AKM) special reporter Hunter U. Nogson is back with an interview once again. This time to open up the web of deals behind the curtains as to how players move to different teams and how the money changes hands.

Let this be an pre-taste for all those thriving to win the phantasy-tournament - it will be fun indeed! Aka. all this has really happened in a set of nerve-wrecking negotiations, daring and decision-making.

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

The AKM / Hunter U. Nogson

The kitchens of Rivendell were treating us quite nicely serving some local river mussels cooked in Bree-ale with Mirkwood herbs and fresh radishes from Arnor as appetizers – alongside a light sparkling wine from Dol Amroth and fried salty cheese from Gondor. The palate was interestingly close and homey even if the ingredients came from so far away from each other. If I were a restaurant critic I would give it a 9/10.

Nogrod seemed less impressed with the first course, like it was his daily staple – well, like it was nowadays.

“It’s good, yeah… okay”, he managed to compliment the artistry of the kitchens after I begged him for an opinion.

This guy has played in all the Arda Cups as a forward in the odd and secretive Tol-In-Gaurhoth being one of the real backbones of the team. Now he was sitting in front of me signed in to play for Eriador as a midfielder for 6 million. And I was thinking about what it was he was thinking – and what kind of process is the signing up competition between teams and players, what is the intrigue, how are the secret negotiations, who has the leverage, who pulls the strings… The key to my questions was emptying his glass of fine Dol Amrothian wine and burped in front of me. He wiped his mouth clean and apologized in a way I was not sure whether it was mocking my attention to his behaviour or something half-sincere.

“Well”, I started, after pouring us liberal portions of pretty expensive Dorwinionian Red to our glasses after the first course. “What made you to go for the open player-markets, were you dissatisfied with your team?”

He gave me a displeased look but then just shrugged. Toying with the glass in his hands he replied: “Maybe I had played in a same team for too long without any major success – and in a team that I saw was going rather down than up – and I think the AFA decision to not let us all play as werewolves - and how it ended up for us the last season – was the deciding factor here. And surely, I only hired an agent to begin with, just to make some enquieries…”

“So there was something that changed matters along the way?”, I put in inquisitively.

“Well yes,” he snapped back immediately taking a long sip on it. “Immediately after they heard in the T-I-G that I had been making enquiries it seemed there were whispers from some wanna-be werewolves – I’m not pointing out at anyone especially here, let’s be careful about this – and interestingly enough the T-I-G team was only offering me a deal of 5 million, half of my last year’s revenue – in the midfield!”

Here Nogrod slammed his glass to the table clearly agitated. I nodded to him calmly and refilled his glass with the Dorwinionian Red. “And that did it for you?” I asked as lightly as I could.

“Yeah. That did it.” Nogrod said and took a deep sip from the refilled glass. “After that there was no going back. I was a free agent then, for real.”

At this point the elven waitresses were bringing in the main course: smoked halibut with fennel and wild rice, and several kinds of jams and fresh greens on separate plates accompanied by a load of fresh white bread. The almost empty carafe of Dorwinionian Red was changed into a full bottle of cold Ithilien White.

“I’m much interested… What were your initial goals or ideas about where to play and with what kind of a deal?”

The halibut was just heavenly, and the roasted nuts and sesame seeds on top of it just made one fly… not to speak of the bitterness and the sting of the jams complimenting the mellow taste of the fish itself. Say what you wish, but they do know how to make exquisite dishes in Rivendell. And it seemed to soften Nogrod as well to speak his mind.

“Funnily enough,” he began, “my first ideas were to try and sign in to… Well, Sauron’s team – as I thought I could play as a werewolf with him and I think we had a good connection a few seasons back when he played with us. Secondly I thought that with my name I could take a starring role in the dwarven team who are a formidable group but really lack goal-scoring power. Thirdly there were rumours that the Barrow Downs team would be seeing a total turn-over and maybe even the Barrow-Wight himself would be gathering a team around him – so I was naturally interested in that as well. So how fun is that? None of those teams ended up in my last shortlists for signing up…”

“So what made it then?” I asked trying to hold my enthusiasm for what was to come.

“Well, after hearing the initial reports from different teams and especially that of the T-I-G – I felt like doing some soul-searching: Sauron was trying to cut costs like last year while having clear plans I didn’t seem to fit into the way I liked, the dwarves were reserved becaue they are racists – sorry to say that - , and the thing around the Barrow Downs was even messier it was in the beginning... And the fact is that I have played many seasons as a pro and it is not money I need – and neither was it continuity because of the back-stabbing from my own team.”

Scrapping the juices from the plate with a piece of bread Nogrod wiped his mouth with the cloth provided. After pouring himself a new glass of Ithilien White he turned his gaze back to me again.

“So I gave my agent new instructions and asked him to have an open mind about the teams… “ It was the first time during the interview that Nogrod actually smiled heartily. “God bless the guy. He’s good indeed”, he went on and nodded to the waiter who cleaned our table.

“So what was it you were after then and how did it come about you ended up with the team Eriador? I mean it looks like a bit stretch from what you have been talking about thus far”, I asked feeling we were finally getting somewhere unwounding the web of transfers in the Arda Cup.

“Well I did give my agent three points he should pay heed to when going widely round and about looking for places for me to play… firstly I wanted to play in a team where I could seriously contend for the Cup. Secondly I wanted to play in a team that was exciting – to learn and play an exciting game. And thirdly to play in team that gave me enough responsibility; a chance to shine if you wish to put it that way – I have my career to mind anyway…”

The waiters were bringing in the desserts: fresh berries soaked in liquor on top of some exquisite ice cream and sherry from Lake Town. And a nice kettle of double-espresso. It was heavenly.

“And guess what?”, Nogrod suddenly asked me before touching the dessert. “With all the nice feelings I had gathered after the initial disappointment with my former team I heard from the T-I-G that they were about to sign Thuringwethil and Draugluin with some nice deals! Wouldn’t that have been the team I would have loved to play as a werewolf! And they mockingly yet offered me a deal of 5 million as a midfielder!”

This time Nogrod did not bang his glass on the table but just set it there. But this clearly was an issue he took personally.

“There was a distrust there too wide to be overcome with myself and my former team… even if they had given me the best offer in terms of pay any other team had made. So anyone there willing to change teams, be prepared that your exchange-value might be half the amount you have been payed thus far… at least before you start to negotiate for real.”

“But you ended up with quite interesting negotiations, isn’t that true?”, I put in. “I understand that when the draft-season gets closing it’s not only the players but also the teams who need to play their cards more openly to get a squad they think they need to succeed in the Arda Cup?”

“You bet… that was interesting indeed. I was approached by multiple teams but let me stay with the interesting ones. First of all, Fëanor’s assistant from AC Beleriand contacted my agent to ask if I’d like to play for them for 3 million as a center-back. Dwarves United offered me the same salary for playing defensive midfielder – not trusting me enough to play in a more foreward position I gathered – and Eriador offered me 5 millions for filling the same place. And to top it Sauron was willing to pay me 7 million as a werewolf-defender in the middle of a wizard defence – and a 4 million deal to play midfield as a wight… But yes, that was just the starters and only a few teams negotiated with.”

“How did it go then?” I blurted quite forgetting my role as a critical journalist captivated by the story. “Who did you deny and how did you made it to 6 million for the Eriador?”

It was time for Nogrod to smile widely – a second helping of sherry did seem to help that though.

“I got some interesting offers along the way but on top of those I have already mentioned, I turned down fex. those of Shire-Bree, Anfaughlith, Anduin and Arnor… So it kind of left me with the consideration between Sauron’s Barad-Dûr, AC Beleriand and Eriador. Basically Arnor, Anduin and Barad-Dûr were giving me the best offers (5-8 millions), but I was slowly turning towards the chance to play for the Cup and thusly for either AC Beleriand (4-5 mill.) or Eriador (5-6 mill.) – I do have my doubts on how Sauron is playing this meta-game… even if playing a a werewolf would have answered some of my deepest cravings.”

With that Nogrod sighed and orderd a rhum and cola. I did the same and looked at him trying to be able to form the last fruitful question while picking the grapes that had been brought to our table overlooking the river-valley of Rivendell.

“So how did you come to your decision in the end? And was it worth all the effort?” I finally made, half disappointed over the question with no real edge.

“Well, it was finally between AC Beleriand and Eriador… Playing with Fëanor… well that would be a dream of anyone fulfilled, but I would have been a stranger there and they already had a four-player offence ready and practised which would mean I would be in a secondary role by definition, so an outsider also by the team-tactics; someone to fill a gap cheaply. In Eriador I have a better role in the midfield where there is only one striker, Isildur. Also playing with the team of Elrond means it is going to be a team to go far in the tournament – and sure Eriador is my neighbourhood as well so I feel a lot more at home there than I would have felt with the heroes of the first age elves.”

With that Nogrod emptied his glass and nodded to get up from his seat.
“Was it a good idea to change teams?”, I managed to ask him before he turned around.

“Well, it was an experience, a kind of a rollercoaster –ride that ended up well… or so I think of it as now. I’m looking forwards to play against the T-I-G team this year – and beating them. But it might have ended differently.” Suddenly Nogrod halted. “I mean, things are easy when you just go with the flow, but when you’re yourself responsible for what you are and where you are, well, that’s another matter entirely.”

With that he left the table. I didn’t have the story revealing all the intrigues of the player-transfers or of the financial moves behind the surface… but I had a partial story of one player, of one person inside this industry of professional football.

And I had eaten well in Rivendell. Valar be blessed.

Boromir88

05-09-2013, 07:34 PM

Hobbit Coalition Pleads for Eru Intervention
TTN's Shire Division

Our team of writers in the Shire have been following a growing story with Arda Cup 2013 just around the corner. We are pleased TTN is first in bringing the story to you:

The little-folk of the Shire have been feeling disenfranchised over the past few years with Hobbit representation on club rosters dwindling down to nothing. Last year only Bandobras Took made a tournament roster, playing for Shire-Bree United and it appears he will be the only Halfling in the tournament again. This has the Hobbits up in arms, pleading for Eru to make an edict similar to the "Tolkienian rule" only for Hobbits:

"I don't understand if Eru is serious about instituting a new rule that clubs need to have Tolkien characters in order to participate in the Arda Cup. Why can't we get a rule that makes teams try out and sign more hobbits?" asked, Fredegar Bolger, President of the Hobbit Futballers Movement.

Special liason to the Valar and Director of Hobbit Affairs, Bilbo Baggins responded by saying: "Eru takes all petitions made to him under advisement. At this time Eru believes it would be unprecedented involvement to instate a Hobbit Rule. A broad Tolkien characters rule is one thing, but a rule specifically catering to Hobbits would be a dangerous precedent. For instance, like myself, I know many other prominent hobbits have decided to retire from playing the game, but that doesn't mean we still don't play an important role in the organization and operations of the most prestigious sporting event in the world. There are even owners who are Hobbits, and I'm sure if they felt it would help their teams win, they would sign more Hobbits onto their rosters."

Master Bolger is not convinced. "The Shire is a long and proud sporting nation. We invented golf and other relaxing past times. We wrote the book on sport and leisure! The past two years just goes to show Hobbits have been driven out of football by the big-folk and don't even give us the time of day to prove our useful skills on the pitch."

It should be pointed out not all hobbits are united with Bolger on this; counter-petitioners have also sprung up, although their agenda appears even more cynical in just riling up the pro-Hobbit Rule groups. "Fatty is cracked, and anyone who believes as he does is also cracked, I say. He needs to keep his nose out of the more wordly affairs. I can't think of a bigger waste of time than kicking an inflated sphere around a patch of dirt with Big-Folk." said Ted Sandyman.

Many Hobbit youth look to the Bullroarer to be the standard-bearer in the movement to catch the eye of owners, and raise interest in signing Hobbit players. But Bandobras is solely focused on this team, and this year. "I'm very happy with my current situation and could not ask for better teammates than the ones I have now. I am confident the team is heading in the right direction and support the ownership's decisions in putting the team together as they constructed it."

----

Have reactions, questions, or comments on this story? Please PM Boromir88 and your comments may be published in our next edition! ;)

Nilpaurion Felagund

05-14-2013, 02:14 AM

Tar-Eldar Network Television takes a look at various teams’ financial and tactical situations before assessing what moves they would make based on those two factors.

AC Beleriand

Financial situation:
AC Beleriand would be hard-pressed to keep the Eöl/Beren/Fingolfin trio while adding talent to their squad. Which of those stars they would let go depends partly on how they would reshape their squad. Alternatively, they could stand pat and give their current squad one more run at the cup.

Tactical situation:
AC Beleriand missed last year’s Arda Cup final due to a combination of two things: an inspired Arien performance and the failure of their plan B against Real Valinor. While Fëanor argued, ‘We don't really need a plan B; we just need to execute plan A perfectly,’ the fact is things don't always go according to plan on the pitch. Teams always need a plan on how to cope with going behind.

AC Beleriand’s largely-successful philosophy hinges on possession, even sacrificing attacking width to pack the middle of the pitch with four players to increase ball retention. Fëanor counted on Beren, Fingolfin, and Ecthelion’s impressive work rate to give his team attacking options down the flanks, despite the fact that they also had other duties. Against Real Valinor in the semifinals, the only time AC Beleriand had to come from behind, it was a common sight to see Fingolfin and Ecthelion so close to the Real penalty box, crossing for Beren and Fëanor as well as cutting in from the flanks to take shots themselves. But Nienna and Tilion intelligently bypassed the AC Beleriand pressing game by hoofing the ball towards Arien, Míriel, and Nerdanel whenever they recovered possession, leaving those formidable forwards with a three-on-two opportunity against the AC Beleriand centre-backs.

So what if Fëanor could find a wide midfielder who can both hug the touchline and help with the midfield battle, giving them a plan B that won’t include sending the full-backs forward? And what if he can find two of them?

Conclusion:
Fingolfin still has a year left on his contract, and Eöl has signed a new deal worth the same as last year’s. Beren, on the other hand, still hasn’t committed to the deal on the table (reportedly worth 13 million). Fëanor has shown no sign of improving his offer and is rumoured to be deep in talks with a pair of wide midfielders from the house of Finarfin. It seems that despite his talk of not needing a plan B, Fëanor has seen the wisdom of adding variety to their already-formidable attacking threats.

Nargothrond

Financial situation:
Nargothrond have already taken heavy losses last year, yet they still need to spend to improve their squad. They could let Glaurung walk, banking on Finrod and Gwindor to carry the scoring load, then use the savings on improving their defence. Unfortunately no team have made offers to Glaurung. Meanwhile, Gwindor has picked up the one-year option on his contract.

Tactical situation:
Nargothrond’s defence has famously allowed five goals against AC Beleriand, as well as four against Doriath. Bëor is a sieve at goal—he was never the best, and he got worse as time went on. The defenders in front of him were woefully disorganised, often uncoordinated in setting their offside traps and failing to cover for each other. The very first thing Nargothrond need is a vocal backline leader, either a goalkeeper or a defender, who can organise the four other defensive players.

Their midfielders, belying the results, have actually played well. Unfortunately, they have been asked to do too much, sitting in front of defence while linking up with the attack. The latter should have been Finrod’s job, but with Glaurung’s lack of form, he took up higher and more central positions to provide an additional goalscoring threat in the box—he scored half of Nargothrond’s six goals.

In short, Nargothrond is a poorly constructed team, and only the talent of Finrod, Gwindor, and the midfielders kept them within a distant shout of qualifying last year.

Conclusion:
It all starts with improving Nargothrond’s defence. A better backline would give their midfielders freedom to help on the attack, giving them goalscoring chances even if they retain an out-of-form Glaurung as centre forward. (Coincidentally, dropping Glaurung from the squad would give them cap freedom to overhaul their defence.)

Gondolin

Financial situation:
Gondolin took a minor hit last year, but not enough to force them to cut wages. However, they can't hold on to both Maeglin and Gothmog at their current price (20 million each) while improving their squad, though Gothmog is expected to leave the club anyway, perhaps returning to Angband or playing for Anfauglith. They can replace him with the wealth of talent that once called the hidden kingdom home, like Glorfindel, Tuor, or Eärendil.

Tactical situation:
Like Nargothrond, they need a backline leader to organise their poor defence. (Rog, even at his best, was never a vocal player.) They also need a better holding midfield pair than Salgant and Meleth. Salgant is a good scrapper, but he doesn't have the positional discipline to sit in front of his defence. Against Eriador he chased Arveleg all over the pitch, leaving Arassuil too much space to create Glorfindel's opener. Against AC Beleriand, he drew two yellow cards after committing cynical fouls to stop counterattacks, being out of position to contain AC Beleriand's midfield runs. And Meleth is a deep-lying playmaker, not a defensive midfielder. She lacks pace and gets overawed with direct attacks through the centre of the pitch.

Their attack is well-balanced, with Duilin providing the midfield runs, Elemmakil the width, Gothmog the powerful presence up front, and Maeglin the running into space to drag defenders out of position.

Conclusion:
There is little that needs to be changed to improve Gondolin—a backline leader and a good defensive midfielder would probably be enough to make them a possible quarterfinalist. Their major problem is finding those players. A minor problem would be dealing with the possible departure of Gothmog. Tuor, Eärendil, or even Húrin could take his place as a penalty box presence—although according to MESPN, Eärendil has already signed a new contract with the Havens.

Inter Beleriand

Financial situation:
Inter Beleriand lost 10 million last year, not a huge amount for the team’s financial backers, but still a concern. They were expected at the very least to advance from their group, which would have made them 10 million richer instead of poorer. If they wish to improve their squad, their wage bill would grow—most of their players are already on low wages, and their highly-paid players didn’t underperform enough to take huge pay cuts.

Tactical situation:
If we count Himring as their predecessor, Inter have been eliminated two years in a row on goal difference. The two situations have been eerily similar—they were beaten by the group favourite (Doriath/Eriador), drew against their rivals for qualification (Tirion/Gondolin), and defeated the weakest team in their group (SBU/Arnor) by a smaller goal difference than their rivals’. Inter’s defence has been fine, though not particularly impressive, limiting Gondolin and Eriador to two goals, so their problem might be more on the other end. It is possible that Fingon and Maedhros could not carry the scoring load on their own; they need a third goalscorer.

Conclusion:
Rumours abound that Fingon is deep in contract talks with a talented and versatile attacking midfielder looking to be reunited with his father’s old teammates. And there are whispers that along with him would join an equally versatile wide player who could play as a winger or an attacking full-back. If these rumours were true, and if they could keep Turgon and the Balrog, then they would upgrade both their offence and defence in one move, moving them from Round of Sixteen contenders to long-shot cup contenders.

Boromir88

05-15-2013, 06:19 PM

A Union of the Two Towers
-Boro

This year TTN is covering the offseason happenings of 8 teams. Some of them lie well outside our regional influence, but that hasn't stopped TTN from scattering field reporters all over Arda to inform you on what several teams have been up to during the offseason.

The 1st part in the series takes you to Isengard where in 2012 Saruman's squad finished 3rd in Group F. Failing to make it out of the group stage meant Isengard took a moderate hit to their finances and left many anxious over the future of Isengard.

To completely understand we have to take you back to the 2009 year when Isengard was a colossal flop in the tournament, Saruman left quickly to join Bywater and the team disbanded. Further investigation into the "books" revealed Saruman had been running an intricate ponzi scheme even forcing Isengard players to invest in the team with the promises of future fortune. Yet, when the team went bust after an awful 2009 campaign, Saruman bolted with the money, leaving Isengard in ruins.

In 2012, when Isengarders needed a buyer in order to reform a team, it was an even bigger shock Saruman reared up his head again, and was approved as the sole owner given the Maia's checkered financial history. However, Saruman's clever tongue apparently satisfied league officials and assured that his auto-parts manufacturing business was completely legitimate.

As noted, 2012 saw a loss for Saruman with Isengard's failure to make it out of the group stage. And anytime fans see their team's salary driven down, morale and hope for better days goes with it. How far would Saruman cut salary to make up for some of the losses? And how much of a cut would the more talented players from 2012 be willing to stomach before departing for better deals?

The answers are not yet fully known, but it is confirmed Saruman has sold part ownership of Isengard to another interested buyer that will help absorb some of the loss from last year. It is none other than Sauron. So, the Two Towers are in league once again, this time Orthanc Motors and Barad-dur's Gold & Jewelers have reached a deal to be part owners of Isengard in 2013.

There are more than a few watching the situation with a cautious eye as Sauron seems to be throwing his money to every team that needs financial assistance. Theoden of Rohan feels if Sauron can reach Isengard it won't be long until his encroaching business comes to Rohan: "Sauron's arm has grown long indeed. But let it be known Rohan has never given tribute to Sauron, nor will we ever accept tribute from him."

Sauron responded to allegations of his over-reaching by saying: "I've been wearing the same size black armor since the 2nd Age." However, Sauron's plans for the ancient Numenorean stronghold are well documented, leaving many to speculate it's only a matter of time before Sauron places a new lieutenant in Isengard. One more worthy of running a soccer club.

Saruman says the small change in ownership will not alter the make-up of the team which he wants to take after the traits of the metal industry. "We will run like a well-oiled machine, be as hard as steel and as grinding as gears."

Although, we wonder if it's not more likely 2013 Isengard will sink like a heavy, clunky, and rusted-iron ship.

Nilpaurion Felagund

05-15-2013, 07:02 PM

Tar-Eldar Network Television takes a look at various teams’ financial and tactical situations before assessing what moves they would make based on those two factors.

Tirion

Financial situation:
A team funded partly by their supporters, Tirion cannot afford to go on a spending spree to improve their squad. They need to know exactly which part (or parts) needs an upgrade. (As an added cost-cutting measure, Thorondor is expected to be cut loose, or at least take a severe pay cut.)

Tactical situation:
But it can be argued that, since they were eliminated more by the toughness of their group than by their lack of quality, it would be hard to judge their squad’s weakness. Their attack might be fine, judging by the two goals they scored against Huan and FC Valinor’s defence (although that was a game that no longer mattered, with FC Valinor already assured of advancing and Tirion already eliminated.) Finwë was the top performers in last year’s round of friendlies, scoring seven goals and creating two in four games; some believed that this was confirmation how much better Tirion would have done had they not been in the ‘group of death’.

Their more obvious weakness was the defence, having conceded seven goals in three games. Pundits said that they paid for their tactical naïveté, fielding a back three against established strike partnerships (FC Valinor’s Celegorm/Curufin, Real Valinor’s Arien/Míriel/Nerdanel, and Armenelos’s Ar-Pharazôn/Ar-Adûnakhôr) when a back four would have given them more security. But their choice of personnel may have been the bigger culprit there—none of Irimë, Elenwë, or Thorondor had any experience playing in a back three, and they were unsure how to coordinate their movements with wingbacks Findis and Anairë, leaving them covering too much ground.

Conclusion:
Aside from Thorondor, the other question mark on their squad is Eönwë—will he stay or would he leave, perhaps going to Valimar (a team in dire need of goalscoring)? They would most likely make changes to their defence, but knowing how drastic the changes would be, as well as whether they would also make changes to the other parts of their squad, is at best an exercise in guesswork.

Dwarves United

Financial situation:
Aside from Aulë, the financial supporters of Dwarves United probably consider the team a side project, and they might be keener to avoid a loss than giving them a chance at a good run. However, last year’s results might have given them some push to open the purse strings a little bit more to improve the squad.

Tactical situation:
So what do Dwarves United need? The three goals they scored in four games say that they need another goalscorer, or a striker who can hold the ball up, preferably both, much preferably in one player. Legolas’s goalscoring form last year was poor, and his hold-up play was terrible (which was explainable because he played more as a second striker for his other clubs). His offensive contribution was reduced to occupying the opposition centre-backs, while Gamil Zirak and Telchar occupied the full-backs and Dwarves United left-back Celebrimbor advanced to take up goalscoring positions. Anduin and Wilderland didn’t punish them for pushing Celebrimbor and Aulë higher up the pitch; their attackers were more concerned with helping their defence than exploiting Dwarves United’s undermanned defence. But Rohan weren’t so naïve; they kept Eorl and Helm high up the pitch leaving them with a two-on-two situation during counterattacks.

Their defence was fine. They conceded a little over a goal per game, and goalkeeper Bombur had a save rate of 78.3% (same as Huan’s). Aulë and Azaghâl formed a fine central defensive partnership, and Celebrimbor proved his pedigree by being one of the best attacking full-backs in the game, like his father before him. Durin was more conservative at right-back, slotting smoothly into the centre whenever Aulë advanced to offer an additional crossing target up front.

Conclusion:
The signing of Galadriel from Wilderland has been widely rumoured even before last year’s Arda Cup ended. Considering her solid form as an attacking midfielder, as well as Dwarves United’s lack of reliable goalscorers other than Celebrimbor, she would be expected to take up Gimli’s spot as central attacking midfielder. If that is indeed the case, then they have a good chance of qualifying for the knockout stage again this year.

The Sea

Financial situation:
The Sea’s main financial backers have deep pockets, making it unlikely that they would be forced to cut wages for any purpose other than squad improvement. They went out to an on-form Real Valinor in the Round of Sixteen, not a totally embarrassing loss. But a team with a nine-digit wage bill should be fighting for at least a semifinal slot, not squeaking past their group through penalties and then getting eliminated in the first knockout round.

Tactical situation:
The Sea’s defence looked fine, at least on paper. Ulmo and Ossë formed an established centre back partnership, both powerful and dominant in the air. The Vala was more comfortable marking and tackling forwards, while the Maia’s job was to sit on the edge of the box, make headed clearances and get last-ditch blocks in. Out wide, Salmar and Uinen had the pace to match wingers and the clever positioning to check their runs. In the actual games, however, they conceded seven goals in four games. The problem lay with the one on goal; Voronwë had an atrocious save rate of 63.16%, the fifth worst last year.

Their attack also looked fine on paper, with forward Tar-Minastir, wingers Tar-Meneldur and Tar-Aldarion, and attacking midfielder Vëantur, but they scored only five goals in four games (Ancalagon of Angband managed as much as an individual). The problem with it was that their build-up play was too ponderous, with their attackers spending too much time playing in front of the defence. This was due to playing two holding midfielders Tar-Ciryatan and Eriol, both of whom were better at recovering the ball than distributing it; they needed an extra touch or two to control the ball, and then needed to look up at their target then down at the ball before passing. The seconds they spent doing so gave defences time to get behind the ball. They need a deep-lying playmaker who can quickly identify the killer pass and execute it in one move.

Conclusion:
The Sea need two things to make their talents mesh: a goalkeeper behind their solid back four and a playmaker behind their talented front four. There are rumours that Ulmo is close to signing a goalkeeper of Númenórean descent who performed well in the last Arda Cup. If these rumours are true, then the Sea would be one more signing away from being a possible force in the competition.

Minas Tirith

Financial situation:
Minas Tirith are unique in that they have a socialist wage structure—all of their players agreed to take the same salary (8 million). This move helped foster the team solidarity that was the key to their fairy-tale advance, although it may have discouraged star talents from signing with them.

Tactical situation:
But the cohesion of Minas Tirith was refreshing for neutrals to see. Everyone defended, and everyone contributed to the attacking build-up. They fielded a compact 4-4-1-1 shape (with Faramir just behind lone forward Boromir I) that was difficult to break down and advanced as a unit when they pressed. But they simply didn’t park the bus, as underdogs were expected to do; they broke forward quickly and purposefully, with wide midfielders Mardil and Eärnur storming up the pitch to combine with Boromir I and Faramir, overrunning defences before they can get back into shape.

But they themselves had problems against teams sitting deep, a situation that often happened whenever they went behind. Organised defences simply didn’t give Minas Tirith’s attackers too much respect; they kept their formation and didn’t go out of their way to give any of them special attention. (Compare that to, say, Fëanor, who is familiar with situations like this ( http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/Maradona-vs-six_zps137786ea.jpg).) Teams that were built on the cohesion of their personnel, like 2009 Mirkwood and 2012 Doriath, still had players who commanded a little more respect from the defence. If Minas Tirith wished to advance further into the tournament, they would do well to sign an Arda-class talent, unless they choose to bank on one of their players suddenly turning into one (like Anarion for Gondor).

Conclusion:
Signing a star player might upset Minas Tirith’s wage structure and do damage to the team solidarity that they fostered, but unless they count heavily on luck (that one of their players would become Arda-class, or that they would get lucky draws and/or lucky bounces in four knockout games), there is no other choice for this team to improve on their previous achievement.

the phantom

05-16-2013, 04:54 PM

Pre-Tournament Tidbits From Eru
by Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

At a brief press conference last night, Eru gave a thumbs-up to this year's cup, and announced the new financials.

"The Downs team and Tol-In-Gaurhoth seem to be taking their roster demands in stride, and it looks like all the expensive squads are a bit more reasonably priced," said Eru, putting forth that the new team min & max and luxury tax rules have nudged the teams towards greater competitive balance.

When asked if he was happy with the amount of roster turnover, Eru said it was "just right", pointing out several stars or pairings that were staying put and then comparing it to previous years. "Arda Cup shouldn't just be a display of talent- or a trophy up for sale. This way there is more consistency and flavor to it all, and gives people everywhere a bigger reason to watch."

And looking at last year's numbers, overall attendance and viewership was indeed up, and thanks in part to the new viewing and stadium contracts Eru announced that Arda Cup would be paying out 75 million more this year- which brings the total award money to 2.56 billion. This change was a result of bringing the 1st place award money down to 135 million, in concert with raising the minimum award to 65 million. Eru felt this change was in keeping with the salary cap and competitive balance.

The mood at the press conference was cheery and celebratory, and one brave reporter *ahem* even had the cheek to ask Eru for a tournament prediction.

Galadriel55

05-17-2013, 03:23 PM

As the team rosters are filling up, Morgoth was accused of letting too many cats on his team. “Telvido we can understand,” allowed the indignant voices, “he’s been around for a while and he sometimes even deserves his 9 million. But what about that sidekick Oikeroi?” The indignant voices snorted. “That cat doesn’t do anything, he just hangs around admiring Telvido and distracting everyone around him.”

Yet this is not all – recently a rumour came out that Umuiyan the cat will be completing the catty trio in the Angband team. The indignant voices became outraged. “I used to actually like this team,” and outraged indignant voice proclaimed, “but now it’s all catty! I have a feeling that there’s something cooking in that team. Next year,” he pronounced ominously, “Morgoth will not captain this team. If we do not do something about it, next year’s captain will be Telvido!”

However, some people are not as upset about the cat trio in the team. They predict that the trio will be on par with the (in)famous pairs of Nerdanel and Miriel, and of Celegorm and Curufin. They don’t care if the team is taken over by cats if it wins the Cup.

There is another accusation thrown at Umuiyan. The addition of this cat into the team makes the stats as follows: almost half the players’ names start with U! “It is udiculous!” the indignant voices continues whining indignantly. “Nobody allows so many players with the same initial on a team!” Umuriyan wished to respond to such unfair criticism. When the mic was brought to him, he launched unto a tirade that sounded like “mearrraw” repeated fourty-six and a half times.

Also, Oikeroi was caught eating cactuses.

Nilpaurion Felagund

05-18-2013, 07:35 PM

It's official: AC Bel's Beren and Doriath's Lúthien have signed with Inter Beleriand for a currently undisclosed fee. Said team captain Maedhros: 'Beren will give our team an extra scoring punch and bring energy to our midfield, and Lúthien will give added solidity to our team's back line.' She is expected to slot in one of the full-back positions, left empty after Maedhros confirmed the departure of Balrog #5.

AC Beleriand might have let go of the Man who gave them five goals and an assist, but Fëanor seems not to have batted an eyelash and signed Havens wide midfielders Angrod and Aegnor. The AC Bel captain refused to answer the media's questions after the announcement, but Angrod commented: 'It would be hard to fill in for a player like Beren, but uncle told us that we won't be expected to play as he did. He told us to play our way, our style.' The 'AC Bel needs a Plan B' debate might have been put to rest with these signings.

Another husband-and-wife pair signs for the same team: FC Valinor midfielder Idril and Havens forward Tuor return to Gondolin, confirms team captain Maeglin. He also confirms that Gothmog has left the team, our second Balrog departure of this round-up. But let us digest this first: Maeglin and Tuor fielded as a strike partnership? Is this the magic of football?

And now back to brothers: Valimar centre-back pairing Amrod and Amras, as well as Cup-winning centre-back Caranthir, who played a blinder in the finals (he should have made our 2nd All-Tournament Team instead of Nazgûl #6--our apologies), join their grandfather Finwë's Tirion squad. Finally, the team upon Túna has a real backbone to its defence. But are they playing three at the back again? Said Caranthir: 'I can play full-back; so can any of my brothers. Our parents taught us to be proficient in all aspects of the game.'

Hithlum's Nienor has confirmed her tranfer to Finrod's Nargothrond--but without her brother, Túrin, it seems. Is Turambar's nemesis Glaurung still playing for the Cave Elves, then?

The rest of the round-up: Finrod's sister Galadriel confirms that she had joined Dwarves United, returning to her original role as a goalkeeper. So, who will Dwarves United's signing-to-improve-their-offence be? / Gondor's Hyarmendacil passed a medical and completes his transfer to the Sea. Ulmo hopes that his signing would help improve their defence from last year. The previous goalkeeper Voronwë has moved to the midfield--could he be the playmaker the Sea needs? / Minas Tirith captain Denethor II confirms that his son Faramir has exercised his opt-out option and left the team. In his place as attacking midfielder is Rohan's Éomer. 'Our ancient allies have heeded our call,' the last ruling Steward said to the press. 'The same, sadly, cannot be said of my sons.'

Boromir88

05-18-2013, 09:09 PM

Cutbacks in the Hidden Valley
-Boro

The 2nd of TTN's club reports is Imladris, the ancient Elven refuge. Last season Imladris experience some success, finishing 2nd in Group F, but then getting smoked out of the Round of 16 by Erebor 3-nil. This mean Imladris' 88 million payroll was likely too high, eventhough when factoring in sales and other income, they probably came out about even.

So, it was by no means a crummy 2012 for Imladris, but their issue in the offseason was finding themselves in the troublesome middle-ground. They were a decent team, but would need to keep their top stars (Elros, Varda, Arwen). And that would just be to hopefully maintain their level of play. If they wanted to improve on last year's performance, many felt they would need to get another solid mid-fielder (perhaps Aragorn) to play with Arwen. This would surely mean increasing the payroll even more and that was going to be out of the question in the minds of the owners.

The Rivendell group proposed new 1-year deals and to the majority of their players it would be 1 to 2 mil cut in salary. Then the hope was to use the extra money to make an important signing that could improve the team but keep costs down. Premier defender, Varda, and another reliable defenself, Erestor, re-signed for less money with Imladris. So their defense should be in good form as last year. However it was a greivous blow when Elros announced he would depart, leaving Imladris with a mighty void to fill at their goalie position. Then their best mid-fielder, Arwen, left for another too. As it turned out, Arwen is playing for less money this year, but told the Imladris press in her exit interview, if she was going to take less money it would be for a team that had better title chances.

Not exactly the start to the off-season Imladris was hoping for, as with Arwen and Elros gone, their payroll is expected to be much lower than last year. It will be a hard task finding replacements for the loss of production.

But, one thing that had not failed going noticed, the sons of Elrond (who own minor shares with the club) did re-sign and will likely take their forwards positions for Imladris again. Elladan and Elrohir did not have to eat a salary cut, and it's leaving many wondering if everyone else on Imladris was expected to take a cut, why not the sons of Elrond too? Is it simply nepotism, while the rest get labelled greedy if they didn't accept a pay cut "for the good of the team?"

Kuruharan

05-27-2013, 08:29 AM

"Trouser Arson!"

Those were the words used today by the star of AC Beleriand Faenor to describe an incident last night that resulted in the destruction of all the pants belonging to the AC Beleriand side.

According to police reports, last night somebody broke into the AC Beleriand equipment room and set fire to every pair of pants, shorts, knickers, and the team's special loin cloth.

Grainy security footage appears to show a hooded figure with shiny eyes engaged in this act of sabotage.

"I know the phantom was behind this," stated Faenor unhesitatingly. "He has always been terribly jealous that he has no pants and only has that dingy robe to wear all day."

When asked about these allegations the phantom responded, "I don't know what he is talking about. I'm quite proud of my robes. They are distinctive and comfy. Pants are so restrictive."

Unsubstantiated rumors claim that the reason why the AC Beleriand field house was unprotected last night was that the entire team was breaking into the Nargothrond field house to set fire to all their trousers.

Police promise a full investigation.

the phantom

05-28-2013, 04:25 PM

Projecting the Groups and Host Sites
by Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

Since there is less roster turnover going on this year, many are already thinking ahead to the groupings for the squads. In past years the Arda Cup Draw Committee has paid more attention to balance, but in this competitive salary cap era a bit more seems to be resting on geography, hence the possibility of a "group of death".

But it's doubtful we'll see a group as rough as last year's Group D in this year's competition, partly because it would be tough to duplicate, and secondly because the Committee has made a statement regarding a wish to avoid grouping the same teams year in and year out.

So, with that in mind, and also with an eye towards which sites are likely to host, we can make some educated guesses as to the groups this year. And let's face it- our favorite thing about the pre-season is making wild predictions and then patting ourselves on the back for the few we get right!

-------------
Let's start with what we know-

Eru has stated that he wants to see the final round of group games played simultaneously (like Group C at Moria last year, playing one game underground and the other in the dale). So any site selected for group play must be relatively near a secondary site good enough to host a third round game.

Also, the contract for semis and finals to be played at Rauros has expired, and statements we've heard have indicated that the ACC thinks it's time for a bit of variety. Given that they aren't using that arena for the finals, it seems logical that it's being used for something.

The ban on games in Valinor has been lifted. The folks from the Blessed Realm will likely be gung-ho to show themselves as fantastic hosts so as not to suffer another ban, and more than likely the ACC will want to take advantage of their eagerness to please.

So, in my opinion, Valinor is a cert for hosting both in groups and in the playoffs. But with four different teams from the Blessed Realm (and the likelihood that FC, Real, & Tirion won't be grouped together), who hosts, and which teams come?

Tirion's primary and secondary stadiums would be a logical choice, but so would Valimar's, so it seems one of them will host. As to the visiting squads, if it's Tirion then The Sea and The Havens and a team from Beleriand would be logical, but rumors are swirling about The Sea (pun intended) and a hosting possibility that is in the works for them, thus Tirion seems less likely.

Thus it seems that team Valimar is the more likely host, with Armenelos and the Havens likely to visit, supplemented by a Beleriand squad. Unless the inter-dimensional team is placed there (i.e. The Barrow-Downs). Given the sheer distance of Valinor, wouldn't it be an elegant solution to send a team that cares not a whit about distance?

And since we mention The Sea, let's address that now. Ulmo has been very nudge-nudge-wink-wink about the possibility of Tol Eressea as a host site. It wouldn't make any sense if Valimar was also used, if not for a few hints Ulmo has dropped about working on a very large project that would enable a wide variety of spectators to view games. So enough with the hinting and I'll come out and say it- I think Ulmo is working on a mobile sea-faring stadium.

And what a great idea it would be if it is actually pulled off! It would allow them to include in their group three not-so-close squads by virtue of holding games in each of the three locations, e.g. the first round could be in Gondor, the second in Beleriand, and the third back in Valinor. But of course that makes it somewhat impossible to predict which teams might join The Sea in the group.

Now what about the eastern end of Middle-Earth? Last year there were games at Isengard and Moria, and in the playoffs Lothlorien, so what places are there for this year? Well- Gondor obviously, either Minas Tirith or Osgiliath would be straightforward choices. But if The Sea does indeed have a mobile stadium and docks near Gondor for their first round, perhaps it would make sense to have the two groups in proximity, which opens up Dol Amroth and Pelargir as possible host sites (though it would make the primary and secondary stadiums farther apart for the third round matches).

Another easterly location would be Mirkwood and/or Erebor- we know they have attractive accommodations, so they've got to be considered. That would mean Erebor and Wilderland could be grouped together, and more than likely they'd take a team from Gondor or Mordor, and then another team from farther north (Anduin, Misty Mts, Isengard).

If Dol Amroth ends up hosting, then naturally they'd take one of the Gondor teams and one from Mordor, but to fill out the group they'd need some combination of Isengard or Anduin plus some other squad, which says to me that Misty Mts will more than likely end up with Wilderland and Erebor.

Now, what about the Beleriand & Eriador hosts? Since Nargothrond, Michel Delving, Weathertop, and Grey Havens were used last time for groups, I would say they are out. The obvious substitutes are Angband, Gondolin, and Doriath. If I can be allowed to stray into purest conjecture, I would say the lifting of the Valinor ban in conjunction with the expired Rauros contract will land the finals in Valimar, and thus to keep the balance I fully expect Angband to be awarded the semis.

With that in mind, Gondolin and Doriath seem nearly to be absolutes, and given the teams they were grouped with last time around, perhaps each will receive a Valinor team (FC or Real), each will receive an Eriador squad (Eriador, Shire-Bree, Imladris, or Arnor), and each will receive a Beleriand squad (Hithlum, Inter, AC, Nargothrond, TIG, Angfauglith, Angband). But that's too many squads obviously, thus another host site is necessary, and if Angband is already occupied with hosting in the playoffs, why not Anfauglith and Tol In Gaurhoth? If indeed none of the other sites are hosted in a location populated with "baddies", they would be a logical choice to balance things out.

Long story short, teams are going to be a bit more jumbled this year to provide a slight variance in flavor, but all it will involve is shifting last year's host sites to the nearest viable site and trading two teams in one group for a team or two from the next-nearest couple of host sites. Thus we can sort of predict the groupings, but not with much precision. It would be foolish to even post a list of predicted groupings, but guessing at host sites is a little more an exact science, thus in summary, my predicted group hosting sites for 2013 are-

Valimar, Tol Eressea, Anfauglith and/or Tol-In-Gaurhoth, Gondolin, Doriath, Erebor and/or Mirkwood, somewhere in Gondor

Now, if Anfauglith/TIG and Erebor/Mirkwood are indeed used together, that leaves one host site missing. For the remaining site- the options would be somewhere in Mordor, Annuminas/Norbury, Rauros/Dol Guldur, and Dor-Lomin/Hithlum. Football fans that are anxious to travel and support their team, or merely anxious to see if any teams will be close enough to justify a trip, simply cannot wait for the ACC to officially announce the sites. So hurry up already!

Nilpaurion Felagund

05-30-2013, 09:29 PM

Tar-Eldar Network Television presents a summary of the various reports, rumours, and opinions from the leading newspapers in Arda.

From the Tirion daily broadsheet Arda: Eönwë and Ingwë fail to renew their contracts with Tirion, their destinations yet unknown. The editorial comments that the King of all Elves ‘had turned his back once more on his subjects to fawn upon the Valar’, suggesting that the Vanya, and probably the Maia as well, has joined Valimar. Meanwhile, Tirion captain Finwë presents their latest signing, former Real Valinor right back Rúmil. They now have four new defensive signings, though the contractual fate of their previous defenders remains unknown.

From the Beleriand weekly magazine Quenta Noldorin Sport: AC Beleriand right back Ecthelion has been traded for another full-back, Balrog #4. Anfauglith are believed to have paid Fëanor’s side an additional $2 million to make the deal fall through. In the another article, QN Sport reports that deep-lying playmaker Meleth of Gondolin has taken a year’s hiatus from football. ‘The constant years of playing has tired me out,’ she said. ‘If I would be given another chance to play in future Arda Cups, I would consider it. But not this year.’

From the Moria tabloid Daily Hammer: Midfielders Thrór and Thorin announce their departure from the Dwarves United squad; Thrór headed for retirement, Thorin joining the Lonely Mountain. In their place the sons of Dís, Fíli and Kíli, were signed for $2 million each.

From the Beleriand daily magazine Gazetta Edain: AC Beleriand midfielder Bregolas’s one-year contract expires as negotiations for a renewal failed. In the meantime, regional rivals Inter Beleriand released defender Brandir. The editorial observes that, while Beren said that he joined Inter because he wanted to be reunited with some of his old Ladros teammates, his father Barahir signed an extension with Nargothrond, a team in dire need of a good defensive player.

From the broadsheet Nargothrond Tribune: Finrod’s squad begin training in the High Faroth Arena. Most conspicuous is the presence of Bëor in outfield kit, meaning a) he is still in the squad; and b) he is no longer the goalkeeper. Less conspicuous is the presence of Petty-Dwarf Mîm on the touchline, wearing a grey suit and carrying stacks of videos. ‘Mîm in, Nienor out: Will that be enough to end years of disappointment?’ goes the editorial.

Boromir88

06-01-2013, 07:22 AM

The Iron Prison on Lockdown
-Boro88

After Angband's disapponting 2012 season, where they were knocked out of the first round playoffs by the stalwart underdogs Minas Tirith, Morgoth retreated into his iron fortress to design plans for next year. Everytime Morgoth shuts out the press, and forbids any soul from entering or leaving Angband chills your bones.

What new schemes is Morgoth hatching? What new evil to employ that will (hopefully) give Morgoth the trophy of trophies, the Arda Cup. The trophy Morgoth has greatly coveted, but has so far eluded his grasp.

It was evident in the playoff matchup Angband did not have the players who were capable of winning a shootout. Ancalagon is clutch in those tight spots, but the dragon is just one Morgoth could trust. I mean, would you trust a cat in a shootout situation? Angband did last year, and it cost them. So, many felt for 2013 Angband would have to get a better striker up-front to pair with Ancalagon.

Not that Telvildo is rubbish, because felines add a new dimension to Angband's play. Cats contribute a cunning and agile gameplay that is great in the possession and passing game. Their cunning agility mixed well with the brute trickery of Morgoth. But let's be honest, if Angband finds themselves in a shootout, they'll face the same problem that tripped them up last year.

No one really knows what Angband's team will be this year, so tight has the lid on Angband been during the off-season. However, we do know their full roster is assembled and Evil House will not be spending anymore money on this season. Morgoth, Carcaroth, and Ancalagon are definitely back since no one has seen them come out of Angband since last year. What the rest of the team will be is anyone's guess, but the loudest sounds echoing out of Angband in recent days has been...purrs?

Boromir88

06-02-2013, 12:52 PM

Gasping for some Offense
-Boro88

Next team up for TTN's previews takes us to the desert plains. And as much as I was gasping for water while visiting Angfauglith's practice facilities, the team ownership was gasping for some much needed offense. Angfauglith had been eliminated in group play last year, but it was based on fewer goals scored than Doriath. Angfauglith could only manage 3 goals in 3 games and that was the reason for the team's early exit, as Thuringwethil was often all alone with a sub-par midfield behind her.

The defense was one of the most fearsome ever put together on the pitch, with 3 Balrogs and the great Ungoliant tending the goal. However, desperately needing some offensive help, Angfauglith appears to be changing the gears ever so-slightly. They said audious to Thuringwethil and also lost one of the Balrog defenders, but still with Ungoliant and 2 Balrogs, the club doesn't expect to lose much when it comes to defense.

The major change was announced recently, and obviously spending 28 million total for two new strikers, owners are expecting much greater success in return. It is an interesting partnership, that much is for sure. Two historic rivals are paired up as the forwards for Angfauglith. To say they've had a confrontational past is putting it lightly! However, this isn't the first time Gothmog and Ecthelion have been signed to play on the same team. They've had good success on separate teams (and also much success when playing against eachother), but when they were partners for Gondolin in 2009, it was seen as a failure for the hidden city, since Gondolin did not make it into the playoffs. And then Gothmog left in a fuss in 2010, only to see Gondolin win the title that year! Will the tale be different in 2013 for the two star-strikers? Their fate seems bound together...in both glory...and death.

Nogrod

06-02-2013, 02:16 PM

Before the rosters are revealed the rumours are at their hottest - and here are some the journalists of the AKM have heard lately...

~*~

The oddest rumour the AKM has heard of this pre-season is the one which claims that Arien is leaving Real Valinor! Now she has played a few seasons with Miriel and Nerdanel – and the last year especially was the three were performing just outstandingly. And as the winners of the last year’s tournament it shouldn’t be a matter of money either as it would seem Real Valinor could easily pay her salaries comparable to what players like Fëanor or Túrin make – and it would only be fair (says the AKM).

So they formed the most fearsome female trio in the attack last year and it’s not money… so what is it?

---

Some of the other wildest speculations before the new season have been centered around the last year’s surprising quarterfinalists Shire-Bree United. It is whispered that Strider is leaving the team to play as Aragorn somewhere just for the sake of it… or to play with Arwen for a specific reason for leaving the Breelanders. There has also been talk about the two Nazgûl’s being unhappy with the team and to top that: others argue that the Barrow-Wight has felt a bit dull lately and will be off to have more fun somewhere.

But what has taken everyone by surprise has been the announcement that Tom Bombadill will not be playing for Shire-Bree any more. And this is known as a fact as Tom himself announced it.

So are we going to see a totally new team this year and where are they going to get their finances from?

---

Third big news we hear concerns the Wilderland team. Now despite some of the murkier characters in the line-up it was clearly an elven-led and –financed team last year. But now it seems there has been a coup in there when the elves have backed off after the losses taken last year - and who else but Sauron seems to be steppin g forwards. Some whisper Sauron’s Amon Lanc Properties has bought a majority of the tam and filled it with his orcs and other creatures of the darkness while the elves have withdrawn completely.

Be that as it may… it will be hard to see Galadriel playing for a majority-owner Sauron – not to talk of Elwë or Oromë to that matter. So unless the news are a total hoax, there is something considerably big going on with Wilderland for this season.

---

One interesting issue is the situation with Erebor… they gained a nice profit last year with their nice results but it seems they are more likely to tighten their purse this year than opening it up for more glory. It seems the dwarves and Mr. Moneybags have reached an agreement on budget policy: pile the money, pile the money… The football fans will not like it.

Where they will cut their expenses will be crucial for the chances of their success this year.

---

It looks like the Hador House Holdings took quite a damage last year (26 million in total!) when Hithlum didn’t even qualify – not to talk of the rage Túrin vented after the group phase. Túrin swore he would never again play in a team that would not qualify… and the rumour has it he has invested quite heavily himself this year (through Hador House Holdings of course). It seems Hithlum is coming to this season with more bite and sting – and a budget from another planet.

The top news of course is the rumour of Beleg coming to the aid of his old friend. Others have it that there has been a considerably strong wind blowing in the team and that they have tried to get rid of all the mediocre or weaker players from last year. And it seems relatively certain Hador’s sons Galdor (father of Húrin and Huor) and Gundor will leave Anfaughlith and replace the elven escorts Grithnir and Gethron in the defence.

So Doriath seems to be losing Beleg, but the rumours have it that they are losing Lúthien as well. It looks grim for the last year’s qualifier this year – unless they are able to grab some real talent with decent prices to replace the rumoured losses. The fact that Thingol and Melian seem to be quite unwilling to open the team-ownership to any outsiders surely makes pressure to their budget.

---

We have heard relatively little of Eriador (except the signing of NogWight) but that both major owners of the team Elrond and Norbury Sport have been busy investing the money they made last year to other teams of their alignment. But the rumours have it that they are not intending to weaken their team this year either but aim for the top once again.

Boromir88

06-03-2013, 07:30 PM

The Special Edition!
-Boro88

Our final installment of the team previews and offseason moves will cover FC Valinor, Barad-dur, and Gondor. We'll make a quick note that the Tol-in-Gaurhoth roster has been completed and so stay tuned in the coming days for an in-depth report on TIG, once we get the chance to interview their players.

---

Let's start with FC Valinor, who seemed to breeze through the friendlies and their group last year. However, they stumbled in the quarter-finals, losing to Erebor in amazing shootout fashion. To most clubs and fans, a quarter-finals appearance would be positive, but for FC Valinor you couldn't help but get the feeling it was the Arda Cup or bust for them. And so last year was a fairly large disappointment. To rub even more salt in the wounds, rivals Real Valinor came away with the title. And in aspects of the sport that don't deal with tactics or on the field performance, but with management and public relations instead...heads start rolling when your rivals finish higher.

So, FC Valinor did scale back their budget slightly, but feeling pressure to keep up with Real Valinor, and energize their own fanbase, they yet again have a pricey salary, in what can only lay the expectations of "Arda Cup or bust" on the club in 2013. The major changes seem likely to be made in the back-field. As Curufin and Celegorm remain together still, and no one expects they will want to leave their positions as the team's strikers.

---

Next up, Gondor, who lost in a shooutout in the octo-finals to Shire-Bree United. The higher-ups in the organization felt the team should have handled S-B Utd last year, but since that didn't happen, the Gondor Worker's Union is quite drastically cutting payroll. Interestingly enough, 1/6th of their entire payroll is tied up into one player. Granted, Anarion had a career year in 2012, and he was going to command a hefty price in the free-agent market. It might have even been worse for fans to swallow if ownership let Anarion walk. However, the skeptics will tell you they think Anarion reached his peak last year and to put your money on him having the same (or more) production is money ill-spent.

And here is often times parts of the game fans don't hear about often. With Sauron opening up his pocket-books investing in other clubs, and investing more into his Mordor teams (read more on this below)...there were credible rumors Sauron was making a strong bid for Anarion. Therefor, allowing Anarion to defect to Barad-dur, simply was not going to be an option for Gondor's owners. They had to pay a price to retain their king, and a price he probably deserves based on last year's performance. It means Gondor had to lose some key pieces (GK - Hyarmendacil and MF- Falastur), but formation and tactics are expected to stay the same, so now it's just a matter of seeing if Imrahil and some others can rise to the occassion to support their King.

---

Barad-dur: As alluded above Sauron opened up his checkbook and increased the payroll of his Barad-dur club. Last year, Mordorians were perplexed trying to figure out Sauron's plans. Since he clearly had his hand involved in many Arda clubs, why couldn't he just consolidate his influence and focus solely on the Mordor teams for the glory of the Black Land? Both Mordor and Barad-dur were running on a dirt-cheap salary, which did not leave many fans happy, particularly after both Mordor teams failed to qualify in a group with rivals Gondor and Minas Tirith.

Sauron is by no means emptying his piggy-bank but with more money invested in Barad-dur and also with who he's signed, the fanbase is at least more positive with the offseason moves. Whether or not the positive attitude carries into the tournament will of course largely depend on the club's performance. Last year Barad-dur got a bit careless and lax in the back-field and Sauron wanted to address those issues quickly. By replacing the cheap Mumakil in the goal with hopefully the more trustworthy Grishnakh. But the bigger moves happened when Sauron was able to snag Alatar and Pallando away from Wilderland to provide a more stabile and reliable defense.

the phantom

06-04-2013, 01:07 PM

MESPN BREAKING NEWS: Official rosters approved by ACC

It's set- the Arda Cup Committee has received and approved the rosters submitted by all 32 teams. Without any commentary or fanfare, here is the official list released by the ACC. (An announcement on groupings will likely be made later in the day.)

Anduin (83)
GK Amroth (4)
DF Minalcar (5)
DF Felarof (5)
DF Celeborn (10)
DF *Fram (10)
MF Lenwe (2)
MF Leod (5)
MF Haldir (8)
MF Boromir II (10)
FW Eorl (14)
FW Grimbeorn (10)

Angband (91)
GK *Carcharoth (9)
DF Ulwarth (4)
DF Umuiyan (5)
DF Balrog #1 (12)
DF *Morgoth (20)
MF Uldor (4)
MF Ulfast (4)
MF Ulfang (5)
MF Oikeroi (5)
FW Telvildo (9)
FW *Ancalagon (14)

Angfauglith (87)
GK *Ungoliant (16)
DF Borlach (3)
DF Gelmir (3)
DF Balrog #2 (12)
DF *Balrog #3 (12)
MF Gorgol (3)
MF Haldir (4)
MF Rian (3)
MF Bor (3)
FW Ecthelion (10)
FW *Gothmog (18)

Armenelos (95)
GK Tar Atanamir (10)
DF Tar Calmacil (7)
DF Tar Palantir (7)
DF Tar Telperien (7)
MF Ar Gimilzor (7)
MF Tar Telemmaite (7)
MF Tar Miriel (7)
MF Tar Ancalimon (7)
MF *Elros (12)
FW Ar Adunakhor (12)
FW Ar Pharazon (12)

Arnor (68)
GK Arvedui (8)
DF Earendur (3)
DF Valandur (3)
DF Malbeth (8)
DF *Elendil (10)
MF Malvegil (3)
MF Argeleb (4)
MF Arassuil (4)
MF Arantar (5)
FW Araphor (7)
FW *Witch King (13)

Barad-Dur (74)
GK Grishnakh (5)
DF Fellbeast #1 (3)
DF Fellbeast #2 (3)
DF Pallando (11)
DF Alatar (11)
MF Sangahyando (3)
MF Herumor (3)
MF Angamaite (3)
MF Beruthiel (5)
FW Castamir (7)
FW *Sauron (20)

AC Beleriand (108)
GK Marach (9)
DF Imlach (4)
DF Rochallor (4)
DF Balrog #4 (12)
DF *Fingolfin (15)
MF Denethor (3)
MF Ulrad (5)
MF Angrod (10)
MF Aegnor (10)
FW Eol (15)
FW **Feanor (21)

Inter Beleriand (81)
GK Turgon (11)
DF Haldad (2)
DF Gorlim (2)
DF Baragund (3)
DF Luthien (13)
MF Forweg (2)
MF Hunthor (2)
MF Haleth (7)
MF *Beren (13)
FW Fingon (13)
FW *Maedhros (13)

Doriath (70)
GK Dior (7)
DF Galathil (2)
DF Nimloth (2)
DF Elwing (6)
DF *Melian (14)
MF Galadhon (2)
MF Nellas (3)
MF Saeros (3)
MF Daeron (7)
MF *Elwe (14)
FW Mablung (10)

Dwarves United (86)
GK Galadriel (14)
DF Azaghal (5)
DF Durin (6)
DF Aule (16)
DF *Celebrimbor (18)
MF Fili (2)
MF Kili (2)
MF Gamil Zirak (4)
MF Telchar (4)
MF Gimli (5)
FW Legolas (10)

Erebor (94)
GK *Beorn (12)
DF Thorin (5)
DF Meneldor (8)
DF Landroval (8)
DF Girion (8)
MF Dain (5)
MF Brand (3)
MF Bolg (9)
FW Bard (8)
FW Nazgul #7 (10)
FW *Smaug (18)

Eriador (103)
GK *Elrond (20)
DF Asfaloth (4)
DF Arwen (10)
DF Aragorn (10)
DF *Gil-galad (13)
MF Araphant (5)
MF Arador (4)
MF NogWight (6)
MF Arveleg (8)
MF *Glorfindel (13)
FW Isildur (10)

Gondolin (84)
GK Rog (8)
DF Penlod (7)
DF Aranwe (3)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Egalmoth (7)
MF Salgant (4)
MF Elemmakil (4)
MF Duilin (8)
MF Idril (10)
FW Tuor (10)
FW *Maeglin (18)

Gondor (70)
GK Imrahil (5)
DF Galadil (4)
DF Earnil I (6)
DF Eldarion (5)
MF Calimehtar (5)
MF Ciryandil (5)
MF Turambar (6)
MF Meneldil (6)
MF Romendacil (7)
MF *Anarion (12)
FW Eldacar (9)

Hithlum (101)
GK Huor (8)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Arroch (2)
DF Gundor (5)
DF Balrog #5 (13)
MF Aradan (3)
MF Morwen (6)
MF Hador (12)
MF *Beleg (13)
FW Hurin (14)
FW **Turin (20)

Imladris (69)
GK Valandil (6)
DF Celebrian (5)
DF Galdor (4)
DF Erestor (9)
DF *Varda (14)
MF Gilraen (2)
MF Figwit (2)
MF Lindir (2)
MF Arahael (5)
FW Elladan (10)
FW Elrohir (10)

Isengard (66)
GK Ugluk (5)
DF Mauhur (3)
DF Beechbone (3)
DF Treebeard (10)
MF Lurtz (3)
MF Wulf (2)
MF Lugdush (3)
MF Nazgul #5 (8)
MF Wormtongue (4)
MF *Saruman (15)
FW Quickbeam (10)

Minas Tirith (76)
GK Denethor II (7)
DF Earnur (7)
DF Ecthelion II (7)
DF Firefoot (3)
DF Cirion (7)
MF Earnil II (7)
MF Tarandor (7)
MF Telumehtar (7)
MF Mardil (7)
MF *Eomer (10)
FW Boromir I (7)

Misty Mts (76)
GK Chief Wolf (3)
DF Caradhras (7)
DF William (4)
DF Watcher (5)
DF *Gwaihir (11)
MF Great Goblin (5)
MF Orophin (6)
MF Rumil (6)
MF Narvi (6)
MF Azog (8)
FW *Durin’s Bane (15)

Mordor (51)
GK Silent Watcher (1)
DF Fellbeast #3 (3)
DF Mumakil (1)
DF Fellbeast #4 (3)
DF Gothmog II (5)
MF Gorbag (3)
MF Shagrat (3)
MF Nazgul #1 (7)
MF Nazgul #2 (7)
MF *Mouth (8)
FW Shelob (10)

Nargothrond (89)
GK Orodreth (10)
DF Guillen (4)
DF Baran (3)
DF Arminas (4)
DF Barahir (7)
MF Beor (7)
MF Nienor (6)
MF Finduilas (9)
FW Gwindor (10)
FW Finrod (14)
FW *Glaurung (15)

Rohan (66)
GK Theoden (7)
DF Windfola (3)
DF Snowmane (3)
DF Hama (3)
DF Erkenbrand (3)
MF Aldor (6)
MF King Dead (10)
MF Eowyn (9)
MF Brytta (5)
MF *Faramir (9)
FW Helm (8)

Shire-Bree United (68)
GK Halbarad (5)
DF Fellbeast (2)
DF Nazgul #4 (8)
DF Gildor (7)
DF *Shadowfax (5)
MF Butterbur (2)
MF Bandobras (4)
MF Ferny (2)
MF Nazgul #6 (8)
MF *Gandalf (14)
FW Khamul (11)

The Havens (79)
GK Amandil (6)
DF Annael (5)
DF Imrazor (5)
DF Ar Zimrathan (8)
DF Olwe (10)
MF Eriol (5)
MF Mithrellas (3)
MF Earwen (3)
MF Falastur (9)
MF Cirdan (10)
FW *Earendil (15)

The Sea (100)
GK Hyarmendacil (8)
DF Osse (9)
DF Salmar (9)
DF Uinen (9)
DF *Ulmo (17)
MF Tar Cirytan (7)
MF Voronwe (7)
MF Tar Meneldur (7)
MF Veantur (7)
MF Tar Aldarion (8)
FW Tar Minastir (12)

Tirion (83)
GK Finarfin (8)
DF Irime (3)
DF Amrod (9)
DF Amras (9)
DF *Caranthir (11)
MF Anaire (3)
MF Eldalote (2)
MF Rumil (4)
MF Mahtan (9)
FW Aredhel (12)
FW Finwe (13)

Valimar (102)
GK *Manwe (14)
DF Amarie (4)
DF Este (8)
DF Vana (8)
DF *Namo (14)
MF Elenwe (3)
MF Ilmare (8)
MF Vaire (8)
MF Irmo (9)
MF Ingwe (11)
FW *Arien (15)

FC Valinor (107)
GK *Huan (15)
DF Thorondor (13)
DF Indis (7)
DF Maglor (10)
DF *Eonwe (12)
MF Elemmire (4)
MF Findis (4)
MF Argon (7)
MF *Yavanna (10)
FW Celegorm (11)
FW *Curufin (14)

Real Valinor (101)
GK *Tulkas (12)
DF Nienna (10)
DF Nahar (5)
DF Ingwion (5)
DF *Tilion (12)
MF Quennar (3)
MF Enerdhil (4)
MF Nessa (10)
FW Nerdanel (12)
FW *Miriel (14)
FW Orome (14)

Wilderland (75)
GK Great Warg (5)
DF Finglas (3)
DF Skinbark (3)
DF Oropher (5)
DF Radagast (11)
MF Fimbrethil (3)
MF Iminye (4)
MF Imin (5)
MF Nazgul #3 (8)
FW Thranduil (14)
FW *Scatha (14)

The Barrow-Downs (50)
GK Alien (2)
DF Lumpkin (2)
DF GwathWight (3)
DF River Woman (3)
DF Barrow-Wight (11)
MF WilWight (3)
MF Lalwende MP (3)
MF Goldberry (3)
MF Hookbill (6)
FW Saucepan Man (6)
FW *Bombadil (8)

Tol In Gaurhoth (84)
GK *ShastaWolf (10)
DF Drauglin (8)
DF GaladriWight (3)
DF BoroWolf (8)
DF *NilpWolf (10)
MF LegateWight (3)
MF SallyWight (4)
MF NerWight (5)
MF *PhantomWolf (10)
FW Thuringwethil (13)
FW *InzilWolf (10)

the phantom

06-04-2013, 02:58 PM

MESPN BREAKING NEWS: Groupings released by ACC

With the official rosters released, you can imagine that our writers and prognosticators are typing up a storm. Well, now they have one more huge bit of info to process- the groupings.

The Arda Cup Committee was serious about getting their job done this year, and met in an intensive closed session immediately following the approval of all team rosters. A couple hours later they emerged with the groupings- evidently they already had most of their ideas in mind, and just needed to finalize them.

And without further ado, here they are!
(Note: Primary host site listed first, followed by the secondary site which is used to host one of the third round games so that final round games can be played simultaneously.)

GROUP A at Valimar & Taniquetil
Armenelos
The Barrow-Downs
The Havens
Valimar

GROUP B at Gondolin & Tumladen
AC Beleriand
Inter Beleriand
Dwarves United
Gondolin

GROUP C at Menegroth & Neldoreth
Doriath
Hithlum
Shire-Bree United
Real Valinor

GROUP D at Dol Amroth & Pelargir
Barad-Dur
Gondor
Isengard
FC Valinor

GROUP E at Erebor & Mirkwood
Erebor
Eriador
Misty Mts
Wilderland

GROUP F at Tol Eressea Mobile & Pelargir/Balar/Alqualonde
Minas Tirith
Nargothrond
The Sea
Tirion

GROUP G at Anfauglith & Tol-In-Gaurhoth
Angband
Angfauglith
Imladris
Tol-In-Gaurhoth

GROUP H at Rauros
Anduin
Arnor
Mordor
Rohan

the phantom

06-04-2013, 03:44 PM

First Look at the Host Sites
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

We've been given a lot to process today, so first things first- I'm going to give my initial reactions to the selected host sites.

1) Nicely done, Ulmo and company. We know long ago that the sea-going Ainu used an island to ferry Elves to Valinor, so why not do something similar again? It will be a lot of work and required much preparation obviously, so much applause for that. Ulmo and friends have made Tol Eressea Stadium and the pubs and lodgings immediately around it into a sort of cruise ship. Their plans are to be at Gondor for the first round to share games with Pelargir, at Balar for the second game, and at Alqualonde for the final round. This allows a reasonable trip for fans of every squad in the group- Minas Tirith, Nargothrond, and Tirion (and of course The Sea).

2) The ban on games in Valinor is officially over, as Valimar Coliseum is slated to host five games, Taniquetil will host one, and Seaside Stadium in Alqualonde will host one. Here's hoping that they handle things better this time around. It was a shame not to have any games there last year- there is so much tradition and multiple quality venues.

3) Well done Gondor spreading games around a bit. Instead of opting for the oft-used Minas Tirith or Osgiliath, which obviously have great stadiums (The White Stadium and Osgiliath Royal Arena), they opted to put in a bid for Dol Amroth. Their stadium isn't quite so grand or famous, but it's certainly on level with other past host sites, and the Gondor teams have a lot of supporting fans living in that region.

4) It's nice to see the Dwarves and Elves working together in the Northeast once again, as Erebor will be the primary site and Thranduil's forest stadium will host the second game in the final round.

5) Looks like the finals indeed won't be at Amon Hen Coliseum this year since they are hosting a group. A few might complain that they're getting to host anything this year after hosting the biggest games the past few years, but the thing is- Amon Hen is simply too great not to use every year. The various folks that partnered to make it were very serious about creating football heaven.

6) It's interesting that Anfauglith and Tol-In-Gaurhoth will not be sharing just the final round of group play, but both sites are being used in all three rounds. Will this be the beginning of a trend (since Tol Eressea is also doing it, sort of), or is this a special case?

the phantom

06-04-2013, 07:25 PM

MESPN Take on Off-season Losses and Acquisitions
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

Everyone's heard that they shouldn't second-guess themselves, or that their first instinct is often correct. Well, after seeing the official rosters, this is the first reaction our panel had to each squad and whether or not they improved from last season. (Note: Below each squad next to the dollar signs is how this year's payroll compares to last year.)

Anduin (83)
GK Amroth (4)
DF Minalcar (5)
DF Felarof (5)
DF Celeborn (10)
DF *Fram (10)
MF Lenwe (2)
MF Leod (5)
MF Haldir (8)
MF Boromir II (10)
FW Eorl (14)
FW Grimbeorn (10)

$$: +3
Verdict: They managed to hold onto their more important pieces from last year (Grimbeorn, Fram, Celeborn, Haldir, Boromir), and added Eorl to the front and Felarof to the back, so they’ve definitely taken a step forward on both ends of the pitch.

Angband (91)
GK *Carcharoth (9)
DF Ulwarth (4)
DF Umuiyan (5)
DF Balrog #1 (12)
DF *Morgoth (20)
MF Uldor (4)
MF Ulfast (4)
MF Ulfang (5)
MF Oikeroi (5)
FW Telvildo (9)
FW *Ancalagon (14)

$$$: -10
Verdict: After last year’s disappointment Morgoth skimmed a hair from salaries, but he didn’t lose talent. In fact Angband may be better now after plugging in Umuiyan and Oikeroi at the front and back, as they are a notch quicker and more dexterous than their predecessors.

Angfauglith (87)
GK *Ungoliant (16)
DF Borlach (3)
DF Gelmir (3)
DF Balrog #2 (12)
DF *Balrog #3 (12)
MF Gorgol (3)
MF Haldir (4)
MF Rian (3)
MF Bor (3)
FW Ecthelion (10)
FW *Gothmog (18)

$$$: -6
Verdict: They lost a Balrog at the back and their big-scorer at the front (Thuringwethil), but they replaced her with one of the greatest in the game- Gothmog, and added Ecthelion to compliment him. That means they probably broke even, only with slightly less defensive emphasis and more on offense.

Armenelos (95)
GK Tar Atanamir (10)
DF Tar Calmacil (7)
DF Tar Palantir (7)
DF Tar Telperien (7)
MF Ar Gimilzor (7)
MF Tar Telemmaite (7)
MF Tar Miriel (7)
MF Tar Ancalimon (7)
MF *Elros (12)
FW Ar Adunakhor (12)
FW Ar Pharazon (12)

$$$: -13
Verdict: Last year’s group-of-death resulted in underachievement, so salaries were cut a bit. The only roster difference is the addition of Elros, and he’s obviously high quality, so they’ll be as good as or slightly better than last year, and doubtless in a kinder grouping.

Arnor (68)
GK Arvedui (8)
DF Earendur (3)
DF Valandur (3)
DF Malbeth (8)
DF *Elendil (10)
MF Malvegil (3)
MF Argeleb (4)
MF Arassuil (4)
MF Arantar (5)
FW Araphor (7)
FW *Witch King (13)

$$$: -3
Verdict: They lost Isildur to the highly successful Eriador squad, but they’ve added the Witch King and Malbeth from Eriador (thanks to partnerships with Elrond and Norbury Sport). Thus it seems they’ve managed to step up a bit with talent without having to pay out, which is the ultimate ideal.

Barad-Dur (74)
GK Grishnakh (5)
DF Fellbeast #1 (3)
DF Fellbeast #2 (3)
DF Pallando (11)
DF Alatar (11)
MF Sangahyando (3)
MF Herumor (3)
MF Angamaite (3)
MF Beruthiel (5)
FW Castamir (7)
FW *Sauron (20)

$$$: +8
Verdict: After being one of the few not to overpay last year Sauron was poised to spend more this season rather than less, and he did so by acquiring the Blue Wizards and a second airborne defender, which is an improvement over last year’s defense. Given the offense is identical, the team overall ought to be better.

AC Beleriand (108)
GK Marach (9)
DF Imlach (4)
DF Rochallor (4)
DF Balrog #4 (12)
DF *Fingolfin (15)
MF Denethor (3)
MF Ulrad (5)
MF Angrod (10)
MF Aegnor (10)
FW Eol (15)
FW **Feanor (21)

$$$: +12
Verdict: The success of most AC Beleriand investors allowed them to spend heavier this year. They’ve replaced Ecthelion with a Balrog, so lost and gained quality there. In the midfield they’ve replaced Bregolas & Beren with Angrod & Aegnor. Individually they may not quite match Beren, but in tandem they’re potentially a step up.

Inter Beleriand (81)
GK Turgon (11)
DF Haldad (2)
DF Gorlim (2)
DF Baragund (3)
DF Luthien (13)
MF Forweg (2)
MF Hunthor (2)
MF Haleth (7)
MF *Beren (13)
FW Fingon (13)
FW *Maedhros (13)

$$$: +11
Verdict: At the back they replaced a Balrog and Brandir with Luthien and a shifted Baragund, so possibly a wash there. At the front they’ve added Beren to the Maedhros/Fingon attack, so a step forward there. Overall then, they’ve improved the squad.

Doriath (70)
GK Dior (7)
DF Galathil (2)
DF Nimloth (2)
DF Elwing (6)
DF *Melian (14)
MF Galadhon (2)
MF Nellas (3)
MF Saeros (3)
MF Daeron (7)
MF *Elwe (14)
FW Mablung (10)

$$$: -14
Verdict: Luthien and Beleg are no longer at the front, but Elwing has been added to the defense and Elwe to the offense. This does not look to be an improvement in overall talent, but shifting Daeron and Saeros forward to assist Elwe and Mablung may help maintain scoring somewhat, while the back end is at least on par with last year.

Dwarves United (86)
GK Galadriel (14)
DF Azaghal (5)
DF Durin (6)
DF Aule (16)
DF *Celebrimbor (18)
MF Fili (2)
MF Kili (2)
MF Gamil Zirak (4)
MF Telchar (4)
MF Gimli (5)
FW Legolas (10)

$$$: -3
Verdict: Fili and Kili have stepped in to replace Thorin and Thror, but it remains to be seen whether their youthful quickness can replace the hardiness and experience. The crafty Telchar and Gamil Zirak have been shifted forward, which may help, while Galadriel has a replaced Bombur between the posts- a definite improvement.

Erebor (94)
GK *Beorn (12)
DF Thorin (5)
DF Meneldor (8)
DF Landroval (8)
DF Girion (8)
MF Dain (5)
MF Brand (3)
MF Bolg (9)
FW Bard (8)
FW Nazgul #7 (10)
FW *Smaug (18)

$$$: -9
Verdict: They lost Gwaihir, but they still have two eagles at the back. In front Thranduil is gone, but everyone else is back (Smaug, Bard, etc.). The new faces, Brand and Thorin, aren’t quite an athletic match for Thranduil and Gwaihir, so it appears their lower salary results in a lower ceiling.

Eriador (103)
GK *Elrond (20)
DF Asfaloth (4)
DF Arwen (10)
DF Aragorn (10)
DF *Gil-galad (13)
MF Araphant (5)
MF Arador (4)
MF NogWight (6)
MF Arveleg (8)
MF *Glorfindel (13)
FW Isildur (10)

$$$: +4
Verdict: After a very successful season Eriador has bumped up the payroll. Malbeth is gone to Arnor, but joining the defense is Aragorn and Arwen. The Witch King is gone from the forward position, but Isildur has replaced him and NogWight has signed on to help the attack, so scoring shouldn’t suffer. Overall Eriador looks to have stepped forward.

Gondolin (84)
GK Rog (8)
DF Penlod (7)
DF Aranwe (3)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Egalmoth (7)
MF Salgant (4)
MF Elemmakil (4)
MF Duilin (8)
MF Idril (10)
FW Tuor (10)
FW *Maeglin (18)

$$$: +1
Verdict: Pengolodh has been replaced by Penlod at the rear. Gothmog is gone from the attack and Meleth from the midfield, but Tuor and Idril have both joined the offense so the scoring shouldn’t suffer. Overall it looks like Gondolin took a little step forward.

Gondor (70)
GK Imrahil (5)
DF Galadil (4)
DF Earnil I (6)
DF Eldarion (5)
MF Calimehtar (5)
MF Ciryandil (5)
MF Turambar (6)
MF Meneldil (6)
MF Romendacil (7)
MF *Anarion (12)
FW Eldacar (9)

$$$: -14
Verdict: After a respectable season everyone’s taken a tiny cut to help the team manage its budget. They lost some quality in Hyarmendacil and Falastur, but their replacements, Meneldil and Galadil, aren’t a significant step back. So perhaps a lower ceiling for Gondor, but a smarter budget.

Hithlum (101)
GK Huor (8)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Arroch (2)
DF Gundor (5)
DF Balrog #5 (13)
MF Aradan (3)
MF Morwen (6)
MF Hador (12)
MF *Beleg (13)
FW Hurin (14)
FW **Turin (20)

$$$: +15
Verdict: New investors Feanor & company have bailed out Hador House after last year’s losses, and they’ve really gone for it. Galdor, Gundor, and a Balrog improve the defense, while Turin’s buddy Beleg will improve the offense. A significant salary-bump, but an equally nice talent-bump here.

Imladris (69)
GK Valandil (6)
DF Celebrian (5)
DF Galdor (4)
DF Erestor (9)
DF *Varda (14)
MF Gilraen (2)
MF Figwit (2)
MF Lindir (2)
MF Arahael (5)
FW Elladan (10)
FW Elrohir (10)

$$$: -19
Verdict: After gaining more sway Elrond has made this squad much more economical. Big pieces Elros and Arwen are gone, and replacing them are Valandil, Celebrian, and Arahael. This is a lowering of talent for the squad, but possibly less than the value of the salary they saved.

Isengard (66)
GK Ugluk (5)
DF Mauhur (3)
DF Beechbone (3)
DF Treebeard (10)
MF Lurtz (3)
MF Wulf (2)
MF Lugdush (3)
MF Nazgul #5 (8)
MF Wormtongue (4)
MF *Saruman (15)
FW Quickbeam (10)

$$$: -8
Verdict: Caradhras’s blinding snow and wind has been replaced by the ent Beechbone at the rear, while in the midfield Freca is gone in favor of a Nazgul. It looks like they’ve managed to improve in skill while decreasing payroll.

Minas Tirith (76)
GK Denethor II (7)
DF Earnur (7)
DF Ecthelion II (7)
DF Firefoot (3)
DF Cirion (7)
MF Earnil II (7)
MF Tarandor (7)
MF Telumehtar (7)
MF Mardil (7)
MF *Eomer (10)
FW Boromir I (7)

$$$: -12
Verdict: Everyone took a slight paycut here. Faramir and Ostoher are gone, replaced by Eomer and Firefoot, which is possibly a little bit of an advancement, which is particularly good in light of the lower salary.

Misty Mts (76)
GK Chief Wolf (3)
DF Caradhras (7)
DF William (4)
DF Watcher (5)
DF *Gwaihir (11)
MF Great Goblin (5)
MF Orophin (6)
MF Rumil (6)
MF Narvi (6)
MF Azog (8)
FW *Durin’s Bane (15)

$$$: +9
Verdict: They booted Bert and Tom in favor of Caradhras and Gwaihir, which combined with shifting a couple players to more sensible positions ought to have them improved at least as much as they upped salary.

Mordor (51)
GK Silent Watcher (1)
DF Fellbeast #3 (3)
DF Mumakil (1)
DF Fellbeast #4 (3)
DF Gothmog II (5)
MF Gorbag (3)
MF Shagrat (3)
MF Nazgul #1 (7)
MF Nazgul #2 (7)
MF *Mouth (8)
FW Shelob (10)

$$$: -7
Verdict: Sauron kept Mordor even lower-cost this year, but perhaps they haven’t lost ground competitively. Three Nazgul are gone, but Gothmog II, the Mouth, and a Fellbeast defender are three capable replacements.

Nargothrond (89)
GK Orodreth (10)
DF Guillen (4)
DF Baran (3)
DF Arminas (4)
DF Barahir (7)
MF Beor (7)
MF Nienor (6)
MF Finduilas (9)
FW Gwindor (10)
FW Finrod (14)
FW *Glaurung (15)

$$$: -6
Verdict: Nargothrond had a disappointing year, but did not overhaul their roster. Instead they replaced Mim with Nienor and shifted a few midfielders and defenders around, including moving Orodreth to goal. Perhaps those players will perform better in different positions, but Nienor is an improvement over Mim anyway.

Rohan (66)
GK Theoden (7)
DF Windfola (3)
DF Snowmane (3)
DF Hama (3)
DF Erkenbrand (3)
MF Aldor (6)
MF King Dead (10)
MF Eowyn (9)
MF Brytta (5)
MF *Faramir (9)
FW Helm (8)

$$$: -28
Verdict: After a nice quarterfinal run, Rohan is shockingly low-budget this year, but not by design. Gandalf is notorious for wandering and he left with Shadowfax, while Eorl and his steed were wooed by team Anduin. At the back end they’ve brought in Windfola to fill the horse gap, while on the other end they’ve added Faramir and Eowyn- good replacements, but it doesn’t quite make up for what they lost.

Shire-Bree United (68)
GK Halbarad (5)
DF Fellbeast (2)
DF Nazgul #4 (8)
DF Gildor (7)
DF *Shadowfax (5)
MF Butterbur (2)
MF Bandobras (4)
MF Ferny (2)
MF Nazgul #6 (8)
MF *Gandalf (14)
FW Khamul (11)

$$$: -4
Verdict: Aragorn, Bombadil, and Barrow-Wight are gone from the productive offense, but Gandalf and a Nazgul have been brought in to compliment Khamul, so the drop-off should be blunted. At the back they’ve brought in a Fellbeast and of course Shadowfax, so it seems they’ve lost on offense and gained on defense.

The Havens (79)
GK Amandil (6)
DF Annael (5)
DF Imrazor (5)
DF Ar Zimrathan (8)
DF Olwe (10)
MF Eriol (5)
MF Mithrellas (3)
MF Earwen (3)
MF Falastur (9)
MF Cirdan (10)
FW *Earendil (15)

$$$: -5
Verdict: Angrod, Aegnor, and Tuor are gone, but Cirdan has gone forward to fill the gap along with bringing in Falastur. At the back Lindo and Elwing are gone, but Ar-Zimrathan and Imrazor are quality replacements, and Amandil has filled the goal vacated by Cirdan. In the middle Earwen and Andreth are gone, replace by Mithrellas and Eriol. The Havens probably took a little step back, as their defensive improvement probably does not equal their scoring lost.

The Sea (100)
GK Hyarmendacil (8)
DF Osse (9)
DF Salmar (9)
DF Uinen (9)
DF *Ulmo (17)
MF Tar Cirytan (7)
MF Voronwe (7)
MF Tar Meneldur (7)
MF Veantur (7)
MF Tar Aldarion (8)
FW Tar Minastir (12)

$$$: -8
Verdict: Still an expensive squad, with nearly everyone back from last year. Voronwe has taken the departed Eriol’s position in the midfield, while Hyarmendacil was signed to fill the gap between the posts. Hyarmendacil has more talent than Eriol, thus the squad as a whole is slightly better.

Tirion (83)
GK Finarfin (8)
DF Irime (3)
DF Amrod (9)
DF Amras (9)
DF *Caranthir (11)
MF Anaire (3)
MF Eldalote (2)
MF Rumil (4)
MF Mahtan (9)
FW Aredhel (12)
FW Finwe (13)

$$$: 0
Verdict: They broke dead even in salary despite changes. Elenwe and Thorondor are gone from the defense in favor of Caranthir, Amrod, and Amras. Eonwe and Ingwe are gone from the front end, replaced by Rumil and Eldalote, and with Mahtan moving forward. Their salary seems to have it right- they’re built different, but overall they’re probably even.

Valimar (102)
GK *Manwe (14)
DF Amarie (4)
DF Este (8)
DF Vana (8)
DF *Namo (14)
MF Elenwe (3)
MF Ilmare (8)
MF Vaire (8)
MF Irmo (9)
MF Ingwe (11)
FW *Arien (15)

$$$: -15
Verdict: The inflated payroll is under control now, and they have perhaps improved despite the cuts. Amrod and Amras have been replaced with Este and Amarie at the rear, while Ilmare and the Blue Wizard attack is now Irmo, Ingwe, and Arien. Their level is comparable to last year- probably higher due to improved scoring spark.

FC Valinor (107)
GK *Huan (15)
DF Thorondor (13)
DF Indis (7)
DF Maglor (10)
DF *Eonwe (12)
MF Elemmire (4)
MF Findis (4)
MF Argon (7)
MF *Yavanna (10)
FW Celegorm (11)
FW *Curufin (14)

$$$: -6
Verdict: Their front four is back intact, but there are small changes elsewhere. Idril and Irmo are out of the midfield, replaced by Elemmire and Findis. At the back end Penlod and Nahar are out, replaced by Thorondor and Eonwe. So, it is a weaker middle balanced with a stronger back, thus they probably broke even.

Real Valinor (101)
GK *Tulkas (12)
DF Nienna (10)
DF Nahar (5)
DF Ingwion (5)
DF *Tilion (12)
MF Quennar (3)
MF Enerdhil (4)
MF Nessa (10)
FW Nerdanel (12)
FW *Miriel (14)
FW Orome (14)

$$$: +3
Verdict: The defending champs had to spend a bit more this time, and didn’t retain all their pieces, but they found good replacements. Orome has replaced Arien up front, Quennar has replaced Elemmire in the midfield, and Nahar and Ingwion have replaced Rumil and Caranthir at the rear. Most likely they’ve broken even- stepping back every so slightly up front while improving a bit at the rear.

Wilderland (75)
GK Great Warg (5)
DF Finglas (3)
DF Skinbark (3)
DF Oropher (5)
DF Radagast (11)
MF Fimbrethil (3)
MF Iminye (4)
MF Imin (5)
MF Nazgul #3 (8)
FW Thranduil (14)
FW *Scatha (14)

$$$: -10
Verdict: The ent Beechbone is out in favor of the wizard Radagast, but the major changes are up front, where Orome, Galadriel, and Elwe have all ditched. Imin and Iminye will attempt to bridge the gap in the midfield, while Thranduil and a Nazgul will help Scatha with the attack. They’ve lost scoring power, but they’re better behind them, thus the step back perhaps is perhaps not as large as the payroll drop.

The Barrow-Downs (50)
GK Alien (2)
DF Lumpkin (2)
DF GwathWight (3)
DF River Woman (3)
DF Barrow-Wight (11)
MF WilWight (3)
MF Lalwende MP (3)
MF Goldberry (3)
MF Hookbill (6)
FW Saucepan Man (6)
FW *Bombadil (8)

$$$: +13
Verdict: Thanks to a new league minimum and the “Tolkien mandate”, this squad formerly known as “The Downer” will be much improved. Goldberry, River Woman, WilWight and GwathWight are more dependable than some of the old crowd, while adding Bombadil to the front definitely improves scoring potential.

Tol In Gaurhoth (84)
GK *ShastaWolf (10)
DF Draugluin (8)
DF GaladriWight (3)
DF BoroWolf (8)
DF *NilpWolf (10)
MF LegateWight (3)
MF SallyWight (4)
MF NerWight (5)
MF *PhantomWolf (10)
FW Thuringwethil (13)
FW *InzilWolf (10)

$$$: +16
Verdict: Their payroll has gone up more than any squad, and predictably there’s a rise in talent. InzilWight is rumored to be a quality replacement Werewolf up front, and bringing Thuringwethil in on the attack and Draugluin on the defense certainly raises the bar on expectations.

Nogrod

06-05-2013, 04:46 PM

Here is the AKMs first analysis on groups C and E which the AKM will be watching really close this year according to the new pact made between the big media-houses. But don't you worry: the AKM will not forget the other groups either. It is just that groups C and E will be our main focus this season.

So without further ado...

Group C, Doriath

Doriath
2012: budget 84 million, qualified to 1st round / earned 80mil. (-4)
2013 budget 70 million (-14): slightly weaker offence.

Hithlum
2012: budget 86 million, left in the group phase / earned 60 mil. (-26)
2013 budget 101 million (+15): clearly stronger and more balanced.

Real Valinor
2012: budget 104 million, Champions / earned 140 mil. (+36)
2013 budget 101 million (-3): two huge losses (1xDF & 1xFW).

Shire-Bree United
2012: budget 72 million, made it to the quarterfinals / earned 95 mil. (+23)
2013 budget 68 million (-4): defence slightly better, offence lost.

Last year’s champions, Real Valinor, meets a bunch or weaker sides? It would be quite bold to predict the last season’s winners to be left in the group-phase, but to think they would win it left-handedly would be as stupid – and the AKM thinks they have to perform pretty solidly to advance in the first place (which the AKM thinks they will do though).

Whichever way one looks at different groups, this is one of the tough ones and surviving it will be an achievement in it’s own right.

Hithlum – Hithlum’s last season was a big disappointment. Their group was by consent of many commentators the second toughest of all and with all the teams drawing their games they were left to the group stage with the number of goals scored – something that should never happen to a team where Túrin plays.

But many commentators also agreed that Túrin didn’t have the support he’d need – even if his father and Hador Lórindol himself, both remarkable players, were there behind him. He needed one man… well, an elf to help him – and now he’s back! With Beleg Cuthalion (2+3 / 4 games in Doriath last season) by his side once more there might be no easy way, well no way, to stop Túrin Turambar this season.

Hithlum has also toughened their downstairs by replacing in many ways valiant escorts Grithnir and Gethron by a bit tougher sons of Hador, lord Galdor the Tall (Túrin’s grandpa) and his brother Gundor. And to top that, they have also recruited a Balrog in their defence.

In an interesting move, Hithlum has signed Galdor’s son Huor – who passed the last season – to the goal. And with that one can see that team Hithlum is coming more and more a family affair. And with a family like that one can only predict problems for those opposing it.

And they are investing it big time this year! It’s a kind of flourish or perish -game for them now. That sounds like their family as well.

The AKM prediction: will qualify

Real Valinor – It is a total mystery why Real Valinor would give up Arien. It was not only that she was the clutch-player of the team, it’s biting teeth – and one of the best forwards in the whole Arda to begin with – but also that she formed a beautifully working trio with Miriel and Nerdanel. Replacing Arien (6+1 in six games last year) with Oromë (0+1 in three) doesn’t sound like a good deal whatever way you look at it, even if you liked Oromë very much.

But they also let Caranthir go away. On top of the intelligence and skilfulness of Rumil, Nienna and Tilion, Caranthir brought backbone and strength (and brutality to scare the opponents) to the defence. Now replacing him and Rumil with Ingwë’s son Ingwion and Nahar from FC Valinor could be seen as bringing forth some toughness, but it is clear the two won’t replace Caranthir as a threat to the offensive players of the opposing team.

That said, Real Valinor looks still a quality team and one that should qualify from group C. But it would be a miracle should they find themselves in the final this year. So did someone just cash in or what happened? They weren’t lacking in cash and their deals look like bad ones.

The AKM prediction: qualifies more probably than not

Doriath – Now Doriath could be said to be the real black horse of the group. It is a team of quality and they could have gone further in the tournament last season hadn’t they met a team as strong as Eriador on the first round of the play-offs. On the group-stage they only lost to Anfaughlith just so, draw with the mighty AC Beleriand and beat Nargothrond. That is a remarkable statistic.

But… and then there is the “but”. From last year they have lost two key players Beleg (2+3 / 4 games) and Lúthien (1+1) from their midfield. Now getting Elwë Singollo to play with his wife Melian sure is a boost to the moral of the team – and signing Elwing from the Havens to the defence is a strengthening move – but somehow it feels it just doesn’t do the trick – especially in a group as tough as this one.

In a way Doriath looks more solid than last year but it just lacks certain flare. Can Thingol fill in for both Beleg and Lúthien? Are their defences solid enough to take on both Hithlum and Real Valinor? They have to beat at least one of the two to qualify…

The AKM prediction: has a chance to qualify if plays superbly

Shire-Bree United – Many were surprised with how far the Shire-Bree went last year, but then again the teams they faced were total jokes (The Downer), were just playing much poorer most anticipated (Angband and T-I-G) or got through because of a lousy group (Gondor). AC Beleriand nailed them 3-0 and that kind of tells everything about their quality last season.

Well, not all. There was actually a reason for them to succeed as far as they did, and it was that they were scoring heavily the last year – until they met with a quality defence aka. AC Beleriand who just shut them out. But with The Barrow-Wight, Strider and especially Tom Bombadill now gone they have suddenly lost 75% of their goals – and at the same time the only weapon they had last year.

Now they have improved their defence considerably with Fellbeast and a Nazgul from Mordor and Shadowfax – who came with Gandalf, who is in turn trying to take care of the scoring with the only scorer from the last season remaining, Khamûl.

So they have a better defence this time around – but they are going to need it as this year they’re facing offensive powers gazillion times better they met last year in the group phase. Their midfield is mostly crap (Butterbur & Ferny!), but can they score to stay on with the games? Many have waited for Gandalf’s magic to materialize on the football field in vain for years – will it emerge from somewhere this year? Probably not.

The AKM prediction: most likely stays in the group phase

Group E / Erebor

Erebor
2012: budget 103 million, 4th place / earned 115 mil. (+12)
2013 budget 94 million (-9): two big losses (1xDF & 1xFW).

Eriador
2012: budget 99 million, 2nd place / earned 130 mil. (+31)
2013: budget 103 million (+4): defence changed - a questionmark, offence slightly weaker.

Misty Mountains
2012: budget 62 million, left in the group phase / earned 60 mil. (-2)
2013 budget 76 million (+14): stronger defence.

Wilderland
2012: budget 85 million, left in the group phase / earned 60 mil. (-25)
2013 budget 75 million (-10): weaker MF, stronger DF & FW.

Two semifinalists from the last season take up two teams that were left into the group-phase. So with the overwhelming odds the two great teams fly forwards leaving the other two once again to struggle? Well, not so fast here either. The history or the budgets don’t predict success that well and bad drafts can change things.

Especially Wilderland has a chance to beat teams with superior budgets – if Scatha and Thranduil find a common tune…

Eriador – Last year’s silver medalists have spent 4 million more to their team this year but it is an open question whether they are a better team now. And the questionmarks (two questions basically) are clear.

First: changing the Witch King (4+1 / 6 games last season) for Isildur (0+2 / 3 games) might be a righteous move to build up moral integrity, but is it a good deal gamewise? They did lose a third of their goals with the Witch King anyway. Now Glorfindel is a quality forward and Arveleg proved his worth the last season – and the surprise signing NogWight (2+0 / 3 games – as a NogWolf) might prove valuable or then not – but the question remains, can they fill the void the Witch King leaves?

Secondly: they say “don’t change a winning team”. Now what was the key to their succes the last year was that they didn’t let the other teams to score. Most of the glory here surely goes to Elrond keeping the goal safe. But surely the defence had their part in it – and now it has been turned around. Malbeth the Seer has been sold away, Araphant has been moved to the middlefield, and defending midfielder Valandil has been sold as well. What they got in their place is Arwen (former MF) and Aragorn (former FW, as Strider) in defence with hefty 10 million deals each – now one might make a question about nepotism. Well the fans should pray they can indeed defend…

Will Eriador play for the Cup this year? They have it what it takes to win a lot of tough adversaries – if their downstairs work as well as it did the previous years and Elrond’s magic endures. But will they reach the finals – and turn their silver into gold? Probably not.

The AKM prediction: qualifies

Erebor – Erebor’s success last year was a huge surprise for many. But they did have a solid team – and Beorn broke through as one of the top goalkeepers of the game in Arda. With their success and prize-money one would have thought they would have strengthened their team but it seems they are spending 9 million less this year albeit the money they gathered from the last year. So are they even willing to succeed this year? Are the Dwarves and Mr. Moneybags just piling the money into a treasury or what is it?

Well, what else could be gathered from the fact that they gave away their leading defender Gwaihir (10) and one of the leading scorers Thranduil (13) and replaced them with Thorin (5) and the newcomer Brand (3)? Beorn only got a 2 million raise into his salary but for example Bard plays with the same 8 million contract he played the last year (one could imagine both could have had quite easily better deals from other teams).

If the owners are cynically counting that their team is going to qualify with the lesser budget so as to make nice returns one would hope the team would fail miserably – but it is a good team still and one would hope all the best for the great players in the team.

The AKM prediction: a good chance to qualify

Wilderland – Wilderland is one of those interesting teams you never know what they are capable of. Last year they had quite a strong team on paper but failed to qualify. For this season they have changed quite a lot (almost half of the team has changed) and they have used 10 million less into their team… but once again it looks like they have their chances to qualify, at least on paper.

They have lost three 15 million players up front: Elwë and Galadriel from the midfield and Oromë from the attack. But they still have Scatha and they have somehow acquired Thranduil from Erebor (2+3 / 6 games) to replace the two elves – and a Nazgul from Mordor to play the MF number 10-place. So suddenly their much less costly offence starts to look quite a threat with a formidable pairing of Scatha and Thranduil backed by a Nazgul.

Also on defence they have made a positive-looking change getting rid of Beechbone and replacing him with Radagast.

So Wilderland is making a better-looking team with less money, but will it be enough? A lot depends on how Scatha is playing (last year was a slight disappointment) and will Thranduil deliver in his new environment.

The AKM prediction: could qualify indeed (stress on the word “could”)

Misty Mountains – The Misty Mountains didn’t exactly impress one the last season. Durin’s Bane is a quality striker and Azog & Narvi are not bad players, but they failed to deliver as a team last year. They jut weren’t good enough.

This time around it might be a bit different though as they are spending a little bit more – and into the area that will make the opposition’s game just that inch harder… so it might even pay off. Kicking the stupid trolls Tom and Bert out from their defence and replacing them with none less than Gwaihir the lord of the eagles and Caradhras itself could be called a serious improvement.

They gave also changed their goalkeeper from the Great Goblin (now MF) to the Chief Wolf (former DF). Only time will tell whether that is a good or a bad move. But overall, even if they would not be the top scoring team of the Arda Cup 13, it will be harder to score against them this year. And let’s not forget that both Eriador and Erebor have given away their best scorers…

But will that be enough to qualify against last season’s 2nd, 4th andWilderland?

The AKM prediction: will probably not qualify

More pre-season commentary and even some results fro the friendlies to come on the AKM. Stay tuned!

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-05-2013, 07:28 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/2013-ardacup-logo_zpsd00ecaa5.jpg~original

It was almost five years ago when the very first match in the inaugural Arda Cup tournament was played between Michel Delving and Rómenna at Rivendell. Since then there have been 320 games of drama, disappointments, and displays of willpower and skill in the premier Cup completion in Arda.

Three of the media partners of the Arda Cup, Tar-Eldar Network Television, Middle Earth Sports Programming Network, and the Two Towers Network, present a look back at the best moments of the five previous Arda Cups.

2008
The first ever edition remained the only Arda Cup tournament Fëanor has ever won thus far. His Formenos squad comprised all his sons, grandson Celebrimbor, niece Aredhel, and Huan at goal. The 2008 Arda Cup also featured the only time Fëanor and Túrin met on the pitch, in the final game no less.

It was, however, the game immediately before that, the third-place tie between Tol-in-Gaurhoth and Armenelos, that became our writers’ pick as the most memorable:

I [. . .] recall the bronze match being a lot of fun, with TIG defeating Armenelos with the storyline that they time-wasted until the moon came out and they became Werewolves, heh heh.
I agree with [the phantom], the Bronze match between TIG and [Armenelos] was a gem. In how the wolves delayed the game long enough to turn into wolf form and just storm back to bruise up those haughty Numenoreans. Only to make their exit with the Bronze trophy before Mablung's guard arrived.

2009
Our writers agree that the most memorable story from the second Arda Cup was upstarts Mirkwood making it all the way to the semifinals, beating contenders Túna and Valimar along the way.
[The surprise upset of the tournament] has to be Mirkwood's win against Valimar in the quarter-finals. It was the only game I predicted wrong, and in fact Valimar's score was the only one I got wrong in the quarters that year, of course it's shocking! :p
The Phantom of MESPN even suggested that Mirkwood’s Cinderella run had an effect on Armenelos’s title chance:
The two teams I remember from this tournament- Mirkwood and Armenelos. The Numenoreans were solid and added the talent of Sauron to the mix so obviously they were good, but if I'm not mistaken I had three or four teams ranked ahead of them in my estimation (Hithlum and Valimar, and some combination of Tuna or Angband or Utumno). And Mirkwood wasn't considered a very realistic title threat at all.

But then Mirkwood pulled an overtime upset over Tuna despite getting beaten in all other stats, and then they upset Valimar in a shootout. It was quite a run, and it also kept Armenelos from having to play one of those other squads in the semis.

2010
There was not much consensus as to what the best moment of the 2010 Arda Cup. Valimar’s shock defeat against Norbury was acknowledged, as well as Vinyamar’s run to the final, and, of course, who could forget Arien’s solo performance (two goals, two assists, and a red card drawn against Glaurung) against Thangorodrim in the last group stage matchday. But there was no single moment that defined that tournament. Here is instead a collection of five games from our three writers:
I seem to remember that the anticipation ahead of the Gondolin vs Tirion quarterfinal was especially big that year- both looked very good going in, and I think maybe Nog called it "what should've been the final". (That was the year that Tirion had Finwe-Feanor-Miriel-Nerdanel, and after group play Nerdanel led the whole field with 22 points).

But my favorite game that year had to be Vinyamar defeating The Barrow-Downs. As sad as the result was, it made for a great story. (That was the game where it was all Urwen's fault that the Downs lost, ha ha.)
Gondolin - Vinyamar Finals [was the best]. (Even though I think the semi matches were a bit more thrilling) Gondolin's win in the finals clinched my rightful Phantasy title [. . .] [And a surprise upset was] Norbury's defeat of [Valimar] in the Round of 16. Araphor continuing his knack for scoring big goals late, and in pressure situations.
In the semifinals, Gondolin went two goals behind to an Utumno team that had never yet conceded in five games, but Fingolfin and company would not be denied, forcing extra time and then pinching a winner through Maeglin’s free kick.

2011
It was a rare confluence of dominance and brilliance—the 2011 champions also produced the most memorable moment of the tournament.
Well the biggest standout here is obviously Doriath, putting together the most successful overall tournament of any squad (big surprise, given the roster). It was also cool that the other streaking super-team got to the finals as well (Tol-In-Gaurhoth), so it was a clash of the titans (though the final game didn't turn out as close as I hoped for drama).
Doriath and Tol-in-Gaurhoth crushed all before them, including an exciting Valinor team featuring the Arien-Míriel-Nerdanel combo up front and an Angband side desperate for the Cup (both falling 3-1 to Doriath), as well as a resurgent team of Númenóreans in Westernesse, and Pelóri, the team where Manwë finally found the balance between defensive solidity and goalscoring (both losing to TiG). It’s fitting that these two juggernauts met in the final, and equally fitting that the only team to win every game by at least a two-goal margin won with a two-goal margin. 2011 Doriath may have been the catalyst for the drastic financial changes to be implemented the very next year, so dominating they were.

2012
The first tournament after the implementation of various reforms brought about an evening of the playing field—and more drama. The pre-tournament favourites FC Valinor toyed around with their rivals Real Valinor with an aggregate score of 5-1, but they were shockingly eliminated in a tense penalty shootout against Erebor. It was, however, the sheer drama of the semifinal ties that year stole our writers’ imaginations.
The semifinals, wow! Real vs AC Bel: You knew Arien was on-form that day—every decision she made was spot-on. You also expected Fëanor to rally his troops after going two goals behind, but Real showed steel and cunning, holding back AC Bel’s frightening attack and instigating counterattacks to keep Fingolfin and company on their toes.

And the other semifinal, Eriador vs Erebor, was slightly better for drama. Two solid teams from back to front nicking a goal each in ninety minutes, a wonderful goal crafted by the Witch-king and Glorfindel in extra time, and an Elrond penalty save against Smaug just before the final whistle. Just a cracking pair of games.
The two semi-finals were spectacular and gave a chance to finally insert the TTN - AKM feud somewhat. I'm going to pick the Middle-earth semi though between Erebor and Eriador. Elrond's masterful performance and the Witch-King's OT goal put Eriador into the finals against Real Valinor.
I [. . .] recall that the semis between Real and AC was quite the buildup and match.

And there you have it: the most memorable Arda Cup moments from 2008 to 2012. From all of us at TENT, TTN, and MESPN, happy 5th Anniversary to the Arda Cup, and here’s to five more years of great games.

the phantom

06-07-2013, 02:01 PM

Teams Preparing With Friendlies
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

In order to ensure that their players are prepared to compete at the highest level, all Arda Cup teams will be playing two friendlies before heading to their sites for group play. With only two games to prepare, it can be assumed that the teams will be fairly focused and playing to the best of their abilities.

No one will be playing friendlies against a team from their group, so there shouldn't be any worry about holding back in anticipation of a repeat game (unless they meet them again in the playoffs, of course).

The slate of games for the first round of friendlies features many contests to look forward to, among them-

Angband vs Hithlum- Turin, Hurin and friends go into battle against Morgoth himself. Talk about a grudge-match.

The Sea vs Valimar- Ulmo and his water-loving pals will engage some of his Vala brethren, in what should be a showcase in mistake-free execution and tactics.

Doriath vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth- A rematch of the championship game two seasons ago, Tol In Gaurhoth will be out for revenge, and Doriath will be keen to deny them.

Shire-Bree United vs The Barrow-Downs- The new look squad from the Downs wants to prove they're a serious team now, while their Gandalf-led neighbors look to duplicate last year's playoff form.

Imladris vs Misty Mts- These two neighbors will again strive to claim regional dominance, in a feud that is certain to bring out a bit of bad blood.

Isengard vs Rohan- Speaking of bad blood, surely there will be great incentive to claim victory here for these two neighbors.

FC Valinor vs Real Valinor- In what is surely the most anticipated match, these two squads will meet for the third time in less than a year. FC gave Real more than they could handle in their previous meetings, but Real got the last laugh by winning last year's championship trophy.

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-07-2013, 10:35 PM

Elenrod: Good evening, and welcome to The Matchday, the show for discerning football fans. Normally we cover the Elvish Premier League, but it’s about time we have a go at the Arda Cup. I’m your host, Elenrod of TENT, and with me today is our resident tactics expert, Maikalomion.

Maikalomion: Mae govannen.

Elenrod: And ArdaCup.com’s columnist on disclaimers, Adam Smith.

Adam : Hi. Not the economist.

Elenrod: Not the economist. Blogger and hostage Felagundion is also here.

Felagundion: I’ve yet to decide if this is better than paying the damages.

Elenrod: It’s $60 million for hijacking our Group G matchday 2 broadcast last year, by the way.

Adam: Oof. I hope you have a Gondolin bank account.

Elenrod: Indeed. So, where do we start, then?

Adam: Gondolin-Tirion at Tumladen Park.

Gondolin 0-2 Tirion
on target 3-7
tot shots 12-15
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Mahtan (Finwë)
*37, 0-2 Aredhel (Finwë)
YELLOW CARDS:
*GDN- Galdor, Salgant
*TIR- Caranthir

Elenrod: So, they held the game at Tumladen Park because the Song of Stone Stadium—

Felagundion: Stadium on the Rock.

Elenrod: Pardon?

Felagundion: Song of Stone Insurance is a Premier League sponsor, but not an Arda Cup one. So we should call it ‘Stadium on the Rock’.

Elenrod: Oh, okay. So, they held it at Tumladen Park because Stadium on the Rock will be used for most of Group B’s games.

Adam: Except one of the last group stage games, to comply with the Arda Cup rule on games on the last day being played simultaneously. That’s when they’ll use Tumladen Park again.

Elenrod: Right. So, Maika, what went wrong for Gondolin? Many have said that Gondolin lost because they sat back and preferred to play on the break instead of taking the game to Tirion. They do have the better midfielders, after all.

Maika : But it was the right tactic for Gondolin. Salgant and Duilin might be better passers, better at going forward, but they can’t shield their defenders well. And Gondolin’s back four aren’t really that good, and the only one who’s quality, Penlod, isn’t suited to playing a high line. He’s better off with his back to the goal where he can see the play before him, so his positional intelligence, his intercepting, and his aerial prowess can be brought to bear. But he’s not comfortable when he’s forced to turn and run after attackers.

Elenrod: So how did Tirion score twice against a Gondolin side that set out to defend?

Adam: I noticed how Aredhel pinned back Penlod, leaving Aranwë to deal with Finwë. And he just dominated the poor father of Voronwë in the air.

Maika: That’s the advantage of having two genuine centre forwards up top. You can dictate the match-up to the opposing centre-backs. A lot of two-forward formations last year had only one centre forward who’s paired with a second striker who usually started from the wings and roamed around looking for space. You had Glorfindel, Eöl, Bombadil, and Maeglin playing that way. Anyway, Finwë was clearly Tirion’s avenue of attack. Rúmil and Caranthir peppered the box with crosses for him.

Adam: And their strategy was successful—two of his knock-downs were converted by Mahtan and Aredhel.

Elenrod: And then during the second half, I saw Penlod and Aranwë switch marking duties, and Finwë was silenced. Is that right?

Felagundion: That’s right. Finwë couldn’t win in an aerial battle with Penlod the Tall—at least, not comfortably.

Elenrod: So Gondolin were able to blunt Tirion’s attack. But how come they couldn’t get back into the game? What was the problem with their offence?

Maika: The defenders and Rog were terrible in their distribution, and Mahtan and Rúmil marked Idril and Elemmakil well. Remember, counterattacking depends on getting the ball as quickly as possible to the forwards, usually via long balls from the defence or wingers who scamper quickly up the pitch. Often Tuor had to win long balls on the flanks, where he was then trapped by the full-back, the wide midfielder, and the centre-back on that side of the pitch. He’s not bad with the ball on the ground, but he can’t dribble past three markers; that’s Maeglin’s specialty. But Maeglin can’t win long balls like Tuor can.

Elenrod: I guess that’s it for Gondolin-Tirion. How about Dagor Bragollach? Anfauglith vs AC Beleriand at Mithrim’s Lakeside Arena.

AC Beleriand 2-1 Anfauglith
on target 7-3
tot shots 17-10
GOALS:
*19, 0-1 Gothmog (Balrog #3)
*64, 1-1 Angrod (Eöl)
*78, 2-1 Aegnor (Fëanor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ACB- Imlach, Ulrad
*ANF- Haldir, Balrog #2, Gelmir

Adam: The opener for that game was fantastic! Balrog #3 breaks up an AC Bel attack and sends a long ball forward. Then Gothmog and Ecthelion, both aerial experts, confuse Imlach and Rochallor by switching positions. Poor Rochallor ends up getting matched against the Lord of the Balrogs, who predictably wins the header. He turns on Fingolfin’s horse and slams a piledriver home. Poor Marach at the AC Bel goal never stood a chance.

Elenrod: But then AC Bel mounts a comeback in the second half.

Maika: Yes, and they also showed that they don’t miss Beren that much on offence. They fielded a 4-2-3-1, with Fëanor just behind Eöl up top, instead of the other way around as you’d expect. Anfauglith’s defence didn’t know what to do, especially with Eöl still running all over the pitch as usual. And Angrod and Aegnor were brilliant—they started out wide, as expected, but their runs were direct, goalward, like what Beleg and Lúthien did for Doriath last year. That front four just played their first real game—well, it’s a friendly, but at least it’s not a practise match—and they were already combining excellently. They’d be a handful for any defence in the tournament.

Elenrod: All right. Now, let’s indulge one of our guests here and move on to Nargothrond-Armenelos at the High Faroth Arena.

Armenelos 3-3 Nargothrond
on target 9-7
tot shots 21-17
GOALS:
*7, 0-1 Nienor (Gwindor)
*28, 1-1 Elros (Ar-Adûnakhôr)
*42, 1-2 Finduilas (Finrod)
*59, 2-2 Ar-Pharazôn (Tar-Míriel)
*72, 3-2 Ar-Pharazôn (Tar-Ancalimon)
*85, 3-3 Glaurung (Nienor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ARM- Ar-Gimilzôr, Tar-Calmacil
*NGR- Arminas, Guilin

Felagundion: Finally!

Elenrod: So, Felagundion, tell me about what Nargothrond are doing just outside their gates.

Felagundion: Don’t mind if I do. They’re building a second stadium, Narog Bridge, in order to comply with Arda Cup’s new group stage hosting rules. They’re trying to win a hosting bid for the quarterfinals this year, but they want to host a group again sometime in the future.

Elenrod: Best of luck, then. So, the game. Six goals, thirty-eight shots—this was an open game.

Felagundion: A frantic one. Finrod said afterwards that they deliberately played that way—they wanted to test their attack-to-defence transition. It was still poor, but you can see some improvements—the previous Nargothrond back line would have conceded four or more to Armenelos.

Adam: And Armenelos look like a mess because they’re testing a back three, with Tar-Míriel and Tar-Ancalimon as wing-backs.

Maika: Wing-back is one of the most demanding positions in football. They’re listed as midfielders, but they have to help out both in attack and defence. That’s especially true in a 3-5-2, since the back three are all central defenders and the front two are both centre forwards. All of a team’s width, both at the front and the back, comes from the wing-backs.

Adam: That position requires a crazy amount of stamina to go up and down the pitch for ninety minutes, as well as crossing ability and positional sense to know when to go forward and when to stay back.

Maika: They’d probably try all their midfielders to see which pair works best. Except Elros; he’s their number ten, just behind Ar-Pharazôn and Ar-Adûnakhôr.

Elenrod: That’s enlightening stuff. But I hear Finrod also fielded an unusual shape.

Felagundion: Yes, he did. Finrod and Gwindor started as a front two, with Glaurung just behind them, so that the Father of Dragons could start in his preferred spot between the lines of opposition defence and midfield.

Maika: He’s their number ten, though he’s not much of a playmaker like a traditional number ten is. He’s playing more of a Bard role in last year’s Erebor, playing between the lines, then making sudden runs against overloaded defences.

Felagundion: And it worked, at least at first. Finrod went deep and Gwindor went right, to their preferred positions, dragging Tar-Palantir and Tar-Calmacil with them. Poor Tar-Telperiën was all alone dealing with runs from Glaurung, Nienor, and Finduilas.

Maika: Those two ladies are an excellent fit to Nargothrond’s system. They’re decent tacklers so they can help on the defence, and they have an instinct for making those sudden explosive runs at the right time.

Elenrod: But in the second half, Armenelos make their comeback with a Golden double.

Maika: Yes. Ar-Gimilzôr and Tar-Telemmaitë in the Armenelos midfield sat deeper to contain Nargothrond’s midfield runs. This defensive shift gave the wing-backs greater license to push forward, and they crossed for both of Ar-Pharazôn’s goals.

Elenrod: Then Glaurung’s equaliser happened.

Felagundion: Nienor sends a hasty cross right in the space between the triangle of Tar-Telperiën and the Armenelos midfielders. Tar-Telperiën moves forward to clear it, but on comes Glaurung, seemingly out of nowhere, to claim it. He flicks it upward a little, just beyond the Queen’s reach, turns on her, and then tails home a screamer. The stadium went wild.

Elenrod: I’m sure they did. Well, we’re almost out of time, so on to the last game: Inter Beleriand vs The Havens at Himring’s Ever-Cold Arena, another game of six goals.

Inter Beleriand 3-3 The Havens
on target 8-9
tot shots 17-18
GOALS:
*17, 1-0 Beren (Maedhros)
*31, 1-1 Eärendil (Eärwen)
*42, 1-2 Eärendil (Falastur)
*58, 2-2 Maedhros (Fingon)
*68, 2-3 Círdan (Olwë)
*79, 3-3 Fingon (Haleth)
YELLOW CARDS:
*INB- Forweg
*HAV- Mithrellas

Elenrod: If you squint hard enough you’ll see that it’s almost like the previous game we discussed. A striker scores a brace, but his team concedes a late equaliser.

Adam: Except the brace was completed in the first half. But yeah, Eärendil. He’s at the tip of the Haven’s 4-2-3-1/4-4-1-1- hybrid, with Círdan just behind him and Falastur and Eärwen taking the place of wide midfielders Angrod and Aegnor. And they’re almost as good as the ones they replaced, at least in this game. It was their crosses that Eärendil converted for his double.

Maika: And the combination between Inter’s front two and Beren was about as seamless as those of their rivals AC Bel. Well, the partnership between Maedhros and Fingon is almost telepathic by now—no surprise, as they’ve been playing for more than four years now.

Felagundion: The only time they weren’t teammates was the very first Arda Cup. That’s just… wow.

Elenrod: I agree. How’s that for commitment? I also saw that both teams’ supporting cast aren’t bad.

Adam: Yeah, Inter’s Haleth is a handful down the flanks; he’s just crazy fast in a straight-line dash. And Havens full-back Olwë times his forward surges well, so he doesn’t leave space behind him often and he with his daughter can overload the opposing right-back to get crosses in for Eärendil and Círdan.

Elenrod: Marvellous stuff. And with that we come to the end of our program. Tune in again next time for another Matchday analysis of the friendlies, as well as our team previews and tournament prediction. Many thanks to Maika, to Adam, and to Felagundion. From all of us here: namárië for now.

the phantom

06-10-2013, 02:03 PM

With only two rounds of friendlies this year, and a promise of no rematches in groups, the practice games have seen excellent attendance and viewership- not to mention a slightly higher level of play. Checking in on the most recent round of games, first at Taniquetil...

The Sea 1-0 Valimar
on target 5-2
tot shots 13-9
GOALS:
*38, 1-0 Tar Minastir (Tar Meneldur)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Sea- Voronwe, Osse
*Valimar- Este

A low-scoring affair here, but not bad to watch. Both squads showed respectable offensive chops, but the defenses were generally more than a match for them, and there was no rhythm to be found. Arien seemed a bit frustrated, perpetually shadowed by Osse or Uinen, stuck to her like a wet shirt. And in fact she may have been right to gripe at the officials, as the sea-folk were continually dousing her flames by splashing water on her. In the end The Sea proved stingier, and Amarie and Este got crossed up on assignments leaving Tar Minastir an avenue to the net.

And at Bree...

Shire-Bree United 2-1 The Barrow-Downs
on target 6-4
tot shots 13-13
GOALS:
*39, 1-0 Gandalf (Ferny)
*60, 1-1 Bombadil (Saucepan Man)
*86, 2-1 Khamul (Gandalf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*SBUnt- Nazgul#4, Shadowfax, Bandobras, Ferny
*BDowns- GwathWight, Hookbill, LalwendeMP

Though most of the offense departed, it seems SBree can still score with Gandalf plugged in, and their defense did look more impressive than last season. But The Downs still gave them a game and made them work for the win, highlighted by a brilliant run by Bombadil (who else?).

Meanwhile, at Goblin Town...

Imladris 2-2 Misty Mts
on target 7-6
tot shots 16-16
GOALS:
*16, 1-0 Elladan (Arahael)
*37, 1-1 Orophin (Narvi)
*65, 2-1 Elrohir (Lindir)
*84, 2-2 Azog (Orophin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Imlad- Galdor, Elladan, Erestor, Celebrian, Arahael, Elrohir
*MMts- Azog, GreatGoblin, William, Rumil, Caradhras, DBane
RED CARDS:
*Imlad- Elladan (29, second yellow)
*MMts- Great Goblin (48, second yellow)

A lot of cards were handed out here, and honestly a couple others should've been booted off if only the refs had spotted what they were doing. Evidently the sons of Elrond haven't forgiven the captivity and torture of their mother, nor have the goblins forgotten the piles of goblins they slew in revenge. Goals were generally scored on account of one player or another getting thrown down or injured (or epically failing to do so to another) leaving an opening for the offense. At the start the game went more the way of Imaldris, but the open field that resulted from the send-offs seemed to favor Misty, and at the finish they were looking less ragged.

And finally at Helm's Deep...

Isengard 1-2 Rohan
on target 5-6
tot shots 13-14
GOALS:
*32, 0-1 Eowyn (Faramir)
*36, 1-1 Saruman (Lugdush)
*63, 1-2 Helm (Faramir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Isen- Mauhur, Wormtongue, Wulf
*Rohan- Erkenbrand, Brytta, Snowmane

Many were expected similar violence in this clash, but with a couple Ents on the Isengard side and Saruman exerting great control over his bunch, it was a rather ordinary match. The Rohan defense did a fine job denying Saruman touches, and in the end Helm himself made the difference, as Faramir and Eowyn sucked in the Ent defenders with some nice ball work then hung it up for Helm and he beat Mauhur and Lugdush for it.

Nogrod

06-12-2013, 06:27 PM

We see some of our competitors have moved into a kind of “Sport Studio” –set up and have hired “analysts” (read: entertainers) to push up their ratings. Here in the AKM we do believe in the old virtues of journalistic excellence and deep understanding of the game. Therefore it will be, once again, Ugr Nogrendale who delivers to you our readers the spot-on analyses and stats for all the games the AKM will cover this season. Just remember that last year’s Phantasy Game winner Nogrod made all his decisions mostly relying on the AKM’s analysis and suggestions.

So the first round of friendly games – before the Arda Cup finally kicks off – has been underway for the last few days here and there around Arda. The AKM has been following four games more closely. Here’s what Mr. Nogrendale thinks you should learn from them.

~*~

FC Valinor vs. Real Valinor

FC Valinor beat Real Valinor last year two times (2-1 and 3-0) and left nothing to question about the power-balance between the two teams. Yet in the end Real Valinor went on to claim the championship. So it was an interesting match-up to see the two teams meeting once again in the pre-season friendlies.

For this year both teams have cut down their spending – especially FC Valinor has done it, even though more by cutting the salaries of its players than plainly hiring cheaper ones. Boosting up their defence has led to the scaling down of their midfield and that could be seen in the game. So unlike last season when FC Valinor had a sovereign control of the ball around the field, this time Real Valinor had an even possession. And the game was much more equal on every level.

Argon and Yavanna looked more than solid behind the brothers Celegorm and Curufin and were always dangerous coming towards Real’s goal. And with the energy of the brothers FC Valinor was indeed shooting more than Real did.

On Real’s side especially lifting Nessa into a more forward role while moving Enerdhil into a bit more backing-up position was clearly a good idea making Real’s attacks roll more fluently – and if Oromë didn’t exactly shine with his new company of ladies he did well by their side. Tilion on the other hand clearly showed some new energy. Could it then really be that Tilion only shines when Arien is not around?

Buying Eonwë and Thorondor to defend their goal has clearly upgraded FC Valinor’s core-defence but as they have needed to cut the costs somewhat at the same time (they still spend a hefty 107 mil.) their weakness looks to be found now on the midfield where Elemmirë and Indis (4 mil. each) are no substitution for Irmö and Idril (10 mil each). Huan’s saving percentage of just 66% might make some worried, but Huan has been consistently one of the best goalies throughout the history of the Arda Cup and so the AKM wouldn’t worry about that at this point of the season.

The AKM was worried about Real’s defence as soon as the news of them selling Caranthir away was heard. How would they succeed without the “bad cop” in their defence, especially against some of the tougher offences? Well they managed perfectly fine: Nahar and Ingwion kept both Curufin and Celegorm at bay at least as well as Caranthir and Rumil had done. If they keep up the good work, then Nienna nad Tilion have a trusted pair to clear their defences – even giving Tilion leeway to take paet in the offence every once in a while.

There’s one more interesting detail to be mentioned. Elemmírë changed from Real Valinor to FC Valinor for this season, but s/he had to be compensated one million more in salary to make the move. So in the middle of all this cost-cutting it seems Elemmírë is one of the few who got their salaries raised.

The game: a synopsis

FC Valinor came into the game with full force and many thought it would go like the last season. That feeling seemed to be justified with Celegorm scoring from a corner given by Argon at about the half an hour mark. But Real Valinor pulled their act together and started pressing back – and it actually took them only ten minutes to even the score from Tilion’s superb back-door run into the box.

FC Valinor was the more active team again in the beginning of the second half but Real soon got them bogged down and started making some pretty neat counterplay – slowly taking ownership of the midfield led by Nessa’s masterful touch on the ball and eye for distributing it to the right places.

In the middle of a game that looked like it was turning into Real’s favour Yavanna got away from the Real defenders and chipped Curufin’s off target shot in. FC was not going to let Real draw the scores another time, but even their strengthened defence couldn’t stop Nessa this day. From Oromë’s nice pass she finalised the score into 2-2 with a beautiful bicycle-kick from the corner of the box.

In the end both teams seemed content to the draw. But it is clear the draw was a great boost to Real Valinor who now for the first time managed to leave the field from a game against FC Valinor not as losers. FC Valinor on the other hand has some concerns – even if one could say that drawing a game against last year’s champions is not a bad result indeed.

General notion:
Be that as it may, both teams will again be among the top teams this season.

FC Valinor 2-2 Real Valinor
on target 7-6
tot shots 19-14
GOALS:
*29, 1-0 Celegorm (Argon)
*41, 1-1 Tilion (Miriel)
*70, 2-1 Yavanna (Curufin)
*77, 2-2 Nessa (Orome)
YELLOW CARDS:
*FCVal- Indis, Maglor
*RealV- Tilion, Nahar

~*~

Erebor vs. Minas Tirith

Minas Tirith got all the way to the quarterfinals last year and Erebor made it to the semis. So an action-packed game of two great teams to see here? Sadly no. And the reason for it is clear. Erebor has lost two of their key players and Minas Tirith hasn’t exactly gotten definitively stronger either.

And the original cause of that previous remark about Minas Tirith is of course that they are not – and never were – a good team; at least not a team worth a place in the quarterfinals. Although they might seem a bit more decent bunch this year thanks to the firing of the pathetic Faramir from offence and hiring much more energetic looking Eomer to his place. Although one has to say that after a nice start in the friendlies last year (2+2 in four games) Eomer totally froze when the actual tournament began (1+0 in four games – Faramir actually managed 1+2 in five games).

To put it in no uncertain terms, Minas Tirith was one of the poorest teams to qualify – and did it only because their group was the most pathetic of all – and their adversary in the first round of qualifiers was from the second worse group overall. And they made their way to the quarters via a penalty shoot-out aka. basically only by lady Fortuna.

There is one thing to say on behalf of Minas Tirith though and it is the team spirit and companionship they seem to have around. Everyone is, basically (not Eomer this year), paid the same salary – and facing needs to cut down the expenses they have all cut their wages by one million in the name of their brotherhood. And that must be the reason why their only top-quality player Mardil still plays for the team – for surely there would have been takers for a talent like him.

Erebor would have beaten Minas Tirith last year 3-0 or more. Well, on a bad day only 2-0, but you get what I mean. Comparing to last season Erebor is lacking solidity in their attack and stamina in their defence. No, they have clearly enough of both to beat teams like Minas Tirith, but when it comes to some real games against real quality teams one couldn’t be so sure any more.

On a positive note for Erebor one could mention that Smaug seems to be in top condition and even without Gwaihir their defence hasn’t totally collapsed – and Beorn with his 83% saving-rate seems to be showing for real that he is no one-season-wonder at the goal.

The game: a synopsis

It all started pretty slowly as both teams were trying to test each other out while playing it safe (surely Erebor’s insecurity with their weekened downstairs played a role here), but the game gathered some speed little by little. And when Mardil headed a nice chip by Eomer into the goal on 31st minute the electricity was on!

Erebor started pressing forwards but found no easy routes behind “the bus” Minas Tirith parked in front of their box. Meanwhile Minas Tirith kept the Erebor team on its toes with their sharp counter-attacks.

On the second half the crowds saw an infuriated team Erebor. They came on with a force reminding one of their team last year. Nazgul #7 and Smaug were constant threats making the central defence of Minas Tirith very uneasy indeed – but they were backed by none other than Bard and Bolg with their sudden runs and imaginative passes, and toughness to match any king of old they had to field.

It took Erebor some ten minutes to even the score. Smaug was in flames!
After the goal the intensivity of the game went a bit down even if of the two teams it was Erebor which seemed not too happy to draw the game. And they got their winning goal in the end when Smaug scored again, this time from a great freeing pass from Nazgul #7 and tailing it to the back of the net giving Denethor in the goal no say on it.

For the last ten minutes Minas Tirith gave all they had to even the game and were actually able to produce a few good chances, but they were in the end denied by Beorn. When the final whistle was blown neither team looked happy: Minas Tirith had looked for a draw and Erebor for a definitive victory.

General notion:
The game proved that Erebor has a lot to improve for the tougher matches and Minas Tirith needs some support from the heavens if they wish to qualify this year from their group.

Erebor 2-1 Minas Tirith
on target 6-6
tot shots 14-14
GOALS:
*31, 0-1 Mardil (Eomer)
*57, 1-1 Smaug (Bolg)
*79, 2-1 Smaug (Nazgul#7)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Erebor- Bolg, Brand
*MTirith- Tarandor, Firefoot

~*~

Dwarves United vs. Wilderland

Dwarves United dropped Wilderland from the qualification last season in the last round of the group-phase by beating them 2-1. And that happened after Wilderland had beaten them 4-1 in the friendlies – and even beaten the afterwards honoured Erebor 2-1 (losing them with the same numbers in the actual group-game).

In popular memories Wilderland seem to be the real heroes of the last season who just failed miserably or ununderstandably as they should have gone far in the tournament. But looking behind the numbers – and especially to the ones played in the real tournament itself and not just in the friendlies – shows that there is a lot of beating around the bush with team Wilderland.

They were a good team (unlike fex. Minas Tirith) and they played some really entertaining as well as effective football the last season, but in a tight place they were just not able to deliver – and to be fair, there was no way they would have earned their place in the top eight anyway. The question then becomes, how could they deliver this year when they have lost lost something like 60% of their scoring-power? Now Thranduil is a nice steal and a Nazgul is always helpful in offence, but really: losing players like Elwë (2+4/2+1), Galadriel (1+2/2+3) and Oromë (0+1/4+2) is hard to make good, especially when you are cutting your budget down by some 10 million.

Today’s numbers kind of underline the aforementioned fact: while Smaug scores twice with a familiar support for Erebor Scatha scores none for Wilderland.

Now Dwarves United played eight games last year and scored a total of four goals – of which Celebrimbor scored three – from defensive position! What they have done since last season is replacing the sadly performed Thorin and Thror who only picked yellow cards from their midfield with the more or less insignificant Fili and Kili whose only merit is that they will play for the team with half the price.

But like last year, it seems they are counting only on defence. Otherwise it would have been simple they’d hired a scorer for their team – like we heard from NogWolf’s/Wight's negotiations earlier; he could have been just the key to trigger their scoring-problem (although there is also some discussion about the racism of the dwarves – that even with a name they would otherwise cope with, him being a creature of the Barrow-Downs would have been just too much for the fans, and some players, to stomach).

And along those lines they have made one reasonably big trade and bought Galadriel (w*f!) to keep their goal clean. That must be one of the major news of this seasons’ trades indeed! For a lock of her hair she made Gimli her fan forever… now was there something in Gimli that made her a fan of his or dwarves in general as well? She’s payed decently to be sure, but still.

So don’t look forwards for Dwarves United to score heavily – but do anticipate rough times for anyone facing them to score against them.

The game: a synopsis

There is little to tell your grandchildren about this game. Dwarves United was defending as well one could imagine, keeping Wilderland attacks at bay for most of the time and forcing them to shoot from afar and from bad positions the rest of it. Add to that the problems of Wildrerland offence and you get the picture of the first half of the game.

From the start of the second half Wilderland really went for a pressure-mode and Scatha had a few decent chances of scoring but was never getting the backing-up needed or was denied by either the Aulë-led defence or Galadriel at the goal.

Celebrimbor got one boomig shot towards the goal at the latter part of the second half but the Great Warg was a warg in his place and glued the ball into his paws. After the final whistle the Wilderland players looked somewhat disappointed but no one could read the faces of the dwarves covered by the beards.

General notion:
Dwarves United looks dangerously tight team on defence once again, but facing the kind of offencive powerhouses they do this year it would be madness to bet on behalf of their qualification. Wilderland in turn doesn’t seem to have any more rosier future ahead of them than last year.

Dwarves United 0-0 Wilderland
on target 3-3
tot shots 8-12
GOALS:
*
YELLOW CARDS:
*DwUnt- Fili, Azaghal
*Wilder- Oropher, Imin

~*~

Anduin vs. Eriador

Anduin was probably one of the best teams to have lost their group last season (Tirion and Valimar being the obvious ones to precede them in quality) and for this year they have actually been strengthened thanks to the willingness of different investment houses to keep their money, and even add something to it, with team Anduin – and it seems quite clear they have what it takes to qualify from their group this year – but will they be able to keep on after that?

Eriador on the other hand has also being able to put in more money – but have they strengthened by that as a team remains to be seen. On paper the team looks tougher than ever, but there is a big questionmark there, both on offence and defence.

Now Anduin has made two great purchases for this year: Felarof for defence and Eorl for offence. Looking at that one could say that it was a great deed to not let the last year’s silver medalists to score but one goal – and that they didn’t score against one of the toughest defences and arguably the best goalkeeper aronud is basically not a fault of them either.

But somehow – and this is the writer’s gut feeling only – the result looks more like telling about the possible problems on the Eriador-side. Somehow putting Arwen and Aragorn into defence with big salaries doesn’t convince – especially when they break the tried and well-worked defence-quartet from last year. The new defence costs eight million more but is it that much better – or is it even as good?

Another issue is changing the always sure to score Witch King in offence into Isildur who has basically flopped in every team he has played thus far. Eriador didn’t go that far in the tournament last year just outscoring their opponents either, but they had the players to score when it was needed. This year they still have Arveleg and Glorfindel, but will it be enough?

Which brings us to the third issue: NogWight. No one denies he’s a strong player, an intelligent passer and a good scorer – as a werewolf. In this game we got the other side of him. As a Wight he’s being just too slow, too soft, too late and then too frustrated to only pick a card for his efforts. It may be Eriador will be missing Arahael as the season progresses.

The game: a synopsis

Both teams approach the game from defence on and it could be seen in the game. In the early minutes of the game both teams did try to make some shots every once in a while but the defences were pretty efficient in forcing them wide or plain denying them.

Neither team seemed to put their full effort into the game in the beginning of the first half, but before the half-time the game started to be at least somewhat entertaining when especially Grimbeorn and Glorfindel showed off some of their talent supported by Eorl and Arveleg respectively.

Eriador came to the second half a lot more sharply and it was actually no surprise Glorfindel scored just two minutes into the half with a great personal performance, from a nice pass by the newbie Arador though. After the goal the game got something of a live kick and the rest was more or less good football – even if it produced only a few scoring chances and no more goals. Both teams had one decent chace to score during the last half an hour. Grimbeorn hit the crossbar with a volley from the edge of the box twenty minutes before the end, whilst Arveleg slided the ball just inches away from the post in the end of a fast break initiated by Araphant.

Neither team celebrated the result but seemed generally happy about it.

General notion:
Neither team shone but showed some of their qualities. Counting on this game only one coul bet they will be hard to beat for most teams in the actual tournament.

Anduin 0-1 Eriador
on target 2-4
tot shots 9-12
GOALS:
*47, 0-1 Glorfindel (Arador)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Lenwe
*Eriador- Aragorn, NogWight

Boromir88

06-12-2013, 10:05 PM

The friendlies are finally underway and the final slate of Round 1 games brought quality entertainment, a couple eye-opening performances, and a few major disappointments.
----

Hands down the lousiest performance of Round 1 is awarded to Doriath. They might as well have just stayed in the locker-room and saved themselves from the embarrassment.

Easily this was the most precise I've ever seen Tol In Gaurhoth play in the early goings. Habitually slow starters who can't be bothered to play inspired during a meaningless friendly, it was not the story for Tol In Gaurhoth today. And often trusting to individual athleticism and sheer intimidation to make up for careless and sloppy tactics, the wolves and wights looked like a team that had been playing together for ages. The mid-fielders were sharp and dominated that game with a combined 1 goal and 3 assists contribution from phantomwolf and the wights Sally and Nerwen.

Doriath can't give up on the season just yet, it's hard to imagine they can look any worse. So, get the crummiest game out of the way early. The wolves seemed just like a terrible match up for this Doriath roster. The wolves stacked up several yellow cards, as they were playing brutally aggressive all game. Only Mablung and Melian are probably equipped to handle the monstrous beasts and they weren't nearly enough when the rest of the team was flat out afraid. But you can't help to get the sense Doriath is desperately missing the likes of Beleg, Beren, and Luthien as they would not have been as easy to intimidate.

Doriath 0-3 Tol In Gaurhoth
on target 1-6
tot shots 6-16
GOALS:
*22, 0-1 PhantomWolf (SallyWight)
*29, 0-2 Thuringwethil (PhantomWolf)
*41, 0-3 InzilWolf (NerWight)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Nellas
*TIG- Drauglin, BoroWolf, SallyWight, PhantomWolf

---

Now we go to perhaps one of the lousiest games of Round 1. Where some other low-scoring contests showcased good defense and goal saving, this was more giving no confidence that they can advance in the tournament.

Barad-dur's defense looks improved from last year, but given the fact their offensive weapons are the same as last year, they should have been more intune with eachother to put up a goal against Arnor. Yet they weren't and this fact does not bode well.

Arnor 0-0 Barad-Dur
on target 3-3
tot shots 9-10
GOALS:
*
YELLOW CARDS:
*Arnor- Argeleb, Earendur, Malvegil
*BDur- Fellbeast#2, Castamir, Herumor

----

Especially considering one of Barad-dur's group opponents is Gondor. And the Gondorian side looked as solid as ever against (albeit) lowly Mordor. With Gondor's roster shake-up there were justified questions about if Gondor could repeat or improve from the last tournament.

This match was textbook to the way Gondor likes to play. A tactically sound mid-field that opponents get worn down trying to break down, or build up nice attacks. And once the Gondorian mid-fielders are able to work up field to proven finishers Eldacar and Anarion, it is game over. If Gondor sticks to the gameplay they know best, they will be a tough out in Group D.

Gondor 3-1 Mordor
on target 8-3
tot shots 19-8
GOALS:
*22, 1-0 Anarion (Meneldil)
*41, 2-0 Romendacil (Eldacar)
*59, 2-1 Mouth (Nazgul#2)
*80, 3-1 Eldacar (Romendacil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Eldarion, Meneldil
*Mordor- Gothmog II, Gorbag, Shelob

One of the highlight matches of Round 1 friendlies was Angband vs. Hithlum and it sure did not disappoint. Both sides really went for the attack and the defenses were tested early and often. The defenses and goal keepers did well just limitting the match to 4 combined goals.

In particular, Hithlum's money spent on the Balrog defender seems to be money well spent as its imposing form has stabilized Hithlum's horrid defense from a year ago. Morwen and Hador were the goal-scorers for Hithlum, which also is bright news because we already know the devastation Turin, Beleg, and Hurin can cause playing together.

Angband did get a worthy equalizer in the end, but we're used to Morgoth's teams playing rather comfortably in the friendlies. That is, Morgoth prefers to be the grand architect and let his pawns prove their quality. This time though, Morgoth was clearly angered by the scoreline and just to get a more desirable draw Morgoth had to take the matter upon himself by blasting in a late-goal past the helpless Huor.

Angband 2-2 Hithlum
on target 6-7
tot shots 14-15
GOALS:
*23, 1-0 Ancalagon (Uldor)
*56, 1-1 Morwen (Hurin)
*61, 1-2 Hador (Turin)
*82, 2-2 Morgoth (Oikeroi)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Ulfang, Morgoth, Ulwarth
*Hithlum- Balrog#5, Hurin, Morwen, Arroch, Galdor

the phantom

06-14-2013, 04:11 PM

The second and final round of friendlies offers one final chance for teams to tune up. There are some pretty pleasing matches on the platter, including...

Inter Beleriand vs Doriath- Beren and Luthien against Elwe and Melian- will it be fun and spirited, or a bit awkward?

Gondor vs Minas Tirith- Both of these teams are popular with the citizens of the southern realm. Some root for both, but some have a particular favorite. Who will have the bragging rights, and which fans will have to buy their fellows drinks?

The Sea vs FC Valinor- Ulmo and his Numenorean partners take on Yavanna and her Noldor partners. It's careful precision and stout defense versus unfettered quickness and skill- a reason for any football fan to watch.

Valimar vs Real Valinor- The defending champs take on the Elder King, aka Arien faces her old squad.

Angband vs Tirion- Morgoth and his team of evil versus King Finwe and his subjects, many of whom abandoned the blessed realm of old in order to claim vengeance on Morgoth for the slaying of Finwe.

Gondolin vs Hithlum- Hurin and Huor return to the hidden kingdom, where their son/nephew Tuor and his wife await. It's a recipe for a hard, clean game with great talent on display.

Armenelos vs AC Beleriand- The men of Numenor take on Feanor and friends- perpetual powers collide. Though the teams aren't identical to what they were, some are calling it a rematch of the Arda Cup final of four season ago.

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-17-2013, 10:08 AM

Elenrod: Today: While FC Valinor supporters cross the sea in Tol Eressëa’s mobile stadium, FC Valinor fail to cross the Sea—or rather, fail to complete their crosses. Elsewhere, AC Beleriand prove that four is greater than three as they put two goals up to Armenelos’s one. So much for that countdown. In Ard-galen, Gwindor puts up a repeat performance of the Nirnaeth, running past people in Anfauglith and reaching the goal way ahead of everyone else. And finally, in Doriath, Maedhros single-handedly saves Inter from embarrassment as Lúthien defies her father once more. All that and more in today’s Matchday. I’m your host, Elenrod, and joining us today is Beleriandic shield-maidens’ favourite pundit, Maikalomion.

Maika: Please don’t bring that up.

Elenrod: Hehe. Self-designated football historian Iorithil, from Quenta Noldorin Sport, is also here.

Iorithil: Hi, Elenrod. And I must say I’m not ‘self-designated’; I do have a diploma from the Unseen University.

Felagundion: I bet’s the diploma’s unseen, though.

Iorithil: There is that.

Elenrod: And that’s the voice of someone paying off damages, Felagundion the blogger.

Felagundion: $5 000 down, $59 995 000 to go, is it?

Elenrod: Somewhere thereabouts.

Felagundion: I’ll be stuck here for 231 years . . . Unless I get a raise.

Iorithil: Going back to ‘self-appointed’, shouldn’t Maika be called a self-appointed tactician, then?

Maika: I don’t call myself a tactician; everyone else does.

Elenrod: That settles that. So, before we start, Iorithil, I heard that you have a book out.

Iorithil: Yes, it’s Battles of Beleriand: Football in the First Age.

Elenrod: Tell us about it. I’m sure that’s the only reason you agreed to come to our show.

Iorithil: Haha. Well, basically, it traces the development of Beleriandic football from the establishment of Doriath to the War of Wrath. It also has my theory on why the current Beleriand team is split into the Inter and the AC side.

Elenrod: Fantastic stuff. But on to the games, eh? Let’s start with FC Valinor vs The Sea at the Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium.

The Sea 0-0 FC Valinor
on target 2-4
tot shots 8-11
GOALS:
*
YELLOW CARDS:
*SEA- Uinen, Salmar, Vëantur
*FCV- Elemmírë, Thorondor

Elenrod: Was nil-nil a good result for either team?

Maika: It definitely was for the Sea. They just kept it tight at the back, denied Celegorm and Curufin breathing room, checked the runs of Yavanna and Argon. Of course, FC Valinor would still get their shots, even against the best defences, but Hyarmendacil just kept it clean. He looks to be a great signing for Ulmo.

Iorithil: They basically played a desperate rearguard action, fitting for an underdog in a knockout stage, like what Minas Tirith did against Barad-dûr back in the Third Age, when the Black Tower were still considered a powerhouse. I don’t think Ulmo and his lads would have conceded even if they played into extra time. With that said, if I were a fan of the Sea, I’d feel a little worried that my team showed not a hint of ambition in a friendly against a contender. Erebor’s defenders last year were slightly worse, but Smaug and company still went for it—with bigger stakes, too.

Elenrod: A gamble which they won. Now let’s move on to that magnificent match at the Armenelos Stadium: the home team taking on AC Beleriand.

Armenelos 1-2 AC Beleriand
on target 3-6
tot shots 12-14
GOALS:
*40, 0-1 Eöl (Fëanor)
*63, 1-1 Elros (Tar-Ancalimon)
*74, 1-2 Aegnor (Angrod)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ARM- Ar-Gimilzôr, Tar-Míriel
*ACB- Rochallor, Ulrad

Elenrod: This was promoted as the battle between the cream of the First and the Second Age. Well, whoever the marketers were, they got their numbers a little bit mixed up.

Felagundion: The usual suspects for AC Bel on the scoresheet, I see.

Maika: Yeah, they just tore Armenelos’s defence apart with intelligent movement. Fingolfin and the Balrog kept the wingbacks occupied, and Angrod, Eöl, and Aegnor pushed high up against the Númenórean back three. Then Fëanor just popped up out of nowhere and took Aegnor’s back-heel pass, forcing the defence to reorient and giving Eöl space to receive Fëanor’s pass and smash one past Tar-Atanamir.

Iorithil: The midfielders Ar-Gimilzôr and Tar-Míriel weren’t able to keep up with Fëanor. They had to stop him twice illegally. It was basically four-on-three every time AC Bel went for an attack, and their extra player happened to be one of the best strikers in Arda.

Elenrod: But eighteen minutes into the second half, Armenelos get their equaliser against a team who knew how to kill the game by keeping possession.

Iorithil: Well, basically, the Númenóreans are quicker, stronger, have more stamina than, say Shire-Bree players. They kept pressing the AC Beleriand midfield; Elros was especially effective in harrying Ulrad, who wasn’t entirely comfortable in his deeper role.

Maika: To be fair, neither he nor Denethor are still settled in their double pivot role behind the four attackers. At least they’ve started forming some division of labour—Ulrad was the one who moved forward more to link up defence and attack, while Denethor was more comfortable holding position in front of the centre-backs. But it was a coverage mix-up that led to Armenelos’s goal. Fëanor was shadowing Ar-Gimilzôr, while Denethor and Ulrad took turns marking Tar-Míriel while the other one kept an eye on Elros. But when the last Queen charged forward in possession, both of them moved up to stop her, leaving space behind for Elros to charge into. Tar-Míriel played a short lateral pass to Tar-Ancalimon who was already picking up speed. He ran past Fingolfin and crossed for the unmarked Elros, who just poked it in past Marach.

Felagundion: Then, predictably, Armenelos still haven’t solved the problem of being outnumbered at the back, and Aegnor and Angrod play a pretty one-two—well, more like a one-two-three—to retake the lead.

Elenrod: Remarkable. Okay, moving along, let’s cover the events at Ard-galen Arena, where Anfauglith hosted Nargothrond.

Anfauglith 1-2 Nargothrond
on target 4-6
tot shots 10-16
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Gwindor (Finrod)
*39, 0-2 Gwindor (Nienor)
*66, 1-2 Gothmog (Rían)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ANF- Gelmir, Haldir, Balrog #2
*NGR- Barahir, Arminas

Felagundion: Adam discussed Haleth of Inter last time, but I think the best winger right now is Gwindor. He prefers to start on the right, but he’s genuinely two-footed; he can cross or finish with either foot. He can make byline runs, inside cuts, off-ball direct runs, anything. And he’s burned every left-back he met.

Iorithil: What about Beleg and Lúthien? I think Beleg’s slightly better than him, though he’s not as ambidextrous, and Gwindor’s slightly better than Lúthien going forward, but, basically, those three are in that highest tier.

Maika: Míriel and Nerdanel are both inside forwards, not wingers, so they don’t count. Thranduil, Khamûl, and Argon aren’t as all-round on attack as those three. Of course, the latter two are better defensively than Gwindor.

Elenrod: Well, Gwindor’s ‘defence’, as I put in air quotes, is more about making sure the full-back has no breath to spare going forward, so winded is he chasing the wily Noldo around.

Felagundion: Haha, that’s it.

Maika: Well, if Nargothrond have one of the best wingers, they also have one of the worst holding midfielders I’ve ever seen. I’ve given Salgant of Gondolin a lot of stick, but at least he can run and poke the ball out of people’s feet. But Bëor . . . when Nargothrond tried to defend their lead with half an hour to go, Rían just skipped past Bëor to feed Gothmog. He just couldn’t catch up to her.

Felagundion: It’s generally a bad idea for any Nargothrond squad to defend a lead, despite the slightly improved defence this year. It’s just in our kingdom’s philosophy. I mean, we build a hidden city, but instead of just staying there, both of our rulers wanted to go out and play with visitors.

Elenrod: Just an inexplicable state of affairs. Anyway, we finally move on to Inter Beleriand-Doriath at the Menegroth Stadium.

Inter Beleriand 1-0 Doriath
on target 5-3
tot shots 14-10
GOALS:
*72, 1-0 Maedhros
YELLOW CARDS:
*INB- Hunthor, Haleth, Baragund, Gorlim
*DOR- Galadhon, Elwë, Galathil

Elenrod: This was a far less exciting match than the previous Inter match, or indeed the time they met in a friendly last year, where Lúthien and Maedhros both scored a brace.

Maika: Doriath had more of the ball, mainly because they had more midfielders, but they had no idea what to do with it. Speaking of Beleg and Lúthien, I’m sure Melian sorely miss them. Only Mablung, Thingol, and Daeron offered anything going forward.

Iorithil: Basically, Inter were more purposeful in possession than Doriath. With Beren, Haleth, and Lúthien, they had ways to get the ball up quickly to their forwards. They won more corners and free kicks from dangerous areas.

Elenrod: And it was one of those free kicks that Maedhros converted for the game’s only goal.

Felagundion: There was some simmering tension between some of the players—remember the incident between Saeros and Beren last year? But they managed to keep it clean—most of the bookings were from fouls to stop counter-attacks, just impedance of play and not attempts to injure other players. In the seventy-first minute, off a Doriath corner, Haldad makes a long clearance and Beren takes the ball forward. Galathil was the last defender between him and Dior because Melian was in the Inter box when corner was taken. It was nothing nasty; he just tugged on his shirt, but it was a yellow card and a free kick.

Maika: Maedhros takes that thirty-yard free kick beautifully—it barely goes over the top of the wall, and just barely slips under the crossbar. Dior couldn't get to it because he’d bump his head otherwise.

Elenrod: Magnificent stuff. Now, before we go, I’ve read some scandalous, almost libellous, remarks from a certain print journalist covering the Arda Cup, labelling us a bunch of ‘entertainers’.

Felagundion: That is libellous. I don’t think we’re entertaining enough to be called entertainers.

Elenrod: That’s true. But c’mon, lay off the jealousy. I know that, despite last year being our first year covering the Arda Cup, we almost got more predictions correct than the rest of our fellow broadcasters combined. I mean, sure, it’s hard employing a controversial journalist who won’t shut up, who has to be constantly warned to watch his language, and who probably wouldn’t otherwise get a job anywhere else, but we have one, too, in Adam Smith. Who’s not an economist.

Felagundion: Maybe AK[[[censored: Matchday director]]] wish that, instead of the real experts they have, they can get self-appointed tacticians and football historians like we do. It’s always much more fun to play pretend. Well, if they offer to cover my damages, I can pretend to be one for them. I can even write an article about the history of the hurry-up defence.

Iorithil: It’s ‘hurry-up offense’, mate. And wrong football.

Felagundion: He even knows his gridiron. Somebody give this Elf a medal.

Elenrod: Haha, indeed. And with that, we’ve come to end of our program. Many thanks once again to Maika, to Felagundion, and it was a pleasure having you with us, Iorithil.

Iorithil: Likewise. I hope I can get invited again

Elenrod: I sure hope so, too. Have a great week, everyone. Bye ‘til then.

the phantom

06-17-2013, 06:20 PM

Shire-Bree hosted Anduin in the always-comfortable Michel Delving, and the two fought their way to a well-earned draw.

Gandalf gave Anduin fits most of the game, but they did well enough on everyone else that he wasn't able to make them pay until 10 minutes left- to the delight of the home-crowd. At the other end of the field Anduin got their goal in the first half- a long-range boomer by Boromir.

Each side got in a few shots at the keeper, but frankly most of them weren't quality. It wasn't the fault of the offenses, but rather the Ds were just on their game. The Nazgul did a nice job marking Eorl, and Gildor & Shadowfax were solid. Grimbeorn was able to come free often, but only going away from the goal, and if he turned his run was always blocked by the girth of the Fellbeast.

Oddly enough Bandobras nearly got into a fight with Felarof (at least we assume- the horse looked like it wanted to kick him). The refs might've sent them off, but went with yellows and stern warnings so as to preserve the full sides thus allowing it to truly be a warm-up game.

Looking back at the tape it appears Bandobras kept ducking beneath Felarof and then grabbing his two front legs and essentially hitching a ride wherever the horse was heading (usually towards the action), and as fast as Felarof is we can see the advantage. Felarof of course took issue with this, but the refs never seemed to spot it.

Anduin 1-1 Shire-Bree United
on target 6-5
tot shots 14-14
GOALS:
*37, 1-0 Haldir (Boromir)
*80, 1-1 Gandalf (Ferny)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Leod, Felarof
*SBUnt- Bandobras, Fellbeast#5

These two met at nearby neutral-site Bree, and the folks there were treated to a fine display by Elrond and his defense. Asfaloth and Arwen were both tasked with Bombadil and Bombadil alone, and the rest of the team filled in the field around them. Using this strategy and then building attacks slowly and carefully suited them just fine, and they looked sharp.

NogWight had an early assist, so perhaps he'll fit there well, and really the BDowns had no answer for Glorfindel. On the bright side Alien had a couple of excellent saves, so perhaps the keeper position is better for him, as he's kept more on-task there and is less likely to pull pranks and get carded.

Finally the Barrow-Downs did figure out how to muster a bit of offense in the second half and earned a couple shots for defenders coming up in support, but that left them wide-open for the counter that Isildur converted at minute 55, and after that they seemed to just want to get the game over with.

An impressive start for last year's runner-up.

Eriador 3-0 The Barrow-Downs
on target 8-3
tot shots 16-9
GOALS:
*14, 1-0 Glorfindel (NogWight)
*32, 2-0 Arveleg (Isildur)
*55, 3-0 Isildur (Glorfindel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eriador- NogWight
*BDowns- Lumpkin, Barrow-Wight

Following that contest Arnor and Imladris took the field, and this one was definitely more competitive. It was very good-natured and very clean, but they were definitely giving it effort. Arnor for the most part controlled the pace of things and held possession the longest, but Imladris looked the most flashing, with Lindir working with the Sons of Elrond quite well. Arnor always seemed to stem the tide just long enough to receive some help from the defenders catching up to the play.

Finally in the second half they were caught just a bit too much off guard, except Malbeth, but he couldn't handle Elladan and Lindir both and Imladris had the lead. But 20 minutes later Arnor's constant pressure finally paid dividends and the Witch King put in the equalizer. A surprising number of folks actually cheered for him. Though he once worsted much of the region, his cooperation with Eriador last year seems to have earned him some goodwill.

Arnor 1-1 Imladris
on target 5-3
tot shots 13-12
GOALS:
*57, 0-1 Elladan (Lindir)
*77, 1-1 Witch King (Arassuil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Arnor- Valandur
*Imlad-

These two played at a stadium in Westfold (the same used by BSK Westfold of the Central League), and though it was officially neutral naturally Rohan dominated the crowd.

But the Dwarves didn't care, and just put on an absolute clinic of suffocating defense. At the offensive end Gamil Zirak and Telchar showed their mastery of the dribble, while Fili, Kili, and Celebrimbor were called upon to support them and facilitate side-switches when Rohan started getting too heavy around one of the craftsdwarves.

Shortly before the end of the 1st half one such side-switch caught Hama and Snowmane up too far and too far right and Celebrimbor led Gimli right into the box with a pintpoint pass and he one-touched it across to Telchar, wrong-footing the frantically recovering defense, and Telchar deftly lifted it to the top corner for the game-winner.

Dwarves United 1-0 Rohan
on target 4-2
tot shots 12-9
GOALS:
*41, 1-0 Telchar (Gimli)
YELLOW CARDS:
*DwUnt- Kili
*Rohan- Brytta, Hama

Nogrod

06-18-2013, 12:16 PM

With the actual tournament quickly approaching the teams have had to take every opportunity given to them to glue their teams and tactics together. With such a short time to build up a team in rehersal-fields the friendlies are worth gold to the them allowing teams to see how they play in conditions resembling the competitive matches. And the AFA has clearly been cunning in building up the pairs meeting each other in the friendlies; not only giving the audiences some outright classics to enjoy but also making sure the teams get to play challenging match-ups.

With only two rounds of friendlies this year the results from this second round will then be all the teams as well as Phantasy Game –players have in their hands before it is time to delve into the tournament itself. With the Phantasy players in mind the AKM will make a few general notes on the teams’ we are reporting on this round – and will then provide a fuller analysis of the different groups as a whole before the games really begin.

But now it is time once again to give the electric pen to our Arda Cup chief-correspondent Ugr Nogrendale.

~*~

Valimar vs. Real Valinor

Even if the game between Gondolin and Hithlum is a classic in many senses it must be said that this match must be the queen of the round. The always oddly underperforming team led by Manwë against last year’s champions – and of course Arien the Bright meeting her sisters in glory on the opposing side. And most players in the field out-age the whole of the Middle-Earth. It would be a clash of some venerable spirits of old among whom the Vanyar and Noldor themselves can be considered as the inexperienced youngsters.

Valimar lost to the Sea on the first friendly 0-1 – last year they draw 1-1 in the group-phase in the most even (and deadliest) group there was (which The Sea went to win in the end leaving Valimar the last). No one can deny that Ulmo’s team is a worthy one, one of the very best indeed, only being knocked out of the tournament last year by the champions Real Valinor. And they haven’t exactly weakened since last season.

But what worries anyone following Valimar’s efforts is exactly the effort they seem to need to make for scoring even once in a game. They have always defended well and kept the scores low with any opponent but scoring… the scoring.

It has been widely rumoured that Manwë’s teams only draw with “goodie-teams”, or win with one goal difference the highest, but then they are a bit more tougher against teams of baddies. It may be Manwë has his own ways – or with his closest Mandos he interprets the visions of Ilúvatar also in the football field?

Now buying Arien to his team Manwë looks like he would have been serious in trying to hire some scoring-power into his team. But with them scoring zero on the first friendly, one needs also to take into account a possibility that he just interpreted Ilúvatar’s vision in a way that Real Valinor must be weakened…

As we speculated about things with Real Valinor already in our earlier summary and match report we will not go into any more speculation on them here.

The game: a synopsis

Well it was a butchery. Real owned the field from the very beginning and rolled their attacks as they wished. Nerdanel scored already on the 11th minute and assisted Tilion again after half an hour’s mark for a two to nil goal. After getting a two-goal lead Real pulled back somewhat giving Valimar some chances of counterplay but the numbers didn’t change from there even if the “High King of all the Elves” Ingwë and Lórien made some nice shots in the end of the first period.

Valimar showed some stamina in the beginning of the second half and periodically got Real Valinor into trouble. And twelve minutes into the second half Arien finally scored for her new team from a nice releasing pass by Lórien. An interesting little scene was then wittnessed by a full stadium as Miriel, Nerdanel and Nessa all came to hug their former comrade after Valimar players had congratulated her enough for the goal. It was clearly an emotional moment for all the four and the crowds cheered, quite a many with tears in their eyes.

But Valimar’s drive was also over by that goal as Real Valinor tightened their game and started to take the initiative once again. And Miriel’s beautiful 3-1 goal from just under Manwë’s nose sealed the game fifteen minutes before the end. There was no way Valimar would come even and both teams knew it – so they kicked the ball around the last minutes to avoid any injuries or unnecessary fatigue.

General notions:
Real Valinor continues their strong performances and will most definitively qualify from their group unless miracles happen – and only the Sea would seriously put their going forward into the quarterfinals in question. Don’t read us wrong here: both Tirion and Nargothrond seem to be in top shape this year and it will not be easy for Real to beat them – but easy or not, in the end they should win.

Valimar in turn has some soul-searching to do (unless Manwë and Mandos have already decided everything). Both Armenelos and The Havens are tough teams and it is not at all clear Valimar will qualify – unless of course Arien finds her game, which in turn depends a lot on if there is anyone to feed her in the offence.

Valimar 1-3 Real Valinor
on target 6-8
tot shots 14-18
GOALS:
*11, 0-1 Nerdanel (Miriel)
*35, 0-2 Tilion (Nerdanel)
*57, 1-2 Arien (Irmo)
*75, 1-3 Miriel (Nessa)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Valimar- Irmo
*RealV- Nahar, Quennar

Gondolin vs. Hithlum

The comeback to Gondolin by Húrin and Húor surely was rousing great interest in the hidden city – as well as the company in which they arrived. Many shivered with the comeback of yet another creature, a huge balrog, but the fear was soon overcome by excitement when such great names as Hador, Túrin or Beleg also marched into the city. And there was even the interesting meeting of the namesakes when Galdor of the House of the Tree welcomed Galdor the lord of Dor-lómin into the town.

We have discussed the general news about Hithlum in our earlier article concerning group C so we’ll only comment here shortly on their fist game.

So they drew 2-2 with Angband which is always a great performance, for any team. It is clear the house of Húrin has quite a many grudges with Melkor and would have seriously wished to win the game – and one could read the disappointment from their faces after the final whistle. But there were positive news from that game as it showed their midfield can score if and when the father and son are under special guard by a strong defence (Morgoth naturally guarded Húrin and the Balrog Túrin).

Now Gondolin hasn’t reached its former glory in the Arda Cup in years. They have been good every year but just lacking the last inch of effort or luck to prevail. Last year they ended up playing their first qualifying game against AC Beleriand which ended their story there.

This it year it will be no easier as they will meet both AC and Inter Beleriand already in the group phase – and even if Dwarves United most probably will not qualify – their panzer-defence will make any team sweat for their goals, and may possibly have an impact to the general results if they manage to force some of the other teams into a low-scoring draw.

Now Gondolin has in a sense strengthened from last year: they’ve lost Gothmog but gotten in his stead a tough pair of Tuor and Idril to aid Maeglin in offence. Especially Tuor was convincing last year playing for The Havens – but one needs to remember Idril had a good season at FC Valinor as well. Penlod in turn brings firmness, stamina and air-playing power to the defence of the team.

That said, they lost their first friendly against Tiron in no uncertain terms 0-2, which proved that at least their game isn’t ready yet. Whether there are some more serious problem in the team or it’s tactics will be seen later. Starting this evening.

The game: a synopsis

To the disappointment of the homecrowds Hithlum took the control of the game from the start and left Gondolin doing more or less the thing they were famous about aka. defending their own. But with the constantly raining shots and chances it was almost inevitable the defence would fall at one point or another. And at 25 minutes Beleg scored from a nice through-pass from Túrin.

With the goal Hithlum’s greatest urge and energy seemed to settle a bit and Gondolin managed to do some nice counterplay. But they never got nearer the goal than Idril hitting the post some ten minutes before the halftime.

But Gondolin came to the second half with high spirits and full of determination – and it took Maeglin less than five minutes to equalise. And even better was on it’s way for the homeside fans. A fair ten minutes later Tuor himself sent the crowds into exstacy by giving Gondolin the lead with a power-header from between the brothers Galdor and Gundor trying to deny him.

But if someone thought the game was over, then that one was wrong. Hithlum added the revvs in their engine and started pounding Gondolin defences with a newly found rigor. And it was Hador Lórindol who finally equalised the game from a smart chip from his grand-grandchild Túrin.

Both teams were keen to win the game and the crowds could enjoy (and fear) for all their money’s worth to the very end of the game. And it was a game of some stunning football with two great teams playing for a great audience.

General notions:
Everyone looks forwards to Hithlum to perform miracles – and the huge pile of money they have invested weighs ever more heavily over their shoulders unless they start to produce those results. Two draws most certainly are not “results” in that sense, even if played against quality-sides like Angband and Gondolin.

Every football fan would like to see Gondolin coming back to the center of the footballing world and before the season it has seem like they would be doing just that. And even if a word of caution is always needed, the draw with Hithlum is a great result. The team they need to beat though will be Inter Beleriand.

Gondolin 2-2 Hithlum
on target 6-8
tot shots 14-18
GOALS:
*25, 0-1 Beleg (Turin)
*49, 1-1 Maeglin (Duilin)
*62, 2-1 Tuor (Idril)
*76, 2-2 Hador (Turin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondol- Egalmoth, Galdor
*Hithlum- Gundor, Balrog#5

Erebor vs. Mordor

Mordor is outing a 51 million team to the field this season – which means that even if they are left into the group stage the investors will make a neat 9 million profit (of which Sauron will personally collect around 4 million to himself). What more do you need to know to see that this is a forsaken team? Well, you might get one confirmation from the fact that they lost to Gondor 1-3. Kind of tells the rest.

Like we have reported earlier, Erebor faces an upward struggle to make anew their last year’s success as Thranduil was a key part of their offence and Gwaihir the leader of their defence. Winning Minas Tirith only 2-1 in the first round of the friendlies shows just how much weaker Erebor looks like to be this season. So unless they beat the pathetic Mordor by a convincing numbers it might forebode a bye-bye to them this year. And the irony of course lies in the fact that Thranduil plays for Wilderland and Gwaihir for Misty Mountains – both teams that are in the same group with Erebor…

But the AKM has discussed Erebor enough already earlier, so a few words on Mordor are in order.

Firstly it needs to be noted that they totally rebuilt their defence from last year (no wonder, though). They have sold Fellbeast #1 and Grishnak and moved the two lesser Nazgûls into the midfield. In their stead they have hired two lesser Fellbeasts, a Mumâkil and Gothmog the orc. It doesn’t look like a good deal – but it is a lot cheaper one. On the offencive midfield they have lost both their Nazgûls (especially #4 - scoring 2+1 in three games – will be missed this year). On the positive side they have gotten the Mouth in, who actually scored their only goal against Gondor in the first friendly game.

So Shelob and the Silent Watcher with Gorbag and Shagrat added with a few Nazgûls seem to form the core of the team. None of them flashing or special. Probably only Shelob or the new acquisition Mouth would fit any other team other than as a a last minute cheap fill-in.

All that said the homecrowds at Erebor were bloodthirsty. There was little love shared between the teams.

The game: a synopsis

It was a game of strong feelings but not so strong performances – and it was actually quite surprising only six yellow cards were dealt in the game by the easterling referees. An elven referee would have probably tripled the amount of cards. Like with the odd episode when Bard ran to defend Smaug from the foul tackling by the Fellbeasts! (Just go figure that!) And even if it ended up in a five minutes of pushing around in the field by about half of the players from both teams, no one got carded…

The game itself wasn’t anything to be remembered. Mordor defended way better Erebor had expected and Erebor-players seemed to be so surprised by that they never seemed to get over it. On the other end The Mouth and Shelob were dangerous everytime they got the chances – but with still two eagles keeping their home clean Erebor didn’t give them too many of them.

Especially Bard and Nazgûl #7 were the prodigal sons of the game wasting half a dozen great chances with shots either to the woodworks or just off the goal. Happily – from Erebor’s supporters’ POV – Smaug got up to play just enough to score in the early second half.

Smaug the Golden – like most of the dragons – are great players when they are going for it, but like Bombadill they can be kind of unpredictable, like whether they are interested or not.

Mordor-players seemed to be happy to lose only with one goal but Erebor’s players seemed a lot less happy about the result.

General notions:
In their group Erebor meets a lot tougher teams than Mordor – or Minas Tirith to that matter. They have won both their friendly games but there is no reason for complacency. They need to play better, a lot better, in the group phase to qualify – and they know it.

Even if the other teams in group H are no cup-winners either, Mordor will have a tough ride. But it must be said it played pretty well against Erebor and that must be taken as a good sign. How far that takes them is another matter altogether. For Mordor to qualify from their group would still be a miracle. Not to talk of any team from group H to be able to stand against the teams from group A for a minute.

Erebor 1-0 Mordor
on target 3-2
tot shots 12-9
GOALS:
*54, 1-0 Smaug (Bolg)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Erebor- Meneldor, Brand, Dain
*Mordor- Gorbag, Shagrat, Mumakil

Isengard vs. Wilderland

As one of the teams that do not look forwards into qualifying Isengard has also gotten into some cost-cutting measures, although their budget of 66 million is still going to mean losses to the investors if – and when – they do not qualify. Saruman’s pride needs to be the only explanation to that state of affairs. It seems Gandalf has been right all along and Saruman is a fool.

Isengard plays only “regional” friendlies this year. They lost to Rohan 1-2, which was a lesser than expected loss and for the second friendly they will meet their other neighbours Wilderland. The going should be a lot tougher this time.

As the AKM has noted earlier, Wilderland actually looks a bit sharper a team this year even if it has cut their costs with 10 million. But the problem is that thus far it has only looked sharper – they’d need also to perform sharper. Even if Dwarves United is one of the toughest-defending teams of the tournament it is unexcusable that they didn’t score a single goal against them.

The game: a synopsis

On the first half it looked like there was only one team in the field and Wilderland did more or less anything they wished – fex. two neat goals by Thranduil and Scatha. That was a great relief for all the Wilderland fans: the team still knew how to score.

Whether they were just happy with the scoreline or plain overconfident is debatable, but the start of the second half was almost a mirror-image of the first and Isengard really pressed the game into the Wilderland half of the field. And being under a sudden pressure Wilderland seemed to have no medicine for it but when getting the possession were forced to just kick the ball as far away from their goals as they could.

And Isengard’s pressure did indeed produce results when Quickbeam finally scored from a cunning heel-assist by Saruman a fair twnety minutes into the second half.

With a goal conceded the Wilderland team seemed to wake up from something like a charm spelled on them (by Saruman one asks) and were back in the game – but not anymore with the sovereignity they had on the first half.

Even if the rest of the second half was much more even than the first half, it is fair to say that Wilderland sure was nearer to extend their lead than Isengard was to draw the game. And when the referee blew the final whistle both teams retreated from the field very unhappy with their performance.

General notions:
There were positive things in Wilderland’s game, especially the fact that Thranduil was able to score in his new team, but they will have to be able to keep up the pace for a full ninety minutes in the group matches where they will meet a lot tougher teams.

Despite the AKM’s dissing it, Isengard has shown some promising signs and could challenge Rohan and Barad Dûr for the other place in the qualifiers. Stress on the words “could” and “challenge”.

Isengard 1-2 Wilderland
on target 5-7
tot shots 14-17
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Thranduil (Imin)
*39, 0-2 Scatha (Nazgul#3)
*67, 1-2 Quickbeam (Saruman)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Isen- Mauhur, Lurtz, Wulf
*Wilder- Iminye, Skinbark

Boromir88

06-19-2013, 12:58 PM

Four friendly matches remained before all the media experts and analysts come out offering predictions and guides for the tournament. The stage was set for Arda Cup 2013 as teams got in their final tune up before the big lights were turned on.

---

Some matches even had the feel of a tournament atmosphere, as was the case today between Angband and Tirion. There was little love between the players on these teams. It was a case where the end score doesn't really tell the full story.

Both offenses really went for the attack, as the action was often in the final thirds of the field and near each side's penalty box. But the defenses did a good job snuffing out passes and limitting quality shots, as most went harmlessly off target. The first half ended scoreless as the defenses were playing extremely rough with the opposing forwards. Caranthir was given a yellow for harsh tackle on Telvildo that sent the cat flying. And on the other end, while Morgoth kept his hands clean there was little doubt (in the minds of Tirion fans) that the harrassing and hacking Finwe was taking, was at Morgoth's command.

In the 2nd half, Tirion changed formations to a 4-5-1. In large part, probably fearing Morgoth had a sinister plot to severely injure Finwe just before the tournament. So Finwe dropped to the midfield, leaving Aredhel as the lone striker, but she was also a bit quicker and thus able to avoid Angband's defensive strategy of banging up Tirion's forwards.

This ended up working to Tirion's advantage as Aredhel got in close, after Caranthir led her into the box with a nice pass. Carcharoth decided too late to leave his line to snatch up the ball, and Aredhel had an easy task of sliding it passed the Angband-wolf.

But Angband had the tactics for another late game equalizer. Ancalagon and Morgoth were not easy foes to bang up and so they simply bullied their way through Caranthir and Tirion's defense to end the match 1-1.

Angband 1-1 Tirion
on target 3-4
tot shots 14-13
GOALS:
*59, 0-1 Aredhel (Caranthir)
*81, 1-1 Ancalagon (Morgoth)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Umuiyan, Uldor, Ulwarth
*Tirion- Amrod, Caranthir

----

After a lackluster first round friendly Barad-Dur came into this with a little more fire, or at least their offense looked more on the same page. It paid off in goals too as Sauron made his presense known assisting Beruthiel on the game opening goal, and then scoring the game winner in the 74th minute.

Misty Mountains showed some good offensive capability as well though and they even out shot Barad-Dur. The Blue Wizards had a difficult time suppressing Durin's Bane, Azog and Narvi. But Sauron seems to have made a wise move by dumping the Mumakil keeper from last year and replacing it with Grishnakh. The long-limbed orc has shown he can swat away shots that threaten his goal.

Barad-Dur 2-1 Misty Mts
on target 6-6
tot shots 14-17
GOALS:
*31, 1-0 Beruthiel (Sauron)
*52, 1-1 Azog (DBane)
*74, 2-1 Sauron (Castamir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*BDur- Pallando, Herumor, Fellbeast#1
*MMts- William, Watcher, Rumil, Caradhras

---

One of the games that truly seemed like a friendly as there is much brotherhood between the two teams on the field. That doesn't mean the crowd saw a boring game by any means. There were four good goals and they got to witness some promising idividuals shine. For Minas Tirith, Mardil scored both goals. This was not so surprising to the all-Gondorian crowd as the Good Steward has been scoring goals playing for his home city for years. More surprising was Meneldil for Gondor, who has always played as a defender or a defending midfielder. This year it seems Meneldil wants to have a larger role in the offense, or it could be Minas Tirith's defenders were too focused on halting the dangerous Eldacar and Anarion they were leaving too much space for Meneldil. But he made the most of that space.

Despite having more goals, the game just did not have the same feel as the Angband-Tirion game. Since those teams seriously did not like eachother, they had battled to the end and the tension never left. In this one, after Gondor brought the game level in 64th minute, both sides seemed to reach a gentlemen's agreement to pull back the offenses and knock the ball around until the final whistle, happy with the fair result and final work out before group rounds.

Gondor 2-2 Minas Tirith
on target 4-6
tot shots 14-13
GOALS:
*24, 0-1 Mardil (Tarandor)
*30, 1-1 Eldacar (Meneldil)
*38, 1-2 Mardil (Eomer)
*64, 2-2 Meneldil (Anarion)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Ciryandil
*MTirith- Earnur, Tarandor

----

After coming off a dominating 3-0 win over Doriath, the TIG faithful were more confident than ever, feeling they would devour yet another sissy Elven side, led by Olwe. I mean they made mincemeat of Elwe, and therefore believed Elwe's brother didn't stand a chance.

However, this Elven team also had some proud Numenorean defenders who were not going to be intimidated by this fearsome TIG team. Plus Olwe's teams have a pedigree of being technical masters in the passing game. If TIG was proud with how they controlled possession against Doriath, the Havens showed the wolves and wights what it truly meant to control the ball. The Havens had a string of 22 consecutive passes before Earendil finally hammered the ball in for a 1-0 lead.

The Havens would carry that lead to the half-time. The TIG fans were glad to only be down 1 goal (since it could have definitely been worse) but were perplexed to just how their team was going to be able to score when they couldn't hold posession long enough to even get a sniff at The Havens goal.

TIG was determined to equalise as quickly as possible and they got the goal when not even two full minutes elapsed in the 2nd. Thuringwethil batted in a close range shot off of LegateWight's cross. The Elven team was surprised at the speed and quickness this TIG side could score. But deserved or not, the game was tied.

The Havens went back to their quick passing game to try to reclaim the lead, but Shastawolf made some very nice saves to keep it tied. Spiritted on by Shastawolf's effort (and howling to tighten up) the defense-wolves did a better job shutting down the passing lanes and winning the ball.

Olwe's side was not backing down, but in this half The Havens was getting a good dose of their own medicine, as the TIG midfield began showing their own skill in the passing game. The Havens defenders had a difficult time winning the ball back and thus working it to their proven hammer upfront, Earendil. TIG came in one well calculated wave of attack after another, and finally got what would end up as the game-winner off the paws of Inzilwolf.

After TIG's 2nd half performance it was hard to argue with the result and the Elven side graciously accepted the defeat. In an unusual display of respect for the wolves, Cirdan approached the TIG bench to congratulate them. It appeared he went to scratch Nilpwolf behind the ears, but after the wolf stepped back, snarling, the Elf-lord decided a polite bow would be wiser.

The Havens 1-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
on target 5-6
tot shots 14-15
GOALS:
*31, 1-0 Earendil (Falastur)
*47, 1-1 Thuringwethil (LegateWight)
*69, 1-2 InzilWolf (NerWight)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Havens- Imrazor, ArZimrathan
*TIG- GaladriWight, NerWight, BoroWolf

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-19-2013, 11:12 PM

Power Rank:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/pr-friendly_zps28de67de.jpg~original

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 two rounds of friendly matches played by the teams, and does not reflect actual tournament performance.

Top Individual Performers:

GOALS + ASSISTS

3+0
Eärendil (The Havens)
Smaug (Erebor)
Mardil (Minas Tirith)

2+1
Maedhros (Inter Beleriand)
Gandalf (Shire-Bree United)
Eldacar (Gondor)
Glorfindel (Eriador)
Gwindor (Nargothrond)

2+0
Ar-Pharazôn (Armenelos)
Elros (Armenelos)
Aegnor (AC Beleriand)
Hador (Hithlum)
Tilion (Real Valinor)
Azog (Misty Mts)
Aredhel (Tirion)
Ancalagon (Angband)
Gothmog (Anfauglith)
Elladan (Imladris)
Thuringwethil (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
InzilWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

1+2
Meneldil (Gondor)
Nienor (Nargothrond)

1+1
Eöl (AC Beleriand)
Angrod (AC Beleriand)
Fingon (Inter Beleriand)
Nerdanel (Real Valinor)
Nessa (Real Valinor)
Sauron (Barad-dûr)
Rómendacil (Gondor)
Saruman (Isengard)
Isildur (Eriador)
Orophin (Misty Mts)
Morgoth (Angband)
PhantomWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

0+3
Túrin (Hithlum)

GOALKEEPING
6/6 (100.0%) – Hyarmendacil (The Sea)
5/5 (100.0%) – Elrond (Eriador)
5/5 (100.0%) – Galadriel (Dwarves United)
8/9 (88.89%) – Grishnákh (Barad-dûr)
7/8 (87.50%) – Beorn (Erebor)

YELLOW CARDS

2
Ar-Gimilzôr (Armenelos)
Ulrad (AC Beleriand)
Galdor (Gondolin)
Balrog #5 (Hithlum)
Nahar (Real Valinor)

Herumor (Barad-dûr)
Mauhur (Isengard)
Lurtz (Isengard)
Brand (Erebor)
NogWight (Eriador)

Great Goblin (Misty Mts)
William (Misty Mts)
Rúmil (Misty Mts)
Caradhras (Misty Mts)
Tarondor (Minas Tirith)

Arminas (Nargothrond)
Caranthir (Tirion)
Ulwarth (Angband)
Gelmir (Anfauglith)
Haldir (Anfauglith)

Balrog #2 (Anfauglith)
BoroWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Gorbag (Mordor)
Brytta (Rohan)

the phantom

06-20-2013, 02:16 PM

Handicapping the Groups
A MESPN Football Round Table Report

GROUP A

Armenelos (95)
GK Tar Atanamir (10)
DF Tar Calmacil (7)
DF Tar Palantir (7)
DF Tar Telperien (7)
MF Ar Gimilzor (7)
MF Tar Telemmaite (7)
MF Tar Miriel (7)
MF Tar Ancalimon (7)
MF *Elros (12)
FW Ar Adunakhor (12)
FW Ar Pharazon (12)

MESPN Take: Per usual, the squad from Numenor has no weakness to speak of. While their top talent is not as flashy as others, they’re tall, strong, fast, efficient, and intelligent. The only way the other teams in their group score well on them is if Bombadil, Earendil, or Arien have an epic game, which of course they are capable of. That means Armenelos must be prepared to put up 3 in one of their games if they want to win them all. Their front three are all capable of putting the ball in the net, but in particular the defense of Valimar won’t make it easy.

The Barrow-Downs (50)
GK Alien (2)
DF Lumpkin (2)
DF GwathWight (3)
DF River Woman (3)
DF Barrow-Wight (11)
MF WilWight (3)
MF Lalwende MP (3)
MF Goldberry (3)
MF Hookbill (6)
FW Saucepan Man (6)
FW *Bombadil (8)

MESPN Take: This team is nicely improved from previous years. River Woman and Goldberry have nice touch, and Bombadil is always a threat to beat any defense. BWight will lead the defense, but with some of the attackers featured in this group The Downs will likely need to score 2 to win or more likely draw. SPM and Hookbill have both shown promise, so they need to show up and work with Bombadil (who needs to show up consistently as well).

The Havens (79)
GK Amandil (6)
DF Annael (5)
DF Imrazor (5)
DF Ar Zimrathan (8)
DF Olwe (10)
MF Eriol (5)
MF Mithrellas (3)
MF Earwen (3)
MF Falastur (9)
MF Cirdan (10)
FW *Earendil (15)

MESPN Take: They advanced out of a tough group last year, so they certainly have a shot this year. Their defense is intelligent and solid, but they can’t be asked to entirely contain Arien or Bombadil. Earendil, Cirdan and friends must match goals at their end, and they’re athletic enough to do so in head-to-head matchups with the defenders in this group.

Valimar (102)
GK *Manwe (14)
DF Amarie (4)
DF Este (8)
DF Vana (8)
DF *Namo (14)
MF Elenwe (3)
MF Ilmare (8)
MF Vaire (8)
MF Irmo (9)
MF Ingwe (11)
FW *Arien (15)

MESPN Take: Most football publications will likely list Valimar as the slim favorites in Group A, thanks to a proven scorer arriving to balance out their defensive commitment. If Manwe can use Arien, Ingwe and Irmo intelligently without sacrificing their effective defense then they’ll be tough to beat, though Earendil and Bombadil may require too much attention to turn the offense loose.

The MESPN Forecast: Valimar perhaps has the greatest upside if they can get firing on all cylinders, but singular talents will test their back line, while their middle (Elenwe, Ilmare, Vaire) might get outdone by Armenelos. Armenelos is probably the most dependable squad- they never go down easily, so they might be the safest bet. The Havens gets edged out in overall pedigree most likely, but if they outplay the opposition by a bit, or teams don’t handle their attack with enough care, that could easily flip the scales. The Barrow-Downs remains the longest shot, but with a flashing performance by Bombadil it isn’t outside the realm of possibility that they’ll advance this year.

Armenelos- 70%
Valimar- 60%
Havens- 50%
Barrow-Downs- 20%

GROUP B

AC Beleriand (108)
GK Marach (9)
DF Imlach (4)
DF Rochallor (4)
DF Balrog #4 (12)
DF *Fingolfin (15)
MF Denethor (3)
MF Ulrad (5)
MF Angrod (10)
MF Aegnor (10)
FW Eol (15)
FW **Feanor (21)

MESPN Take: Last year’s semifinalist will likely be the popular pick to advance first. Feanor-led offenses always do well, and working with Eol, Angrod and Aegnor this year should be no different. Perhaps only the athletes and defensive commitment of Dwarves United can slow their offense in this group. AC is very solid at the rear too, but they’ll have to bring their best against Inter and Gondolin, which both feature elite attacks.

Inter Beleriand (81)
GK Turgon (11)
DF Haldad (2)
DF Gorlim (2)
DF Baragund (3)
DF Luthien (13)
MF Forweg (2)
MF Hunthor (2)
MF Haleth (7)
MF *Beren (13)
FW Fingon (13)
FW *Maedhros (13)

MESPN Take: Inter will perpetually be looking to feed it to their dangerous attack, but the athletes on AC and Dwarves United will provide a stiff challenge to the scorers. At the back they have Turgon in goal and Luthien defending, so they can hamstring at least one opposing scorer and save a good shot every game, but AC and Gondolin have enough weapons to demand more of a defense.

Dwarves United (86)
GK Galadriel (14)
DF Azaghal (5)
DF Durin (6)
DF Aule (16)
DF *Celebrimbor (18)
MF Fili (2)
MF Kili (2)
MF Gamil Zirak (4)
MF Telchar (4)
MF Gimli (5)
FW Legolas (10)

MESPN Take: Now with Galadriel behind Aule and Celebrimbor their defense is able to handle nearly anyone so long as they’re committed to it. The crafty Telchar and Zirak will need to create offense, and Legolas will need to be a sharp-shooter when he gets his opportunities. Celebrimbor and Aule are dangerous scorers on set plays and PKs etc. , but if they have to take too big a hand in the offense, the defense will suffer.

Gondolin (84)
GK Rog (8)
DF Penlod (7)
DF Aranwe (3)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Egalmoth (7)
MF Salgant (4)
MF Elemmakil (4)
MF Duilin (8)
MF Idril (10)
FW Tuor (10)
FW *Maeglin (18)

MESPN Take: The “keen-boot” Maeglin has proven himself as a top-scorer, and he has a quality supporting cast this year which means only a complete defensive commitment or multiple elite defenders can keep them off the scoreboard. At the back they’re not elite, but at least they don’t have weak links in front of Rog. Inter and AC can throw multiple high-scorers at them, so they’ll probably have to outscore them.

The MESPN Forecast: AC will be the popular pick to finish first, and if talent alone wins out then they will. But with Maedhros/Fingon/Beren and Maeglin/Tuor/Idril in the group, there’s the potential to get nipped in a high-scoring contest if the breaks don’t go their way. And as Dwarves United proved last year, they can’t be written off, and if they win themselves an early lead they can muddy the game up with the best of them. Between Gondolin and Inter it may just be a toss up, as these two look remarkably similar.

ACBeleriand- 85%
InterBeleriand- 45%
Gondolin- 45%
Dwarves United- 25%

GROUP C

Doriath (70)
GK Dior (7)
DF Galathil (2)
DF Nimloth (2)
DF Elwing (6)
DF *Melian (14)
MF Galadhon (2)
MF Nellas (3)
MF Saeros (3)
MF Daeron (7)
MF *Elwe (14)
FW Mablung (10)

MESPN Take: As always Melian will lead the defense, and her girdle ups everyone’s performance. But with the sheer attacking power of Hithlum and the skill of the defending champs Real, Melian will need some help. Mablung proved himself at the forward last year, and Elwe’s height and power will give defenses a worry, but their ultimate success will depend on the rest of the midfield getting them chances. All three opponents have good athletes at the back.

Hithlum (101)
GK Huor (8)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Arroch (2)
DF Gundor (5)
DF Balrog #5 (13)
MF Aradan (3)
MF Morwen (6)
MF Hador (12)
MF *Beleg (13)
FW Hurin (14)
FW **Turin (20)

MESPN Take: A Balrog and Arroch in front of Huor gives the defense more bite this year, but the focal point remains the offense, with four different players that know how to put the ball in the net. Shire-Bree can try to blunt it somewhat with a Nazgul/Gildor/Fellbeast/Shadowfax, and Real has Nienna/Ingwion/Tilion/Nahar (and even Tulkas behind them), so Hithlum can’t just trample this group with scoring.

Shire-Bree United (68)
GK Halbarad (5)
DF Fellbeast (2)
DF Nazgul #4 (8)
DF Gildor (7)
DF *Shadowfax (5)
MF Butterbur (2)
MF Bandobras (4)
MF Ferny (2)
MF Nazgul #6 (8)
MF *Gandalf (14)
FW Khamul (11)

MESPN Take: They have a solid defense with diverse skill-sets, so they’ll be well equipped to stop scoring when they commit to it. It’ll be tougher to get on the board with BWight, Aragorn and Bombadil gone, but Gandalf adds some threat back. More than likely he’ll see a lot of extra attention from Hithlum’s Balrog, Doriath’s Melian, and Ingwion of Real, so the surrounding Nazgul will have to come through and make defenses respect the whole offense.

Real Valinor (101)
GK *Tulkas (12)
DF Nienna (10)
DF Nahar (5)
DF Ingwion (5)
DF *Tilion (12)
MF Quennar (3)
MF Enerdhil (4)
MF Nessa (10)
FW Nerdanel (12)
FW *Miriel (14)
FW Orome (14)

MESPN Take: The defending champs are hoping Orome is a good swap out with Arien, and he should provide a good target for Miriel and Nerdanel. Their fast-moving precision passing game may work best against the defenses in this group. They’re solid at the rear in all positions, but Hithlum particularly has a plethora at talent to run at them, so they can’t just focus on one or two threats as with Shire-Bree and Doriath.

The MESPN Forecast: It’s difficult not to pick the defending champs- they’re a proven commodity, and they don’t appear to have gotten worse in the offseason (or if they have- not much). They just look solid up and down, accented by excellent individual talents. With the goal-scoring threat that they are Hithlum will likely be the popular pick to finish second, but Shire-Bree advanced last year, and if their defense can pitch a good game and they convert on set plays and the like, they could definitely pull an upset. Doriath advanced last year as well, and though Beleg has gone over to Hithlum, they have Elwe to replace his scoring. So similar to Shire-Bree, they are capable of knocking off a favorite.

Real Valinor- 75%
Hithlum- 65%
Shire-Bree United- 30%
Doriath- 30%

GROUP D

Barad-Dur (74)
GK Grishnakh (5)
DF Fellbeast #1 (3)
DF Fellbeast #2 (3)
DF Pallando (11)
DF Alatar (11)
MF Sangahyando (3)
MF Herumor (3)
MF Angamaite (3)
MF Beruthiel (5)
FW Castamir (7)
FW *Sauron (20)

MESPN Take: Sauron has brought up the defense this year. Against the in-group competition the Blue Wizards should perform well and Fellbeasts can be handy for getting back quickly, but they might be more useful against dragons than an offense like FC. At the front Sauron is enough to make any offense a threat, but FC has Eonwe and Maglor at the back to provide respectable matchups for him, so the rest of the offense must support well and help him gain a mismatch.

Gondor (70)
GK Imrahil (5)
DF Galadil (4)
DF Earnil I (6)
DF Eldarion (5)
MF Calimehtar (5)
MF Ciryandil (5)
MF Turambar (6)
MF Meneldil (6)
MF Romendacil (7)
MF *Anarion (12)
FW Eldacar (9)

MESPN Take: Some refer to Gondor as “Armenelos Lite”, and there is perhaps justification. Similar to their forefathers, their strength lies in their across the board consistency, size, and strength, and sound fundamentals. Anarion was a standout scorer last year, and Eldacar as an athlete is a cut above many of his teammates, so with even support behind them they will threaten Barad-Dur and Isengard. With FC’s defenders however they’ll have to take some risks. At the back their team strategy and soundness may be able to shut down BDur and Isen, as they both feature a singular focus (Sauron and Saruman), but again FC will be problematic.

Isengard (66)
GK Ugluk (5)
DF Mauhur (3)
DF Beechbone (3)
DF Treebeard (10)
MF Lurtz (3)
MF Wulf (2)
MF Lugdush (3)
MF Nazgul #5 (8)
MF Wormtongue (4)
MF *Saruman (15)
FW Quickbeam (10)

MESPN Take: Saruman is a danger both to score and to be crafty and create for others, and he’s got a big target in Quickbeam. The newly added Nazgul will add a solid supporter for the offense, and Wormtongue too is a sneaky distributor. Against Gondor and BDur they won’t be straight up overmatched, but they cannot make mistakes. FC will take a very special effort. At the back their ents will be nice for defending corners and the like, but in the open field they’ll be susceptible to FC, and Sauron. Their midfield will have to get back quick, or just stay back in some situations.

FC Valinor (107)
GK *Huan (15)
DF Thorondor (13)
DF Indis (7)
DF Maglor (10)
DF *Eonwe (12)
MF Elemmire (4)
MF Findis (4)
MF Argon (7)
MF *Yavanna (10)
FW Celegorm (11)
FW *Curufin (14)

MESPN Take: Huan is the best keeper in the group, and the four in front of him is also the most talented, so barring a lapse they will be tough to score on. In some groups shutouts might be easier to come by, but a shutout of Sauron or Saruman can’t be guaranteed. On offense their front four is the same as last year- and we know they can score- but with Irmo and Indis gone from the midfield solid squads like Gondor might have a better chance at denying Curufin and pals possession. On breakaways they’ll be able to straight up outrun most of Isen and Gondor but not BDur.

The MESPN Forecast: Well yes, if FC plays up to potential they’re the favorite here. For the other spot Gondor and BDur have an edge over Isengard, but if Saruman gets hot or if the opposition gets carded they are capable of getting in. Between Gondor and BDur it may be a tossup, and perhaps their margins of victory/loss against the others will be the tiebreaker, in which case BDur has the edge because of Sauron’s scoring touch- plus can he really be eliminated early consecutively?

FC Valinor- 90%
Barad-Dur- 45%
Gondor- 40%
Isengard- 25%

(groups E through H to follow)

the phantom

06-20-2013, 02:33 PM

(special report continued...)

GROUP E

Erebor (94)
GK *Beorn (12)
DF Thorin (5)
DF Meneldor (8)
DF Landroval (8)
DF Girion (8)
MF Dain (5)
MF Brand (3)
MF Bolg (9)
FW Bard (8)
FW Nazgul #7 (10)
FW *Smaug (18)

MESPN Take: A winged dragon provides a matchup problem for many teams, but Misty Mts has a natural stopper in Gwaihir. Eriador and Wilderland on the other hand have a couple good tools on defense, but they’ll have to depend more on stopping Smaug’s feeders, which Wilderland might struggle to do without extra defensive commitment. With twin eagles on their defense, defensive teams aren’t going to be able to beat Erebor on a dash forward, but Eriador will be able to build slowly with precise passing, and the Elves and Narvi in the middle for Misty will do that as well. Having Beorn at the back, who has at times looked very good, may make the difference.

Eriador (103)
GK *Elrond (20)
DF Asfaloth (4)
DF Arwen (10)
DF Aragorn (10)
DF *Gil-galad (13)
MF Araphant (5)
MF Arador (4)
MF NogWight (6)
MF Arveleg (8)
MF *Glorfindel (13)
FW Isildur (10)

MESPN Take: With the defenders they have in front of Elrond they threaten to shut out anyone, but they’re in a group where each team has as primary striker a dragon or a balrog, so it’ll be a test without a bona fide beast-stopper (though Asfaloth will be quite helpful in some instances). Eriador will likely control possession more than any of their opponents, and is the least error-prone, and they have the most consistent goal-keeper in the tournament, so the main focus will be keeping the ball off the scales of the dragons (and balrog).

Misty Mts (76)
GK Chief Wolf (3)
DF Caradhras (7)
DF William (4)
DF Watcher (5)
DF *Gwaihir (11)
MF Great Goblin (5)
MF Orophin (6)
MF Rumil (6)
MF Narvi (6)
MF Azog (8)
FW *Durin’s Bane (15)

MESPN Take: Durin’s Bane is a big, fast threat up front, and with the power of Azog also a scoring threat and the Elves and craftsdwarf supporting them it will be difficult to keep them from scoring. At the rear they’ve got some bruisers, one of which (Gwaihir) is lightning fast getting back and forth, but that won’t serve them quite as well against an attack like Eriador.

Wilderland (75)
GK Great Warg (5)
DF Finglas (3)
DF Skinbark (3)
DF Oropher (5)
DF Radagast (11)
MF Fimbrethil (3)
MF Iminye (4)
MF Imin (5)
MF Nazgul #3 (8)
FW Thranduil (14)
FW *Scatha (14)

MESPN Take: A dragon is always useful, but ground-bound as he is Scatha will be more manageable than Smaug for Misty Mts (who have some big bodies to put on Scatha). But he’ll still be a problem at times for Eriador, and maybe for Erebor, as on the ground their eagles can get out-muscled. Against Misty they’ll be dependent upon Thranduil and their Nazgul to outmaneuver the defense. Smaug and Durin’s Bane will give them some trouble, but the presence of two Ents at the back will keep them from being bowled over, while Oropher and Radagast will provide good possession support and help with more standard attackers.

The MESPN Forecast: After their runner-up performance it’s tough to leave Eriador out, and they are solid across the field and accentuated with talents like Glorfindel and Elrond. The other three are somewhat similar, in that they all have a large dangerous attacker to be targeted on crosses and convert free kicks, and they all have somewhat diverse defenses, which perhaps makes them better suited to play one another. It’s tempting to just go with Erebor for the second slot since they made the semifinals last year, but the departure of Thranduil to Wilderland makes their support of Smaug less dominant. Wilderland has the benefit of Radagast spear-heading defensive efforts, while Misty now perhaps has the most solid midfield. But Smaug probably remains the biggest goal-scoring threat, while Glorfindel is the best all-around offensive tool. And then there’s the possibility of Scatha, Smaug, or Durin’s Bane having a dominant game and edging out Eriador. It’s a tough group to call.

Eriador: 65%
Erebor: 50%
Misty Mts: 45%
Wilderland: 40%

GROUP F

Minas Tirith (76)
GK Denethor II (7)
DF Earnur (7)
DF Ecthelion II (7)
DF Firefoot (3)
DF Cirion (7)
MF Earnil II (7)
MF Tarandor (7)
MF Telumehtar (7)
MF Mardil (7)
MF *Eomer (10)
FW Boromir I (7)

MESPN Take: The White City has a solid midfield and defense that excels in working in harmony together and flowing seamlessly from attack to defense, but it won’t be an advantage against The Sea, as they are similar only with a couple of greater talents to punctuate their effectiveness. It will be more of a plus against Tirion, but then Tirion has the speed and precision up front to force Minas Tirith into greater defensive commitment. Firefoot will probably be useful against Glaurung, and MT is good enough on offense to force Nargothrond to give help at the back, whereas if their attackers were turned loose MT might have problems.

Nargothrond (89)
GK Orodreth (10)
DF Guillen (4)
DF Baran (3)
DF Arminas (4)
DF Barahir (7)
MF Beor (7)
MF Nienor (6)
MF Finduilas (9)
FW Gwindor (10)
FW Finrod (14)
FW *Glaurung (15)

MESPN Take: With a solid array of forwards and midfielders Nargothrond has an attack to make anyone feel nervous. Glaurung is a nice weapon to have up front, but The Sea should be well prepared, as Osse and Ulmo both have the size and strength to not be entirely overpowered, and goodness knows they don’t fear fire. And Firefoot of MT will blunt his effectiveness as well, not to mention MT’s team defense denying him touches. Their defense doesn’t exactly scare anyone, so they’ll have to rely on owning the ball, not to mention the other team’s fear of letting Nargothrond loose on a counter. The trio of Finwe-Aredhel-Mahtan will be particularly difficult to contain without help.

The Sea (100)
GK Hyarmendacil (8)
DF Osse (9)
DF Salmar (9)
DF Uinen (9)
DF *Ulmo (17)
MF Tar Cirytan (7)
MF Voronwe (7)
MF Tar Meneldur (7)
MF Veantur (7)
MF Tar Aldarion (8)
FW Tar Minastir (12)

MESPN Take: Similar to team Armenelos (where five of their players hail from), much of the strength of The Sea rests in their lack of weak links, and their habit of offering no tactical or personal mistakes to capitalize on. The quickness and grace of the Nargothrond and Tirion attackers will likely force The Sea to be more conservative. They should be able to hold possession decently against MT and Nargothrond, but the forwards of Tirion pressure the ball a lot, and Feanor’s three sons on defense aren’t exactly passive either, so they’ll need to try a long pass forward more often.

Tirion (83)
GK Finarfin (8)
DF Irime (3)
DF Amrod (9)
DF Amras (9)
DF *Caranthir (11)
MF Anaire (3)
MF Eldalote (2)
MF Rumil (4)
MF Mahtan (9)
FW Aredhel (12)
FW Finwe (13)

MESPN Take: The high talent level and defensive-mindedness of The Sea might frustrate the Tirion offense, but it’s unlikely to be overly shackled against anyone else. Minas Tirith will try to limit them with their own possession and by owning the middle of the field, as will Nargothrond. Tirion’s defenders and Finarfin in goal should be a match for the attack of Minas Tirith, and perhaps The Sea if they’re overly defensive, but Nargothrond has enough weapons that Tirion might have to stay more honest at the back and leave the ball-pressure more to the attackers, though that might slow down the offense.

The MESPN Forecast: If we call it how it is, Minas Tirith appears to be a weaker version of The Sea. Nargothrond perhaps has the most dangerous overall attack, while maybe Tirion’s front three is the most threatening against the specific defenses in this group. Defensively The Sea is probably the most solid overall and can limit Glaurung the most, while Tirion is perhaps best equipped to stop MT and Sea, with the drawback that their midfield can be overcome. Once again, this isn’t an easy group to handicap.

The Sea- 65%
Tirion- 55%
Nargothrond- 50%
Minas Tirith- 30%

GROUP G

Angband (91)
GK *Carcharoth (9)
DF Ulwarth (4)
DF Umuiyan (5)
DF Balrog #1 (12)
DF *Morgoth (20)
MF Uldor (4)
MF Ulfast (4)
MF Ulfang (5)
MF Oikeroi (5)
FW Telvildo (9)
FW *Ancalagon (14)

MESPN Take: Angband is nicely flexible at both ends, with a couple cat-quick attackers supporting the size and power of Ancalagon, who can also get downfield in a hurry. At the back they have another feline, plus the size and power of Morgoth and a Balrog. The only team in the group that on paper looks to pose defensive problems is TIG, as the two Werewolves and Thuringwethil are faster than Ulwarth and Morgoth, perhaps a smidgeon more agile than the Balrog, and stronger than Umuiyan and Ulwarth. As far as teams stopping their attack, Angfauglith has the means to stop Ancalagon with twin Balrogs, and TIG’s Werewolves will give the feline attackers grief, though they can’t do the same to Ancalagon.

Angfauglith (87)
GK *Ungoliant (16)
DF Borlach (3)
DF Gelmir (3)
DF Balrog #2 (12)
DF *Balrog #3 (12)
MF Gorgol (3)
MF Haldir (4)
MF Rian (3)
MF Bor (3)
FW Ecthelion (10)
FW *Gothmog (18)

MESPN Take: Their double Balrogs plus Ungoliant at the back leave them set to handle for the most part any threat thrown at them, while Gothmog-Ecthelion will cause problems at the other end. Imladris doesn’t look likely to stop them, while Angband can throw a Balrog at Gothmog but he won’t best his lord. TIG looks perhaps best equipped on account of Drauglin and the other Werewolves, but individually they can’t match the size and strength, and Gothmog is just as fast. The problem for Angfauglith will be delivering the ball to the forwards, as their midfield is not dominant.

Imladris (69)
GK Valandil (6)
DF Celebrian (5)
DF Galdor (4)
DF Erestor (9)
DF *Varda (14)
MF Gilraen (2)
MF Figwit (2)
MF Lindir (2)
MF Arahael (5)
FW Elladan (10)
FW Elrohir (10)

MESPN Take: The defenses they’ll face in this group will make for tough sledding, but the Elves up front may be able to make some headway against Angband, which only has one defender that can match their quick directional changes and ball movement. Similarly Angfauglith may have a bit of trouble defending them if they keep things moving quickly and accurately, front to back side to side. But holding possession will be key, and the forwards for the opposition are known to be aggressive when on defense. They can’t just pass back and expect the opposition to wait on them. If they choose to play it that way, Varda should be able to take away an attacker from the opposition (though not Ancalagon or Gothmog).

Tol In Gaurhoth (84)
GK *ShastaWolf (10)
DF Drauglin (8)
DF GaladriWight (3)
DF BoroWolf (8)
DF *NilpWolf (10)
MF LegateWight (3)
MF SallyWight (4)
MF NerWight (5)
MF *PhantomWolf (10)
FW Thuringwethil (13)
FW *InzilWolf (10)

MESPN Take: TIG is clearly the fastest squad overall, as only Gothmog and Ancalagon in full flight can beat their Werewolves or Thuringwethil across the field. To match their strength and athleticism Angband has Morgoth, balrog, dragon, and Catbeasts, and Angfauglith has three balrogs, so the Wights might need to make the difference by beating the other squad’s role-players. Against Imladris their priority will be staying in control and tactically sound, as the Elves will aim to frustrate them and wait for mistakes.

The MESPN Forecast: The diverse skill-sets and presence of Morgoth makes Angband the favorite here, and TIG looks to be ahead of Angfauglith in the pecking order for second place, leaving Imladris as the squad gunning for the upset. In other groups a mention of keepers would be more appropriate, as Carcharoth, ShastaWolf, and Ungoliant are all excellent, but here they rather cancel each other out. In the end Ancalagon is the toughest matchup and Morgoth organizes the best defense, so they get the nod over TIG, who has the greatest depth of superior athletes.

Angband- 70%
Tol-In-Gaurhoth- 60%
Angfauglith- 45%
Imladris- 25%

GROUP H

Anduin (83)
GK Amroth (4)
DF Minalcar (5)
DF Felarof (5)
DF Celeborn (10)
DF *Fram (10)
MF Lenwe (2)
MF Leod (5)
MF Haldir (8)
MF Boromir II (10)
FW Eorl (14)
FW Grimbeorn (10)

MESPN Take: A solid and diverse team here, Anduin looks well equipped to please the home fans. Minalcar, Celeborn and Fram can handle most of the athletes they see, and they have the added speed and weight of Felarof to bother Shelob. Grimbeorn is tough up front, but the three in this group have something to throw at him. His three running-mates- Eorl, Boromir and Haldir though will give him room to operate, as no one has four individual athletes that can match what the quad can do- but then no one expects any of these teams to leave their defense out to dry.

Arnor (68)
GK Arvedui (8)
DF Earendur (3)
DF Valandur (3)
DF Malbeth (8)
DF *Elendil (10)
MF Malvegil (3)
MF Argeleb (4)
MF Arassuil (4)
MF Arantar (5)
FW Araphor (7)
FW *Witch King (13)

MESPN Take: Arnor has the best shot at containing the Anduin attack, as they don’t have glaring weak links and have Elendil and Malbeth in front of Arvedui. In addition, Arnor is the most solid through the middle and should own the ball better than anyone. The Witch King won’t be an easy matchup for anyone- he’s too wily and skilled for horses to handle, and men are generally outmatched in size and strength (particularly if they’re suffering from his fear-inducing aura). Celeborn will probably have the best shot at taking him man-to-man (or wraith-to-elf, as it is), but Rohan and Mordor will doubtless give WK extra attention, meaning it will be up to Araphor and others to make them pay.

Mordor (51)
GK Silent Watcher (1)
DF Fellbeast #3 (3)
DF Mumakil (1)
DF Fellbeast #4 (3)
DF Gothmog II (5)
MF Gorbag (3)
MF Shagrat (3)
MF Nazgul #1 (7)
MF Nazgul #2 (7)
MF *Mouth (8)
FW Shelob (10)

MESPN Take: With Fellbeasts and the Mumakil at the rear Mordor is fairly well equipped to face dragons or other large bruisers, but unfortunately they weren’t grouped with many of those (just Grimbeorn really). Given that they will need the offense to score a few. The size of Shelob should bother Arnor, but the steeds of Rohan and Anduin will force The Mouth and his Nazgul buddies to step up. At times the presence of the Nazgul can dishearten mortals, so they’ll need to take advantage of anyone that succumbs.

Rohan (66)
GK Theoden (7)
DF Windfola (3)
DF Snowmane (3)
DF Hama (3)
DF Erkenbrand (3)
MF Aldor (6)
MF King Dead (10)
MF Eowyn (9)
MF Brytta (5)
MF *Faramir (9)
FW Helm (8)

MESPN Take: Rohan will be defense-first, and while double-horses can ensure they don’t get beat on a long-ball, none of the opposition prefers to do that anyway. Arnor might give them some trouble, with their precision positioning and cautious prodding ball-movement. As far as goal-scoring, it will be up to Faramir and friends to beat the opposition with a couple nice passes/moves on the counter, which they hope the more aggressive defenders will be susceptible to in particular.

The MESPN Forecast: Anduin has the most dangerous front four and back four, so it’s difficult not to see them as the favorites. Arnor has the depth up and down and perhaps the greatest chance of upsetting them, hence they have the second-best shot at qualifying. With the Nazgul and Shelob up front Mordor has the best puncher’s chance of scoring past the favorites, while Rohan has the best shot of holding a lead if they grab it early. This could be a very competitive group.

Anduin- 65%
Arnor- 55%
Mordor- 45%
Rohan- 35%

----------------------
----------------------
Round Table Contributors-
Philip McPhantom (MESPN lead football coordinator), Ruharg the Red (Monster Magazine lead sports editor), Ar-Tar-Aradil (Westernesse Weekly sports writer, NAAF president), Adanel (Football wise-woman for Dor-Lomin Athletic Digest), Finwanoro (Football columnist for The Tirion Times and MESPN)

Galadriel55

06-20-2013, 04:59 PM

In this issue of EAisticle, we will be giving the readers the absolute correct data on which players to select for their teams. No, we lied. We won't. Instead, we will provide the perfect team combination for you!

THE *cough* DREAM TEAM
GK Alien (The Barrow Downs) - wouldn't you want him on your team? I heard he makes delicious wasp cakes, you'll love them!
DF William (Misty Mtns) - Bill Huggins is really a good guy deep down, and knows a lot about mutton too.
DF Arwen (Eriador) - if you want to take posession of the ball, then come and claim it.
DF Pallando (Barad-dur) - always make sure that a wizard is on your side.
DF Aranwe (Gondolin) - we know so much about him that you could write issues upon issues of EAisticles about his biography. We'd get rich with all the fans.
MF Rumil (Misty Mtns) - just because...
MF Rumil (Tirion) - ...it's the only way you can have two midfielders with the same name on your team!
MF Arassuil (Arnor) - he's so popular, and everyone knows exactly who this guy is!
MF Mouth (Mordor) - I mean, it's *totally* normal to have a body part playing on your team...
FW Nazgul#7 (Erebor) - this guy really stands out from the crowd! There's absolutely none like him!
FW Thranduil (Wilderland) - did anyone say party?
FW Glaurung (Nargothrond) - who can resist his charm?

Now here's a piece of entertainment for our readers: find four and a half things wrong with this team!

And then find seven and two thirds things perfect with this team!

Person with the most correctest stuffs in their answer (ie grammar is unnecessary and some entertaining response is an asset) gets a mention in the next article! And possibly imaginary wasp cake.

Boromir88

06-21-2013, 09:27 PM

By Boro88

After Tol in Gaurhoth's strong showing in the friendlies I was able to sit down with several of the team's werewolves to discuss the approaching tournament. I figured coming off of two victories, now would be about the only chance to speak with the players and make it out alive.

Tol-in-Gaurhoth is trying to put a disappointing 2012 behind them, since it was the only year the team did not make it out of the group round. Although some factors were not in TIG's control, since after taking silver in 2011, the team was hit with some heavy sanctions, which put restrictions on their roster and limitted the kind of game they like playing. But TIG bit the bullet, played by the rules, and adjusted their make-up that even Iluvatar was content and had the sanctions lifted.

Now the wolves, wights, and other beasties are starting to find their form, and at a good time too!

TTN: After being eliminated in the group round last year, how do you think you'll fare this year in a tough Group G?
Many of them are carrying the positive start into their round 1 games...

GaladWight: "We'll kick some butt... I mean ball."

NilpWolf: "We're rolling in the friendlies, winning both games. If we keep this focus, and if Anfauglith continue to struggle, we'd advance from our group this year."

NerWight: "I’m quite hopeful, actually – we’ve got a good line-up this year too, you know."

phantomWolf called last year a "fluke" pointing out they actually played better than their group opponents but by either some rotten luck or having wolves sent off only managed 3 draws: "If you think about it- no one beat us last year, did they? So what we've done is added Thuringwethil and Drauglin to an undefeated team. So long as we don't shoot ourselves in the foot I'm not particularly worried about our prospects."

BoroWolf sounded a bit more cautious: "To be honest, Doriath and The Havens are teams we should beat. Don't get me wrong, it's a nice sign we're winning those games when last year we would have found some way to blow it and only get a point. But, it's fair to say we haven't been tested yet, and the teams in our group bring different challenges over the teams we beat in the friendlies."

TTN: Toughest challenge: Angband, Anfauglith, or Imladris?

We can't set up the teams in Group G much better than phantomWolf:

"Angband.

Despite their tactical and technical proficiency, Imladris just doesn't have the power and athleticism to defend Thuringwethil and two Werewolves on one end and score against Drauglin and a pair of Werewolves at the other.

Angfauglith has three Balrogs, so that negates some of our advantage, but we're better than them all through the middle. Gothmog and Ecthelion can't get themselves the ball and dribble up the entire pitch, nor can two Balrog defenders stop our entire attack when we overmatch everyone else.

Angband though- Ancalagon is always a big challenge, then they have Morgoth and a Balrog at the back, but they supplement that with the quick Catbeasts- two up front and one in back. So athletically they have more to make us stay honest, and to take advantage of positional slip-ups and the like. We'll need to play tough and sharp against them."

And it was pretty much unanimous for Angband, as NilpWolf added Angband should be angry from last year's (like TIG) loss to Minas Tirith. However, it appears the key will be against Anfauglith, and the aura of uncertainty surrounding the team (in large part from an uninspiring friendly performance, but they've got the defense and talent if they can put it all together before the tournament) is a different kind of challenge:

NerWight: "The other two, though, are a bit... thought provoking. I think Angfauglith might look even more sc– I mean thought-provoking than Angband. But then they haven’t done so well in the friendlies, so it’s hard to say."

GaladWight talked to herself in circles (also literally...she was responding while spinning around), but we'll publish her response as well:

""imladris omg elfs omg figwit omg!" is what fangurl43 told me yesterday about the topic (and I did not hear a single capital letter in her sentence). I don't know if she's a fan of our awesome team or a fan of Figwit. I have a feeling that it's the second, because these fans have a hobbit - I mean habit - of adding "OMG" to everything they say. Our team really is awesome, though. So awesome that it should be called Team Awesome. Anyways, as I was saying... Wait, what was the question?"

TTN: Thoughts on Nogrod defecting to play for the 2012 silver-medalist Eriador?

At this NerWight wasn't interested in the past "Nog who?" and GaladWight yelled "Ditcher!"

The striker replacing NogWolf this year believes he will regret the choice...

InzilWolf: "I think it'll bite him. They've got Elrond and Glorfindel too, and that's a couple of prima donnas who don't like sharing the spotlight."

Those who profess to know their former teammate better (but could not foresee his departure) have a slightly different tone.

BoroWolf: "I think we'll miss his height, because the FinnWight was a header-specialist, and he often kept his head for that matter. But then again, with the defenses we're up against this year, their backlines are not dimunitive so I think going with more quickness and agility with InzilWolf and Thuringwethil is good for us. Plus, when clearing out his wolf den I found he had a lifetime subscription to AKM. Inconceivable."

Phantomwolf: "I'm a bit surprised really. Not that he left- I mean, I figured he would. Wights and Werewolves like us are pretty well always restricted to playing on one squad or two, so being granted an opportunity to test the free agent waters is too good to pass up.

But his choice of Eriador surprised me. I figured he'd want to play as a Werewolf for Sauron, or feed the ball to Feanor on AC Beleriand- but I guess not everyone has the same dreams I do. I suppose it makes sense- NogWight has always been a bit more... thoughtful and rational, and less distracted by the superfluous glamor and fame some players seek. So he's probably at home with the talented but humble squad from Eriador. There's enough stars and bright lights there to satisfy most anyone, but Elrond doesn't try to play it up and just wants results."

TTN: And to end this interview on a lighter note...Who would you most want as a teammate? (not including current teammates)

Nilpwolf: "Oh, Finrod, no question. He was once a 'visitor' to our island, and he's an excellent player. He'd fit the 'whole is greater than the sum of its parts' thing that we're proud of."

Phantomwolf: "Ha, well, I sort of gave away my answer in the last question. Sauron, obviously. As the Lord of Werewolves, he really gets me. Specifically, he gets me goals and assists, heh. The guy is just so good at using what he has. He's so flexible with his strategies and even his own playstyle. If you stop him he just comes back in another form. I've played with him before and I know it's a winning recipe, so that's my choice. But as far as a pipe-dream...

...There's Feanor. I'm not sure if I think enough like a First Age Elf for me to thrive in an offense with him- he kind of expects everyone around him to be "where they ought to be" at all times depending upon what he sees from the defense, and then he delivers it perfectly to the spot you should be moving to or takes it himself as he deems appropriate. It isn't necessarily easy to fit into his fast-pace perfection.... But boy would I like to try. Because if Feanor and I could ever get on the same page, the result would be nothing short of the greatest glory and beauty I'd ever experienced. And I dated Kate Beckinsale."

NerWight: "That’s another hard call... maybe Arien."

GaladWight: "Turin. I mean, who wouldn't want such an awesome character for a teammate? I bet every single wight here would agree with me - ouch! Who just elbowed me?"

InzilWolf: "That's a tough one. Maybe GwathWolf. He has a tendency to hang back in the shadows and snatch a victory when you aren't looking."

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-23-2013, 02:31 AM

AC Beleriand

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/1acb_zps82c14d7e.jpg~original
(Expected formation)

Last year
Two things were strongly associated with the 2012 AC Beleriand squad: aggressive pressing and a commitment to possession. Fëanor’s squad kept the ball well not only because they fielded four central midfielders (most teams field only two or three, allowing AC Beleriand to pass around them) but also because they went for the ball immediately after losing it. Ulrad and Beren were icons of this high-energy style of play, but even Fëanor, Eöl, and Denethor often harried opposing defenders and defensive midfielders to recover possession.

Playing four central midfielders, however, came at a cost—AC Beleriand lacked width in attack, forcing full-backs Fingolfin and Ecthelion to cover a lot of ground going forward as well as defending. Most teams were unable to exploit this weakness, simply because they couldn’t get the ball long enough to do something with it, but Real Valinor in the semi-finals managed to bypass AC Beleriand’s pressing by sending long balls from the defence straight to Arien, Míriel, and Nerdanel. And even a downgraded Doriath squad managed to stifle their attack by preventing the full-backs from advancing and packing the middle of the pitch (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/spainwidth_zpsaebf8db1.jpg~original), forcing AC Beleriand to beat them on the flanks (which they never did). It’s no coincidence that those two teams who exploited AC Beleriand’s aggressive pressing and lack of width well were the only teams they didn't beat.

Changes
Beren must have been agitating for a move in the offseason, since Fëanor allowed his second-highest goalscorer to walk away too easily. Contract negotiations with holding midfielder Bregolas also fell apart, so two roster spots opened up for AC Beleriand; Fëanor signed Havens wide midfielders Aegnor and Angrod to be their replacements.

Midfield
With Ulrad and Denethor still in the squad, Fëanor retained four ball-playing midfielders who can help keep possession, but his two new signings naturally attack from the wings, giving his side natural width without having to push their full-backs (Fingolfin and Balrog #4, who replaced Ecthelion) forward. In their friendly games the two spent far more time with the back line than with the forwards, making their side more secure against counterattacks. This is particularly helpful when you consider that the ‘2’ in AC Beleriand’s 4-2-3-1, Ulrad and Denethor, were once fielded higher up the field, and are still learning the ropes of the holding midfielder trade. Denethor is more positionally disciplined of the two; Ulrad is a high-energy tackler who would chase opposing midfielders around and harry them in possession.

Attack
The tip of their 4-2-3-1 is, surprisingly, not Fëanor, but Eöl. This has caused opposing defences a ton of problems—the Dark Boot’s tendency is to move from wing to wing, even back to the midfield, to look for space. This often forced a centre-back out of position to mark; otherwise he would be left free to play the ball to AC Beleriand’s other attackers or take a shot himself. Fëanor, on the other hand, is too far away from the line of defenders to be marked by a centre-back, forcing a midfielder to track him. The Fiery Boot can outrun and overpower most midfielders, as Ar-Gimilzôr and Tar-Míriel found out. And Aegnor and Angrod have exploited the focus defences pay on the two forwards by making goalward runs from the wings; Fëanor and Eöl’s passes have often left them with only a defender and the goalkeeper to beat.

Defence
Imlach and Rochallor renew their effective central defensive partnership. Fingolfin remains the leader of their back line, and Balrog #4 is an adequate replacement for Ecthelion, having plied his trade with Anfauglith in the same position last year. The two full-backs would still be required to move forward every now and then, but not as much as they did last year. Marach is a decent goalkeeper who fits well with AC Beleriand’s system; he plays like a sweeper behind the defenders’ high line, clearing crosses and long balls that are played behind the back four.

Quick Guide
CAPTAIN: Fëanor
FORMATION: 4-2-3-1
PLAYING STYLE: possession, pressing
STRENGTH: Attackers, pressing as a unit.
WEAKNESS: Holding midfield duo.
KEY PLAYER: Fëanor
QUESTION: Are Angrod and Aegnor the answer to AC Beleriand’s weaknesses last year?
__________

Inter Beleriand

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/4inb_zps3611a210.jpg~original
(Expected formation)

Last year
For a second year in a row, a team led by Maedhros and Fingon failed to advance from their group by the slimmest of margins. Last year, Gondolin’s more convincing 4-0 defeat of Arnor meant that, despite conceding one less goal to Eriador, Inter Beleriand putting just two goals past Arvedui led them to be eliminated on goal difference. And the year before that, Himring were eliminated on goals scored—Tirion scored one more goal against Shire-Bree United than they did.

Maedhros and Fingon were already carrying a huge scoring load, and, while Haleth’s pace is useful on the attack, especially in the counterattacking style Inter prefer, he’s not a goal threat. They need to find goalscorer who will not compromise their defensive solidity.

Changes
Inter Beleriand got what is arguably the coup of the preseason, acquiring all-around midfielder Beren for $13 million. (The only acquisition that could possibly top this is Arien’s transfer to Valimar, although we believe that Caranthir’s move to Tirion is severely underrated.) This signing has improved both their offence and defence—Beren has not only scored five goals and created one for AC Beleriand, he has also often shut down the opposing squad’s most dangerous midfielder.

Inter have also acquired wing player Lúthien, fielding her as a left-back in place of the departing Balrog #5. She is another two-way signing—the former Doriath winger is defensively solid, yet can also contribute to the attack with her pace and well-delivered crosses.

Attack
As a counterattacking side, Inter focus on pace and quick forward delivery of the ball after winning possession. Their specialty is countering off opposition corner kicks—see their second goal against Gondolin last year and their goal vs Doriath in this year’s friendly match.

Beren is fielded as a left-sided midfielder, but he cuts inside whenever Inter is in possession, giving them a third central midfielder and allowing Lúthien to bomb forward. In the impressive AC Beleriand side, he was at his most effective when he was part of dangerous passing triangles with left-back Fingolfin and roaming forward Eöl; Lúthien and Fingon can replicate those roles for Inter. On the right, Haleth is a more traditional wide midfielder, running down the touchline to deliver crosses to the Noldor upfront.

Maedhros and Fingon form a traditional target man/quick man tandem, with Maedhros a target of long balls and a finisher of crosses, while Fingon's pace with the ball allows him to attack defences before they get back into shape. But Maedhros is more than a simple target man—he can hold the ball up while waiting for runners, but he can also turn around and make a run at goal himself.

Midfield and defence
Inter retained their central midfield pairing of Hunthor and Forweg. They’re defensively solid but generally unimaginative with the ball, preferring to play short passes to the wings. Their back four consists of Lúthien and Baragund on the left and the right, respectively (both are converted wide midfielders/wingers) with Haldad and Gorlim as centre-backs. The pair is decent against strong centre forwards, but vulnerable to forwards with pace and technique (which this group is full of). Behind them is Turgon, a fine shotstopper (ninth best save rate last year), a vocal back line leader, and an excellent deliverer of accurate long balls to the forwards.

Quick Guide
CAPTAIN: Maedhros
FORMATION: 4-4-2
PLAYING STYLE: counterattacking
STRENGTH: Attacking trio, pace.
WEAKNESS: Defence.
KEY PLAYER: Beren
QUESTION: Can they score more against Dwarves United than Gondolin? (This is probably the key to their advance—unless they can beat Gondolin.)

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-23-2013, 03:05 AM

Dwarves United

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/7dwu_zps9d970de6.jpg~original
(Expected formation)

Last year
Dwarves United surprisingly advanced to the knockout stages ahead of an offensively stacked Wilderland squad and a solid Anduin team. They did it in the way of most footballing underdogs, by being very difficult to break down and nicking a few goals on the break.

Legolas seemed to be the perfect forward for their team—he passed their strict squad selection qualification (being a Dwarf-friend) and he is a speedy forward who excels in rushing at disorganised defences. However, all they got from their lone forward is a goal in four games, a poor rate of return considering he offers little else to the Dwarven offence: he’s poor at holding the ball up and his crossing ability is useless when the targets are often less than four feet tall.

Changes
Which is why it’s surprising that their major acquisition during the preseason transfer window, former Wilderland attacking midfielder Galadriel, is being fielded as a goalkeeper. This is especially bewildering considering their former keeper Bombur boasted a save rate that was tied for seventh best last year. That they would choose an incremental increase in defensive solidity over a two- or even threefold increase in offensive ability is perhaps deeply rooted in Dwarven philosophy. It is certainly a decision many football analysts struggle to understand.

Defence
Ahead of Galadriel is a solid back four: Azaghâl and Aulë are the centre-backs, with the Dwarf from Belegost doing the tackling and interceptions while the Vala stayed behind to make clearances and win headers. On the flanks are the attacking left-back Celebrimbor and the more defensive-minded right-back Durin.

Midfield
In front of them are Dwarves United’s other preseason signings, midfielders Fíli and Kíli. We disagree with AKM when they said that their ‘only merit is that they will play for the team with half the price.’ The sons of Dís are an improvement over Thror and Thorin; while the elder two are more combative tacklers (unfortunately leading to yellow cards), the latter are quicker and more capable of occupying space and cutting off passing options for opposing attackers. They are also excellent in short one-touch passing, as they demonstrated in their friendly vs Rohan—their quick switch of play from one flank to the other led to Celebrimbor setting up Gimli to create Telchar’s winner.

Attack
Just behind Legolas are the more attacking trio of midfielders. Gamil Zirak and Telchar start out wide and dribble past opponents, while Gimli drifts into space to create overloads on either wing. One of the trio will receive a short pass from Fíli and Kíli while the others dash forward to support Legolas. Last year, Celebrimbor often arrived late in the box when defences have paid them too much attention to the four attackers, and his Fëanorean ball skills were enough to give him space to shoot. But, during the friendlies, teams have begun to man-mark him, even double-marking him when he crosses the halfway line (as in the game against Rohan). His decision-making must be spot on so he can exploit potential openings, as he did vs the Rohirrim when, as Háma and Snowmane double-teamed him, he passed to the open Gimli who immediately assisted a cutting Telchar.

Quick Guide
CAPTAIN: Aulë
FORMATION: 4-5-1
PLAYING STYLE: defensive, counterattacking
STRENGTH: Defensively solid.
WEAKNESS: Lack of goalscoring.
KEY PLAYER: Celebrimbor
QUESTION: Can they get goals out of Legolas?
__________

Gondolin

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/5gdn_zps72d08eb4.jpg~original
(Expected formation)

Last year
Gondolin scored seven goals in four tournament games, with forwards Gothmog and Maeglin accounting for all but one goal. Their offence was ranked ninth in the tournament, putting up 16.5 shots per game (better than even AC Beleriand’s 16.14). More than half of the goals they scored, however, came against Arnor. They scored only once against some of the tournament’s top defences (one vs second-ranked Eriador and none vs third-ranked AC Beleriand).

Changes
In the offseason Gothmog transferred to Anfauglith; in his place as Gondolin’s line leader was Tuor from the Havens. Pengolodh was released and Penlod from FC Valinor was brought in to strengthen the defence. Also from FC Valinor was wide midfielder Idril, brought in to replace a retiring Meleth. Having two legitimate wide players means that Gondolin would field a normal 4-4-2 instead of their asymmetrical 4-2-2-2.

Midfield
There is a problem, though: Salgant and Duilin, Gondolin’s two central midfielders, are incompatible with the Hidden Kingdom’s defensive style. In fact, they just don’t fit well together. A traditional central midfield duo consists of one disciplined player with a more forward-thinking one (either a passer or a runner). But Salgant drifts around the pitch too much to play the more disciplined role. Duilin isn’t suited for it, either; he is an energetic box-to-box player, excellent at moving forward to link midfield and attack, supplying passes to the forwards, and making late runs to the penalty box against distracted defenders, but he is poor at tackling and even poorer at defensive positioning. As a result, Gondolin, even with their two banks of four, look surprisingly open to attacks through the middle. During their friendly against Hithlum, Hador found a surprising amount of space to run in and finish Túrin’s chipped ball past the defence—Salgant had been chasing Túrin around whenever the forward dropped deep, while Duilin was dragged away by Morwen’s movement to the flanks.

Attack
Out wide beside Duilin and Salgant are Idril on the right and Elemmakil on the left. They are both better on attack than defence, which compounds the problem of protecting their defence. Elemmakil is a traditional winger, hugging the touchline before delivering crosses to the forwards, while Idril drifted inside to act as a third central midfielder when she played for FC Valinor; however, in Gondolin’s more direct counterattacking system, she’s been asked to replicate Elemmakil’s movements.

The game against Tirion highlighted Meleth’s underrated importance to Gondolin’s attack—she was their ‘quarterback’, playing accurate balls out of the defence directly to the attackers in dangerous positions, something Rog or the defenders could not do. Creating too few chances against Tirion’s second-worst defence (whose personnel, however, were completely revamped during the offseason trade window) illustrated the difficulty Gondolin had connecting defence and attack when their wingers are marked tightly. (During their second friendly against Hithlum Idril and Elemmakil were given more space, and they had more influence in the game.)

Up front, Tuor is the target man, able to lead the line with force as well as score goals. Maeglin plays just behind him, linking midfield and attack as well as drifting laterally into channels.

Defence
Penlod is a step above Pengolodh as a defender, adding toughness and positional discipline to their backline. The rest of the back four are vulnerable to crafty forwards and midfield runners. Their full-backs offer little going forward, but with Idril and Elemmakil already providing the attacking width, there is little need for them to do so. And goalkeeper Rog has yet to regain his 2010 form, although his save rate during friendlies (73%) is a step above his 2012 rate (68%). (Iorithil of QN Sport wrote an article surmising that his performance with Vinyamar might be credited more to the Ulmo-organised defence than his own talent.)

Quick Guide
CAPTAIN: Maeglin
FORMATION: 4-4-1-1/4-4-2
PLAYING STYLE: counterattacking
STRENGTH: Attackers, pace down the flanks.
WEAKNESS: Defence and central midfield.
KEY PLAYER: Maeglin
QUESTION: Who will link the defence and attack when their wingers are marked out of the game? (All the teams in their group have defensively solid wide players)
__________

Group B’s expected finish:
AC Beleriand
Inter Beleriand
Gondolin
Dwarves United

the phantom

06-23-2013, 03:24 PM

Scenarios: Best Case and Worst Case
MESPN Football Round Table

We here at MESPN asked some of our Football round table contributors to come up with best and worst-case scenarios for each team in the field. In the best-case scenarios the rule-of-thumb for the playoffs is that a squad is allowed to pull one reasonable upset, one other team is allowed to pull an upset (allowing them to face the weaker squad), and the group opposite them is allowed to have one squad finish out of position (again, allowing for a weaker opponent). Essentially this guarantees the best-case somewhat probable scenario.

And just because one squad has a higher “BEST” does not mean that squad is superior head-to-head. It may just indicate a combination of a tough group and a likely tough playoff draw.

With worst-case it’s a bit more art than science, as technically anyone can be left out in the cold after the group stage. But to add a bit of diversity in answers, we’re going with more conventional logic and not assuming multiple upsets.

So anyway, not true best/worsts here, but rather with likelihood factored in.

GROUP A

Armenelos
BEST- runner up
WORST- eliminated in-group

The Barrow-Downs
BEST- playoffs
WORST- eliminated in-group

The Havens
BEST- semifinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

Valimar
BEST- runner up
WORST- eliminated in-group

Any team from group A can make the playoffs, but it won’t be easy for anyone. Once there they’ll be meeting a Group H team, which means it’s likely a matchup they won’t be entirely overmatched in. The key is the following round, where they will meet whichever squad emerges from the B-G matchup. If it’s AC Beleriand, Angband or TIG then obviously it’ll be a heck of a challenge, but if there’s an upset inside one of those groups that yields an Angfauglith vs Gondolin matchup or something like that, while those teams aren’t pushovers they are generally preferable to playing Feanor or Morgoth.

Once in the semis, they can’t count on a Cinderella to be waiting for them, so they’ll need to really be on it to advance, and it’s the same story in the finals. We rated Valimar and Armenelos as runner-up because we think three games in a row against Angband/Real/AC/etc. is too much to expect (not that they can’t- it’s just not probable). We can’t just take every team with enough talent to win a title and declare their best scenario as “champ”- we must separate them somehow.

GROUP B

AC Beleriand
BEST- champion
WORST- 1st round playoffs

Inter Beleriand
BEST- semifinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

Dwarves United
BEST- quarterfinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

Gondolin
BEST- semifinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

AC Bel is one of the few teams we put in the playoffs under worst-case. The group isn’t easy, but as no one on the panel could leave them lower than 2nd we declared them a “lock” to advance. We almost moved everyone in the group back a spot in the best-case due to the likelihood of facing a strong team in the first round of the playoffs, but whether they finish 1st or 2nd in-group they will have a winnable quarterfinal match if they can but get through the first game.

It’s true that Valimar, Armenelos, or Anduin are likely strong opponents there, but those squads aren’t known for playing in a scary and exploitive style, if you follow. If a team is having some weakness at the back someone like FC Valinor will lick their lips and try to bury them, whereas Valimar and Armenelos are more controlled and defensive and thus the game has a higher probability of remaining tight, which gives teams with fine attacks (like Gondolin and Inter) a puncher’s chance.

The lowest best-case in the group is Dwarves United on account of their lack of scoring, but it’s still impressive that the worst team can make the quarters. Their defensive talents and focus is good enough (it proved it last year) to advance out of the group, and they would have a shot at frustrating a team like Angband or Angfauglith and forcing PKs.

GROUP C

Doriath
BEST- playoffs
WORST- eliminated in-group

Hithlum
BEST- champion
WORST- 1st round playoffs

Shire-Bree United
BEST- quarterfinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

Real Valinor
BEST- champion
WORST- 1st round playoffs

As you can see we ran into some trouble here, as Hithlum and Real have both come out as “locks” to make the playoffs, which should technically keep Doriath and Shire-Bree from having a best-case scenario. Yes, it’s clear there are flaws in our system here- a lot of grey area of overlap.

We don’t see much difference between Doriath and Shire-Bree, but felt that SBree’s defensive tools gave them a slight chance of upsetting the team they face from Group F, such as attack-heavy Nargothrond. And doubtless you noticed that there are two potential champs in this group- a rare feature indeed (shared only by Group G).

Between Hithlum and Real, it is tough to say who has the better odds. Real is stronger defensively, but Hithlum’s firepower is possibly the best in the tournament. In the end it could very well come down to head-to-head for determining who wins the group.

GROUP D

Barad-Dur
BEST- semifinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

Gondor
BEST- quarterfinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

Isengard
BEST- playoffs
WORST- eliminated in-group

FC Valinor
BEST- champion
WORST- 1st round playoffs

It’s tough indeed to see FC getting ousted before the playoffs, but once in the playoffs they could certainly run into trouble, such as a matchup with Eriador. But as one of the best teams in the tournament and no one team clearly better than the rest, they could certainly string together victories to win a title (as they appeared to be on their way to last year).

Isengard would be doing well indeed to make it out of this group, but more realistically it’s between Barad-Dur and Gondor. Either would have a chance of winning their first round match (Barad-Dur looks well-equipped to handle most of Group E while Gondor appears built well to attempt an upset of Group E’s strongest squad, Eriador).

Once in the quarters Gondor could not count on another upset, and the teams they’d possibly face there (Tirion, Real, etc.) would likely be favored. Barad-Dur however has dual dragon-stoppers should they end up against Nargothrond, and they couldn’t hold Sauron scoreless, and the Blue Wizards might give them a slightly better shot than Gondor against Tirion.

GROUP E

Erebor
BEST- semifinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

Eriador
BEST- runner-up
WORST- eliminated in-group

Misty Mts
BEST- quarterfinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

Wilderland
BEST- quarterfinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

With their dependability, cohesion and talent it seems odd not putting “champ” for Eriador’s best, but we felt that it was too much to expect them to win too many games 1-0, as shutting out elite offenses is darn tough, while winning three games 2-1 against teams with elite defenses might be too much to hope for, and we worry a bit about Eriador’s offensive punch against the best squads.

Erebor, Misty and Wilderland felt slightly similar, all with the ability to play a bruising style, and with big powerful scorers up front capable of powering the team to an upset win. In the end we only went quarterfinals for Misty and Wilderland, because while Durin’s Bane and Scatha might prove tough matchups for the defenses of Nargothrond or Tirion, the quick offenses of Narg & Tirion might also prove problematic, while Hithlum and Real both have big stoppers (Balrog#5, Tilion, Nahar). But we put Erebor through to the semis for best-case because frankly they proved it last year.

GROUP F

Minas Tirith
BEST- playoffs
WORST- eliminated in-group

Nargothrond
BEST- semifinals
WORST- eliminated in-group

The Sea
BEST- champion
WORST- eliminated in-group

Tirion
BEST- runner-up
WORST- eliminated in-group

The major concern for advancement here is the chance of facing Turin and Hithlum or defending champ Real in the first round of the playoffs. We didn’t give Minas Tirith a chance to advance in the playoffs because we thought it was too much to expect them to beat out all of these three other teams for first in the group, and finishing second they’d pretty well be guaranteed a team they don’t match up against well.

The other three we said might win the group, thus finishing first it’s possible one of the Group C heavies will be bumped to third leaving an easier matchup for the Group F winner. We passed all three through the quarters either because a team was likely to be there that they matched up well against, or simply because we believed in a one-game scenario they could pull an upset anyway.

Tirion we advanced one spot beyond Nargothrond on account of their defense. They aren’t overly large and diverse, but with Caranthir, Amrod and Amras back there in front of Finarfin they would match up decently against squads that don’t feature a dragon or similar large striker. The Sea on the other hand we felt had the teeth on defense to slow anyone down, and then good enough scorers backed by one of the most solid midfields around, thus they can win it all.

GROUP G

Angband
BEST- champion
WORST- eliminated in group

Angfauglith
BEST- seminfinals
WORST- eliminated in group

Imladris
BEST- eliminated in group
WORST- eliminated in group

Tol-In-Gaurhoth
BEST- champion
WORST- eliminated in group

This was a tough group to handicap. We were tempted to say that Angband or TIG’s worst would be the first round of the playoffs, but Angfauglith just seemed too dangerous. If Gothmog shoots lights out and the Balrogs at the back play smart and Ungoliant has a great effort, they could certainly upset Angband or TIG.

As far as guaranteeing Imladris for an early exit, it sort of went hand in hand. The other three squads are just all too scary to count on Imladris pulling out a victory more than once, particularly playing away from home (all three other squads will feel at home in the two host stadiums- Anfauglith and Tol In Gaurhoth).

Once out of the group, their playoff fortunes may depend on where they finish and where the Group B teams finish. If at all possible they probably want to avoid a contest with AC Beleriand to start the playoffs. Angband and TIG are both capable of winning that game if they play their very best and AC doesn’t, but no one ever bets on Feanor exiting before the quarterfinals. If they avoid that matchup however, suddenly their chances of a run go up.

GROUP H

Anduin
BEST- semifinals
WORST- eliminated in group

Arnor
BEST- quarterfinals
WORST- eliminated in group

Mordor
BEST- quarterfinals
WORST- eliminated in group

Rohan
BEST- playoffs
WORST- eliminated in group

We felt that any of these teams was capable of a one-time upset of one of the other four, thus anyone has a risk of being left in groups. Once in the playoffs we didn’t like the way Rohan matched up with the likely Group A winners. Mordor seems ill-suited to face the power and majesty of Valimar (they’d probably arouse their righteous anger), but we give them a puncher’s chance against Armenelos, as the Nazgul would have a slight chance of creeping the mortals off their game, and Shelob might be tough to contest headers with.

We gave Arnor the quarters as best-case as well. Armenelos will play a style familiar to them, but do it better than Arnor- but in a single game anything can happen (unless the disparity is huge of course). And against Valimar, as we saw a couple years ago, the Arnorians know how to keep the Valar dispassionate.

For Anduin we decided to hop them an extra round, as they have the weapons to better take on their first round opponents, and have a better shot at upsetting a heavy-hitter should they meet them in the quarters. The speed and range of Felarof at the back alongside Fram, a natural beast-stopper, gives them better legs to stand on.

---------------------------------------------------
Contributors- Philip McPhantom (MESPN lead football coordinator), Ruharg the Red (Monster Magazine lead sports editor), Ar-Tar-Aradil (Westernesse Weekly sports writer, NAAF president), Adanel (Football wise-woman for Dor-Lomin Athletic Digest), Finwanoro (Football columnist for The Tirion Times and MESPN)

Nogrod

06-23-2013, 03:45 PM

GROUP A
Armenelos
The Barrow-Downs
The Havens
Valimar

The Barrow-Downs (last year called “the Downer”) might have evolved into a semi-serious team but it will not be qualifying this year, even if Bombadill can vreac some havoc when having an interest on it. With the other teams it gets more problematic.

Over half of the team of the Havens has changed since last year but it looks pretty solid like it did last season. Losing Tuor and the twin sons of Eärwen is a huge loss though – and hard to compensate. The results from the friendlies were promising anyway and The Havens will fight seriously for qualification.

Manwë has been able to both cut the costs and level-up the team. And the brightest change of all is of course getting Arien into the team. With Manwë and his closest pal Mandos, and some other awe-inspiring players, Valimar sure isn’t the team one thinks of beating just like that. But then on the other hand Valimar has rarely shown excellence in the field (except against teams of “baddies”). All eyes will be glued to Arien then, for it is up to her – and up to others to deliver the ball to her – whether Valimar qualifies or not.

Armenelos has been only waiting for this season to show that what happened the last year will not repeat itself. They are intent on going far in this torunament. As one of the very few teams that have clearly gotten stronger this year, they also seem pretty serious about it. Elros is a great add-on to the team both mentally and sportively.

The AKM prediction and Phantasy-player hints

Will qualify: Armenelos
Fight for the second spot: Valimar, The Havens
Will not qualify: The Barrow-Downs

Scorers: Eärendil, Elros and Ar-Pharazôn, if you want to go for a possible jackpot try Arien or Bombadill.
Defenders & Keepers: no good picks in this group – or you could try Manwë / Valimar defenders. All highest defenders have a history of scoring every now and then, only not too often (except Tar Telperien a few years ago).

GROUP B
AC Beleriand
Inter Beleriand
Dwarves United
Gondolin

In principle any of the four teams could qualify from this group, but there are differences as well: if AC Beleriand qualifies it is more or less no news, but if Dwarves United does it is big news.

Dwarves United did qualify the last year (albeit from a lot weaker group) and has basically just strengthened from that by getting Galadriel to keep the goal. Their friendlies haven’t given any reason for the fans to get too excited but they have not been too challenging either. But what they have clearly shown is that like last year it will be hard to score against them.

Gondolin has been having a dry time for a few years now and everyone is waiting for them to bounce back again into the bright lights. With Tuor and Idril back in town the hopes are up again. Forcing Hithlum into a draw was a great feat but losing 0-2 to Tirion in the first friendly was less flattering. So they are facing the season with mixed feelings.

Inter Beleriand acquired Beren and Lúthien for this season and are serious about qualifying. If Turgon and the defences hold they will have the road open, but if not…

The figure of Fëanor looms large over the team AC Beleriand – and he hates to lose. Together with Eöl and the new finds Angrod and Aegnor they have one of the most devastating attacks this tournament has – and as their iron-defence has only gotten tougher this year with the adding of one Balrog it seems they are one of the clearest candidates to pick the whole trophy. The only problem being no stranger to Fëanor himself: that hybris is followed by nemesis.

The AKM prediction and Phantasy-player hints

Will qualify: AC Beleriand
Fight closest for the second spot: Inter Beleriand, Gondolin
More probably will not qualify: Dwarves United

Scorers: All four AC Beleriand attacking players (Aegnor has been devastating in the friendlies, Fëanor is always a safe bet); Maedhros, Beren, Tuor, Maeglin…
Defenders & Keepers: Celebrimbor leads the toughest defence and can score himself, Lúthien or Fingolfin for the more adventurous pickers. Galadriel for goal, Turgon has been very good at the goal this season as well and Marach stands behind one of the toughest defences.

GROUP C
Doriath
Hithlum
Shire-Bree United
Real Valinor

Some might say that Shire-Bree United plays in a different – or wrong – league here. And there are reasons for that statement. But it must be admitted that the oddballs from the newer ages have shown their qualities the previous years, and with Gandalf on board one can not just wipe them off from one’s considerations. That said, to qualify they must leave two of three other teams: Real Valinor, Hithlum and Doriath, behind them – and that would be a feat indeed.

With Elwë back and leading the team along his wife Melian Doriath is a team one needs to take seriously. That said, their friendlies weren’t very convincing and not having either Beren or Lúthien in the scoringboard is a big loss which even Elwë probably won’t compensate.

Túrin may be used to losing in real life but he does hate it from the bottom of his heart. Last year was a disaster for Hithlum and this time they have bet everything for this one run… If Morgoth had his way they would fail epicly and the story of that one remarkable family would end in bankrupcy, but happily for the house of Hador Angband is not playing in this group. So it is up to Túrin and his best (and only?) friend Beleg – with the support of his dad, and uncle, Hador himself and all the other family – to score their way far in the tournament. There is no real estate that hasn’t been mortgaged to pay for this year’s salaries.

The AKM does think that Real Valinor is definitively weaker side they were last year with the selling of Arien (forced by Manwë?) and Caranthir. Then again their friendlies were just convincing: drawing with FC Valinor (to whom they lost twice last year) and beating Valimar cleanly 3-1. There should be no question that Real is a tough team again this year; and both Oromë and Nahar are Quality – and bring in some team-spirit indeed.

The AKM prediction and Phantasy-player hints

Will qualify: Real Valinor, Hithlum
Will not qualify: Doriath, Shire-Bree United

Scorers: Gandalf seems to be getting into shpe for the first time, anyone from the house of Hador’s attack – or Miriel / Nerdanel. Oromë is a bit more risky but possibly rewarding choice like Khamûl or Mablung are.
Defenders & Keepers: With teams like Hithlum and Real Valinor in the group it is hard to suggest any defenders, but maybe Tulkas for goal and Tilion for a defender (could as well score) – if you feel daring then pick Halbarad ot Shadowfax from the Shire-Bree. Hithlum defence is a no-no.

GROUP D
Barad-Dur
Gondor
Isengard
FC Valinor

Now there is no stopping FC Valinor in this group and it is easy to see brothers Celegorm and Curufin annoyed with the quality of the teams they are thrown against in the group phase – even if there are some individual players that will challnge even them for real. It is just that there is not quality enough in any of the other teams to seriously challenge FC Valinor’s peak position.

Isengard has taken two narrow 1-2 losses from Rohan and Wilderland in the friendlies. From last year they have changed the basically immobile Caradhras into very-very slow Beechbone – which is a kind of step forwards one could say – and replaced Freca with a Nazgûl in the midfield. So even if Saruman has been cutting costs he has managed to build a stronger-looking team. The problem just is that it might not be enough.

Last year Gondor won the lousiest group with some ease and was dropped with penalties to Shire-Bree. For this year they have lost two quality-players Hyermendacil and Falastur and gotten in exchange a promising Meneldil and a more or less mediocre Galadil. In the friendlies they have taken two expected results (beating Mordor 3-1 and drawing 2-2 with Minas Tirith) but there is little to tell to one’s grandchildren about those matches.

Sauron is clearly trying to have an effect without getting his hands dirty – or using too much money from his pockets. Last year’s pathetic defence is fired and now there are two wizards and two Fellbeasts defending the goal in front of the new goalkeeper Grishnâkh (?). The friendlies weren’t impressive, but Sauron himself can perform miracles as we all know.

Which leaves FC Valinor. Changing Nahar and Penlod from defence into Thorondor and Eönwe weighs slightly on the stronger side. Giving up Lórien and Idril on the midfield for Elemmirë and Indis is clearly a weakening – so to sum up, the team should be more or less on even ground – but the AKM thinks they have weakened in total. Drawing with The Sea and Real are not good signs for them even if most teams should jubilate such results as victories of the century.

The AKM prediction and Phantasy-player hints

Will qualify: FC Valinor
Fight for the second spot: Barad-Dûr, Gondor
More probably will not qualify: Isengard

Scorers:The brothers and Yavanna are the obvious choices here, and Sauron likewise; on the second level try Eldacar or Saruman, or maybe Meneldil to be original.
Defenders & Keepers: Huan is the obvious pick but also Grishnâkh has been pretty good; any FC Valinor defenders are good picks, Eönwe might be even worth the star that gets used with him.

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-23-2013, 08:01 PM

Elenrod: Today: Four people gather in a room, talk about two groups of eleven people kicking a ball around, and figure out which group will get the ball past a line surrounded by a netted box a greater number of times. This is the Matchday’s 2013 Arda Cup preview episode. I’m your host, Elenrod, and with me today is our secret weapon in the battle for network ratings, tactics expert Maikalomion.

Maika: Thanks.

Elenrod: He loved being in the show so much, he wanted to do it again. Iorithil of QN Sport is also here.

Felagundion: No new book out this time?

Iorithil: No, basically, I’m just hiding from the angry Gondolin fans.

Felagundion: That was a suicidal article you wrote about Rog. I expected Adam or Hunter U. Nogson to be chased by an angry mob, but not you, Iorithil.

Elenrod: And the one who’ll never be gone, mainly because he has a huge debt to pay, Felagundion the blogger.

Felagundion: With Eru’s grace, I’ll escape this terrible fate.

Elenrod: In 231 years’ time. Now, let’s get on with the discussion. Which teams would get out of their groups, which teams would fail? We’ll start with Group A. Now, we have tactical brain Maikalomion. We also have footballing scholar Iorithil. So, Felagundion, what do you think?

Felagundion: Haha! Well, I’ve always pegged Manwë down as a serial choker, and Armenelos and the Havens are doing better in the friendlies, so I’ll have those teams advancing as top seed and second.

Elenrod: Even with Arien in Valimar?

Felagundion: That’s a tough one, yes—I’ve always been a fan of the Sun Lady. But she’s being constrained by Manwë. This reminds me of Lothlórien in 2011, when Fëanor, a perennial Golden Boot contender, wasn’t getting enough touches because of Galadriel’s negative tactics. So I guess I’ll start a ‘Free Arien’ movement.

Elenrod: Maika?

Maika: I’ll have to agree with Felagundion. She’s taken only eight shots in two games for Valimar. Last year with Real Valinor she averaged six shots per game, even with Míriel, Nerdanel, and Nessa in the squad. Now, even though she’s supposed to be the focal point of the offence, she’s often isolated up front due to a lack of service. But I think Valimar will go through; I just trust their defence more.

Iorithil: But in the group stage, scoring is more vital to qualification than defending, although the reverse is true come knockout stages. Still, I don’t think any team in Group A can stop an in-form Arien, except maybe Armenelos. So, for me, Armenelos wins the group, then Valimar second.

Maika: Same for me; I don’t think Eärendil and company can score enough against Armenelos or Valimar.

Elenrod: So you’re all basically ignoring the Downer—pardon, the Barrow-Downs.

Iorithil: Not in this group; I don’t think even Bombadil would be enough to offset their defensive frailty. In 2011 he led the Forest out of the group stage, but basically all he had to do was outscore Mordor and an understrength Nargothrond side.

Elenrod: So, the consensus is

Group A
Armenelos
Valimar
The Havens
The Barrow-Downs

Elenrod: Moving along. Group B, anyone?

Maika: The two Beleriands for me, AC Bel then Inter. Everyone now knows how to stop Gondolin—basically, you stop Idril and Elemmakil, like Tirion did. And Dwarves United still can’t score consistently enough.

Iorithil: I think the Dwarves can pick up their offence once the tourney starts. I’d pick them to advance second behind AC Bel. But this is one tough group—only one I’m reasonably sure of advancing is AC Bel, and everyone else has a fair chance.

Felagundion: I’m with Maika here. AC Bel are the best team here, top to bottom, but Inter have a more cohesive squad than Gondolin, who look better on paper. And everyone and their mothers now know that you have to mark Celebrimbor, like Rohan did, and I think the other three teams here can make him a non-factor in Dwarf U’s offence.

Group B
AC Beleriand
Inter Beleriand
Dwarves United
Gondolin

Elenrod: On to Group C, then.

Felagundion: I think these gents will all agree with me: Real first then Hithlum.

Iorithil: Agreed; basically just a gulf in quality between them and the rest.

Maika: I concur. Doriath no longer have players like Beleg and Lúthien who can fit in any tactical system they’d need to nullify opponents, and Daeron will now be in every team’s scouting notes—they’ll prioritise shutting him down so he can’t deliver his trademark through passes. Also, Shire-Bree look solid, but they no longer have a genuine game-changer in Bombadil.

Elenrod: Who’d be your dark horse pick, though, one who might spring a surprise?

Iorithil: If Nellas and Saeros become one-tenth as versatile as Beleg and Lúthien, or if Elwing becomes Melian-lite as a full-back, I’d say Doriath have a chance. A very slim one, though.

Felagundion: Doriath for me as well. SBU’s three attackers are about as good as Doriath’s but they have no Melian in the defence.

Elenrod: So for this group, we have

Group C
Real Valinor
Hithlum
Doriath
Shire-Bree United

Elenrod: Now, Group D. FC Valinor, and then who else?

Iorithil: Hehe, so, basically, you think FC Val’s a shoo-in? Well, I agree—you’d have to be blind or a total fanatic of the other three teams if you believe they won’t win this group.

Felagundion: Only Sauron has a chance of making it into the FC Valinor squad—that’s how big the gap in quality is. And I absolutely hate Sauron.

Maika: Well, for second, I think Barad-dûr would do it. As Felagundion said, they have the best non-FC Val player, and Grishnákh’s quite a surprise. Fourth-best goalie—even for friendlies, no one expected that. Right now, he’s better than Huan.

Felagundion: But that’s against Arnor and Misty Mts. FC Val had to play Real and the Sea.

Maika: They still hava the Witch-king and Durin’s Bane. Look, no one’s saying they’ll keep a clean sheet against Curufin and company, but against Gondor and Isengard, he might be enough.

Felagundion: I still trust Gondor. The two forwards you mentioned didn’t play hard against Sauron, but Anarion will. And Eldacar and Meneldil are right there with him.

Elenrod: Iorithil? You hold the tiebreaker. Alternatively, you can choose Isengard and screw us all over.

Iorithil: Haha, tempting, but no. Saruman’s squad might have a chance in Group H, but here, he’s basically toast. Hmm, I’d have to go with Barad-dûr. Like with Armenelos and TiG, Sauron won’t want to be left in the group again this year.

Elenrod: All right, then.

Group D
FC Valinor
Barad-dûr
Gondor
Isengard

Elenrod: Next up is Group E. Two semifinalists from last year in this group, I see.

Maika: And I’d pick them. Wilderland were held scoreless by Dwarf U—Eriador and Erebor could do the same to them. And Misty Mts’s defence just isn’t working, even with Gwaihir and Caradhras.

Iorithil: I’m assuming that’s Eriador first, Erebor second. I agree, although I think Wilderland has a fair chance of upsetting one of them. Remember: Scatha and Thranduil once basically willed Mirkwood to the semis against stronger competition.

Felagundion: That makes three of us; I think the E’s are advancing in Group E. By the way, I do hope Elrond keeps his ‘concede one goal or less’ streak alive.

Elenrod: Unanimous decision, then.

Group E
Eriador
Erebor
Wilderland
Misty Mts

Elenrod: Let’s proceed to Group F.

Maika: I think the Sea have a good chance of winning the group, even if Tirion and Nargothrond look slightly better. Their defence is just on another level, and I think Tar-Minastir and company will put their shooting boots on when the real games start. As for the second spot, I like how Tirion kept a clean sheet against Gondolin. They can muzzle Nargothrond’s attack.

Iorithil: I don’t know; Tirion seem more balanced, and Nargothrond have got that crazy look in their eyes where they’ll turn every match into a scoring contest. I’d give Tirion a better chance than them, and between them and Nargothrond it’s basically a coin flip.

Felagundion: I always say Nargothrond win their group, so as for who goes second . . . I think the Sea can beat Tirion.

Elenrod: And Minas Tirith? They managed to advance to the quarterfinals last year.

Maika: They came from the lousiest group that year, then frustrated a disjointed Angband side who haven’t adjusted yet fully to playing without their midfield anchor Tilion. This is a group of teams who are settled with their identities. They’ll stick to what they do best and beat Minas Tirith there.

Felagundion: I’ve also read a lot of articles praising Mardil, thinking that he could be the star who could bring them out of this group. I mean, Mardil is good player, but he hasn’t exactly pulled up too many trees yet. Well, maybe he’ll start single-handedly winning games like Anarion did last year; we’ll see.

Elenrod: This was a tough group to tally, but basically

Group F
The Sea
Tirion
Nargothrond
Minas Tirith

Elenrod: We move on to Group G.

Felagundion: With all due respect to Iorithil, but for me this one’s the Group of Death. There’s Imladris who qualified last year—admittedly, they were roadkill for Erebor in the first round, but still. There’s Angband and TiG, who didn’t qualify for last year, but that was an aberration, I tell you. They will come back angry this year. And you have Anfauglith, who should have qualified over Doriath last year, and they improved their squad. I have no idea who’ll qualify, let alone who’ll win this group. Well, think Imladris won’t qualify, but I’m not sure, because the sons of Elrond look like they know now how to score.

Elenrod: But do you have a blind guess?

Felagundion: I’d say, hmm, Angband, then TiG.

Maika: The same teams for me, but in reverse order. The Werewolves look in good form.

Felagundion: But compare their friendly opponents to Angband’s. Morgoth had a tougher schedule, and he didn’t lose, either.

Maika: But TiG have a better midfield, so they’d keep the ball better. The Easterlings don’t press effectively to recover possession; they’ll just fall back to Morgoth’s lap, like they did vs Tirion. When Finwë dropped to the midfield, no one pressured him. Balrog #1 had to step up to close him down, but that just left space for Aredhel to run into and receive Caranthir’s pass.

Iorithil: I’d go with current form again and say TiG wins the group. But I’ll agree with Felagundion—basically, it’s all very close. Even Anfauglith, who had a shambolic form in the friendlies, have a chance to get it together and qualify. They have the personnel to do it, after all.

Elenrod: The two gang up on Felagundion again.

Group G
Tol-in-Gaurhoth
Angband
Anfauglith
Imladris

Elenrod: And last—certainly looking the least—we have group H.

Felagundion: They do look like roadkills for the Group A teams who qualify. Anduin has the best squad on paper, but Arnor and Rohan looks like they can outperform them.

Maika: Arnor, yes, but I think Anduin would still make it, squeeze past Rohan for the second spot.

Iorithil: And here I’d agree with Felagundion. Rohan’s loss to the Dwarves look bad compared to Anduin’s loss to Eriador, but their win against Isengard looks better than Anduin’s draw with Shire-Bree.

Elenrod: So Mordor’s basically fish food in a group of minnows.

Group H
Arnor
Rohan
Anduin
Mordor

Elenrod: All right, then. Before we go, do any of you have predictions regarding the knockout rounds? Maybe even the champion.

Felagundion: Nargothrond will be champions, like I always hope for.

Maika: AC Bel, Eriador, and TiG make the semis. The last slot would be decided by another Valinor derby. I think FC Val will win that.

Iorithil: I have none. I just hope the games would start now.

Elenrod: And so indeed do the rest of us. And with that, we’ve come to the end of another show. Thank you all: Maika, Felagundion, Iorithil. From all of us here at TENT: Enjoy the games.

Nogrod

06-24-2013, 04:08 PM

GROUP E
Erebor
Eriador
Misty Mts
Wilderland

There seems to be a script ready for this group – and it reads that Eriador will qualify and Misty Mountains stay in the group-phase while Erebor and Wilderland will battle out the other qualifier’s position.

None of the teams from group E played tough opponents in the friendlies, but while other teams allowed zero to one goal in two matches Misty Mts. allowed four. That’s basically their problem – and not having a real Arda-quality offence is another in a group where all the others have tougher than average defences.

Wilderland has changed considerably from last year – including some major losses but also some pretty decent gains. Losing players like Oromë, Galadriel and Elwë would be a blow to any team, but especially getting Thranduil was a good move. Whether that is enough to qualify is then another matter.

Losing two key players Gwaihir from the defence and Thranduil from the offence is bad news indeed for Erebor. Then again they still have two eagles in their defence and Smaug, Bard and a Nazgûl in the offence plus Beorn, one of last year’s stars, on the goal. The positive news for the group phase are of course that Wilderland has also weakened from last season – so it will be all in their own hands.

Common wisdom has it that you shouldn’t change a winning team but Eriador has done some of that leaving many people wondering why. One can explain the changes though, some with moral integrity and others with nepotism – but will it work is then another question. It seems nothing will stop Eriador in the group phase or in the first qualifiers. But will there be a solid and working team to meet some real opposition in the quarters?

The AKM prediction and Phantasy-player hints

Will qualify: Eriador
Fight for the second spot: Erebor, Wilderland
Will not qualify: Misty Mountains

Scorers: Smaug and Glorfindel will score, Scatha and Thranduil know how to but aren’t as reliable. Azog scored nicely in the fiendlies but in the group-games the defences might be too tough for him.
Defenders & Keepers: Elrond and Beorn keep their sheets clean, Eriador’s defence is overall a smart place to pick players.

GROUP F
Minas Tirith
Nargothrond
The Sea
Tirion

Minas Tirith may be a team of decency and brotherhood, and strengthened with Eomer also a good team – to play against other mediocre teams. But put in to fight for qualification against some real talent and experience they have been given boots too big to fill.

Tirion has changed considerably from last year with some major traffic in and out from the team, but they have seemed to hit a good balance, at least if the friendlies offer a meter for anything: drawing with Angband and taking a clean 2-0 victory from Gondolin show that Tirion is serious this year after their decent fight last year in the “group of death”.

Even if their performance last year left a lot to hope for Nargothrond hasn’t made but one trade for their team for this year changing Mîm to Nienor, but they have shuffled the deck somewhat changing the positions of a few players. And it looks promising for they beat Anfaughlith in the friendlies (last year they draw with them) – and forcing Armenelos into a draw was a great result. They are an offensive powerhouse even The Sea needs to take into account.

Otherwise it looks like The Sea is the best bet for a team to qualify: Ulmo-led Maia-defence and Númenorian midfield and offence look both tight and effective. Beating Valimar and drawing with FC Valinor should tell everyone what is needed on their quality.

The AKM prediction and Phantasy-player hints

Will most probably qualify: The Sea
Will fight hard for the second (or first) ticket: Nargothrond, Tirion
Will not qualify: Minas Tirith

Scorers: Anyone from the Nargothrond offence is a good idea as are Aredhel and Finwë. Mardil has been devastating in the friendlies but with the level of the defences going up his scoring will come to a halt.
Defenders & Keepers: If The Sea’s defences can deny FC Valinor a goal they can do it to any other team as well (even if we do not suggest you trust all your phantasy-defence with them in the game against Nargothrond). Finarfin is a quality keeper and Caranthir might bring in occasional extra-points.

GROUP G
Angband
Anfauglith
Imladris
Tol-In-Gaurhoth

Group G is one more group where one team is levels below the others and whose only role is to tease the bigger teams and try its hardest for luck to shine on them and give a comfort-goal somewhere. Imladris has just that position in this group. But the others will really fight it out – and we mean really fight for these are no mr. niceguys who play in this group.

Anfaughlith quite never delivered the last year even if they didn’t play badly. From since they have changed their offense completely and with Ecthelion and Gothmog leading it they look much sharper and more dangerous this year. That said they lost both their friendlies, even if quite closely (1-2 both) to some pretty tough teams (AC Beleriand and Nargothrond). In this group they need to start winning and it will be tough against the two other top teams of the group.

Putting Morgoth and Ancalagon together spells trouble to anyone daring to challenge the two – and adding Carcaroth to the goal makes the opposite-side’s efforts at scoring in jeopardy. But they all have been vanquished every now and then – and there resides the hope of other teams again this powerhouse of evil. Interestingly they opened their season with two draws in the friendlies. Now they need two wins to qualify.

With some of the restraints cancelled and a few smart picks from the player-market – and an added 16 million in the budget – T-I-G is suddenly looking just as dangeorus it was years ago on their hayday. And they have been like a whirldwind in the friendlies fex. breaking Melian’s Girdle into pieces with a ravaging 3-0 score.

The AKM prediction and Phantasy-player hints

Will (most probably) qualify: Angband, Tol In Gaurhoth
Fights for the second spot: Anfaughlith
Will not qualify: Imladris

Scorers: Gothmog and Ancalagon are safe bets – and if you can affrod one star using it to Morgoth is a star well spent. T-I-G scores a lot in general but the scoring is often spread so it’s hard to give other advice but that it is always useful to have PhantomWolf in your team.
Defenders & Keepers: T-I-G has a tough defence and a classy keeper and same could be said of Angband. No reasonable player would pick players to his defence from Imladris on this group.

GROUP H
Anduin
Arnor
Mordor
Rohan

There seems always to be a group that is a collection of second-rate teams who’d be wiped out in any other group, but as they are brought together they have suddenly a chance to qualify and to compete for the bigger sums offered to qualifiers. And to be sure, they can form entertaining groups and ones that are very hard to predict – like group H in this year’s tournament.

Although one thing we can assure the readers already – and that is that Mordor will not qualify. They are a lousy team even in this group and they seem content to that state of affairs as they have nothing to lose: with 51 million in investment they will gain 9 million in profit even if they lose every game 0-6.

Rohan got as far as the quarterfinals last year but has changed a lot since. With almost 30 million vanished from the investments it is easy to see the level of players has just collapsed. From outside their realm they have only managed to recruit Faramir to play beside his wife – while losing home-grown stars like Eorl, Eomer and Shadowfax to other teams. They still beat Isengard in the friendlies though… as they should.

If you just look at the teams in paper you’d think Arnor has what it takes to just fly through this group but sadly for them paper seems to differ from reality. Having the always scoring Witch King in the offence should make any team uneasy, and having Elendil and Malbeth to shut the defence in front of Arvedui, who after all is a quality keeper, should make opposite offences insecure. Well, their defences have held nicely (against pretty poor offences) but they have themselves scored only one goal in two games. That’s their problem.

Anduin doesn’t boast of any superstars but might just be the most consistent team of this group – there seem not to be weak links or areas of the game they’d be especially bad. Also drawing with Shire-Bree and losing only 0-1 to Eriador in the friendlies are promising signs making them slight favourites to win this group.

The AKM prediction and Phantasy-player hints

Will (probably) qualify: Anduin, Arnor
Fights for the second spot: Rohan
Will not qualify: Mordor

Scorers: The Witch King should deliver, he normally does. But will he?
Defenders & Keepers: Arnor and Anduin have the best defences here and with no teams having a master-scoring offence, players from both could be decent picks during the group-stage.

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-26-2013, 12:32 AM

Minas Tirith

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/8mti_zps722d337b.jpg~original

Last year
Minas Tirith sprang two of the biggest surprises of the 2012 Arda Cup, advancing to the knockout stage ahead of Sauron’s Barad-dûr and a Mordor squad that was six minutes from taking second seed. Then in the first round the Stewards beat Morgoth’s Angband in a penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 draw in 120 minutes of play.

Minas Tirith were a hardy squad, tactically sound as well as athletically fit. They were unlikely to beat themselves, so it fell upon the opposition to exploit their weaknesses: they’re not solid at the back (having conceded first in all their five games) and not imposing up front, either.

Changes
Since then they’ve replaced attacking midfielder Faramir with Éomer from Rohan, as well as drafting his horse Firefoot at right-back. But fundamentally, Minas Tirith’s identity hasn’t changed. They remain a tactically versatile team, with the personnel to carry out whatever system they use.

Attack
The Stewards’ flexibility starts up front, where a mobile and energetic Boromir I is fielded as a lone forward. Leading the line as a target of long passes, he can also participate in the build-up play, allowing Mardil and Éomer to get ahead of him on the attack. When out of possession, he prevents defenders from making easy passes into the midfield, disrupting the opposition’s build-up play.

Behind him is a band of three attacking midfielders. Mardil on the left is the most talented of the three, preferring to drift inside and storm into the penalty box (and opening up space for left-back Cirion to run into). Éomer in the centre drifts from wing to wing, but can also play through passes for runners (as he did twice for Mardil in the friendlies). Telumehtar on the right, a fullback last year, is more defensive, since most left-backs are more attacking than their counterparts on the right (Barahir and Caranthir are examples in this group), but he is also capable of making a run for the byline and putting in a cross.

Midfield and Defence
Behind them is a well-balanced midfield pivot—Tarondor is a bustling box-to-box midfielder, willing to put in a crunching tackle (earning him two yellow cards in two friendly matches) as well as breaking forward in possession (he played a neat one-two with Mardil vs Gondor). Beside him is Eärnil II, a true holding midfielder who also makes short simple passes to start the attack.

The defence they are protecting consists of Eärnur and Ecthelion II in the centre, Firefoot on the right, and the more attacking Cirion on the left. And in goal is Denethor II, the squad captain and the leader of their defence. His save rate is down (66.7% in the friendlies compared to 73.3% during last year’s tournament), but many expect him to improve once the actual games start.

Quick Guide
CAPTAIN: Denethor II
FORMATION: 4-2-3-1
PLAYING STYLE: pressing, counterattacking
STRENGTH: Cohesive team.
WEAKNESS: So-so defence, lack of a reliable goalscoring threat.
KEY PLAYER: Mardil
QUESTION: Can their ‘scoring by committee’ approach work against quality defences (like the Sea’s) or outscore more talented offences (like Tirion and Nargothrond’s)?
__________

Nargothrond

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/3ngr_zps4541a689.jpg~original

Last year
Last year’s Nargothrond were a poorly constructed squad, top heavy, stocked with functional midfielders, but sorely lacking in defence. This frailty at the back was exposed early in the tournament when Thuringwethil single-handedly outfoxed and outfought Nargothrond’s four defenders to score a brace. Their whole squad’s problems were then exposed in the next game, when AC Beleriand hammered them with five goals, conceding only one in return, which was scored early in the first half before AC Bel had imposed their dominance on the game.

Their defenders needed protection that holding midfielder Barahir couldn’t provide alone. But with Finrod taking Glaurung’s place as poacher, there was no one to link midfield and attack, forcing the midfielders to push forward. That Mablung, despite being less dominating than Thuringwethil, scored a hat trick against them was due to the fact that, with Nargothrond’s midfielders pushing forward to support the attack (they had a huge goal difference to make up), their back line was exposed to three-on-four situations—two of those three were technically gifted Lúthien and Beleg, who supported Mablung well.

Changes
Finrod made only one personnel change to the squad, replacing Mîm with Hithlum’s energetic midfielder Nienor. Most of the changes they made involved shuffling the players around to bring out the best in them, as well as creating a more cohesive squad.

Defence
In goal, Orodreth replaced Bëor (now stationed at the base of the midfield as a defensive screen) and has done quite well in the friendlies, saving six shots in the game against Armenelos. His save rate of 69.2% is enough for a team who can score a lot—it is certainly an upgrade over Bëor's depressing 52.2% save rate last year. The previous holding midfielder Barahir is now on the left of the back four, leading the defence and offering left-sided width when Nargothrond is in possession. On the right is Guilin, and in the centre are Arminas and Baran. While they still have faults as individual defenders, under Barahir and Orodreth they have become slightly more organised in their coverage and in setting up offside traps.

Attack
Up front, there is a change in shape—where once the trident of Finrod, Glaurung, and Gwindor were spread out across the breadth of the pitch (but with Finrod drifting into central positions), they are now positioned more narrowly. Gwindor and Finrod start as centre forwards, and Glaurung is now in his favoured position ( http://www.facebook.com/notes/louis-allen-zablan-ortal/glaurung-i-am-a-midfielder-not-a-forward/10151484034782223) ‘in the hole’ behind them, linking midfield and attack. Like Fëanor in AC Beleriand’s current formation, Glaurung is outside the zone of responsibility of opposing defenders, and he has a significant physical advantage over most holding midfielders. Defences are further disorganised by Gwindor’s movement to the right (he is a natural winger) and Finrod’s drifting around the pitch in search for pockets of space (he is a natural playmaker). Whereas Gwindor is usually dealt with by the opposing left-back, Finrod has to be marked by a central defender, since the holding midfielder is already occupied with Glaurung. This will open space for the Glaurung and Nargothrond’s midfielders to run into.

Midfield
Nargothrond’s more advanced midfielders, Nienor and Finduilas, are roughly of the same mould. They are decent tacklers and tireless runners, useful both on attack and defence. Nienor played a wide-shuttling role in last year’s Hithlum squad, and is expected to do so again. Nargothrond presses high up the pitch upon losing possession—this acts as their first line of defence—, with Gwindor marking the left-back and Finrod and Glaurung pressing the two central defenders. Nienor is tasked to move forward and close down the opposing right-back, preventing them from playing the ball forward with ease. Behind them Finduilas marks the opposition’s ball-playing midfielder, and whatever defensive duty they can extract from the slow Bëor is a bonus.

Quick Guide
CAPTAIN: Finrod
FORMATION: 4-3-1-2
PLAYING STYLE: attacking, pressing
STRENGTH: Attackers.
WEAKNESS: Defence, holding midfielder Bëor.
KEY PLAYER: Glaurung
QUESTION: With Glaurung back in his favoured position, will he play better than he did last year?

Nilpaurion Felagund

06-26-2013, 09:41 AM

The Sea

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/2sea_zps8f29d82a.jpg~original

Last year
One of the most unnoticed surprises of last year’s Arda Cup was the fact that an Ulmo-led squad was terrible on defence. Conceding two goals to eventual champions Real Valinor and a Túrin-led Hithlum was somewhat understandable, but allowing the Havens to do the same was eyebrow-raising. And conceding to Valimar, a team that scored but once against an anaemic Hithlum back line, was nothing short of shocking. Were Hithlum and the Sea’s defence on the same level, then? more than one expert asked. Was that notion even possible?

Changes
This year, the Vala of the waters returned to his roots. He has made just a single signing (Gondor shotstopper Hyarmendacil), but he had his squad playing in a way different from last year.

Attack
The changes were felt most strongly up front. Last year’s free-flowing, interchanging Númenórean offence was reined in, with the leading band of midfielders, Tar-Aldarion, Vëantur, and Tar-Meneldur, sitting deeper. This often left lone forward Tar-Minastir cutting a lonely figure higher up the pitch. The front four are still capable of slicing through defences (their quick one-touch passing confused Valimar’s defenders enough to allow Tar-Minastir a clear shot at Manwë’s goal during a friendly match), but the attackers now bear more responsibilities when out of possession.

Midfield and Defence
Former goalkeeper Voronwë has replaced Eriol in the Sea’s defensive midfield band, alongside Tar-Ciryatan. With Ulmo’s renewed commitment to defence (and playing on the break), their sole contribution to the offence is to hoof the ball forward to instigate counterattacking moves.

Behind them are the Sea’s talented defenders—Ulmo and Ossë in the centre, Salmar and Uinen out wide in the left and right, respectively. While the full-backs offer something going forward, and Ulmo is a threat during set-pieces, their main priority is to stifle opposition attackers and deny chances to test their goalkeeper.

Quick Guide
CAPTAIN: Ulmo
FORMATION: 4-5-1/4-2-3-1
PLAYING STYLE: defensive, counterattacking
STRENGTH: Defence
WEAKNESS: Lack of creativity.
KEY PLAYER: Hyarmendacil
QUESTION: How much rope will Ulmo give his offence?
__________

Tirion

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/6tir_zps808a342a.jpg~original

Last year
Last year’s Tirion were condemned to elimination by the Arda Cup’s group selection committee. In any other group (save E, or possibly G), they would have been favourites to advance. But compared to the teams in last year’s ‘group of death’, they didn’t have the cohesion of Armenelos nor the star power of the two Valinor squads. Being eliminated with zero points was indicative of their level in the group, but not of their talent compared to the rest of the teams at large.

Changes
This year’s changes perhaps didn’t bring them appreciably closer to the level of the Real and FC Valinor, but they’re now placed in a less difficult group (though some pundits still have them missing out on the knockout stages), and they improved significantly, especially on defence. They acquired former right-back Rúmil from Real Valinor, adding defensive solidity to their midfield without sacrificing attacking potential. More importantly, their shambolic back three has been almost completely overhauled.

Defence
Tirion acquired centre-backs Amrod and Amras from Valimar, a team that conceded but once every game in a Group E featuring forwards Túrin, Húrin, Tar-Minastir, Eärendil, and Tuor. Joining the two is their brother Caranthir, fresh from a phenomenal finals performance against Eriador. A central defender in Real Valinor’s cup-winning squad, he now plays on the left as an attacking full-back—his assist for Aredhel’s opener in the friendly against Angband came after an explosive burst down the touchline. On the right is the more defensive full-back Irimë, the only holdover from last year’s defenders.

There are concerns over their goalkeeper Finarfin. He has not brought his club form over to Tirion; he remains middling to poor when playing for Finwë’s squad (65.2% save rate during last year’s Arda Cup compared to 66.7% during this year’s friendlies).

Midfield
In the centre of the midfield are Anairë and Eldalótë, who have demonstrated excellent partnership in two friendly games. They generally stay in position instead of venturing forward. Mahtan, on their left, drifts infield when Tirion is in possession to allow Caranthir to overlap. Rúmil on the right is a more traditional winger, running down the flanks to deliver crosses. Both are defensively solid, allowing Tirion to form a secure barrier ahead of their defence in case they need to play defensively.

Attack
Ahead of them is a solid partnership of Finwë and Aredhel—both are comfortable with being the focal point of the offence or dropping deeper to play off the other. During their first friendly, Rúmil and Caranthir sent crosses into the box for Finwë, whose knockdowns were converted by Aredhel and Mahtan. And then during their second match, Finwë dropped to the midfield to avoid the attention of the Angband defence, while Aredhel sat on the shoulder of the defenders and timed runs on to through passes, one of which he converted for the opener.

Quick Guide
CAPTAIN: Finwë
FORMATION: 4-4-2
PLAYING STYLE: attacking, pressing
STRENGTH: Attackers.
WEAKNESS: Goalkeeper.
KEY PLAYER: Finwë
QUESTION: Can they beat either the Sea or Nargothrond?
__________

Group F’s expected finish:
The Sea
Tirion
Nargothrond
Minas Tirith

Nogrod

06-26-2013, 03:48 PM

Group A

Armenelos vs. The Havens

Both teams have been scoring and allowing goals pretty heavily. Even if it has also something to do with the opposition they’ve had in the friendlies it still tells one that both teams are perfectly cabable of scoring and neither has a defence of steel. So look forwards to some scoring with this game.

Both teams have lost to a contender to the whole cup and drawn with a serious team so the set up is both interesting and evenish. The winner of this one will be very near qualification already after the first game so the stakes are high – and a draw is a possibility.

Some factors do suggest Armenelos are slight favourites over The Havens.

First of all Armenelos has two sharp-shooters who can win games alone aka. Elros and Ar Pharazôn, whilst the Havens has to trust Eärendil will score (he has been in flames in the friendlies to be sure) – but Armenelos also has Ar Adunakhôr and Tar Ancalimôn in front who are more than perfectly measuring up to anything Cirdan or Falastur might have up in their sleeve on the other end.

Secondly, on overall terms Armenelos looks like a more solid team with basically no weak links anywhere whereas The Havens has some weaknesses in the center midfield – and partly in the defence. Also Tar Atanamir and Amandil might be more or less equal goalies but Tar Atanamir has a lot more experience and is probably an inch more reliable because of that.

The AKM predicts: Armenelos wins 2-1.

The Barrow-Downs vs. Valimar

Valimar hasn’t been too convincing in the friendlies even if one pays heed to the toughness of their opponents. Unless Arien finds her place in the Valimar attack there isn’t too much for them and their supporters to look forwards to this year. To their relief they can start the tournament with yet one more rehersal-game as there is no way the Barrow-Downs will pose any threat to Valimar – or to any other teams of the group.

Now you may ask “what about Bombadil?”, and you are right in asking that question. Old Tom is one of the best players in the whole Arda, but even he can’t win games single-handedly. Just look at the rosters and behold: Manwë, Mandos, Lórien, Arien, Estë, Vairë… and one Bombadil to beat them?

The Barrow-Wight is a good player as well, and the other Wights could prove their worth with the Saucepan Man and Hookbill – but yet they are just on another plane. Unless of course there is something only Manwë and Mandos understand regarding to Eru’s plans and therefore “miracles happen”.

But rather than betting on that the AKM suggests you bet for Valimar to win the game – but not with any humiliating scorelines, unless Arien finds her touch and is given the freedom to score.

The AKM predicts: Valimar wins 1-0 or 2-0 (2-1).

Group B

Inter Beleriand vs. Dwarves United

Whichever team wins this game is a major step nearer qualification as it is hard to believe both teams could beat AC Beleriand so that they both had a chance to qualify. And there will be no lesser team than Gondolin to mix in.

Comparing this group to fex. group H makes one smile or weep – depending on one’s character.

Anyway, Inter Beleriand is putting on some real effort this year and seem to be very serious with their goal of qualification. And they are put into the hardest test possible already in their first competitive game facing the masters of defence Dwarves United who have only strengthened their defence from last year by hiring Galadriel to protect their goal.

The game smells of a draw, but yet there are also certain factors that might change it. Last year Erebor was able to break Dwarves Utd’s defences for good, but then they had a dragon to do that. Now Galadriel’s cousins Fingon and Maedhros are no dragons but could be considered tough enough to have a chance trying. On the dwarven side, last year the responsibilty for scoring was laid more or less solely on the shoulders of Celebrimbor (from the defence!). This season Telchar has scored a goal – and all eyes are keen on Legolas to finally show why he is paid double the salary of Telchar.

To summarize: Dwarves United has issues with scoring but defends masterfully. Inter in turn has strengthened considerably by getting Beren to aid in the offence and Lúthien sure makes the life even harder for the Dwarven attackers. A low-scoring draw then?

The AKM predicts: draw 1-1 (0-0) or Inter wins 1-0.

AC Beleriand vs. Gondolin

AC Beleriand is one of the favourites to win the whole tournament and faces now a “must-win” game against Gondolin. And seeing that Gondolin was able to stop Hithlum on the second round of friendlies it is clear they are not looking forwards to a lazy afternoon walk in the park. This group is a pain for every team.

Gondolin on the other hand seems to be facing yet another uphill-struggle. Last year they were able to qualify before Inter Beleriand but were kicked off from the tournament by none other team but AC Beleriand on the first play-off round.

Now many think Gondolin has actually strengthened somewhat for this year even if they have almost the same budget they had last year (a lot depends on whether you think changing Gothmog into Tuor and Idril is a good or bad change). But to their horror both Beleriand teams have not only poured in more money, but they have strengthened seriously with that added cash. And the Dwarves United have gotten Galadriel to keep their goal to make scoring against them even harder.

Why AC Beleriand then wins this game? Tirion showed the defences of Gondolin can be opened and if that was done with the offensive trio Mahtan, Aredhel and Finwë, then why not with the quartet Fëanor, Eöl, Aegnor and Angrod? There are certain striking similarities there – and AC Beleriand will cling on them.

The AKM predicts: AC Beleriand wins 2-0 (or 2-1).

Group C

Hithlum vs. Real Valinor

One of the fanciest games of the first round – if not even the killer of the round. Two teams both with budgets over 100 million aim high this year – and not qualifying would be a disaster. Although the game isn’t such a “win or die” -one (like Inter Beleriand vs. Dwarves Utd. or Erebor vs. wilderland will be) as even the team that doesn’t win has everything in it’s own hands, and by beating both Shire-Bree and Doriath will qualify – something you could imagine both teams more than cabable of doing whatever happens in this game.

Many thought – the AKM included – that Real Valinor had weakened considerably from last year by selling two key-players off but looking at the friendlies it seems they haven’t weakened an inch. On the contrary: the champions of the last season look as sharp and devastating as ever and will seriously compete for renewing their title of the champions.

Hithlum in turn has strengthened considerably and is mortgaging all the belongings of the great house of Hador to change their fortunes this time around. With Beleg back on Túrin’s side and Húrin and Hador as constant threats around them there is no team in this tournament that could just count on shutting them out.

As both teams leak somewhat in their defences and score heavily one might look forwards to a feast of goals – and the deciding factor will be whether one can outscore the other. The game really feels like a draw as both teams would be quite content with it but if forced to bet on one team winn ing the AKM might put their money for Real Valinor.

The AKM predicts: draw 3-3.

Shire-Bree United vs. Doriath

The name of the game is clear. The team losing this game will need to say farewell to any dreams of qualifying this year as that would more or less demand them to beat both Real Valinor and Hithlum in the next games – a challenge only a few teams could match even in principle.

That said the winner isn’t having any better chances in qualifying as they’d need still put one of the two giants of this group behind them. But surely one miracle is more probable than two.

It is hard to compare the friendlies the two have played when Doriath was completely overrun by a truck named T-I-G while Shire-Bree had to do a full day’s work to beat the Barrow-Downs. On the other games Shire-Bree was left with a draw against Anduin while Doriath lost after a good fight to Inter Beleriand only 0-1.

Shire-Bree has in a way better-looking results but Doriath has faced a caliber or two tougher teams. So fex. allowing goals: it looks like Doriath allows a lot of goals (four in two matches) and Shire-Bree scores nicely (three in two) – so Shire-Bree will score against Doriath a few goals with some ease?

Well, first of all Doriath conceded three goals against the hurricane called T-I-G and actually defended well enough allowing a tough team like Inter Beleriand (Maedhros, Fingon, Beren) only to score one. Meanwhile Shire-Bree scored only two against one of the weakest teams, the Barrow-Downs, and only managed one goal against the at best mediocre team of Anduin.

Doriath’s scoring-form remains unknown though and Shire-Bree’s defence against serious opposition is totally untested as yet, so it is hard to predict the outcome.

The AKM predicts: draw 1-1.

Group D

Isengard vs. FC Valinor

No sane person would bet on Isengard on this one. Eönwe, Thorondor and Huan are more than a match for Saruman however powerful Maia he might be – and totally unimpressed by a Nazgûl. And if someone is fit to fool the ents in the defence it is Yavanna, not to talk of the brothers Curufin and Celegorm who will just frighten the living daylights off the Isengard-orcs however bred to stand light they would be.

Indeed the AKM will predict a slaughter here.

The ball is round and sometimes even the best teams just have a bad day – or the lousy teams surprise everyone – but it is not this day and this game where that happens.

The AKM predicts: FC Valinor wins 3-0 (4-0).

Barad-Dûr vs. Gondor

The stakes are high in a game between Barad Dûr and Gondor, as it more or less decides the other qualifier from this group – unless Isengard organises a super-surprise and beats them both in the later games. Which the AKM will not believe they will do.

In a way it is a game of the Gondorian kings against Sauron’s Foreign Legion of beasts, eastern wizards, Black Númenorians and other darker characters from the outskirts of the Gondorian realm. So it is fitting as well that it is just these two teams battling it out in the football field. There will be some extra sparks in the air when Eldacar and Castamir, or Anárion and Sauron to that matter, meet again. And only one of the two teams has a chance to flourish.

Looking at the firendlies it might look like Gondor would be the more effective team of the two – although their draw with Minas Tirith doesn’t look that impressive. Meanwhile, even if their scoring has been lower Barad Dûr has drawn with Arnor which is definitively better team than Minas Tirith, and they have beaten Misty Mountains – which in turn is definitively tougher team than Mordor whom Gondor beat in their first friendly game.

So even if this game too smells somewhat like a draw the AKM would give an edge to Barad Dûr – not the least because they have Sauron who is not used into losing on the initial rounds of any effort he gives.

The AKM predicts: Barad Dûr wins 2-1, or a draw 1-1.

Group E

Eriador vs. Misty Mountains

Eriador should win Misty Mountains and even quite comfortably if they look forwards to achieving glory in the tournament this year. The only questionmark is the current readiness and striking power of Eriador as they have not been tested in the friendlies for real.

Misty Mountains in turn has toughened their defences with Gwaihir and Caradhras (in exchange to the two soft-headed trolls Tom and Bert) but has still given up two goals in both of its friendlies – against quite modest teams of Imladris and Barad Dûr.

So in comparison Eriador should score at least three. The question being only, can they do that now when it is needed and there is no Witch King to do that for them? Glorfindel sure is ready for it, but how about Isildur, Arveleg or NogWight – they’d need to start to deliver if Eriador wishes to go far in this tournament. And with that kind of investment it is clear that is what they mean – and mean it seriously.

Some pressure on team Eriador then while Misty Mountains have nothing to lose from this game as their primary targets will be Erebor and Wilderland – and thusly the second qualification. That spells for a more even game.

The AKM predicts: Eriador wins 2-0 (or 2-1).

Erebor vs. Wilderland

No soft beginnings for the two teams here but possibly the single most important game in the group-rounds will be given to them as starters. Now Misty Mountains might prove a problem to either of the two and both have a chance to beat Eridor on a great day, but just looking at it from a conservative POV it is this game they have to win if they wish to qualify – and losing this particular game would be the worst case scenario for both of them.

With little to say from the friendlies – both did win some of the poorest teams of the tournament with dismal records and Wilderland draw goalless with the Dwarves Utd. – one does well to look at the rosters.

Beorn against the Great Warg. Point for Erebor from goalkeepers.

In defence two eagles, Thorin Oakenshield and the last lord of the Dale against two ents, an elven king and a wizard. The two eagles make it turn just so to the side of Erebor.

In the midfield a dwarven warrior-king, his human fellow-king in arms and the orc-leader (Azog’s son) Bolg against the pretty sad “first-awaken” and an entwife. No problem in giving the point to Erebor.

The offence looks the closest. The two Nazgûl kind of cancel each other out. Smaug gets the better of the two dragons but then again Thranduil beats Bard in scoring quite easily – especially as Bard has been quite disappointing this year after his great season last year. Draw here, or a slight edge to Wilderland.

So two points to Erebor from goalkeeping and the midfield, and half points to Erebor from the defence and Wilderland for offence – two and a half agains half points.

The AKM predicts: Erebor wins 2-1 (or they draw 2-2).

Group F

Nargothrond vs. Minas Tirith

Now Minas Tirith is not a bad team and they will be full of energy to show especially the big media that they are no pushovers. But it might just be they have had the worst of luck with the lottery for the groups and will have no chance to show the Arda how good they could have been against a little lesser opponents than the ones they meet in this group.

For it is just true that all the other teams of the group: The Sea, Nargothrond and Tirion could all go as far as the semifinals, or even further on a good day – and at the same time at least one of them will stay in the group-stage. Now whether they are willing to let Minas Tirith come and muddle the already tough competition for the two qualifying places can be asked but the answer is clear.

That said Nargothrond has one of the most crushing offences this tournament has and they have scored five goals in two games against such tough adversaries that only Real Valinor might boast of a similar feat. And with Minas Tirith giving in two goals to both Erebor and Gondor one might foresee that Nargothrond will score at least as much, if not more against them.

So the rest depends merely on whether Mardil can still score when the real games begin – or whether fex. Boromir comes alive again. Nargothrond isn’t exactly the champions of defence and their game-plan often is just outscoring the opponent. So how many Minas Tirith will score?

The AKM predicts: Nargothrond wins 3-1 (4-2).

Tirion vs. The Sea

A very important game for both teams here as a loss would make qualification a lot harder for either team. That in turn smells like a draw, but lets see what could make it otherwise.

Now the Sea likes to play from defence onwards and to suffocate any enemy offences. You could say it is easy to do that to Valimar if you have players with enough quality as they won’t rage back, but to shut out FC Valinor is a deed indeed – and showing they can do it they have also warned all the other teams that people should not only talk of the Dwarves Utd. as a team that can kill off the opponent’s attacking spirits.

That said Tirion has shown their defences are not bad either. Shutting out Gondolin is a fair result and only allowing Angband one goal isn’t bad either. But on the other end of the field they scored two against Gondolin and one against Angband showing also their potential in scoring.

So it will be a fight on one hand of Aredhel, Finwë and Mahtan against Tar Aldarion and Tar Minastir – and on the other the sons of Fëanor against the Ulmo led Maiar in defence.

It would be easy to say that Tirion gets the points from offence and The Sea from defence.

So a draw then? Most probably.

The AKM predicts: Draw 1-1 (0-0).

Group G

Anfaughlith vs. Imladris

Give Imladris a little easier group and they’d fight for qualification with their Varda-led defence, but sadly they have been allotted into a group of some real bloodthirsty beasts and greater evil only too happy to play it vicious, cruel and aggressive.

But maybe, in a sense, it is fitting that it is exactly Elbereth GIlthoniel who is leading the one team of light facing Morgoth, Ungoliant and the Werewolves. Maybe.

The hope Imladris has in this game relies in Varda taking out Gothmog and the other defenders being able to deal with Ecthelion together. That accomplished they might hope for a low scoring game from Ungoliant’s team. And it is here where losing Elros from the goal seems to cut deep.

On the other end Elladan and Elrohir would need to score past the Balrogs and finally Ungoliant which seems like a bit too tough a task to ask from the noble but young elves. So we probably don’t see too many goals on Anfaughlith’s end either.

Anfaughlith will score at least one. Will Imladris be able to counter that is the question.

The AKM predicts: Anfaughlith wins 1-0 (2-1), or they draw 1-1.

Angband vs. Tol-In-Gaurhoth

If Hithlum vs. Real Valinor is one of the highlights of this round then this one is the other. There will be blood on the arena and the fight will be tough. And there is a reason for both teams not willing to lose this game, or to come second in their group in general as that would most probably mean facing AC Beleriand on the first round of the play-offs – something no sane team would do voluntarily.

Now whether the werewolves of the T-I-G are sane is another matter altogether. And anyway, even the winner of the group will have a tough opponent in Inter Beleriand, Dwarves Utd. or Gondolin. And Anfaughlith sure wants to mess with the qualifying as well. Both teams just need a win then and so neither will settle with a draw unless it is the last minutes.

Angband has drawn with Hithlum and Tirion in the friendlies while T-I-G has beaten Doriath for good and won the Havens 2-1. So what to make of it? Basically nothing. Angband has drawn with really tough teams and T-I-G has won somewhat weaker ones (even though Havens is actually quite a good team).

At the goal ShastaWolf has proved to be a top keeper during the years, but so has Carcaroth. There is no clear difference there even if ShastaWolf might be just that weeny bit more reliable.

In defence T-I-G has the more solid team overall with three werewolves, including the sire of all werewolves Draugluin. But aided with a Balrog and Tevildo’s servant Umuiyan Angband has Morgoth – the kind of a clutch-player any team would envy weren’t he what he is. Yet Morgoth’s presence makes it a draw in defence, if not turns it slightly on their favour.

The midfield is the weak spot for both teams, but one where the easterlings of Angband seem to match the Wights of T-I-G. But Phantomwolf might just be a more dangerous player compared to Oikeroi – even if the latter has a close relationship with their forwards Tevildo and Phantomwolf lacks his longtime-mate NogWolf from the attack.

In offence Thuringwethil beats Tevildo quite easily but then again Ancalagon is a greater threat than InzilWolf – even if the latter can be a menacing forwards as well.

So all in all it is very even indeed – but maybe surpisingly to some – the slight edge would go to Tol In Gaurhoth –team. A lot depends on the role Morgoth is willing to play though.

The AKM predicts: Draw 2-2, or T-I-G wins 3-2.

Group H

Mordor vs. Rohan

Now many words have been used describing the “under-budgeting” of team Mordor and how they have no chance whatsoever to do anything. But happily for them they are in a group where even such a bunch of players with no expectations could play a part – if not otherwise then as kingmakers.

Even if the level of the game in group H isn’t exactly blinding it has made the betting agencies and media-houses make different predictions and is honestly quite a tough group to call. But what most agencies have in common is the fact that Mordor does not figure in their predictions as a qualifier – and the AKM agrees with that verdict.

Like said, even if they wouldn’t be qualifying they might make a difference and it is easy to see that their Nazgûls and Shelob might affect especially a team like Rohan – and to have the least extra effect on Anduin.

What gives hope to Rohan is that Gondor beat Mordor 3-1 in the friendlies and they’d only need to gather the pride and strength of their ancient neighbours to do the same – but that is the trick. Winning Isengard is another thing than meeting the beasts of Mordor even if their game isn’t any better than what Isengard has to offer. And one does well to remember that Mordor only lost to Erebor 0-1.

The AKM predicts: Rohan wins 1-0 or a draw 0-0.

Anduin vs. Arnor

Many think this to be the game that decides the winner of the group – others think Rohan has a word to say in it. Be that as it may, it will be a tough game and very hard to call.

The AKM has Anduin as the favourites to win this game because of two reasons: more solid performance in the friendlies and a more solid team. Let us be particular about those.

In the friendlies Anduin lost to Eriador only 0-1 and draw with Shire-Bree while Arnor draw with both Barad Dûr and Imladris. Both teams scored only one goal in the two friendlies they played but Anduin allowed one in both whereas Arnor allowed only one.

Now of the teams they met Eriador should be on the league of it’s own and thusly the result should be taken as what it is – a good performance. Also Shire-Bree with it’s Gandalf-led offence looks a bit sharper than Imladris or Barad Dûr, even if the difference isn’t that great. So taken that together, Anduin has a better record from the friendlies.

As we look at the rosters Arnor has the Witch King in the offence and Elendil and Malbeth in defence and Arvedui at the goal. That is pretty decent but the other players are not even near the quality of the aforementioned.

Anduin instead has not the kind of stars like the Witch King, but has depth beyond Arnor – and some pretty well-seasoned players as well; like Grimbeorn and Eorl in the attack, Boromir and Haldir in the midfield, and Fram, Celeborn and Felarof in the defence. Amroth isn’t probably as great a keeper than Arvedui but he’s a seasoned one as well and can do his job well enough – at least for this group.

So unless the Witch King gets a boost and goes for a rampage Anduin will win it – even if a draw is a possible scenario as well.

The AKM predicts: Anduin wins 1-0 (or a draw 0-0).

Boromir88

06-26-2013, 11:58 PM

Our tireless team of statisticians, analysts and experts always attempt to find new ways to break down the stats, analyze and then come up with a projection. For 2013 the new wave hitting TTN is "Wins Above Replacement" (or "WAR" for short).

Over the past several Arda Cups we've looked at total production (position-by-position) in order to come up with the averages at each position. Then we looked at the player production to determine the value of that player.

For example, Ar-Pharazon's WAR is +4.9, which means if we were to theoretically replace an average FW with Ar-Pharazon on the roster, than that team would have won almost 5 more games. Or on the flipside Fatty Lumpkin's -1.7 WAR, means replace an average DF with Fatty Lumpkin and that team would lose almost 2 more games.

Some more important notes: Over the years many players have changed positions, and many others are making either their tournament debut or debut at a new position. So there simply might be less data and history to look at and compare. Ar-Pharazon's WAR is quite high because his entire career he has been a FW (but it also means he's been an extremely good FW). Where someone like Elros has spent years as a GK or MF. Since Elros is a mid-fielder this year, we took his previous tournaments as as a MF and didn't factor in the years he was a GK.

GROUP A

Armenelos
FRIENDLIES:
-Nargothrond (D3-3)
-AC Beleriand (L1-2)

Probably not the friendly results Armenelos was hoping to have but nothing to be alarmed or discouraged about. A draw with a playoff quality team and 1-goal loss to a serious title contender this year.

Tar-Atanamir is a quality keeper and while his best year was clearly when Armenelos won the title in 2009, and there was a drop in his numbers after 2009, the drop wasn't too severe and it has levelled off. Manwe is definitely the best GK in the group, but the other pair of safe hands is Tar-Atanamir.

The most troublesome part for Armenelos is their defense. Tar Telperien has a high WAR (+3.9) but most of that comes from excellent 2008 and 2009 campaigns. Her drop in production coincided with the departures of Ar-Zimrathon and Tar-Cirytan from the defense, which I think just goes to prove Armenelos defensive strength comes from the combined team effort and cohesion, not individual stars. When paired with an average and relatively inexperienced defender, Tar Palantir (+0.2) and a very poor Tar-Calmacil (-0.8), the defense will struggle. On the positive side the other teams in this group only have 1 legitimate scoring threat each, and so the team defense should be good enough against the teams in this group. But when facing a team with multiple weapons, I think you'll see the same results as the friendlies...Armenelos vulnerable to giving up goals.

Armenelos' greatest advantage comes in the FWs and attacking MFs. I've already discussed Ar Pharazon in the opening, but it's worth mentioning even when he's handicapped on a roster that is defensively oriented he produced goals and won games. The king is a pro and he has won many games off his golden boots for his homeland. Then not to mention Ar Adunakhor who is a consisten complimentary player and Elros who is historically a better goalie, but is also a proven field commander in making sure his scorers upfront get quality passes. It's worth mentioning Tar Ancalimon and Tar Miriel as well. Because as primary scorers they are completely outclassed, but they fit nicely into the supportive role and 4th and 5th scoring threat on Armenelos.

Barrow-Downs
FRIENDLIES:
-Shire Bree Utd (L1-2)
-Eriador (L0-3)

Low budget aside, the team is trying out way too many players in new positions, leaving way too many question marks before the tournament. It's risky just to have 1 unknown going into group play. Don't get me wrong there is talent on the team. GwathWight's numbers as a defender (albeit is only based on 2 years) are solid (+0.9). But with the unknowns at the back (Alien and the Barrow-wight) plus the rest which is quite frankly garbage, (Lumpkin's -1.7, River Woman -0.6) I don't see how their defense can hold up.

At the front Bombadil is always capable of going off on a highlight performance but his focus is way too fleeting to be relied upon from match-to-match.

The Havens
FRIENDLIES:
-Inter Beleriand (D3-3)
-Tol In Gaurhoth (L1-2)

The other team that might have hoped for better results in the friendlies, but nothing to be alarmed about. They played good competition and statistically came out similar to Armenelos.

Their defense is conventional, they'll play you straight up but ultimately it is beatable. Ar Zimrathon is their best defender (+0.7) but that is exclusively from 2009 as Ar Zimrathon's numbers have evened out over the other seasons. Their defense relies more on their possession game (which they are definitely very good at).

The trouble with The Haven's midfield is, yes they are experts in the quick passing game and controlling possession. But they struggle turning that possession advantage into goals. Their midfielders all have a negative WAR (excluding Falastur...but he's basically the epitome of average with a +0.1) because they just don't produce goals. Cirdan's height is an advantage when going up against orcs...but he will get no such advantage with the defenses he'll be facing in this group. It should be relatively easy for Armenelos and Valimar to neutralize Cirdan.

I guess that's why they have Earendil, because he is the lad that will produce goals. And with the Havens passing game he'll definitely get a lot of opportunities, but he's just not enough. Earendil's best position is in the MF and when he players like Tilion and Eonwe around him in 2008, or Gil Galad and Glorfindel in 2009. As an attacking mid-fielder his WAR is great (2 years as MF, +1.8)...as a FW it's good, but not anything outstanding (3 years as a FW, +1.1).

Valimar
FRIENDLIES:
-The Sea (L0-1)
-Real Valinor (L1-3)

Even if Valinor played a more rigorous friendly schedule than the rest of the teams in the group, there is some reason for concern. To be fair, The Sea and Real Valinor are legit title contenders this year, but I think the friendly results just goes to show that Valimar is not. Question is, are they still good enough to make it out of this group? Yes.

Defensively they've got the talent to win it. Also, defensively they're all in their proper positions. Ever since Manwe swapped positions with Namo it was a most wise decision by the Valar. With the entire field in front of him, Manwe is much better at setting up his defensive alignments, while Namo is better at noticing where a team is planning to build their attack seconds before they're actually able to do it. But not just those two, the other defenders are in their most natural and comfortable positions which only helps them succeed more.

Similar to The Havens, the real problems come in the mid-field. Another team that loves to control possession (and are experts at doing so) in the mid-field, but again it's a mid-field that just doesn't produce the goals. Ingwe's bounced around from being a DF, to a GK, to a MF. He'll now have to be the elf who tries to get some pressure off Arien, but it's unknown whether he's capable of that. And as much as I praised Manwe for positioning his defenders for success...everyone in the MF just seems out of position. Irmo and Ilmare should be swapped. Statistics show Ilmare is better at feeding balls to the FWs than Irmo.

So, it will come down to how effective Arien can be in this situation. It won't be so much Manwe's conservative style that hold's Arien back. I think it will be lack of another viable threat. I mean you're going to excel when you're with the likes of Miriel and Nerdanel. But even in 2010 Arien had Varda and Eonwe as a supporting cast...Who does she have here...Ingwe? Irmo?

With that being said, since The Havens and Valimar appear very similar, and they appear to have the same strengths and weaknesses, I'll give the slight favor to Valimar based on a tougher defense.

Projected Standings:
1. Armenelos
2. Valimar
3. The Havens
4. Barrow-Downs

Boromir88

06-27-2013, 12:11 PM

GROUP B

AC Beleriand
FRIENDLIES:
-Anfauglith (W2-1)
-Armenelos (W2-1)

Two wins against playoff caliber teams and they should be able to handle this group comfortably. An interesting fact, Feanor's teams have never been eliminated before the quarterfinals. Even in 2011 when he was quite limitted playing with 3rd Age teammates in Galadriel's conservative style, Feanor saw Lothlorien into the quarter-finals. I suppose there has to be a first time for everything, but this team has top class at all the key positions.

Marach's a decent GK, it's rightfully asked whether he is an Arda Cup winning one though. Last year he was clearly the week point of a very good defense, led by Fingolfin who has quickly risen as a top notch defender. Rochallor and Imlach are in their proper positions and there is no loss when in the offseason AC Beleriand exchanged Ecthelion for a Balrog.

Their loss is going to be in the MF, with the hopes Angrod and Aegnor can make up Beren's production. History and WAR tells us they can not (Beren's +1.9) Angrod and Aegnor combined (-0.5). Now it's true those two have not played with FWs as great of a combo as Feanor and Eol before and it's also true Beren's best year was last year...playing with Feanor and Eol. But still, even when Beren's had to carry the offense on his shoulder (2010 for Gelion) he was out producing Angrod and Aegnor combined.

This isn't going to hurt AC Beleriand making it out of Group B, but it will hurt them in the playoffs unless the brothers can suddenly find the skill to make up for Beren's departure.

Inter Beleriand
FRIENDLIES:
-Havens (D3-3)
-Doriath (W1-0)

We're not sure why the other networks seem so assure of Inter Beleriand's advancement as they quickly dismiss Dwarves United and don't give too much credit to Gondolin. This team is extremely susceptible in the back.

Turgon is naturally a leader of a defense, but as a GK, he really leaves a lot to be desired. He's great at setting up walls and arranging the defense in front of him, when the opponents have set pieces (free kicks, or corner kicks). However, he simply doesn't pocess the reaction of say Galadriel or Carcharoth. And you really need to have that quick reaction skill, particularly when facing the FWs Inter Beleriand will be up against in this group.

Defensively they're even more shaky. Luthien is an adequate DF (but still only a WAR o +0.4 at that position). Luthien is not a great matchup against big powerful FWs. (2008 against Ar-Pharazon, 2009 against TIG, and 2010 against Ancalagon) Luthien was eventually worn down by all of them as her team was eliminated. Maeglin, Tuor, Feanor and Eol are probably not going to viciously bang up Luthien like all those other FWs mentioned, but they will definitely use their size and power to wear her down.

The rest of the defense is in even worse shape. The WAR stat that gives someone the most negative points is a red card. When you're sent off the field, you are really handicapping your team. Yellow cards aren't too much of a negative, because sometimes you need that aggressive, hard play to stop a scoring threat. Caranthir and Morgoth have, for example, have mastered the skil of knowing when to be aggressive and take a yellow, and when to pull back knowing they can't be sent off the field. Gorlim hasn't and is just a morale killer.

A lot is going to depend on Beren who had his break out season last year. That was with Feanor and Eol (+9.8 and +5.4 respectively) however. Maedhros and Fingon are good, but they're several notches below (+4.9 and +3.1). But they should all be able to complement eachother well. It'll be a tough 3-way battle for 2nd.

Dwarves United
FRIENDLIES:
-Wilderland (D0-0)
-Rohan (W1-0)

Now it seems to me that no one is giving Dwarves United much of a chance. They forget defensively this team just has it all. It's true last year they probably benefitted from a group of 3rd Age heroes and now they'll be up against sturdier competition. But you also can't forget Celebrimbor, Aule and Galadriel are all legends of the 1st Age too...with Durin the Deathless and Azaghal in support as well. We'll agree with TENT too that Fili and Kili are quality defensive mid-fielders, the brothers are intune with eachother and they're a good pair playing together.

Having said that, there is no denying what the rest of the medias all say...their offensive players can't score goals. Even with the high-powered Mirkwood offense from '08 to '09, Legolas was below average (-0.2)...and this is with Scatha and Thranduil as teammates! When factoring in the other tournaments -0.9 (excludes 2011 because he was a MF...with the aid of Feanor and Boromir II). Legolas is a one tool threat, and that is long distance projectiles. One of his trademark snipes going in might be all that is needed however, because the only team we'd place money on scoring on Dwarves United is AC Beleriand.

Gondolin
FRIENDLIES:
-Tirion (L0-2)
-Hithlum (D2-2)

Played 2 playoff quality teams in the friendlies, the 0-2 loss to Tirion is troubling but draw with Hithlum makes up for some of the troubled thoughts.

Rog had one fantastic year at GK (2010)...take out that year and he's well...bad, to put it kindly. So, understandably everyone is right in saying Rog greatly benefitted from playing with Ulmo and his loyal vassals shut-down defense in 2010. But as mentioned earlier, Turgon for Inter Beleriand is nothing to brag about either.

We keep catching ourselves comparing Gondolin and Inter Beleriand because they are very similar in team make-up. Inter Beleriand might be slightly more athletic defensively, but Gondolin plays smarter. They don't have a player that runs the risk of being red-carded, like Gorlim...so in TTN's mind, this negates whatever advantage Inter has with Luthien.

At the MF, history and productions shows Duilin and Idril are in their most natural positions. Idril and Duilin are great at getting the balls to their FWs (and unlike Angrod and Aegnor for AC Bel), they actually make up for Beren's production, combined WAR +2.5

Then at the front Maeglin and Tuor are comparable to Maedhros and Fingon. Maeglin's playoff pedigree is better as the "Sharp-Boot" is just clutch under the playoff lights (but he's sometimes not present in the group rounds). Tuor is great at using his height. Maeglin and Idril are good at attracting the attention of the better defenders (Fingolfin, Luthien, Celebrimbor), so it should leave Tuor good chances on some of the more dimunitive defenders (the dwarves, Gorlim...etc)

Projected Standings:
1. AC Beleriand
2. Gondolin
3. Inter Beleriand
4. Dwarves United

Boromir88

06-28-2013, 06:55 AM

GROUP C

Doriath
FRIENDLIES:
-Tol In Gaurhoth (L0-3)
-Inter Beleriand (L0-1)

Doriath is in for a cruel awakening this year. It's not that they don't have good talent, but they just lack the depth and stamina in too many positions. And the fact they didn't score a goal in the friendlies (while surrending 4) says all you need to know about Doriath this year.

Dior is a capable GK (+0.8)...even behind a weak defense. Melian will definitely help keep pressure off Dior, but the other 3 defenders are bad (combined -3.1).

The MF is also weak...Thingol is an ok passer but not much of a goal-scorer. Then the rest of the MF...Daeron? Saeros? They've done virtually nothing and it's far too easy for opponents to get under Saeros' skin.

Then Mablung, who is also just..."eh." He's nothing that will catch your attention with how dazzling the attacks of Hithlum and Real Valinor will be. Sure he got a hat-trick last year against Nargothrond, but he did absolutely nothing else in all the rest of Doriath's games (including friendlies) last year.

Hithlum
FRIENDLIES:
-Angband (D2-2)
-Gondolin (D2-2)

They were probably hoping (and if they are expected to contend for the cup) to beat Gondolin. But scoring 2 goals against Angband is a positive. And both of them are definitely playoff caliber teams.

Huor is needing this year to bounce back after a horrid 2011. From 2008-2010, he was a dependable, championship GK (silver-medalist, quarter finalist, and champion in that 3 year span)...then 2011 just a nightmare, and it might have been he didn't feel comfortable in Anfauglith in that year. Returning in 2013 and playing with family might just be what Huor needs to have a bounceback year.

A lot of problems still with the defense, but the Balrog is in his natural position. Galdor and Gundor are not shut-down defenders, but whatever the case they have experience as defenders and history shows they are an improvement over Gethron and Grithnir. It's one of those defenses that is just good enough to get some key stops and move the ball quickly upfront to their amazing talent of scorers.

I don't need to say much about the quality of the quartet of attackers other than: Turin (+9.1), Hurin (+7.8) Beleg (+4.5) and Hador (+1.4). TTN will call it the most prolific offense in 2013. If Real Valinor still had Arien, it would be debatable.

Shire-Bree United
FRIENDLIES:
-Barrow Downs (W2-1)
-Anduin (D1-1)

Their friendly opponents don't compare in strength when looking at the other teams in the group. But you can't say anything bad about the results of winning the Barrow-Downs and drawing Anduin.

Shire-Bree has moved from a strong attacking team to a defensively oriented one. Their defense is under-rated because they've got some legs at their downstairs. What we mean is, Shadowfax, Gildor, and a Nazgul they can all run and won't tire out. Which they'll certainly need in this group, as their defenders will have to do a lot of chasing because...

Shire-Bree's midfield is quite poor. Gandalf and another Nazgul are going to be more focused on the offense, and it leaves Ferny, Bandobras, and Butterbur to try to get the ball away from Turin, Hurin, Beleg and Miriel, Nerdanel, Orome? Heh...riiight.

Their offense isn't too bad (we'll certainly put it more dangerous than Doriath's), but it is a few steps backwards from where they were at last year. Gandalf is better suited as a defender, but seeing as they needed a lot of help revamping their offense, he's needed most in the mid-field. Also, if Gandalf ever really had a place he could call "home," it would be here, in the Shire. Khamul's skills are better suited for a MF because he is very good from set pieces and delivering crosses to past teammates like the Witch-King or Sauron. As the lone striker he could be out of position, but with Nazgul #6 in the MF they should be intune to eachother's minds.

Real Valinor
FRIENDLIES:
-FC Valinor (D2-2)
-Valimar (W3-1)

A tough friendly schedule that they handled quite well this looks like a team ready for the playoffs already. In all groups you would put them as one of the favorites to advance, but they won't repeat as champions. They've simply lost too much on defense with Caranthir leaving, and then on offense with Arien.

Tulkas had quite an awful performance in last year's group play (allowing 5 goals in 3 games), but then he just shut it down in the playoffs (allowing only 2 in 4 games, and those 2 were against AC Beleriand). So, we'll have to see if he can be inspired to give the same effort in the group round.

Tilion is better when he's in the MF. A lot usually depends on his mood, but when he's in the right one he can put together an impressive string of games scoring several goals. Then he's prone to disappearing for a few games when he's in a bad mood. As a defender you can't afford to be off your game, I mean this is the Arda Cup! It's why Real Valinor will miss Caranthir the most. We hate to keep beating on this point, because Caranthir isn't the best defender, but he's a strong one, aggressive, and what you like most is he gives max effort all the time. Tilion's effort tends to come and go.

The MF is the weakest part of the team, their job isn't going to be much more than get the ball, and don't keep it for long, pass it up to the FWs as quickly as possible. Which they should be able to do, at least in this group and their FWs are extremely good at holding the ball in the attacking third and putting opposing defenses under constant stress.

As mentioned, Nerdanel, Miriel, and Orome are not only great goal-scorers, but they're very good at holding onto the ball, constantly makes the defenses work. Defenses will need a lot of stamina when facing this team. The issue is it looks like a team that is vulnerable on the counter...because when a defenses can finally steal the ball away, with the small 3-person midfield and moodiness of Tilion it's a recipe for quick counter attacks.

Projected Standings
1. Hithlum
2. Real Valinor
3. Shire-Bree
4. Doriath

GROUP D

Barad-Dur
FRIENDLIES:
-Arnor (D0-0)
-Misty Mountains (W2-1)

It's interesting how Barad-Dur's 2 friendly opponents are actually quite similar (in terms of gameplay) to 2 of their group opponents...Gondor and Isengard. Like Arnor, Gondor is not going to make mistakes and Isengard relies on a mix of cunning and brute strength. We were rather disappointed with Barad-Dur's friendly performance. I beating the Misty Mts is not bad, but neither Arnor nor Misty Mts look like teams that can go on a deep run in the playoffs.

Grishnakh is making his debut at goalie and so far he has performed well as his long limbs gives the orc good goal coverage. Alatar and Pallando are good improvements to their weak defense last year (the Blue Wizards with a +1.6 WAR...each).

The MF is very crafty with a Numenorean, some pirates, and the agile Beruthiel. The Queen of Cats history shows that she knows well the tactics and secrets of breaking down Gondor, which Sauron will most surely use to his advantage.

Sauron is not a pure "goal-scorer," that is he's not a FW like Turin, Feanor, Miriel, Ar Pharazon...etc their jobs are to score goals and they all do it well. Sauron is more a premiere passer who can put it in goal on occassion. History reveals in 5 Arda Cups (and total of 25 games played) Sauron only has 15 goals, but he's got 19 assists. Sauron loves drawing up set pieces and deceiving defenses on free kicks...so he'll probably try to target the tall form of Castamir in those situations.

Gondor
FRIENDLIES:
-Mordor (W3-1)
-Minas Tirith (D2-2)

Like Barad-Dur dind't have a difficult friendly schedule, but also there were no alarming losses.

Gondor is more vulnerable at the back than Barad-Dur, and maybe even more vulnerable than Isengard. Imrahil is coming in as an unknown factor making his debut at GK. And the three defenders don't offer much to get you excited about their ability to shut down a team. I mean, they surrendered 3 goals to Mordor and Minas Tirith, which means they'll likely give up goals to Barad-Dur and Isengard, not to even mention FC Valinor.

The key to the team will be the mid-field, they are very good at holding possession, but unlike other teams we mentioned in our guides, they're also good at turning that possession into goals. Eldacar is not flashing, but he is consistant and it's difficult for any team to keep him off the stat sheet. And Anarion, well he's just seemed to hit a new vigor and life to to his game after not really doing much from '08-'11.

Isengard
FRIENDLIES:
-Rohan (L1-2)
-Wilderland (L1-2)

Not embarrassing defeats, but defeats nonetheless, and to teams who don't seem like favorites to make the playoffs, and if they do, are probably going out in the 1st round anyways. So, that should really tell you the quality of Isengard this year. They could rattle the cages of Barad-Dur and Gondor for sure, and play spoiler their chances of going through are very small.

The Ent defenders are deadly when they're worked up in a rage (which they might get to when playing Barad-Dur). And it's not that they're slow, but they really don't change direction well. Against Gondor it shouldn't be a problem, because their attack is more methodical and through the center. But crikey, Celegrom and Curufin are going to be able to run circles around this team...with Treebeards WAR at -1.5, and it only gets worse from there...

Saruman's bounceback began in 2010 then he had an even better 2011 season. With support from Wormtongue and a Nazgul, their MF has some bite to it and should be able to hold their own against Barad-Dur's and Gondor's midfield. Their deeper midfielders (Lurtz, Wulf and Lugdush) are seriously going to have to help out the defense though.

Then we get to Quickbeam, who played FW in 2009 (went goalless in 3 games) and last year (1 goal in 3 games). If we combine his two years as an attacking MF...in a ground total of 12 games...Quickbeam's production is 2+2. That's atrocious. The Ent's only threat is on set pieces when Isengard can target him for a header, he's got absolutely no close-control or ability to hold the ball upfront. And considering FC Valinor has an eagle, and Barad-Dur has two fellbeasts, those defenses should be able to contain Quickbeam when Isengard tries to target him for a header.

FC Valinor
FRIENDLIES:
-Real Valinor (D2-2)
-The Sea (D0-0)

If they don't confidantly clear this group, then there is some serious unforeseen flaw in this team...I'm not going to go into too much detail, but here is the deal...

The best GK in the group, easily is Huan.

The best defense in the group, FC Valinor...easily. Eonwe is unknown but joined by Maglor, Indis, and Thorondor it's no question. Thorondor is in a more suitable position this year, he's not meant to be a leader on defense. Even if Eonwe is an unknown factor, what is not questionable is his leadership ability.

Best MF is slightly closer/more debatable but Yavanna and Argon excelled last year. Gondor's might be better as a unit and they don't make mistakes, but athletically FC Valinor's is superior.

Best FWs...no question Celegorm and Curufin.

The only question is whether this team will care to give a full effort, but even just going half-heartedly going through the motions there's no reason they shouldn't dominate this group.

Projected Standings
1. FC Valinor
2. Barad-Dur
3. Gondor
4. Isengard

Boromir88

06-28-2013, 11:54 AM

GROUP E

Erebor
FRIENDLIES:
-Minas Tirith (W2-1)
-Mordor (W1-0)

Two wins against inferior teams in the friendlies doesn't say much about Erebor, other than what we already knew. They'll be tough to beat for any of the teams in this group at least.

Their glaring weak link in the back is Thorin. His hot temper has seen him sent off the field too many times. He's not as much of a morale killer as Gorlim, but still it's all the same being red-carded makes your team play a man short. Interestingly enough in 2010, it was Thorin (playing for Rivendell then) being red-carded in the match against the Misty Mountains that allowed Misty Mountains to battle back and get the draw (keeping Rivendell out of the playoffs that year too). Girion's a solid defender that should be able to keep the other offenses in check, but if he can't keep his dwarf under control, Erebor could very well have an early exit. Beorn was nothing short of amazing last year, it seems he's found his true niche on the team.

A lot is going to depend on if Bolg can command the mid-field as he's capable of doing, but he's been up-and-down his whole career. But if the ball gets to the trio of attackers up front, any one of them are capable goal-scorers. Smaug had his best year last year, but even in the years when the dragon's teams got eliminated in their groups Smaug is hard to keep off the scoreboard. Smaug's history shows he's not a FW who is likely to give you a dominating single game performance. He's more a consistant, 1goal/per game type of scorer.

Eriador
FRIENDLIES:
-Anduin (W1-0)
-Barrow Downs (W3-0)

Their competition wasn't any better than Erebor's, but somehow the way they didn't allow a goal as well as still scoring more than any of the other teams in Group E, shows that Eriador is the class of the group.

Elrond's skill and mastery speaks for itself. Hands down the best GK in the tournament. It'll be interesting to see how the defense does compared to last year with two new players on defense (Aragorn and Arwen). Athletically I don't see why they wouldn't do well, and there won't be any problems fitting in with Elrond's system of team and unity first. It doesn't seem like they have anyone that can hold down the aerial threats of Smaug and Scatha though. That task will fall upon Gil-Galad being one of the Noldor though, he should be able to handle the beasties (including Durin's Bane).

As I had to point out to AKM last year, Eriador's MF did their jobs well last year. They're not flashy, they're not going to score a brace of goals, but the rangers work great together. The addition of NogWight won't hurt them either, since he's of like mind...the whole we're stronger together thing Elrond preaches.

Isildur is a noticeable step down from the Witch-King and that will probably hurt Eriador when they're up against tougher competition in the playoffs. Isildur's career is marked by mediocrity (-0.6). We're rather kind saying mediocre but last year really was his worst year, but even before that he was mediocre. He should improve under this team with the stronger mid-field and Glorfindel is top class, but his peak seems to be a few assists and 1 or 2 goals. Speaking of Glorfindel though, he's sort of comparable to Earendil, a well rounded attacking MF/FW...plus he's got an Arda Cup title when playing for Gondolin in 2010.

Misty Mts
FRIENDLIES:
-Imladris (D2-2)
-Barad Dur (L1-2)

Here's a team it appears no one in the media is giving much of a chance too, and we don't understand why...

Their defenses aren't as bad as they might appear in the friendlies. The sons of Elrond still bitter over their mother's capture and torture were clearly playing in a ramped-up revenge mood. And Barad-Dur is a quality offense. Now you're probably saying "wait a second...what about Wilderland and Erebor...both contain dragons!?" But aren't dragons cold-blooded? Anyone else seeing a match-up nightmare with Gwaihir the "Windlord" and Caradhras capable of blasting strong gusts of wind and ice, on the Misty Mts? Well...TTN is predicting one.

The bigger question will come on how many goals they'll be able to score. Probably not good enough to score on Eriador (but the same applies to Wilderland and Erebor). Durin's Bane was called the most over-rated player in 2009, but his game has improved since making the switch to FW. Durin's Bane mind is always on the attack, and it's definitely tough to contain the Balrog. However, when Durin's Bane is contained, it's always easy to frustrate him where he'll recklessly throw away possession. As a MF this is bad, because you've got to back track and play defense, this is less important as a FW and so he's really in the most suitable position.

Azog and Narvi are decent enough, but the rest of the MF is lacking. Seeing as the Misty Mts were not kept off the board in either of their friendlies (and that against a still tough Imladris defense, plus an improved Barad-dur defense) they shouldn't have problems getting chances against Erebor and Wilderland. Those will of course be the key games and as mentioned they already have the evil tactics to get Thorin sent off the field. Durin's Bane may be reckless, but Thorin's recklessness is more costly because he's a DF for Erebor.

Wilderland
FRIENDLIES:
-Dwarves Utd (D0-0)
-Isengard (W2-1)

The defense is not as strong as it appeared in the friendlies. It doesn't take much to keep Dwarves United off the scoreboard, and with Saruman directly calling Radagast a coward, Radagast was inspired to prove his meddle. Truth of the matter is though, from Gandalf's own words, Radagast doesn't have much courage and he'll need it if Wilderland hopes to stop Smaug and Nazgul #7. Then there's Durin's Bane who's just ruthless enough to send elves and armies of dwarves flee in fear (and even Gandalf nervous). The rest of the defense is entirely wooden and Oropher's shown reckless stupidity when his leadership comes under question.

There are many question marks in the mid-field...we'll just have to way and see what the first-born can do. They are prone to wander off the straight road though we'll see if that's applicable on the pitch. Having a Nazgul only ever helps a team, they're all around dependable players. But the wraith will be expected to lend its effort to the attack, which is clearly the strength of the team.

Scatha and Thranduil are reunited and they worked well together playing for Mirkwood back in 2008-09. Their WAR for those two seasons, Scatha +1.9, Thranduil +1.2. They'll have to get back to that old form playing together once again. That's more of questionmark we place on Thranduil, because of all the dragons, Scatha has consistantly performed the best.

Projected Standings:
1. Eriador
2. Misty Mountains
3. Erebor
4. Wilderland

GROUP F

Minas Tirith
FRIENDLIES:
-Erebor (L1-2)
-Gondor (D2-2)

AKM will have you believe that last year they were a team that only advanced to the playoffs because they played in a crummy group. Their group was weak, but the facts are also once in the playoffs...they went INTO Angband, and came out with a victory. Let's take a brief tour of our Arda Cup history and 1st round playoff games hosted by Angband:

2008. Fornost loses 0-2.
2009. Romenna loses 0-2 (and Morgoth wasn't even on that Angband roster, as he was playing for Valimar that year)
2010. Gelion loses 0-2.
2011. Tol Eressea loses 0-1. (Not even the mighty Valar Ulmo could go into Angband and beat Morgoth)

2012, was the first year a team went to Angband, for the 1st round playoff, and beat Morgoth's team...and that was Minas Tirith. The White City was not a fluke last year, nor the product of benefitting from a bad group. And they will not be an easy snack for any team in this group.

Having said all that, gearing up to play 1 match against superior talent is a lot different than trying to sustain that adrenaline and energy against 3 teams...all with superior talent. Plus they play a much different game than Angband. Tirion and Nargothrond will just plain wear down and out run your defenses. Tol Eressea plays a very similar style to Minas Tirith, but they just do a better job at it. So it's a cruel reality for us in the White City, Minas Tirith doesn't have talent to advance from this group...but don't underestimate them. Nor underestimate their ability to give an amazing single game performance that can shuffle the cards in this group and impact which 2 of the 3 others go through.

Nargothrond
FRIENDLIES:
-Armenelos (D3-3)
-Anfauglith (W2-1)

Nargothrond, by appearances, looks to be in better form this year than last. Even if their defenses will still leak big time and Orodreth is not a shut-down GK...WAR tells us he was still a better keeper than Nargothrond attempting to shuffle Beor and Barahir into the position.

It's all going to rest on how well can the FWs hold the ball in their opponents half, and keep up the pressure, because Nargothrond's own mid-field and defense won't be able to do much. This will be a brutal fight to see which 2 can make it out of this group. Nargothrond's style is better against Tirion's who appears to have switched to a more balanced game then their straight out offense when Miriel and Nerdanel were with the team. It's not a good style to play against The Sea or Minas Tirith...because they will defend, defend, defend,..defend with all 11 behind the ball...and defend some more...then hit you with a counter, which Nargothrond's defense will be completely incapable of stopping. So, it will depend on if Orodreth can get a few stops.

The Sea
FRIENDLIES:
-Valimar (W1-0)
-FC Valinor (D0-0)

The Sea's game is simple...they're not going to change it ever and it's a strategy that works fantastic in group rounds, but not extremely successful in the playoffs. We should clarify, not successful because of the way the current roster is built.

Bottomline with this team is, they will always have 11 players defending and it's going to frustrate offenses like no other defense can (I mean they quelched Arien's fire and then not even FC Valinor's forwards could put one in). And unlike Dwarves Utd, Tar Minastir is a much better, more proven forward, than Legolas. Tar Minastir is capable of scoring 2-3 goals a match (maybe not in this system, but point is, the chances he scores at least 1 goal in a game are very high.) He performs better in the group and tends to shrink in the playoffs, however.

Taking a look back at the make up of Vinyamar's 2010 team...you might ask, well how can Ulmo's style not be successful in the playoffs? They were silver-medalists! Yes, but they had Tuor, Penlod, Duilin, and Idril as well. All good at keeping possession but also scoring goals. And there's the problem with this Sea team, only Tar Minastir can be a reliable scorer. The rest of the midfield, great at keeping possession...can't turn that possession into goals.

Tirion
FRIENDLIES:
-Gondolin (W2-0)
-Angband (D1-1)

We are making the picks in this group with very little conviction or confidence...because as much as we look at Nargothrond and think they have a better style against Tirion...we look at Tirion and see their balanced approach is much better against The Sea and Minas Tirith. So, it's just going to be fascinating seeing how this all turns out.

Defensively we (yes) still love the pick up of Caranthir, and that should only benefit Amrod and Amras...who weren't ever able to lead defenses on their own, but should get along fine with Caranthir.

The real question for Tirion is, just how is Tirion going to be able to get the ball up to their FWs...consistantly. Without sacrificing their defensive effort by having to bring Caranthir up, or sacrificing their offense by moving Finwe back to the MF. Mahtan's got a powerful strike, but he's not a possession guy. And well the other mid-fielders are questionmarks. There's no doubt Finwe and Aredhel can score (and also hold the ball up to get Mahtan, Rumil and Caranthir - when necessary - involved), but we can see this being a problem for Tirion.

Projected Standings
1. The Sea
2. Nargothrond
3. Tirion
4. Minas Tirith

Boromir88

06-29-2013, 10:33 AM

GROUP G

Angband
FRIENDLIES:
-Hithlum (D2-2)
-Tirion (D1-1)

Angband's got skilled players at key positions, so lets start with Carcharoth. Carcharoth's a solid goalie, the wolf had one terrible season (2010) when Thangorodrim was kept out of the playoffs. However, I attribute this to Thangorodrim's hyper-aggressive constant attack approach often left Carcharoth alone and vulnerable. The wolf will take bad angles and is prone to making poor decisions but its reaction and athleticism is great, and can make up for those poor decisions (most of the time). When protected by Morgoth's more defense-first scheme, the wolf performs much better (around 75% saves).

Moving to the defense, Morgoth is actually probably a better mid-fielder, but when he's had the mind to move to defense he's quality there too. His Balrog defender is just a classy defender, and model of consistency, accumulating a WAR of +2.9 over his 5 year span at the position. Uimuiyan is clearly the unknown, but the cat's quickness and agility should match up well against other quick FWs.

The Easterlings always play hard for Morgoth, but they are prone to making big (and quite costly) mistakes. The mid-field is going to struggle, because they'll have spurts of playing well and making sure passes get up to Telvildo and Ancalagon, but then they'll just have a bad turnover or foolish penalty...forcing Morgoth, the Balrog and Carcharoth to try to make up for the mistake. Which they are of course able to do, but not all the time.

Ancalagon and Telvildo are an interesting combo of power and speed which should really be a pain for a lot of defenses. Telvildo's more of a passer, but the cat can tunnel its way beneath defenders legs (and many have tried to protests that when catbeasts intentionally trip up defenders by running underneath a player, it should be called a foul) and get close range goals. Ancalagon, like Smaug is pretty much a goal-scorer only. Although the dragon's got a couple different ways to get them, tough to contain in the air but can also blast in long range power shots with its tail.

Angfauglith
FRIENDLIES:
-AC Beleriand (L1-2)
-Nargothrond (L1-2)

They lost to 1 title contender and 1 playoff quality team...so not awful, but there's something that just wasn't clicking with this team during the friendlies. Their defenses were facing 2 of the top attacks in the league this year, but still surrending 4 goals on Ungoliant and some Balrog defenders, and they won't face offenses that deadly in their group, but it's still telling us something isn't working with the way the team was built.

The MF is pretty weak, although they likely won't make any major gaffes like Angband's mid-field, are they good enough to work the ball through TIG's, Imladris' (and even Angband's MF) to their pair of star strikers? They'll have to if they want to advance, but that's the problem we see with this team.

Of course when Gothmog and Ecthelion do get the ball they're going to put up goals, but only 2 goals in 2 games for Angfauglith means they're not seeing enough of the ball because of a weak mid-field unable to give them enough chances.

Imladris
FRIENDLIES:
-Misty Mts (D2-2)
-Arnor (D1-1)

The competition they've played in the friendlies is not nearly the level their opponents played, so they've had 2 good results but it doesn't show they'll be able to contend with the 3 other teams in the group.

Varda is good enough to shut down the best scorer on any team, particularly the one's with evil hearts will flee from her bright, shining power, but she can't defend everyone by herself. And the other defenders are ok, but definitely beatable...particularly seeing they'll have to try to stop Ancalagon, Telvildo and Gothmog, Ecthelion, and then a bunch of wolves, vampires and wights. Maybe if they would just shout "Elbereth!" that will be enough to get into the heads of the baddies, but that seems to only work on the Nazgul.

The mid-field is more solid than Angband's and Angfauglith's, Arahael and Lindir are capable of feeding passes to Elladan and Elrohir, and scoring by themselves on occassion. The insane raving of Figwit fans seems to be on the minds of some, much to their annoyance, but Imladris is the displaced team in this group, going well away from their protected Vale and into hostile territory, so they likely won't get any crowd advantage (even though the Figwit fans are notoriously loud)

Elladan and Elrohir just aren't worth their caps. I mean their numbers are comparable to Tar-Miriel or Morwen, who are perfect when they're in a system as the 4th or 5th offensive option, but not as the attackers expected to carry an offense. Elladan and Elrohir will have to carry the load but it's a burden too big for them.

Tol-In-Gaurhoth
FRIENDLIES:
-Doriath (W3-0)
-Havens (W2-1)

If we hailed Angband as having great talent at key positions, TIGs talent looks even better. ShastaWolf back between the posts has been a solid keeper for the Isle of Wolves for several years running now. A pack of wolves in defense, phantomwolf one of the best assist-wolves in the game...then InzilWolf and Thuringwethil up front? Phew...where is the weakness?

It's going to be if this team is capable of not shooting themselves in the foot. Their friendly performance suggests they have been able to player smarter without losing any confidence in their own inate skill. I won't be a true believer (that is put them to win Group G) until I see it when the games matter more and pressure rises. I think they'll play with enough anger and vengeance from last year's disappointment (and missing the playoffs for the first time) to advance (and also be an extremely tough out in the playoffs)...but I just can't put them over Angband.

Arrr...this group is driving me crazy because TIG has it all to be a championship team this year, yet still might not make it out of their group if they revert to old habits.

Projected Standings:
1. Angband
2. Tol In Gaurhoth
3. Angfauglith
4. Imladris

GROUP H

Anduin
FRIENDLIES:
-Eriador (L0-1)
-Shire-Bree Utd (D1-1)

This is another group that's driving me crazy. Anduin appears to have everything to win this group easily, but going through our WAR numbers there are a lot of holes that can be exploited by the other teams in this group. And if they couldn't be Shire-Bree in the friendlies, then you can rightfully ask can they beat anyone in this group?

Let's start with defense, now Celeborn is a solid defender, and you can actually look to take him over Fram if you're so inclined. Fram's numbers as a defender are average where Celeborn has a little more experience and playing with Rivendell's defenses in 2008 and Lothlorien's in 2011 turned out to be the best Elven defenses (and therefore one of the top defenses in those respective years). Felarof had a good year in 2009, playing for Rohan but his numbers have steadily declines and they're even worse when he's not playing in his home environment. Leaving Minalcar as the weakest link and he's quite a weak link (-0.8 WAR, over 2 years).

Some may shout this is hometown player bias but the fact is, Boromir is in his best position. As an attacking MF Boromir II has had his best years, when he's been in offenses that look for Glorfindel, Aragorn, or Feanor to take up the scoring. When it's just Boromir he comes up way short, but he's done well in the MF when there's other viable options. (We'll make note that Haldir is flat out horrible in the position he's in (-2.2 WAR)...Leod is decent, primarily his good numbers come from one explosive performance in 2011, but taking out that single game he's pretty average).

The team's success will depend on if Grimbeorn and Eorl can get the job done. Eorl, like Felarof is a dynamite performer when he plays for Rohan. But his 1-season away from home (2011) he was a shell of himself and played with no heart. He'll have to find someway to play with the passion he has in Rohan, otherwise Anduin will be left behind in this group.

Arnor
FRIENDLIES:
-Barad-Dur (D0-0)
-Imladris (D1-1)

The low budget squad has still managed to put together a competitive team. 2 draws against teams with larger budgets and probably tougher competition than what they'll face in this group.

Arvedui at goal is decent, he's had some very good games going against Angband and the Valar, but also some stinkers. So his performances are quite varied, which means he's not championship quality, but he's good enough to make sure Arnor doesn't lose many matches.

Arnor just looks reliable and a safe pair of hands (or rather feet) up and down the roster. A mid-field that doesn't make mistakes with defenders like Elendil and Malbeth (both had a good year at that position with Westernesse in 2011). Then the Witch-King and Araphor up front? They're no pushovers, especially when it comes to late game heroics and comebacks.

Mordor
FRIENDLIES:
-Gondor (L1-3)
-Erebor (L0-1)

It appears, on the surface this looks like one of the lousiest teams in the tournament. A 2-goal loss to Gondor is bad, a 1-goal loss to Erebor is less shaming, but still a loss. Then you see 1 goal in 2 games, while giving up 4. I wouldn't count out this low budget team just yet either though.

Remember Mordor nearly advanced in (admittedly a weak Group H) last year. Had Barad-Dur not scored a late, and rather unlucky goal, Mordor would have advanced instead of Minas Tirith last year. So despite having a low budget last year too, this team knows how to compete.

Their success (or failure) will depend on the mid-field, it's actually got more playoff experience than Anduin and Rohan's mid-field, plus the Mouth supported by 2 of his Nazgul will definitely work in unison. Shelob's a fearsome presense as a FW (has been improved in that position than as a GK).

Is the defense good enough? That's going to be an uncertainty, but none of the teams in this group have been lighting up the scoreboard. (granted they played tough defenses, but so did Mordor. They allowed 3 against Gondor, but you'll also see inflated scoring in heated rivalries when the teams are amped up).

Rohan
FRIENDLIES:
-Isengard (W2-1)
-Dwarves Utd (L0-1)

And then where does all this leave Rohan? Because a 1 goal loss to Dwarves Utd is not bad when looking at the competitiveness they'll face in this group. And a 2-1 win over Isengard is a positive.

Theoden's stellar goal tending year was when he was protected by his pair of tireless horses and a pair of Rohanian royalty (plus being in a lousy offensive group featuring Taniquetil, The Shire, and Dorthonion...controversial color-analyst called those teams "Taniqantscore, Borethonion, and not even good enough to come up with a cheesy name Shirelings" that year.")

The defense is also questionable, because Windfola and Snowmane...not only are they not Felarof and Shadowfax, but they pick up way more cards than a lot of defenders. The defense and Theoden may be protected this year though by a ball-controlilng midfield that should work well together and be hard for the teams in this group to get through). King Dead and Aldor are stout defensive mid-fielders then you've got Eowyn, Brytta and Faramir in the attack who are all not not alien to scoring some goals.

It'll have to be those 3 though because Helm is out of position. Helm is more naturally a mid-fielder with a wickedly powerful shot. The "Hammerfoot" can put in some tremendous long distance rockets, but he doesn't have the skills to be a FW. His career in the FW position is 1 goal and like 5 yellow cards.

Projected Standings:
1. Arnor
2. Mordor
3. Anduin
4. Rohan

Boromir88

06-30-2013, 12:18 PM

Round 1 Matches
-Boro88

We wouldn't be TTN if we didn't have our match predictions. Here's the Round 1 games, with our predictions:

GROUP A

1. Armenelos vs The Havens -

This is looking like a very even back-and-forth affair. The Havens likes to control the midfield, but that's a tough bill against this Numenorean squad which likes to do the same. The Havens still has enough weapons to trouble Armenelos, in the end though, the defense is not strong enough to stop them. *Armenelos wins 3-2

2. The Barrow-Downs vs Valimar -

Valimar will have an easy time with this one. After last year's ban on games being played in Valinor was lifted, Valimar will want to prove they are wise and gracious hosts, but also give their home fans some exciting football many couldn't witness last year. *Valimar wins 2-0.

GROUP B

1. Inter Beleriand vs Dwarves United -

This one is setting up to be a draw. Dwarves Utd's defense is too good to give up more than one goal, while Inter Beleriand has a lot of questionmarks on the defensive side of the ball (Luthien aside). The only question is willl this game be 0-0 or 1-1? We'll say *Draw 1-1.

2. AC Beleriand vs Gondolin -

AC Beleriand should be able to get whatever they want with Rog and Gondolin's defense. Will this be a blowout, or does Gondolin show some offensive spirit too? *AC Beleriand wins 3-1.

GROUP C

1. Hithlum vs Real Valinor -

A high-scoring slugfest for the ages (and a defensive nightmare if you're the coaches). This could be a semi final battle of these teams weren't in the same group, but it's also great having a matchup like this early on. *Draw 3-3.

2. Shire-Bree United vs Doriath -

If the first match ends in a tie than the Halflings will at least enjoy a few days at the top of the group..befre Hithlum and Real Valinor come to put them in their proper place. *Shire-Bree wins 1-0.

GROUP D

1. Isengard vs FC Valinor -

Saruman would not have been happy with FC Valinor in their group, but at least they get the hardest one out of the way early and then have the last 2 rounds with better chances against Barad-Dur and Gondor. *FC Valinor wins 3-0

2. Barad-Dur vs Gondor -

This will more than likely end in a draw. We don't like picking draws in rivalry games, since usually there is extra inspiration to eliminate your rivals. But with both teams looking evenly matched, and with it being a game in round 1, neither will want to play too risky and start with a loss. *Draw 2-2.

GROUP E

1. Eriador vs Misty Mts -

We'll see if the Misty Mountains can keep this one close. Eriador won't score many goals, but their defense will allow even less. If this is a 1-goal loss, then we really start liking the risk in taking Misty Mts to advance...if anything more than well it becomes a tough climb. *Eriador wins 1-0.

2. Erebor vs Wilderland -

Even with dragon slayers on their team, Wilderland's going to be tough for this Erebor defense to keep off the board. With that being said Erebor's trio of forwards should also have their way with Wilderland's defense. Beorn will be the bigger reason Erebor wins though. *Erebor wins 2-1.

GROUP F

1. Nargothrond vs Minas Tirith -

Closer than the experts think. As our Group F preview explained, Minas Tirith plays a game that can give Nargothrond's defense fits. Especially since statistically, you'll see Nargothrond dominating possession, total shots, shots on target, but the scoreline won't reflect Nargothrond's dominance. *Nargothrond wins 3-2.

2. Tirion vs The Sea -

This is one of the marquee games of round 1. It's hard to see Tirion being kept off the scoreboard, but if any defense is capable of that it's Ulmo's. They already kept Arien scoreless in the friendlies, then Celegorm and Curufin as well. But Tirion's got just enough for a late equalizer. *Draw 1-1.

GROUP G

1. Angfauglith vs Imladris -

Angfauglith had a disappointing performance in the friendlies, but holding AC Beleriand and Nargothrond to 2 goals each is still pretty impressive. Imladris won't score...it'll be up to Gothmog and Ecthelion though to work some flashing teamwork and get a goal against Varda's Imladris. *Angfauglith wins 1-0.

2. Angband vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth -

Another marquee match. Angband usually has a difficult time being ready to go in round 1. So has TIG, for that matter, but they look to be in much sharper form already. The wolves will be playing aggressive and hard to show off in front of Morgoth...but Carcharoth will also be wanting to show off to old wolf buddies playing for TIG. We almost called this a 2-2 draw, but will say...*Angband wins 2-1.

GROUP H

1. Mordor vs Rohan -

This will be another game I'm interested in seeing. Now it may not suit the fancy and attraction of majestic Valar, or powerful Noldor, or the regal Numenoreans but I feel Mordor's low payroll will grab some attention from fans. *Mordor wins 2-1.

2. Anduin vs Arnor -

It comes down to whether the best team on paper can beat the grizzled team of veterans from the North. Anduin's got some better players, but the better and now re-unified kingdom of men will play better as a unit. *Draw 2-2.

Nogrod

07-02-2013, 12:10 PM

Group E

The Arkenstone Arena, Erebor

First of all the AKM wishes to make sincere apologies, mainly to the Erebor Craftsmen Union, for suggesting that the dwarves would have been greedy to cash in most of the nice revenue they made last year with Mr. Moneybags’ happy acceptance. But seeing the renovated stadium inside the Lonely Mountain just dazzles the wiever – and it is easy to see immediately that it has not been a cheap venture to build something like that.

Happily the Erebor Craftsmen Union won last year by themselves about 6 million, and if you added what they “saved” by cutting the costs this year, around 5 mil (on their part of the lowered budget), then you get 11 million for investment in total just for the new arena – only from the dwarven investment house. Judging by the commercial-banners flying around the field itself one could notice that the Celduin Corporation (Dale-based group of investors) and Moneybags Monetary Management (investment house residing in Laketown) had been involved in the renovations with considerable sums as well.

So the King under the Mountain was rebuilding the "Stadium under the Mountain" and renaming it into the "Arkenstone Arena" for the greater glory of Erebor – but as wise bussines-dwarf had made it as safe an investment possible using the money pouring in from the football-related investment groups. That means, that if the kingdom of Erebor itself invested, let’s say five million, they got a twenty million renovation for five million investment of their own.

Dwarves are great engineers, but they seem to have sense for bussiness as well.

From the skills and tradition of engineering seems to follow an eye for overall beauty and proportion as well as awe-inspiring sense for imagery and detail. And the jaw-dripping creativity.

The centerpiece of the stadium is a huge “replica” of the Arkenstone itself – only some hundred times bigger from the original – hanging from the center of the roof, from the focal point of the four arches climbing towards it from the corners of the arena. With an ingenious system of narrow tunnels and mirrors the dwarven engineers have been able to direct the light from outside in hundreds of beams that are focused on the “Arkenstone” – which then spreads the light all over the arena in the weird but beautiful set of different shades of light from pure white, silmaril, silver and gold to hints of all emerald, turqoise, ruby and topaz.

And if that was not already breath-taking, the “Arkenstone” turns slowly around it’s axis making the general mood of the lightning to change all the time, but slowly enough that it isn’t disturbing (like the mirrored Disco-balls are) but rather creating a mood of intense expectation – and tension.

What is even more remarkable is their system for late-games when there is not enough sunlight from outside to light the "Arkenstone". Burning different metals like natrium and magnesium added with more standard sources of light like burning coal, wood, oil and different gases in their light-tunnels and focusing them to the “Arkenstone” they are able to produce even more intense lightning fit for stronger feelings in comparison to the quite mellow shades of light during daytime.

All that engineering is of course out of the sight of a spectator and all s/he can see is the marvellous light reflecting and being distributed by the huge “Arkenstone” hanging from the ceiling.

Some players had complained about Erebor’s “plastic pitch” after last year’s tournament – and the hosts had accepted the criticism as valid. Sadly without the magic of the Ainur – or elves having close relations to them – there was no way the dwarves could make grass grow under the mountain (of which they envy Menegroth). But they had put their brightest engineers to the task and had produced a revolutionary artificial turf made from synthetic materials created in their labs with infills of sand and rubber.

The players have been surprisingly pleased with it if one considers how fake-grass is generally despised. Even those who disliked it openly held it to be superior to any “Astro Turf” they had played on before. But the spectator is even more taken by it’s slightly emerald-green and ruby-red colour-combination which makes the whole game look somewhat different – and has an impact on the general athmosphere in the closed space of the Arkenstone Arena – even if you could still say it is green.

Group C

Menegroth Stadium, Doriath

A lot of ink has been spilled – as well as I’s and 0’s run through electric data-systems – to hail the great Stadium of Menegroth which has seen a lot of games during it’s history – including some memorable ones from Arda Cup as well; the 2008 finals as probably the most unforgettable event played there ever.

The stadium was built into Menegroth already when the Thousand Caves were given birth, hewn from the rock by the toughest dwarven and elven builders and supervised by the most learned and crafted masters of both races – only to be decorated into a huge single piece of art by the greatest artits of their time.

The AKM called Menegroth “the fairest dwelling of any king that has ever been east of the sea” and sees no reason to change its verdict a pitifully short five years later. And the exquisitiveness of the place still holds: the tickets cost a lot more than to many other venues – you still get the excellent wine and luxurious snacks for free as much as you want by showing the ticket. That actually makes the ticket worth a lot more than they are, but doesn’t in turn help the poorer football fans who are totally outpriced from any games played in Menegroth.

But even with the high prices it has never been a problem for the Doriath hosts to fill the stadium up to the last bench in the upper-rows. The real fans save money for a year or a few to experience just one evening’s games in there – and feel it is worth it.

And the AKM agrees: if you haven’t experienced Menegroth and a game in it’s Stadium you’ve not lived. Drinking the best wines around the fountains of silver and having a culinary piece of art as a snack beside the marble basins with all the fine folks and celebrities around, surrounded by the statues and woven hangings by the greatest artists from the time immemorial just sends you into a different plane of existence. Many people would feel they’re in heaven for just that – but then there are the games as well!

And the stadium is just marvellous. The ancient dwarven and elven craftsmanship is seen from the minutest detail (like the unique etchings on every seat, or the functional perfection and beauty of even the doorknobs to the lavatories) to the general athmosphere (like the acoustic panels which cut the highest pitches that normally make your ears suffer, and an add to the bass making even lesser roar of the crowds feel as a tremble in your guts). But that’s not all there is.

The field, or pitch, itself is a miracle. A grass-field blossoming a deep but light green, like the green of spring just awakening yet strong and enchanting, deep under the rock! It feels, well plain otherworldly.

Neither Thingol nor Melian have been willing to disclose the secret of it but it is easy to see Melian has something to do with that.

Be that as it is, the players love to play in Menegroth because they feel they get energy from the grass under their feet. Although some of the more poetic souls sometimes complain they have lapses of concentration to the game because it is so beautiful all around. That is of course the reverse with some evil players whom the athmosphere makes too annoyed and thusly distracts them in the worst case. So in the end the latter effect is also equal.

the phantom

07-03-2013, 05:47 PM

Arda Cup Football Returns to the Blessed Realm
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

There's so much football tradition in Valinor- so many great players, venues, and of course fans. What a shame it was that a ban had to be instituted last season, during which no Arda Cup games were played in Valinor.

But there was a good reason for the ban to be instituted- the mistreatment of foreign fans. Various Valinor security task forces were disbanded and investigated, but when brought to trial no one was ultimately held responsible. Higher-ups insisted that their orders were interpreted wrongly, or at the least carried out with too much enthusiasm. The boots on the ground and wings in the air, however, insisted they were acting appropriately given the information they had received from their superiors and the reactions of the would-be visitors.

The sinking of Dwarf-bearing ships bound for the Blessed Realm was determined to have been an accident. Conspiracy theories still abound, but the Dwarves were mollified for the most part following a very thorough investigation led by Ulmo. The Vala of the Sea apologized to the Dwarves and promised them that from then on he would have a small task force dedicated to ensuring the safety of all Arda-Cup related sea voyages, provided the ships worked with him on departure dates and destination.

But Orcs, Trolls, and other creatures of the night remain angry to this day, saying that the ban wasn't a serious enough punishment. "Here they are one year later, forgiven as if nothing happened," said Morgoth in an interview last month. "Yeah, yeah, they lost some revenue and their fans didn't get to watch football live, but there were deaths. Deaths! How could no one have been imprisoned?"

The most serious occurrence was of course the deaths of a couple dragons and eagles of Thorondor after an intense aerial battle. Morgoth and the families of the dragons insisted that the dragons had tickets and were flying into Valinor to give support, but they were denied entry and attacked by a squadron of eagles.

The eagles involved in the attack, however, state that the dragons were using the games as cover to launch a damaging attack upon Valinor, and that they were ordered to intercept them, discover if they had tickets in claw, and then escort them to a secure area to await the games (if in fact they had tickets). The eagles say that the dragons opened hostilities before they had even communicated their orders to them.

The surviving dragons insist that this is not true, but say that the eagles swooped on them aggressively and shrieked at them and did not announce any sort of diplomatic mission. The eagles fired back that they had attempted to fly up beside the dragons initially, but that the dragons had immediately dropped in elevation and rolled onto their backs in midair, baring their claws and teeth in a clearly hostile way.

There was a lot of back and forth, but in the end it was ruled that the entire thing was an unfortunate misunderstanding. The dragons were faulted for their readiness to behave in a hostile manner, and the eagles were faulted for being too quick to give up on the diplomatic portion of their mission.

Thus in the end it was decided that strict punishments might do more harm than good, and entrench both sides. Rather Eru insisted on a break from hosting, and that the in-between time would be used to reevaluate their methods and attitudes. He also insisted that various eagles and dragons fly together, so that they could perhaps come to appreciate their brothers in the air and not see them as merely a mortal enemy. The sessions were private and no one was allowed to speak to the public about them, but as no further deaths occurred it is hoped that this endeavor was somewhat successful.

But even if attempts are being made to change the culture that exists, the Cup Committee must have assumed it would be too much to ask if in the first year back they sent a team that would bring a lot of Orc or Dragon fans behind them. Instead it was Armenelos, The Havens, and The Barrow-Downs that was due to visit, and it appeared things might go off without a hitch.

The Numenoreans could be a bit proud, and small groups of them (probably drunk) made disparaging remarks towards their hosts- joking that the Valar wanted to sink their ships, but couldn't because Numenoreans are far too good at sailing. But the Elves of the various havens and most of the Numenoreans have been excellent guests, and the Valinoreans have treated them quite well.

The Barrow-Downs on the other hand- their Wight fans look to be the biggest threat to tranquility, but they have yet to descend upon the Blessed Realm. The new liberal reforms have the customs officials and such under orders to allow any and all Wights in to support their team. Many are obviously uncomfortable with the orders, but say they will comply with them in an effort to show that they are serious about preventing bad feelings and additional tragedy.

To make their citizens feel more secure, Manwe announced a law to prohibit weapons from being within a block of the arena, and a law that would strictly punish anyone guilty of fighting within the arena. Some greeted the new laws as positive steps towards creating a safe environment, but others pointed out that it was already illegal to have a naked blade within the arena. "You could have a weapon, but it had to be secured and sheathed," says Tulkas. "But now everyone has to leave them at home, so if some unruly Wights sneak in knives and go on a rampage, we'll be defenseless."

When informed of Tulkas' sentiment, Manwe said: "The Wights will be a miniscule minority in a huge arena. Surely we can overcome them even without swords, and surely they will be aware of this." But the next day Tulkas fired back: "No, we can't stop them, because your last law prohibited fighting in the arena. If we grapple with them, we'll be guilty of breaking the law, because the law doesn't have any provisions for fighting even if it is to defend life. Those laws were passed just to make people feel like there was progress. Never mind how ineffective and counter-productive they are."

Manwe has not yet given an official response to Tulkas' most recent comment.

the phantom

07-04-2013, 07:39 PM

Amon Hen Coliseum to Host Group H
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

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 is no question that The Coliseum is the largest venue in all of Arda, thanks largely to the magic of Amon Hen, the “hill of seeing”, which allows the stadium to climb far higher than others so long as it flows up the side of Amon Hen, which was found to amplify the natural visionary capabilities of anyone upon it, and more so as one nears the pinnacle of the hill.

Because of this the stadium appears extremely lopsided. The east quarter of the stadium overlooks the great falls of Rauros and seats around 25,000, while the north quarter hugs the shores of the lake and seats slightly more. But as the stadium runs to the south-southwest up the slopes of Amon Hen, the seats just pile higher and higher, and after another new addition this past offseason the total seating for the stadium is now in the neighborhood of 200,000!

But believe it or not the whopping size of the monstrous arena is not the number one thing that typically arrests the attention of fans and critics, but rather it is the architecture. The stadium is a tribute to the history of football in Arda, featuring sections which expertly capture the architecture, décor, and adornments of various famous stadiums from elsewhere in Arda. Any walkway, restroom, eatery, and entrance in a given section also mirrors 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, while Moria and The Shire were added in 2011. In 2012 teams of Noldor and Teleri put in hard work to reproduce a piece of Alqualonde's arena, and workers from Nargothrond successfully mimicked Finrod's famous deep-delved stadium.

This past off-season a Gundabad section was added. The locals were concerned that all the orc crews brought in for the consultations and construction might run amok, but the Coliseum Construction Committee (CCC) was careful about which orcs they allowed, how many at once, and where they were lodged, thus problems were for the most part averted.

When stadium planners were asked last month if there were new additions in the works, they answered: "Yes, definitely. We've been eying a Lothlorien section for a while now and we've already began preliminary talks and negotiations. There's also a handful of other regional flavors we're debating in sub-committee."

But the stadium isn’t the only thing that's been expanding in recent years- there is also the infrastructure. There are quite a few inns, pubs, and rentable homes in a rather new town a short distance west of the stadium along the shores of the great 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 the last few years, only this year there are more of them than ever, as well as a growing number of permanent residents now that Gondor had opened the area to settlement. There is also a good deal of boating on the lake, and the marinas to accommodate it. A bit farther up the lake there are several ski lodges. Now is not the time for snow obviously, but the lodges are still open to host guests and show off their facilities and runs, in hopes that visitors will return for a visit in the winter.

The docks just a bit downstream from the foot of the falls of Rauros are built to accommodate a large quantity of ships, and an ingenious series of hydro-powered lifts can transport travelers up to lake-level from the bottom of the falls- there are four lift paths in all, thus waiting times aren't bad. Additionally, two winding hiking trails leave the docks and wrap up and around the west side of Amon Hen, so those feeling like getting a bit of exercise (or wishing to skip the small lift fee) can take the scenic route (though the lifts climbing the cliffs so close to the falls are awfully scenic themselves). All in all the CCC has done quite a bit to ensure that Amon Hen Coliseum would be a huge hit with anyone lucky enough to visit.

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-04-2013, 09:50 PM

The origin of football in Arda is a much-debated topic among historians. There were about as many theories as there were scholars. Marnen, lead sports editor of the broadsheet Arda, believed that the sport was conceived by the Ainur even before the Ainulindalë, while Iorithil, editor-in-chief of Quenta Noldorin Sport, pointed out that the Quendi of Cuiviénen were the first to codify the rules of football. Grishbukh, Professor Emeritus of Orc Kinetics at the Utumno University, opined that the Orcs were the first to invent the sport, pointing out that the oldest known football pitch was found just outside the gates of Angband.

Football’s origins might be a hotbed of conflicting theories, but there was no debate as to the very first international game—that is, a game between two different peoples. While the Eldar were being transported by Ulmo aboard what was now Tol Eressëa, a game took place between a team of Eldar and the Maiar of Ulmo, a game that ended in a 0-0 draw. To commemorate the event, the Teleri later built a stadium around the pitch where the game was played, a stadium simply called the Tol Eressëa Stadium. Throughout the ages it has been renovated and expanded; now it boasted a capacity of 80 000, as well as the necessities of a modern football arena—VIP seats, floodlighting from special lamps designed by Varda, TV studios, and a press conference room.

After Eru’s decree last year regarding the ban of games on Valinor, Ulmo considered a way to circumvent the ban. If games cannot come to the Blessed Realm, then perhaps a part of the Blessed Realm can come to the games. Consulting with the Elves of Avallónë, he decided to return the island in the bay of Eldamar to its original state. A special team of Maiar (those not playing for the Sea) would move the island from off the coast of Aman, bringing with it a contingent of FC Valinor fans, whose team would play in Dol Amroth.

Their first stop: the port of Pelargir in Gondor.

The sight of the island churning slowly up the Anduin was something to behold. Thousands flocked from the hinterlands of Lebennin and Harondor, even some from Ithilien, to witness the island that had once basked in the light of the Two Trees make its way slowly to the great haven of Gondor. The local stadium Pelargir Park would also be used for the first matchday, playing host to Minas Tirith and Nargothrond. But surely, the hearts of locals would be torn—support the home team, or watch the match between the Sea and Tirion, a game featuring Númenóreans, the ancient Eldar, and the mythical Ainur, a game in a stadium that most Gondorians have never seen before, and, perhaps, would never have a chance to see again.

Football’s coming home, the banner over Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium reads. For many citizens of Gondor, they might choose to forsake home just to witness history.

Group F Main Host: Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium (Capacity: 80 000)
Tirion @ The Sea

Matchday 1 Co-Host: Pelargir Park (Capacity: 55 000)
Nargothrond @ Minas Tirith

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-05-2013, 12:40 AM

Gondolin. The Hidden Rock. The city on a hill, founded in memory of Tirion-upon-Túna. The most enduring fortress of the Noldor in Beleriand. Winner of the 2010 Arda Cup. One of the powers of football in Arda

The Gondolindrim have long been isolated from the rest of Beleriand, and they have turned to many things to distract them from the rumours of trouble in the world at large. Some have turned to music, some to arts and crafts, but many have turned to sports, most especially football, both as players and as spectators. Almost every young Elf in Gondolin has once played in a youth football team; some have gone on to become senior players in the various local clubs, the biggest of which are AC Gondolin and Inter Gondolin (both of which play in the regional Northwest League). And a few have gone on to become players of great renown for other teams: Glorfindel of Eriador, Turgon of Inter Beleriand, and Ecthelion of Anfauglith have once played for Gondolin in both the youth and the senior levels, and brothers Huor and Húrin, both of Hithlum, have once been loaned to Gondolin as youth players.

Few other cities can boast of such a vast talent base relative to its size. Nargothrond have gone no closer to the cup than the first knockout round. Doriath, a kingdom many times larger than Gondolin, required the services of Túrin, Beren, and Huan to secure the cup. And Angband, for all their power and wealth, have never once played in an Arda Cup final.

Gondolin boast three arenas that fall under the AFA’s stadium category A—stadiums with capacities greater than 30 000, excellent pitch conditions, and a sizeable media area for broadcast teams and press conferences. The oldest one, Ondolindë Stadium in city centre of Gondolin, is a multi-purpose stadium currently being converted into a pure footballing arena. The Rock of the Music of the Water, as it’s also known, has been used during the 2008 and 2009 editions of the Arda Cup, but has recently been supplanted by the bigger and more modern Stadium on the Rock, sitting on the edge of a cliff above the plains of Tumladen. Boasting a capacity of 85 000, it hosted last year’s quarterfinal ties between Real Valinor and Rohan, as well as AC Beleriand and Shire-Bree United. And this year it will host five group games (the second game of the last group stage matchday will be played at the nearby Tumladen Park, the third category A stadium in the city.)

Cornflower blue banners were flown upon the gleaming white walls of the Stadium on the Rock, commemorating the return of the city’s daughter, Idril Celebrindal, to the home team. Also returning home (but playing for a different team) is their king Turgon, goalkeeper for Inter Beleriand. Most of Fëanor’s AC Beleriand squad were also familiar with the stadium, having secured their advance to the semifinal within its walls. The only newcomers then were the Dwarves United team; Aulë, Celebrimbor, Galadriel, and the dwarves of Nogrod and Belegost have long expressed their desire to see Gondolin for themselves, and the Middle-earth dwarves and Legolas were happy to be playing in a historic city.

Group B Main Host: Stadium on the Rock (Capacity: 85 000)
17:00 WBT Inter Beleriand - Dwarves United
20:00 WBT AC Beleriand - Gondolin

*Western Beleriand time

Nogrod

07-05-2013, 04:59 PM

On the eve of the first round of the Arda Cup 2013 group-phase games the Lonely Mountain and it’s surrounding areas were buzzing with folk from near and far – and the football tourists filled the bookings of each and every hotel, hostel, guesthouse, motel, inn, B&B and camping site in both Dale and Esgaroth as well. And nobody was able to keep track of the irregular campers over the wastelands around the mountain - but everyone could see the spread of lights during the nights over the plains all around Erebor.

The Arkenstone Arena took in around 70 000 spectators but even if from the tickets a little over half went to locals the estimates had the number of visitors to the area everything from even to double that. A reasonable quess would be between 50 000 and 100 000 visitors.

According to the official AFA statistics based on the ticket-sales the following races and creatures had bough tickets to the games at Erebor, in alphabetical order: Balrogs, Beornings, Crebain & Crows, Dragons, Dúnedain, Dwarves, Eagles, Elves (Noldor, Silvan, Teléri), Ents, Goblins, Humans, Maiar, Nazgûl, Orcs, Spiders, Trolls, Trushes, Wargs, Wights, Wizards and Wolves.

There was also a moment of astonishment when a Haradian ship anchored to the Esgaroth docks a few days before the games full of Haradrim football-fans with their bright-coloured gear, wuwuzelas and a huge (and alive) mascot-tyger. It turned out they had been sold wrong tickets. But being good sports they decided to stay – well they had no chance of catching their intended group D matches anyway – and gave a nice colour (if not that nice a sound) to the first round of games, seemingly enjoying their exotic northern-experience to the fullest.

Now it is a great feature of interardan sports that with the players in the teams mixing also the supporters learn to mix together. That must have been something foreseen by Eru himself when he let the Arda Cup take seed in the hearts of the differents creatures around Arda.

And that spirit was probably most clearly exhibited at the Lonely Mountain the night before the first games when from the camping-ground’s fireplace you could find a warg, an ent, a Nazgûl and a wizard raising a glass for an elf’s success (for Thranduil to score heavily) and to their mutual friendship supporting the Wilderland team – or seeing the great eagles and dragons cheering loudly together with the dwarves in a Dale pub where a TV-report recapitulates Bard’s and Beorn’s highlights from the last year’s Cup.

Or well, which the AKM’s reporter found the most exhilarating; finding a small group of the Haradrim, Laketowners, northern Dúnedain, Rivendell elves, old Noldor of the West and a few Wights from the dock-area of Esgaroth discussing enthusiastically about different flutes and flute-playing techniques and their emotional effects while sharing drinks and barbecuing under the rising moon.

To be honest it has to be said there was the dark side as well. The number of homicides (and all the “other-cides”), assaults, mobbings, fights, robberies, theft, general offences, insults and every kind of grievance from too much noise and too much litter to strange smells and high prices at the groceries multiplied. But had it been a random-collection of different kind of creatures suddenly coming together with such numbers anywhere else but around Arda Cup it would probably have been a disaster.

In the press conference on the eve of the first games the spokespersons of all the teams participating appealed for peace and love and enjoyment of the games, and the Erebor police-force informed they had gotten strong reinforcements from Nogrod, Iron Hills and Moria to go after regular thieves, pickpockets and those willing to exploit the gathering of crowds.

Everyone knew there was no messing with the dwarven officials and so most everything was going orderly a day before the games.

First games will be held at the Arkenstone Arena, Erebor.

4pm. Eriador vs. Misty Mountains (daylight game)
7pm. Erebor vs. Wilderland (artificial-light game)

The thrill and excitement!

Nogrod

07-05-2013, 07:59 PM

Menegroth is Menegroth:exquisite, lavish, exuberant… and also beautiful, uplifting and hallowed. Unless you are from Valinor when the first part of the list doesn’t apply, or from the most backwards recesses of Hithlum or Breeland when the latter doesn’t. But to most fans gathering for games of group C of the Arda Cup 2013 it was both – and even more. To many it was the fulfilment of years of savings and a dream come true.

Overall football is a democratic sport in as the stadiums hold reasonably big crowds and the tickets are very much affordable. But with some teams and some venues it is different. And Menegroth Stadium, or “the Cave” of Doriath is one of them. Despite it’s nickname there is nothing prosaic, lowbrow or underground in it culturally. It is as far from real punk as Green Day has ever been.

But if you can afford the tickets – or are enthusiastic enough to save for them – well it is a footballing heaven and a multi-sensuous experience, well a kind of gesamtskunstwerk one might admire even if his tastes were different. It is one of the greatest venues football has ever been been played and one of the most controversial, just because of all that.

This year the lifting of the Girdle of Melian has brought in to the Thousand Caves a host of visitors from the great houses of Bëor and Haleth and other early tribes of men. A decently large following has also come after the team Shire-Bree, even if it is times smaller the one of the early men. A few random football fanatics from all over Arda have also been buying tickets according to the AFA stats, ranging from singular easterling lords with their entourages to bands of enthusiastic Númenorean Elwing- and Dior-fans.

A few Balrogs and Nazgûls were also allowed to enter as guests, but they needed to pay a ransom aforehead – which would be returned to them if they behaved.

The greatest band of visitors were in no need of Melian opening the girdle as it only bans persons lesser than her to enter. Led by Tulkas and the other Valar of team Real Valinor the great host of Westerners; Valar, Maiar and Elves across-the-sea came in an exuberant parade filling the spectators on the road with awe and hallow.

Those men, hobbits and common elves of the ME who knew history enough to understand who they were drinking the exquisite wines and eating extravagant pastries for free with inside Menegroth were cherishing the moment as the highlight of their lives – less educated ones were just struck with the grace and splendour of the Westerners – and would tell the story to their granchildren as well.

The Breelanders soon learned they had been reserved the part of the statists – as long as the general attitude of the media and the other spectators went. Theirs would be the team everyone just needed to win to have better chance of qualifying. And soon they started to feel themselves looked down upon in general – even if only a few of them were hobbits.

The early houses of men and the elves had cordial relationships – as always – but there was some chill in the air as team Hithlum was fighting for the qualification with some seriousness, but the hosts were having the same mind-set. And Real Valinor sure looked intimidating to both of them.

On top of that the visitors from the Undying Lands acted annoyingly self-confident in the eyes of all the Middle-Earthers only adding to the tension underneath the polite and amiable behaviour everyone kept up.

Most fans gathering into the Thousand Caves were only too aware of the fact that this was one of the groups of death this year. But as all the major publicity continued around Real Valinor, Hithlum and Doriath, the Shire-Bree fans became even more jumpy: so when it was reported that Gandalf had met Nienna and fallen to his knees to salute her many were ready to believe the games were pre-arranged.

But the group-lottery had made most of the crowds looking after other things than Gandalf's bows.

First matches will be played at the “The Cave” aka. Menegroth Stadium, Doriath.

6pm. Hithlum vs. Real Valinor
9pm. Doriath vs. Shire-Bree United

The homecrowds sure wait for the “Night-match”, but all the footballing-world will look forwards to the afternoon game!

Boromir88

07-07-2013, 08:27 AM

Group D @ Dol Amroth

The realm of Gondor launched another project 3 years ago with the construction of a new stadium. Holding some of the grandest and largest stadiums already in Middle-earth, it was never a surprise the Stadia Anor in Minas Tirith, or Amon Hen hosted important games in many of the previous Arda Cup tournaments. The lords of Dol Amroth didn't want to miss out and so they came up with the finances to build a new stadium. Seaside Financial Field.

The naming of the new stadium caught the eye of some paying careful attention to the story. Seaside Financial is a large elven ship investment firm. They invest in ship-builders and sell traveler's insurance to anyone departing West, thus it mostly benefits elven blood. The citizens of Dol Amroth had believed the money from the new stadium would stay at home, and Dol Amroth would benefit. But many had wondered what price did Seaside Financial pay to get their name on the stadium, and how much profit would be shipped overseas.

Whatever the case, it is a beautiful new stadium overlooking the Bay of Belfalas. It's not the largest in Gondor, but it's comfortable and built well that will assure every fan a good experience. A max capacity of 70,000 can sit (or stand) in Seaside Financial Field.

It is also one of the brightest stadiums ever built and that was probably done on purpose to benefit Mannish and Elven teams. The sun always seems to be shining brightly in Dol Amroth and the glimmer off the sea and white walls of the stadium, will surely give orc and dwarven supporters fits. Group D will have Barad-Dur, FC Valinor, Isengard, and Gondor.

So, FC Valinor and Gondor fans should be quite comfortable and enthusiastic about watching games in a brand new stadium. Gondor had hoped to get a nice home-friendly advantage, but with Sauron in the group, his deep pockets are always buying up tickets for supporters of his team. Also, since he has money tied up in Isengard, it wouldn't be surprising if he's purchased fans that would traditionally support Isengard. Although, the bright and glittering stadium (also located near the sea, as one can actually gain access to the sea via a waterpark in the stadium. The waterpark has several rides and restaurants housed on boats, offering local maritime cuisine from the bay, while fans can still watch the game on the ships) will also temper the large orcish crowd arriving at Dol Amroth the last several days.

Main Host: Seaside Financial Field @ Dol Amroth
Secondary Host: Pelargir Park

Round 1 First-Kick times:
Isengard vs. FC Valinor - 2pm
Barad-Dur vs. Gondor - 5pm

Boromir88

07-08-2013, 09:16 AM

GROUP G @ Anfauglith

For the first two rounds games in Group G will be played at Anfauglith's Coliseum. With the final round matches being played concurrently, one game will be played in nearby Tol-in-Gaurhoth stadium, or "The Den."

Both locations are chilling and unlivable for any normal person, but for Angband, Tol-in-Gaurhoth, and Angfauglith they should be feeling right at home and all get strong crowd support. The wounded seal in shark-infested waters then is Imladris. Varda won't ever be unnerved, but is she powerful enough to instill strength and courage in the rest of her teammates, and the few Imladris fans insane enough to make the journey?

Built in the midst of great (and sorrowful) battles many ages ago, Anfauglith Coliseum will remind spectators of the large gladitorial arenas. It's a simple construction, just a tall large oval shape, of light-colored sandstone. And the arena can hold 100,000 when it hosted championship matches ages ago. Like most gladitorial arenas, the designers wanted attention to be on the teams playing on the field, not on grand statues, memorials, or cheap stadium thrills. So, Anfauglith Coliseum is pretty bare with just the stadium walls and a sickly looking yellow-brown grass field. This will typically be hard on the eyes of spectators, when the sun is out, but with an evening and night-time start to the matches (plus the quality of 3 nearby teams playing in Group G) there will be throngs of men and easterlings, orcs and balrogs, wolves and wights, and swarms of cats watching their favorite teams fight it out for 2 spots.

Main Host: Anfauglith Coliseum
Secondary Host: Tol-in-Gaurhoth Stadium "The Den"

Round 1 First-Kick times:
Angfauglith vs. Imladris- 6pm
Angband vs. Tol-In-Gaurhoth - 9pm

Boromir88

07-08-2013, 07:23 PM

GROUP D @ Dol Amroth

The 2013 Arda Cup was finally ready to kick off. Up first was the Group D matchup between FC Valinor and Isengard. FC Valinor come in as strong favorites to contend for the cup this year, and were expected to sweep their group without breaking a sweat, against 3 low budget Middle-earth squads. Although, expectations are quite different from performance when the real games begin.

In the pre-game conference, Saruman was in confident spirits despite what many in the media were calling Isengard as the first sacrificial lamb to FC Valinor's sublime skill. Saruman feels the side he put together this year is a strong one, and will be able to handle the "weak and idle" team from the West. Several even left convinced Isengard would not only win their group but could win the whole tournament.

---

But when the game began under the sweltering afternoon sun, the spell Saruman placed on the media during the pre-game conference was broken. And even though it took over 30 minutes before FC Valinor scored the opening goal, the mirage had lifted.

FC Valinor opened the game with their testing phase, working the ball in Isengard's half and around the penalty area. Isengard did well defending at the opening, but they simply couldn't win the ball and when they did cut off one of FC Valinor's passes, it wasn't long before Curufin easily stole it back from the treeish Isengard defenders.

In the 31st minute what felt like a long over-due occurance, Yavanna scored the opening goal. After that, the flood gates opened and Isengard unravelled. 3 minutes after Yavanna's goal, Maglor boomed a pass from mid-circle, and Curufin easily won the ball from Mauhur, sprinted by the Ents and scored. Then 5 minutes after that FC Valinor had a free kick and Curufin put hit such a wicked curve that his father would be proud of, it was 3-0 FC Valinor within a span of 10 minutes.

Isengard's spirits were broken and the 2nd half seemed more like a formality, as Isengard still couldn't win possession, but FC Valinor wasn't trying to push for more goals and they kicked it around the mid-field. Despite the slow pace there was still time for another FC Valinor score. Curufin was pushing for a hat-trick and rocketed a shot but it hit off the top post and Argon cleaned up the rebound.

Isengard began the game actually with a crowd advantage, not only because their fans outnumbered FC Valinor's, but the neutral Gondorians in attendance, even if awed by the great Elves, Valar, and hound Huan didn't feel any real connection towards those players. Where they knew the Isengard team and whatever happened in the past, Saruman had been regarded as a friend. But by the 2nd half, most Isengarders left humiliated, and the neutrals remained in the stands now partying with FC Valinor's fans for the sheer greatness they witnessed today.

Isengard 0-4 FC Valinor
on target 1-7
tot shots 7-14
GOALS:
*31, 0-1 Yavanna (Elemmire)
*34, 0-2 Curufin (Maglor)
*39, 0-3 Curufin
*61, 0-4 Argon (Curufin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Isengard- Wulf, Lugdush, Wormtongue, Lurtz
*FCVal-

----

Seaside Financial Field was packed to the brim for the 2nd match between Barad-Dur and Gondor. FC Valinor had dismantled Isengard so both felt if they could get a win today they could be in control of their own fates. A draw would be most unfortunate because then they'd have to rely on outside factors like goal differential and not trying to lose as badly to FC Valinor as Isengard did. And of course, you always want to defeat your bitter rivals. The crowd was split pretty much evenly, most Gondorians came to Dol Amroth to cheer for their home team, because the other Gondorian team, Minas Tirith, were playing over seas in the Group F of death. However, Sauron bought up thousands of tickets (then re-sold them at a bargain price in Mordor) as soon as sales opened, to assure a large party loyal to Barad-Dur would be in attendance. Hundreds of Isengarders returned to cheer for Barad-dur and hoping to see a much better team than their own). There were very few neutrals in the crowd, and they were likely only Curufin, Eonwe, Huan and Celegorm who came to the game to scout their future opponents.

For as excited and tense as the emotions were in the stadium, the game began rather flat. Everything from the passing to the players running appeared in slow-motion and of lesser quality after many had just witnessed FC Valinor's performance. But that didn't stop the crowd from exploding in the 25th minute. Anarion has become a difficult player to pin down. Meneldil sent a cross into the box, Alatar was challenging Anarion, but Anarion managed to win the header, heading it backwards to the open Turambar, who was running in towards goal and rifled it to the top of the net.

Gondor switched to their defensive plan of bogging down the mid-field and halting any Barad-dur's attacks before they could seriously threaten the defense. Still Barad-dur was pushing hard for an equalizer before the halftime whistle, but Gondor's lead held.

Crowd emotions were amping up now, after brewing up during the break (and the crowd could stop to get pints refilled). Gondorians were hoping for some more breathing room and therefor Anarion would get slightly more aggressive to push for the 2-goal lead. But the Orcs, Easterlings, Pirates and other baddies were beating their drums and stomping their feet hoping to spirit their team into an equalizer.

To the dissatisfaction of the Gondorians, it was Barad-dur who came out more aggressively. Sauron was working ever harder for an equalizer and as you often see when teams turn conservative to protect 1-goal leads, the lead will fail eventually. The problem playing to protect a lead is you can't afford making a mistake, you have to play nearly flawless defense. While Barad-dur was finding it exceptionally difficult to get through Gondor's mid-field, Castamir managed to provoke Earnil, and the ref decided to award Barad-dur a free-kick (plus book Earnil) after Earnil pushed Castamir in the back.

Sauron wanting to seize the opportunity commanded Alatar to come up and take the kick and get more bodies in the box. Alatar expertly hooked the ball over Gondor's defensive wall, and how Sauron managed to slip past Eldarion for an open header, in front of the keeper, Imrahil, no one knows. But it happened and the game was tied. You could hear groans and curses come out of half the stadium, but they were soon drowned out by the other half which began cheering wildly.

If the game started rather flat, it picked up in the middle, but the end fell even flatter than it began. The crowd was wanting to see great performances from their heroes. Performances worthy of the record books that would win it for their team, as well as break the back of their rivals. Yet, sadly, the crowd did not get what they yearned. Both teams desired to start with a win and 3 points, but appeared more afraid of losing than desiring a victory. Barad-dur and Gondor would play the remainder completely unrisky, and rather uninventive football. Thus Group D ends their round 1 games in a 1-1 draw.

Barad-Dur 1-1 Gondor
on target 6-4
tot shots 14-13
GOALS:
*25, 0-1 Turambar (Anarion)
*72, 1-1 Sauron (Alatar)
YELLOW CARDS:
*BDur- Alatar, Fellbeast#1
*Gondor- Earnil I, Eldarion

Standings (after Round 1):
FC Valinor, 3 pts, +4
Barad-dur, 1 pts, 0
Gondor, 1 pts, 0
Isengard, 0 pts, -4

the phantom

07-09-2013, 01:11 AM

Group A, round 1

League games, friendly games, and even neighborhood games had a fairly consistent schedule in the Blessed Realm. The mighty Pelori blocked the rays of the sun until close to noon, so football matches all generally started right at high noon. Those that lived west of the mountains loved the light- the sun-rays gleaming off the many golden roofs of Valimar and off the huge bells ringing the top tier of the arena, as well as the light reflected by the jewel-studded marble stone used to build the arena itself.

The noon match would pit Armenelos against The Havens- solid squads with solid connections to one another. After all, Earendil was the forefather of the entire Armenelos squad, and their fellow Numenoreans, Amandil and Ar Zimrathan, were playing defense for The Havens. The Elves from nearby Alqualonde and Tol Eressea were there to support The Havens, as was a shipload of Gondorians (following Falastur and Imrazor). But what could only be called an armada had sailed in from Numenor- far too many for the stadium to hold, in fact. This didn't bother those without tickets- if they couldn't see any of the games at all, they were content to be near the stadium and party and enjoy the sights and feel of the Blessed Realm. It wasn't often mortals were allowed in after all.

The late match, scheduled to kick off at 3:30, was Valimar versus The Barrow-Downs. This match was widely expected to be lopsided, as the Downs hadn't made much noise in recent years, and Valimar looked to be quite good- they had Manwe, Mandos, and Arien after all. Plus they knew they'd have close to 100,000 supporters behind them, whereas only a couple hundred Barrow-Wights showed up to support The Barrow-Downs.

Most all security concerns revolved around these Wights, as they were known to be a bit irrational, and enjoyed making trouble just for the sake of it. Judging from whispers caught here and there and anonymous message-board comments, it seemed quite a few Wights were keen to throw a wrench into things- particularly since The Blessed Realm was fresh off of a hosting ban.

************

Crowds of Elves and Ainu and Numenoreans streamed through the portals of the stadium, some more slowly than others. These were the first-timers, trying to absorb the look of one of the oldest and finest arenas in Middle-Earth. Even after thousands of years it looked as if it was built the day before- joints were perfect and lines were straight, and there was no chipping or weathering. And the flowers and trees that seemed to grow right out of the marble were flawless as well- not a single wilted leaf or fallen petal.

Visitors wondered if all of this was due to immaculate care (which was either admirable or frighteningly obsessive), or if it was down to some magic or power that permeated the land of Aman (which some found wonderful and entrancing while other found it unnatural and creepily sterile). But whatever the reason, it was certainly different than what any visitor was used to, and there's a certain satisfaction to be found in experiencing new things.

Some of the crowds were still wondering the halls beneath the seats when already the game started, but after hearing the rise and fall of voices the lollygaggers soon found their way in to fill the arena to capacity. The crowd provided a good-natured and educated audience to the battle that unfolded on the pitch, which proved to be a delightful display of intelligent play, teamwork and athleticism.

Perhaps due to their long association, it was the Numenoreans that had the slight edge in the early going. They held possession just a bit better, and the ball flowed nicely back and forward again when The Havens would successfully close a side off, and at the moment Armenelos wasn't willing to take a flyer on risky offensive passes. They preferred to establish their will in the contest rather than give opportunities to the attack of The Havens. Even before the match it was obvious to most that Armenelos would play it this way, as Elros himself said: "The fewer chances Earendil gets the happier I'll be. We believe in our skill and discipline on defense, but he is who he is- and sometimes you'll have things defended correctly and he'll beat you anyway. And he has Cirdan and Falastur to work with. In short- we're not keen to play with fire."

But as it is said, the best laid schemes of wights and men go often awry, and when it looked as if Armenelos was at last tiring and frustrating The Havens, their hard work was flushed away in a moment. The Numenoreans with a series of fantastic passes got their best look yet, and Ar Adunakhor fired a blast from the corner of the box. Amandil saw the slot open on his goal and leaped, and his guess and timing were true, and the shot rebounded off his hands. There was a momentary free-for-all in front of the goal in which three or four players all touched but could not control, and then Olwe emerged with it, and fired it downfield.

Tar Palantir looked in position to receive it, but a dashing Earendil put on a burst of speed and managed to touch it past, and to the dismay of the Numenorean audience with a couple lightning-quick moves he rounded Telperien and Calmacil and booted in in to put The Havens ahead!

And the bells rang beautiful and clear, mixing with the jubilation of the Havens supporters. The Numenorean fans were impressed with Earendil and started applauding the effort, but stopped in some annoyance when the bells sounded. The great bells of the stadium were always reserved for the home team, which in Group A was certainly Valimar- but then why would they sound now? The Numenoreans felt a bit slighted, as if they were on the outside looking in.

To be fair some pointed out that Olwe and Earendil played for Valinorean club teams in the fall and resided in the Blessed Realm, but still it could not be denied that Havens was not the home team, so it really was not proper to sound the bells for them. The players on the field looked annoyed as well, and they looked determined to even the score, but The Havens was riding high on the energy and emotion in the arena and Armenelos was lucky to make it into the break only one goal down.

When the second half started it was more of the same, with The Havens looking a bit sharper, but 12 minutes in it was a repeat of the first half, and the squad with the back against the wall struck a blow. Falastur struck a solid drive on goal, but Tar Palantir deflected it and Ar Gimilzor alertly sent it to the left side and forward where Tar Ancalimon was on the move. He touched it down nicely, cut inside of his mark and sent it across and forward to Elros. As the retreating defenders whirled to meet the new source of the threat, Ar Adunakhor somehow was lost to the defense, and Elros fired a perfect pass between defenders, releasing Adunakhor onside. In a moment of indecision Amandil was uncertain if he could hope to beat Adunakhor to the ball, and when he did go for it he was too late. Adunakhor nudged the ball sideways and dashed straight around the sliding keeper and nudged the ball across the line to level the game!

The Numenoreans celebrated this turn of events, and hoped it would energize their team the way it did The Havens in the first half. A minute or so after the goal the noise of celebration grew even louder, as the news had spread to the streets and squares surrounding the stadium where thousands of Numenoreans were encamped, having been unable to secure tickets but wishing to be in proximity to the game anyway.

But only one minute later the Armenelos fans were biting their nails again, as a brilliant long cross from Cirdan found a flying Olwe, and his header was only barely tipped away. The ensuing corner led to a scary moment as well, as the ball skipped across to Earwen and she sent an accurate snipe up and over to the opposite corner, but Tar Telperien had been guarding that post on the corner-kick and she managed to recover to it just in time to rise up and bump it over the goal.

As time approached 70 minutes Armenelos finally seemed to work out a way to stymie Havens. To that point Earwen and Mithrellas had been sitting somewhat deep but far too unharrassed, and were simply too easily flipping the field, getting the ball to either Cirdan or Olwe who were spear-heading attacks on opposite sides. And Armenelos had often been overly concerned about denying Earendil and Falastur in the center.

But no more- Armenelos spread their defense a bit, encouraging their midfielders to pressure the ladies in the rear center. Now pressured to send it away within a second of receiving it, quality targets were less easy to find, and so giving the ball to Havens resulted in it going back to Armenelos rather quickly. But even then The Havens would not crack at their end, and the fans grew restless. The Numenorean supporters felt that it was important to get a win here, seeing as apparently Havens had been adopted as a second home team, thus there was a danger of Valimar being content to draw them in the final game if Valimar claimed victory over Armenelos first.

The clock went past 80 minutes and a thread of panic began sweeping some of the more worrisome sorts, but they didn't need to wait long for relief...

Havens had the ball again and sent it up to Cirdan, but Armenelos closed on him and he, as he had so many times, sent it back to Mithrellas. She found Olwe covered on the other sideline, while Tar Miriel was on Earwen like glue, and so with Tar Telemmaite bearing down she tried to send it back to Imrazor- a fatal mistake that Ar Adunakhor had been hoping for. He knew she didn't have the power to deliver a ball like that without leaving him time to intercept, thus he had waited some distance away baiting such a pass, and when it came he was off in an instant.

Adunakhor came from Imrazor's left and slightly behind him, flashing in front of him and taking the ball with his chest. On the ball's first bounce he turned goalward with it, and when Ar Zimrathan came to meet him he slid it sideways to Tar Ancalimon whom he had spotted during his turn, and with a full view in front of him Ancalimon approached the ball and sent it to the left side of the goal area where Ar Pharazon was marked by Annael. Keeping the elf on his back the larger Numenorean received it, faked a turn left then turned right and fired, sending it within inches of both his mark and the keeper to the near post, but so hard that nothing could be done about it!

Armenelos had the lead for the first time with only a handful of minutes remaining! Some of the Ainur in the crowds looked quite let down- they greatly preferred The Havens to the proud Numenoreans, and yet they applauded the effort. It was a well earned goal produced by tactics and execution, and they appreciated good play in Valimar.

In the closing minutes The Havens produced one threat- an impossible solo run by Earendil. But at last he was forced to give it away, and he did find Eriol in stride from about 25 yards, but the ball flew over the goal, even without help from Tar Atanamir who looked like he had a bead on it anyway.

The Armenelos supporters celebrated as the final seconds ticked away. Relief showed on many of their faces, but only for a bit, as it was swiftly replaced with the familiar smug surety- though to give a full report there were quite a few, notably the self-described "Faithful", that showed every bit of grace in their victory, mirroring the bearing and sportsmanship of Elros, the captain on the field. Players like Adunakhor and Pharazon might be guilty of gloating at times, but they had experienced a challenging game and were willing to shake hands with and credit their adversaries, particularly Ar Zimrathan and Earendil.

Armenelos 2-1 Havens
on target 6-6
tot shots 14-14
GOALS:
*28, 0-1 Earendil (Olwe)
*57, 1-1 ArAdunakhor (Elros)
*82, 2-1 ArPharazon (TarAncalimon)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Armenelos- TarCalmacil, Tar Miriel
*Havens- ArZimrathan

Of the second game there was less to tell afterwards, at least concerning the action on the pitch. The Barrow-Downs was a bit less ornery than the past couple years, perhaps because Alien was now confined to the goalkeeper position, but they seemed to understand that it wasn't wise to bring the righteous wrath of the Valar down upon their heads.

Instead they looked set to play a low-scoring game of keep-away and time-wasting, but only 15 minutes in Valimar interrupted these plans with a perfectly executed header from Irmo, thanks to a nice find from Ilmare. But the Barrow-Downs didn't push back much, but seemed content to allow Valimar to rest on their lead, perhaps hoping to sneak a draw at the end.

And indeed it looked like the strategy would work. Both sides played very conservatively, minimizing risk and even at times looked to be avoiding injury as if it was a friendly. Small sections of Numenoreans and Noldor began voicing their annoyance as the half approached, but they were ignored, so they just grew louder. But Manwe did appear to give a little look their direction as he exited the pitch for the break.

And it seems he had a reason for the look, for as soon as the new half started up Valimar attacked in force, and started spraying crosses in for Arien, and sending longballs forward to Ingwe and Irmo. The Barrow-Downs frankly got a deer-in-headlights look at that point, and it wasn't long before Valimar had another goal- this time Irmo turned distributor, finding Ingwe for an easy finish.

As always the sound of the crowd rose, but... something was missing. The visitors didn't place it immediately, but the locals certainly did, and heads all around the arena swiftly turned around to look at the nearest bell above their section. None of them were ringing in celebration!

Workers soon discovered that all the ropes had been severed, though the populace didn't hear the tale until after the match was concluded. If they had been informed, perhaps they would have rushed the section of Wights in attendance, for nearly all are certain that they are somehow responsible, for they looked far too gleeful following Valimar's goal.

For the remainder of the match all that can be said is that The Barrow-Downs decided they may as well play a couple little dirty tricks on their way out, and Hookbill, Alien, and GwathWight all were carded for various forms of mischief, though thankfully none of it caused permanent harm. And in fact it may have only been their nonsense that made the last half-hour viewable. Most of the crowd found GwathWight's attempts to roast a marshmallow on Arien's skin quite entertaining at least.

Barrow-Downs 0-2 Valimar
on target 3-4
tot shots 10-10
GOALS:
*15, 0-1 Irmo (Ilmare)
*54, 0-2 Ingwe (Irmo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*BDowns- Lumpkin, Hookbill, Alien, GwathWight
*Valimar- Irmo

STANDINGS
Valimar________3 pts_____+2
Armenelos______3 pts_____+1
Havens_________0 pts_____-1
Barrow-Downs___0 pts_____-2

Nogrod

07-09-2013, 03:18 PM

Group E @ Erebor

The time had finally come. The Arkenstone Arena was filling rapidly after the largest creatures had been escorted in. The organizers were not taking any risks with tens of thousands of creatures flocking the entrances and corridors together with huge dragons, eagles and balrogs. Better safe than sorry they said.

All the teams competing in group E were more or less neighbours and thusly all had their fair share of fans in the stands to cheer for them, but it was clear team Eriador was a kind of a loner in the company of others – even if the Lothlórien and Mirkwood elves and eagles would probably support Eriador when their own team wasn’t playing. But all the other teams seemed to have a lot of cross-support and when not playing each other most creatures tended to cheer for each other’s teams.

The late “game of death” between Erebor and Wilderland was naturally the game most everyone were looking forwards to but there was one game to play first – and surely most spectators were ready to shout their throats sore for Misty Mountains to surprise the favourites Eriador.

~*~

So when Misty Mountains emerged from the underground tube to the arena led by Durin’s Bane, Narvi and Gwaihir the noise of the crowds celebration grew almost inbearably loud while Eriador-fans’ cheers were almost overcrowded by the booing – even if it was only a fraction of the crowd who behaved in such a distasteful manner.

But if there was majesty and splendour in Durin’s Bane, Gwaihir and Caradhras (how did Caradhras exactly fit inside the Mt. Erebor nobody kind on understands – it is an unfathomable miracle of Eru) it was more than balanced by the radiance and nobility of Glorfindel, Gil-Galad and Isildur leading team Eriador into the Arena.

This was exactly what the creatures who were packing the Arena had come for: the great heroes, leaders, soldiers, kings and queens, villains, brute force, cunning, bravery, mastery – and the greatest show on Arda!

Compared to the expectations the first half of the game was something like an anticlimax though. Both teams played it safe from defence first – and it was actually Misty Mountains that seemed the more active side. Some cognoscenti explained that Elrond wants still to give his new defence some practise, but after two shut-outs in the friendlies that seemed like overdoing it. Nevertheless, it was clear Durin’s Bane and Azog found no easy way inside the Eriador defence and were forced to take hasty shots which came mostly from afar and went mostly wide.

On the other end of the field Glorfindel and Isildur were guarded personally – and succesfully – by Gwaihir and Watcher respectively. From behind them Arveleg forced Chief Wolf into one major save, but that was probably the only real scoring opportunity of the first half.

Interestingly enough, both teams had clearly had the same thoughts in the locker rooms during the half-time – and thus they came into the second period with a totally new energy. It felt like they had had their practise round and were now in it for real. The full house was just silenced with the difference in the tempo of the play and the aggressiveness of the attacks of both teams, and then burst into chanting from pure enjoyment of the new game.

And suddenly the crowds went just wild. Durin’s Bane headed the ball in from between Aragorn and Arwen and took Misty Mts. into lead! Elrond had no chance against the mighty header from under five meters from the goal.The favourites Eriador were trailing Misty Mts. with about half an hour of the game left!

But Eriador was now changing gear one more time. And it was actually NogWight – the guy who’s signing the AKM has questioned among many others – who finally hammered the evener in. With Gwaihir and Watcher tying Glorfindel and Isildur down, he broke boldly in to the box from under William’s legs – and Arveleg was awake passing the ball past Caradhras. With a clinical finish NogWight put the ball in behind the on-rushing Chief Wolf from the close quarters.

Many in the crowds were having a positive mind still. Misty Mountains were playing even with Eriador – and that would be more than welcome result to basically all the other teams of the group. The hometeam fans and the fans of Wilderland-supporters would have been more than happy with this result – and they were counting nervousoly to the moinutes on the screen going soo slowly.

For Eriador was in no mood for a draw. They rained in their attacks one after another –the ball rarely left the Misty Mts.’ side of the field and when it did it was delivered back there in a flash. The game was played at one end alone the last fifteen-twenty minutes.

And Eriador did get their reward in the end. Worn with all the flying to and fro after Glorfindel Gwaihir’s concentration lapsed for a fleeting moment – and the frustrated emissary of Valar ran free immediately towards the left post of the goal. Aragorn had just received the ball from Arador and realising Glorfindel was free delivered it from almost thirty meters straight to his head. The Chief Wolf made a nice dive for the ball seeing it coming but Glorfindel’s header was cunningly aimed at the ground in front of the goal and so the Wolf leaped over it – and the ball went into the net.

There was only three minutes of the game left. Coming over from their empty feeling of a lost draw the crowds tried their best to beat Misty Mts. into a last minute fight back but it seemed the players themselves didn’t believe in their chances any more – and as Eriador immediately closed their defence from midfield on there was no apparent route around it either. Rumil’s far-shot was the last effort of the game just before the referee called the time. Elrond had no problems picking it.

Eriador had taken the win they were supposed to take, but they weren’t actually impressive. The team needs to tighten it’s game a lot if they wish to go farther in the tournament – or well, start to play already on the first half. Misty Mountains had their moments in the game and thus gave a warning to the other two teams that they will not be overrun easily in this group.

Eriador 2-1 Misty Mts
on target 6-4
tot shots 12-12
GOALS:
*62, 0-1 DBane (Great Goblin)
*72, 1-1 NogWight (Arvaleg)
*87, 2-1 Glorfindel (Aragorn)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eriador- Asfaloth
*MMts- William, Great Goblin

For most of the spectators the important game of the day was yet to be played. So when teams Erebor and Wilderland entered the field the noise of the crowds was just deafening. That’s the problem with halls inside mountains – there is no sky up above for the sound to escape but it ends up echoing around the closed space.The dwarves seemed to enjoy it, and the orcs and goblins just loved it, while the men and elves were grasping for their ear-plugs – if they had them.

Now both Erebor and Wilderland are known to be teams that do not concentrate so much on defence but whose game-plan is to outscore the opponent with brutal force. But it is easy to say only a few in the audience were prepared for the rollercoaster-ride they were offered. Unlike the earlier game (or the first half of it) this was an offensive-football nirvana. It was a spectacular game giving no-one a chance to claim they wouldn’t have gotten the worth of their money.

The thunder of the full house was just astonishing but in the thirteenth minute a fair half of the stadium went totally silent. Even if the decibels were still far over any recommended levels it felt like silence. With a clever pass by Thranduil the first elf to have awaken, Imin, volleyed the ball behind Beorn and the guests were leading 1-0! Like thousands years ago IRL he emerged from nowhere and astonished everyone by just being there in the open – this time to score.

There was a relentless fight in the field and the roar of the crowds made it almost an infernal experience. Radagast and the ents stood firm against the incessant onslaught of Smaug, Nazgûl #7, Bard and Bolg, while at the other end the (formerly) last lord of Dale and Thorin Oakenshield himself tried to hold Scatha, Thranduil and Nazgûl #3 at bay with the eagles.

But around half an hour’s play Erebor’s defences failed yet again when Scatha forced himself past the eagles and got room enough to manouver the ball in with his tail. Wilderland was leading 2-0! The home-team was taking a beating. The dwarves – and other fans of the homeside – were not believing their eyes.

But Erebor came back to the game – and did it fast, effectively and with gusto!

Possibly given strength or atl east encouraged by the cheering crowds Erebor just forced their attacks over the Wilderland defences. They just couldn’t lose this game at their home-arena. And it was speed that now mattered.

Between the slowish – even if tough – ents and the old elf and wizard Smaug, Nazgûl #7 and Bard pressed themselves to the limit of their speed. And lo and behold, they started making results!

Bard ran away from the defences just seven minutes after Scatha’s goal and placed the ball neatly behind the Great Warg. Only six minutes from that the other players out-ran Wilderland defences and at the crucial point lent the ball back to the corner of the box from where Smaug had sprinted and gave such a wing-shot the Warg wouldn’t have had no chance of preventing the goal even if he’d have time to dive for it – which he obviously hadn’t.

So the teams went into their lockers for the half-time with the scoreboard announcing a draw 2-2.

In reverse to the earlier game, after a furious first half-battle for life and death the second half started with some cautious play from both sides. It was clear the first half had been such an “all-or-nothing” game that both teams decided to take it a bit more carefully to at least avoid a loss.

But as it sometimes happens, the tail wags the dog and not the other way around. The crowds started showing their discontent so openly it forced the players to gear up against their firm decisions to play more cautiously on the half-time. After twenty minutes of somewhat careful play the fight was brutal, aggressive and open again. And everyone loved it!

Seventeen minutes before the full time the Arkenstone Arena just exploded when Azog’s son Bolg slided the ball in with a feet-ahead dive from a fast turnover robbed by none other than Smaug itself.

One could see Smaug smirking at Scatha as they passed each other on their way to the center of the field for the opening shot for Wilderland. Smaug was clearly getting the overhand in the battle of the two dragons. He had already scored three goals in the friendlies and had now 1+1 in this game against Scatha’s 1+0 (and only 1+0 in the two friendlies).

But even if you’re a dragon yourself, never irritate an old dragon! It was clear Scatha took that badly – and as a challenge from “the youngster”. And Scatha really beat his team to attack. There was little time, but there was time.

The Wilderland attacked furiously forcing most of the Erebor team into the perimeter of the box only to defend their goal. Parking a bus of eight in front of your goal should frustrate any opposition but Wilderland kept on coming towards the living wall. The crowds were half keeping their breath and half shouting their lungs out – the resulting sound was an eerie experience in the Arena were echoes went from wall to wall…

And then Scatha had his moment. Nazgûl #3 centered the ball from the right side and Landroval dived to intercept but Scatha used the tip of his tail to snatch the ball from in front of the great eagle only to pass it forwards to himself – when Meneldor flung in to cut a pass to Thranduil. Making a sudden leap forwards Scatha managed to hit the ball with his muzzle while Tuirin had no chance of reach the height – and Beorn was totally outwitted as he was too going for a pass to Thranduil to the other end of the goal.

Wilderland had evened the game a fair ten minutes before the close – and both Scatha and Nazgûl #3 were seen to leer to their fellows on the other team going back to the center of the field.

Both teams actually tried to scoe a winner during the last minutes but it was clear neither team wished to lose so they both went defence first to the last ten minutes – and so it was a draw.

Immediately when the game ended most of the crowds were happy with the result as fans of both teams had really feared losing at one or another phase of the game. But with the adrenaline gone both teams and their fans were quite disappointed with it.Even if Eriador hadn’t been exactly flashing they were still the favourites and thus everything was up to how they played against them and the Misty Mts. There had been a chance to stick into a qualifier’s position but neither team had managed to grasp it.

Erebor 3-3 Wilderland
on target 9-7
tot shots 22-18
GOALS:
*13, 0-1 Imin (Thranduil)
*28, 0-2 Scatha (Nazgul#3)
*35, 1-2 Bard (Brand)
*41, 2-2 Smaug (Nazgul#7)
*73, 3-2 Bolg (Smaug)
*78, 3-3 Scatha (Nazgul#3)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Erebor- Nazgul#7, Landroval
*Wilder- Skinbark

the phantom

07-09-2013, 10:58 PM

The Rauros area was nicely accessible to three of the four teams of Group H- Mordorians could approach over the Brown Lands or sail up the river, those from Rohan could ride across the Wold, and those that dwelt along the Anduin could of course take the river (though those from the north had to deal with a rapid or two).

Arnor had a considerably longer trek, and not surprisingly had a smaller turnout- though they were more in evidence than the Orcs of Mordor, for the Orcs were not bunking and dining in the area immediately surrounding the arena, but rather the Coliseum Construction Committee (CCC) had built for them their own little town at the foot of Amon Lhaw. When asked if they had hastily thrown it up after discovering Mordor would be visiting, the CCC responded: “No, no, we had this nearly completed last year. We thought it’d be good for the future to have an area for visitors that was more isolated, in case there was any bad blood between teams or fans. Now that it’s completed visiting teams will always be welcome to choose the Amon Lhaw section as their area if they want a bit of privacy, or if they just want to avoid the other teams. By next year we hope to have a decent practice field set up over there so that literally everything they need will be there, and soon after we’ll add a couple more buildings so that Amon Lhaw can house two squads if need be.”

The CCC was also asked if they planned for the Amon Lhaw area to become an area of multi-seasonal or permanent use, as much of the west side of the lake was becoming. “Well, we do have a couple ideas for down the road- perhaps an amusement park- but really none of that is even in the planning stages. For the moment the Amon Lhaw guest facilities will stand empty for parts of the year, though after we establish an easier way to make the crossing we may house workers there.”

Some complained that sticking Mordor across the lake was an unhealthy bit of segregation, but the CCC was dismissive. “Mordor was quite willing to stay there- they can create an atmosphere that makes them feel at home, and there’s less worry of their people being arrested for getting into altercations. And it’s not as if we dumped them into tents- those are nice new lodgings and pubs over there, and fully staffed- largely by Orcs who know how to make the preferred liquors and dishes. Really everyone is more comfortable with the arrangement, and those who say otherwise are simply trying to cause trouble.”

But on the eve of the games all of the development and lodging issues faded into the background, and football was the only subject being talked about. According to the betting agencies Group H was by far the most competitive group, with the lowest odds of advancing (Mordor & Rohan) sitting at 42% and Anduin and Arnor sitting at 58%. But interestingly enough Rohan was the heaviest bet for winning the group outright 33%, while Arnor was sitting lowest at around 17%. Needless to say, the public and agencies were split.

Everyone hoped the group was as exciting as it looked to be on paper. They wouldn’t have to wait long to find out….

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

The first game of the day pitted those historic foes, Mordor and Rohan. With the massive number of seats of Amon Hen Coliseum, visitors of but two squads could not hope to fill it up, thus most of the Anduin and Arnor crowds were there as well, and the remainder was filled by Gondorians, both local and from downriver. Under most circumstances fans wouldn’t have the cash to attend both games each round, but the number of seats allowed the tickets to be sold for a bit cheaper than usual.

Without a doubt the crowd was on the side of Rohan. They had quite a few of their own fans, plus the Gondorians were supporting them to a man. Lucky for Mordor, Sauron had ensured that a sizable travelling group would come in from Dol Guldur, so Mordor at least had one sizable portion of cheerers, and of course they were noisy and rowdy.

At 1 o’clock sharp the game started up, and quickly the crowd was singing and happy, for Rohan was looking impressive. The threat of Shelob appeared nicely contained by Windfola or Snowmane, and the King of the Dead had apparently given some advice on how to combat the ill effects of the Nazgul, or perhaps just being around him in practice constantly had inoculated them. Whatever the reason, Mordor could make no headway against the horse-lords, and at only 5 minutes Faramir and Eowyn played a nice combination and earned Brytta a clear look, but his shot went astray.

A few minutes later it was Helm with an opportunity, but he didn’t summon quite enough will to break through the resistance of the Silent Watcher, and the ball rebounded away. Finally around the 20 minute mark Mordor started seeing some possession and regained their composure, and changed up their tactics just a bit, threatening to spring counters and trying to keep Rohan from attacking as a team. The change did just enough to throw Rohan off their rhythm, and at near the half-hour mark Mordor gained their first real shot, and again a couple minutes later, but both drives by The Mouth were caught by a sure-handed Theoden.

To the dismay of the Men and Elves, just minutes before halftime Mordor drew first blood. Rohan was trying to press the attack a bit before the half, and Gorbag caught them out of position after a steal and a long ball let two Nazgul and Shelob looses on Theoden with only the two horses for help. Snowmane moved to Shelob, leaving Windfola to deal with the Nazgul and the ball. Windfola charged one to force the issue, but the Nazgul left the ball behind them, and no one had noticed Shagrat was loping up behind them. Both Nazgul charged past Windfola as Shagrat reached the ball and sent it skidding into the box. Rohan supporters were certain the pass had been late thus offsides should have been called, but no flag went up, and Theoden was helpless to stop it.

During the half the legality of the goal was the only subject discussed in the Rohan areas—folks from the opposite end made a point of wondering closer to the Rohan goal to ask the fans there what they had seen from their angle. The verdict was unanimous among those that were level with the play—the rear feet of the Nazgul were perhaps onside, but the rest of them certainly weren’t. The commentators tried to give the refs some benefit of doubt, saying that the fact that Windfola was a horse made there appear an illusion of offside, as the Nazgul were indeed past his head, shoulders, and front legs, and thus would be offside with any other person, but the horse had back legs and a tail, and the Nazgul perhaps weren’t beyond that.

At the start of the second half most were expecting Rohan to return to the field with a fury, but instead they looked calculating and controlled. Their discipline and intelligence controlled the opening 10 to 15 minutes, and then Mordor decided to crank up the aggression and break Rohan’s coolness. The Nazgul shrieked and the Orcs let loose warcries and Shelob began menacing the Rohan horses, posturing herself in a way clearly predatory in nature- and the horses recognized it as such.

Rohan protested Shelob’s behavior, saying it was not proper for her to frighten horses to the point where it impacted their play, but the refs insisted that intimidation was fair play, so long as it didn’t involve excess physical contact. And soon the tactic indeed played dividends, as Shelob found herself marked only by a little human on a cross, the horses scared to approach, and she struck it with her mighty head and Mordor was up by two goals!

Most Rohan fans and even a couple players looked like the fight was out of them, but most of the team looked ready to go to war—go all out for 30 more minutes and see if a draw was possible. For a couple minutes Faramir and Helm looked like they would succeeded in spurring Rohan to a comeback, both nearly put it past Silent Watcher with pinpoint midrange snipes, but then disaster!

The King of the Dead had been chippy with Gothmog II and Gorbag for much of the game, and since Mordor took the two-goal lead they’d been needling him constantly. Finally in his temper and desperation he went too far—he had already been carded for his behavior, and a tackle well after the ball was gone got him sent off the field.

The reaction among the Rohan supporters was impotent frustration and despair. Down two goals and a man short, they could not hope for a comeback. What fools they were for aligning themselves with Mr. Dead King—he wasn’t a proper Rohanian, and he had cost them the game.

Mordor made the most of their advantage in numbers, holding possession better than ever before and running the precious seconds away. And in the end there wasn’t really much to tell of the final minutes. Mordor smartly got the job done and soon they were exiting the coliseum with their fans, headed towards the docks to hitch a ride back to Amon Lhaw, where they planned to party the rest of the night.

Mordor 2-0 Rohan
on target 6-4
tot shots 15-12
GOALS:
*40, 1-0 Nazgul#2 (Shagrat)
*63, 2-0 Shelob (Nazgul#1)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mordor- Mumakil, Mouth
*Rohan- Erkenbrand, King Dead, Hama
RED CARDS:
Rohan- King Dead (69, second yellow)

The departing Orcs were soon replaced by the few fans of Anduin and Arnor that didn’t attend the first match, as well as additional Gondorians. There was still some daylight left, but a few of the stadium lights were lit, and more would be lit periodically as the natural light faded.

After most of the fans were disappointed with the result of the first match, they were looking forward to seeing something to cheer them up—a good match between two well-liked squads. And the fans were not disappointed.

In the opening 20 minutes both sides showed their mettle. Grimbeorn was a powerful menace up front, and the athleticism of Eorl and powerful boot of Boromir complimented him, but Malbeth was farsighted for Arnor and could see the attacks coming, and Elendil the tall was powerful and denied any high ball in the box. At the other end of the pitch the Kings of Arnor flowed together like parts of one machine, while the Witch King threatened with his finishing power, but Fram and Celeborn were up to the task for Anduin.

They were testing one another, and each time the other side passed, and the crowd was enjoying things immensely. Eorl and Haldir both had a chance to show off their burst and ball tricks, but it never yielded a result, while the Witch King showed off his power with a 35-yard bending drive that Amroth was forced to deflect. But everyone knew the squads had more up their sleeves and just weren’t showing it yet. Who would be the first to really crank things up?

It would be the home side. At the 26 minute mark Celeborn made a surprise run forward through the middle and Leod got it to him immediately as Eorl and Haldir rushed to flank him. For a brief moment before the defenders converged Anduin had numbers enough to perhaps gain a clear lane to shoot through as they approached, and indeed Celeborn sent it over to Haldir who looked for certain he’d take a crack at it, but no—he sent it to the right side where Fram had charged up from his position, and though he wasn’t particularly close to goal Fram immediately struck. Arvedui drifted to his left to adjust to the new positioning, and Fram went back behind him to the far post, the ball travelling out away from the keeper only to curve back towards the goal upon passing him! It was a brilliant shot, and the home team had the lead!

But before the Anduin fans could get all their celebrating out of their system, Arnor was going to work, moving the ball with ease and precision not yet seen previously. It was obvious everyone was on the same page, and they were comfortable with one another. They had to be annoyed that Anduin had beaten them to the punch, but it didn’t effect their play negatively.

Already at the 30 minute mark Araphor forced Amroth to make another save, and minutes later he had to jump on a loose ball that had deflected off Felarof, who had surely saved a goal. The Witch King thrice managed to find space to fire on goal, but two of them went wide, while the other hit the top bar. The Elves of Lothlorien and men of Gondor and the Anduin Vales that were supporting Anduin grew quite nervous indeed.

But at 40 minutes it was sheer delight on their faces, as a lovely tackle by Lenwe led to a quick counter, and Haldir hung it up in front of the net and Grimbeorn with a pure burst of strength outmuscled and outleaped everyone for it and nosed it perfectly inside the side and top bars for the two goal lead!

In the second half Arnor came out looking dangerous again, but bit by bit the Anduin defense got better and better—they were learning the patterns and playing things smart, and the tireless effort of Celeborn, Lenwe, and Felarof could apparently not be matched by the mortals of Arnor. Soon it was Anduin that was more threatening, and after Boromir nearly scored off a corner and Eorl forced a difficult save, Arnor shut things down so as not to increase their negative goal differential.

Much to the disappointment of some fans—certainly those of other squads—Anduin was content to accept the surrender and reigned things in, and soon the clock showed time over, and the locals had reason to celebrate. There were fireworks over the lake, and showers of sparks shot outward from the falls, lightning them and their cliffs for miles downstream. Anduin was revealed to all viewers, and it was mighty—just like its football team.

Anduin 2-0 Arnor
on target 7-4
tot shots 16-13
GOALS:
*26, 1-0 Fram (Haldir)
*40, 2-0 Grimbeorn (Haldir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Felarof
*Arnor-

STANDINGS
Anduin______3 pts_____+2
Mordor______3 pts_____+2
Arnor_______0 pts_____-2
Rohan______0 pts_____-2

Boromir88

07-10-2013, 08:49 AM

Group G @ Angfauglith & Tol-in-Gaurhoth

All rounds in Group G will use two arenas to play matches as 3 of the teams in the group could be considered the home team with Imladris being the one feeling "we're not in Eriador anymore." So, the 6 o'clock game would be at Angfauglith Coliseum vs. Imladris, with the primetime match between Angband and Tol-in-Gaurhoth would be played at Tol-in-Gaurhoth's Stadium.

Angfauglith knew they needed a positive result in their match against Imladris, with the deadly Angband and Tol-in-Gaurhoth looming. So, the Coliseum was packed with screaming orcs, murderous-looking balrogs, and swarms of Ungoliant's children. Elladan and Elrohir managed to get a travelling party put together, but it wasn't very large and when combined with the few hundred swooning Figwit fanelves, it only totaled to about 6 or 7 thousand. (those operating the ticket booths had somehow found a way that would break up the Figwit party. While not being a large bunch they could be annoyingly loud and obnoxious all gathered together. But instead of all hundreds being in one section, they were split into groups of 3 to 5 throughout the stands. The organizers thought the stadium was so large they could accomplish this and if surrounding tiny individual pockets of Figwit followers with enthusiastic Angfauglith fans didn't intimidate them into shutting up, then the noise they could make would at least be drowned out). So it was a sea of blood-red in the stadium seats, crowned in unlight (since the spiders were perched on their webs at the top of the stadium)...and the crowd was looking for elvish blood to be spilled yet again on the barren fields of Anfauglith.

---

Moments before Imladris entered the field, all the baddies in the stands were gearing up to start jeering. They were going to let this Imladris side really have it. "We're going to let them know right away they're far away from home and will find no comfort with us!" they thought. Yet, when Imladris entered, led by Varda, it was as if the Angfauglith crowd suddenly forgot how to taunt and yell. There was nothing, so great was Varda's entrance they could not raise a sound against her. And all the Imladris heard were the greeting cheers of their own small band of followers. But then Angfauglith entered the stadium and the fear Varda struck into the heart of evil was driven from their minds, they were now roaring and supporting Angfauglith and as the match began, the confidence Imladris would be an easy meal for their team returned.

Yet as the 1st half minutes kept ticking away, it became clear Imladris was not going to be so easy to defeat. Their defense when led by Varda are Arda-class professionals, who were not going to be rattled or intimidated by the crowd. Gothmog was having no room to maneuver, being heavily guarded by Varda. And Ecthelion, who is a good goal-scorer but can't beat being doubled by Erestor and Galdor. It was the issue many had foreseen with Angfauglith this year, their mid-field was not good enough to get enough touches to their scorers up front. It was being easily dominated by Imladris' mid-field.

Although, at the other end, Imladris was having no more creating their own scoring chances against the solid Balrog defenders with a fearsome Ungoliant as the last line of defense. Elladan and Elrohir might be superb against orcs, but they were getting bullied by the balrogs. The half ended without really any excitement during the first 45 as both teams had only managed 3 total shots each. It was a display of defensive excellence by both teams, but the crowd had died down to near silence after 20 minutes or so, and realizing the ineffectiveness of both offenses.

The 2nd half started and the crowd appeared waiting for something to happen and cheer about. It wasn't a goal, but something did happen in the 60th minute that got the crowds attention back into the game. Figwit was given a yellow card after his pass was intercepted by Balrog #3. He tried to get the ball he lost back quickly, and got a bit overzealous clearly charging the Balrog and not actually trying to make a play on the ball. Figwit's fans were swooning over the elf's bravery to challenge a Balrog, but the Angfauglith fans were laughing hysterically because it was Figwit who ended up on his back and he got booked for it too! Then they booed even louder when they realized the ref also gave a yellow to the Balrog because the ref judged it used excessive retaliation force. Kneeing Figwit in the chest was not seen as "accidental."

It did spark the crowd back into the action though, as they began realizing this could be a 0-0 draw, and that was just unacceptable. This was the game Angfauglith needed to win if they wanted to advance. Chances just still weren't materializing though, for either team. Imladris' attack was too weak to get past the Balrogs, but Angfauglith's midfield was too weak to move the ball cleanly from their back line to their upfront playmakers.

Having enough of this nonsense, in the 66th minute, Angfauglith moved their defenders up further, close to the mid-field and Balrog #2 instead of passing it to one of the midfielders, just passed it to Ecthelion. Then Ecthelion and Gothmog played a fantastic 1-2 tandem down the left flank. It was a sudden and smooth attack, and Varda realized Gothmog created a match-up problem as Celebrian was now forced to try to stop the balrog captain. Varda sprinted out of her area to challenge Gothmog, and aid her teammate. But once Gothmog saw Varda was committed to him, he rolled a pass back to the middle. Ecthelion was through! He split the double-team of Erestor and Galdor! It was a perfect feed from Gothmog. once Valandil gave away he was trying to take away the right post, Ecthelion had an easy time shooting to the open left post and it was a goal.

Angfauglith got their lead and were focused on protecting it for the remaining 25 minutes. We had chided Gondor earlier for switching conservative to protect a 1-goal lead. But we can't chide Angfauglith, because their defense is not only well organized by Ungoliant but they are exceptional athletes and they showed anyone witnessing the game, what a shutdown defense looked like. Even if Ungoliant had to make a few saves, they were Imladris taking long prayers from a distance which were just never going to give a goalie of Ungoliant's caliber any problems.

Angfauglith 1-0 Imladris
on target 3-3
tot shots 9-8
GOALS:
*66, 1-0 Ecthelion (Gothmog)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfaug- Gelmir, Balrog#3
*Imlad- Figwit, Erestor

The 2nd game of Group G took place in Tol-in-Gaurhoth, during the primetime 9pm slot. Tol-in-Gaurhoth, nicknamed "The Den" (which the Doriath Elves perceived as a mockery of their "Cave") was quite an unsettling and gloomy place to be. So, naturally the fans for both teams were feeling right at home. It's interesting that TIG had build a retractable dome stadium, but what's so unusual is...in all other stadiums covered by a dome, the dome is for protection from the outside elements if the weather is too bad. But for Tol-in-Gaurhoth it's the exact opposite. They welcome terrible weather (which is the norm in the haunted isle) and so when it's storming, cold, and thundering outside the roof is left open. But on occasions when the weather is decent and fair, it's closed and it can get very dark and damp underneath the dome. Conditions weren't too awful today, there was a light drizzle and cool breeze, so the roof was open.

It was rather evenly split, Angband was nearby, and there was Morgoth too so of course they would have plenty of fans. Being in Tol-in-Gaurhoth practically every werewolf and ghoul had to be in the stadium (and thousands upon thousands of bats were flying over head to support Thuringwethil). And as always TIG has a small population base to draw from, but their fans can create far more noise than most.

---

Like in the first game, the first half ended in a goalless tie. However, that didn't mean there was nothing happening and the fans attention never left the action happening on the field. Both defenses were strong but the offenses were also capable and created good chances. The wolves were playing hard not only for their fans but to show off their talent to Morgoth. Telvildo was looking rather scared, but Ancalagon was having his way with the werewolf defenders. Shastawolf could not be caught napping though and the wolf stopped 2 quick early chances from the dragon.

When TIG had the ball they had a quite an easy time getting through the Easterling midfield of Angband but then seemed to hit a brickwall that was Morgoth and his defense. And not to be outdone in goal Carcharoth also came up with important saves to keep the game 0-0 going into the break. But it seemed everyone in the stands knew goals were coming. Both offenses were just too talented, too athletic to be shutout, even if the same could be said about their defenses.

Having played a more defensive game the 1st period and having Ancalagon be the large target in the center Morgoth started the 2nd trying to get more players involved in the attack, hoping the TIG defense had been properly set up to pay too much attention to Ancalagon. Morgoth must have lit a fire under the cats during the break because they looked less scared by the wolves now and their agility was starting to cause real problems.

But just when it seemed Oikeroi and Telvildo were going to breakthrough with a goal, TIG had the tactics to freak out Telvildo again. GaladriWight was following Telvildo and could be heard telling the cat he was a handsome kitten and she couldn't wait to take him back to the barrow to add him to her already large handsome cats-in-bow-ties collection. It was too much to Telvildo who ran away hissing (chased by GaladriWight). Oikeroi had passed it to the spot Telvildo was supposed to be, but the only one there was NilpWolf and the wolf launched a sudden counterattack.

TIG had no trouble getting through Angband's midfield in the first half, and they had no troubles this time either. But the speed they were able to cut through the midfield caught Morgoth off guard and when phantomwolf hung a pass up into the box for Thuringwethil, it was a rare occasion Morgoth's defense was out of position. Carcharoth thought Thuringwethil would try to head the ball in, but instead the vampirebat knocked it back on the ground, to SallyWight who kicked it in. TIG had drawn first blood! And even the Angband fans had to admit it was a well deserved goal based on how both teams had played so far.

Unlike Angfauglith though, TIG was aware they couldn't play out the remainder of the game defensively, Angband's attack was just too good. They had Angband by the throat, so now it was time to go for the kill. A few minutes later it looked like InzilWolf would make it 2, and the wolves and wights would really start partying, but no...Carcharoth made a great save, knocking the shot out of bounds. Everyone applauded the save. This was fantastic. This was excitement. Two admirable teams going for it all the way to the end. And it would be a TIG corner now.

Phantomwolf took the corner, hitting a hard drive into the box. It was a congested battle in the middle and it seemed like phantomwolf overshot his target, as no one could see a TIG player and the closest one to the ball was Angband's Balrog defender. But out of the jumbled mess lept up Nilpwolf, outleaping the Balrog at the last second, Carcharoth was caught flat-pawed and could not spring up in time to stop Nilpwolf's header that got over Carcharoth and into the goal. 2-0 TIG!!

Morgoth was looking furious. He knew the wolves were going to be tough this year, but he was not accustomed to conceding 2 goals and losing in this fashion. Angband tried to claw their way back into the match, perhaps trying get at least 1 goal and salvage something. But as the time kept winding down towards the end, their attempts became more and more desperate, which did not trouble the confident wolves in the least bit. TIG carried their momentum and confidence all the way until the referee's final whistle. They had shut out Angband. It was said Morgoth quickly returned and shut himself in Angband after the match. He has much to think on after Angband's opening round loss and starting last in the group.

Angband 0-2 Tol-In-Gaurhoth
on target 4-6
tot shots 14-15
GOALS:
*67, 0-1 SallyWight (Thuringwethil)
*72, 0-2 NilpWolf (PhantomWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Ulwarth, Ulfast, Ancalagon
*TIG- SallyWight, BoroWolf

Standings (after Round 1)
Tol-in-Gaurhoth, 3 pts, (+2)
Angfauglith, 3 pts, (+1)
Imladris, 0 pts, (-1)
Angband, 0 pts, (-2)

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-11-2013, 06:57 AM

Nargothrond vs Minas Tirith, Pelargir Park

Minas Tirith supporters comprised barely more than half the stadium. With the proximity of another Arda Cup host site, some of the locals have chosen to watch Gondor in Dol Amroth (some of them believe that Gondor have a better chance of qualifying for the bracket stage). Of those who chose to go to Pelargir, some ten thousand Gondorians bought tickets for the game between Tirion and the Sea instead. While it was possible to watch both matches live (Minas Tirith vs Nargothrond ended twenty to thirty minutes before the kick-off of the Sea vs Tirion), it would be a tricky proposition, considering the distance between the two stadiums and the traffic jams that came with an Arda Cup matchday. Besides, the price of a ticket for Tol Eressëa’s mobile stadium almost was twice the cost of a ticket of the same class for Pelargir Park, and only a few could afford tickets to both games.

The other half of the stadium was composed of various Nargothrond fan groups. There were the Noldor from the House of Finarfin, who either travelled by land or aboard the floating isle (aside from the stadium, Tol Eressëa Mobile also carried lodgings for guests as well as restaurants and tourist shops.) A small band from Angband who made the journey to Pelargir to cheer Glaurung on were looked upon with suspicion, while a larger party of Bëorians who were there to support Barahir, Baran, and their founder, were treated with much respect by the Third Age Edain.

On the pitch, the players of Minas Tirith showed similar respect to their forefathers. Bëor’s hand was heartily shaken by all eleven players, and Telumehtar Umbardacil managed to secure Barahir’s promise to exchange shirts with him once the game was over.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/mtivngr_zps89845eca.jpg~original

Now, the game: the first twenty minutes was a midfield battle for possession, with the two teams hardly creating any scoring chance. With Glaurung dropping deeper to become a fourth central midfielder, Nargothrond outnumbered the Stewards in the centre of the pitch; they saw more of the ball and kept it for longer periods of time. After twenty minutes of chasing after the ball in vain, Minas Tirith conceded the midfield and formed two banks of four in front of their penalty area. They hoped to use Nargothrond’s high defensive line to their advantage, playing long passes behind the defence that Boromir I could run on to.

But Nargothrond were successful with pressing from the front, recovering the ball quickly after conceding possession. Minas Tirith gained just a few chances to test Nargothrond’s high line. Whenever Minas Tirith got a ball behind Baran and Arminas, Orodreth rushed out of his box to claim most of them. The best Minas Tirith chance of the half came during the thirty-third minute, when Boromir I got a foot in a long ball from Ecthelion II, but hit his shot directly at Orodreth’s face.

As for Nargothrond’s chances, the right flank looked promising. Cirion, like all Men of pure-blooded Númenórean descent, was athletically fit, beyond that of normal Men, but Gwindor made him look like a turtle, driving past him at will and forcing Ecthelion II to cover for him. This left Eärnur all alone to deal with Finrod and the threat of Glaurung, Nienor, and Finduilas running past him. Thankfully, the midfield protection offered by Tarondor and Eärnil II held fast.

Shortly before half time, Gwindor went on another flank run, easily beating Cirion again and forcing Tarondor to get between him and the goal. Gwindor played a short pass to Glaurung, who turned on Eärnil II. Tarondor recovered too late, and he was booked for tugging at the dragon’s tail to stop his charge. Glaurung laughed mightily at the Man’s cheek and shared a fist bump with him as the half-time whistle was blown.

During the second half, with Tarondor more reserved due to fear of a second yellow card, Glaurung became a bigger threat on the attack. His turn and tailer barely a minute after restart was blocked by Eärnur and kicked clear by his father. The clearance fell only as far as Finduilas, who fired a lateral pass to Barahir, charging from Nargothrond’s back line. With Finrod at the near post, Gwindor at the far post, and Glaurung romping through the middle, the Minas Tirith defenders were unsure who to guard. Who will he cross for? A simple shoulder turn by Glaurung caught the eye of the defence—was he angling for a piledriving tailer? But Barahir’s low cross only went as far as Finrod—the King of Nargothrond stabbed it in past a distracted Denethor II.

A goal down, Minas Tirith could no longer afford to sit deep and wait for counterattacking opportunities. They were forced to go forward, giving Glaurung even more space between the lines. He became the focal point of Nargothrond’s offence, the way it was meant to be last year. He snouted in a Gwindor cross around the hour mark, then pounded in a Finduilas through ball in the seventy-third minute. Half of Pelargir Park were silenced by the dragon’s rampage, and Nargothrond played keep ball the rest of the way. Minas Tirith no longer had the energy to chase after the ball, and contented themselves with taking it easy in preparation for their next two games. Their remaining opponents didn’t feature a speedster and a ferocious beast, after all, and they might have a better chance against them. At least, that’s what they believed that day.

Minas Tirith 0-3 Nargothrond
GOALS:
52, 0-1 Finrod (Barahir)
59, 0-2 Glaurung (Gwindor)
73, 0-3 Glaurung (Finduilas)

Total Shots
12-25
Shots On Target
4-10

YELLOW CARDS:
1-0
MTI: Tarondor
NGR: -

Tirion vs The Sea, Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium

And now all eyes were on the River Anduin. The silhouette of the moving island was illuminated by fireworks and the light of buildings of Avallónë. Those who stood upon the shores of the river could hear a roar from the stadium, a scream of celebration, a cry of awe. No one who saw the mobile stadium remained unmoved by it.

Inside the arena, the ten thousand Gondorians who bought tickets for the game were praising Eru that they did. Tol Eressëa didn’t have the affluence of Menegroth, nor the grandness of Armenelos, but . . . the history. The grass that covered the pitch has been the same one upon which the first international game of football was played. It never grew too tall, nor did it wither even during the darkest hour of the Blessed Realm. The soil beneath it never got chipped; it never got too dry, or too muddy. It was just right for football. Football was meant to be played upon it.

Then the players of Tirion and the Sea walked into the pitch, and even the most callous Gondorian was moved to reverence. There was the Vala Ulmo, one of the Powers of the World, and with him were his Maiar and some of the greatest among the Men of the West. And on the other side, Finwë, High-King of the Noldor, and with him were some of the most famous names of the Eldar. Football was meant to be played here, and they were meant to play football here. At least, that’s what they thought.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/seavtir_zps558a0d21.jpg~original

The game, of course, was meant to start. Tirion moved forward with intent, and the Sea defended resolutely. The ball moved quickly, from Rúmil to Aredhel to Mahtan, testing, probing the defence of Ulmo and looking for a foothold, a patch of space from which to start things. But the two holding midfielders, Voronwë and Tar-Ciryatan, were smart to occupy those spaces. Time and time again, Tirion’s advance was rebuffed, and the ball went back to their midfielders, and the dance began anew.

Mahtan, Tirion’s left midfielder, preferred to play through the centre, so to offset this loss of width the left-back Caranthir moved forward to provide attacking options. But in one sequence of play, he was caught too high up the pitch when Mahtan misplaced a pass to Aredhel. Voronwë took possession, scanned the pitch, and found Tar-Minastir making a run behind Caranthir. The Elf from Gondolin sent a long diagonal towards him. Caranthir tried to run back, and Amras closed in on Tar-Minastir. But with his first touch Tar-Minastir sent a cross-field pass to a running Tar-Aldarion on the opposite wing. Easily beating Irimë to the byline, he sent a cross into the box; his grandfather Vëantur, charging from the midfield, beat Amrod and met it with a thundering header for the opener.

The Tirion faithful groaned, while the supporters of the Sea let out a thunderous cheer. Ulmo’s defence was enough to keep even FC Valinor scoreless; surely, a one-goal lead would be enough for them to win.

Finwë, however, was not fazed. He whispered a few words to Aredhel and dropped back closer to the midfield; Tirion returned to the formation they used against Angband.

There were doubts as to the efficacy of Finwë’s strategy among the more tactically astute sections of the crowd. Tirion were already enjoying a considerable possession advantage over the Sea (54-46), so what was he improving by being further away from goal?

It was space. Football was a battle for space: which part of the pitch would you give your opponents? Which part of the pitch is the opposition giving you? Can you create chances from that space?

Aredhel was left alone to battle with Ulmo and Ossë, but now Finwë had a little more space to win headers and play penetrative passes to Aredhel and Mahtan from the midfield. Neither Voronwë nor Tar-Ciryatan could do anything, as he simply outleaped them to headers and outmuscled them on the turn. After Mahtan came close to bagging the equaliser with a stunning volley of a Finwë flick-on (requiring a superb reaction save from Hyarmendacil), Ulmo himself stepped up from the defence to mark Finwë. This turned out to be a mistake—Finwë flicked on another Rúmil cross for Aredhel. The White Lady of the Noldor had too much space to pick her shot, and she sent a peach of a curler past Hyarmendacil. The Sea’s defences were finally breached, and Tirion got their equaliser with a little over half the game left to play.

But Tirion did not press their advantage. After the break, both teams played more conservatively: Caranthir no longer moved forward to join in on the attack, and concentrated on his defensive duties, and Ulmo left Finwë alone in the midfield, concentrating on shutting down Aredhel and Mahtan’s runs from the midfield. Both teams still managed to create chances, but they were long prayers or tame shots easily snuffed by the goalkeepers. Neither team changed gears, seemingly happy with a draw at this point.

The Sea 1-1 Tirion
GOALS:
24, 1-0 Vëantur (Tar-Aldarion)
42, 1-1 Aredhel (Finwë)

Total Shots
12-13
Shots On Target
4-4

YELLOW CARDS:
1-1
SEA: Tar Meneldur
TIR: Amras

------------ W-D-L Pts GD
Nargothrond 1-0-0 3 +3
The Sea 0-1-0 1 0
Tirion 0-1-0 1 0
Minas Tirith 0-0-1 0 -3

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference

Nogrod

07-12-2013, 02:41 PM

Group C @ Doriath

If one would have to name the hottest game of the first round there would be perhaps two or three candidates; perhaps Erebor vs. Wilderland in Group E with the full weight of the importance of the game and the flare of the both attacking sides, or maybe Angband vs. Tol-In-Gaurhoth in Group G with two extremely tough teams fighting it out. But the AKM would choose the game between Hithlum and Real Valinor even if one could argue that the two teams are favourites to qualify from their group anyway so it’s not that much a game of death as such.

Real Valinor are the champions from the last season and they have shown in the friendlies that even without Arien they are serious contenders to renew their title. Let’s remind our readers for just one single fact: last season Real Valinor lost to FC Valinor twice with no uncertain terms but went on to claim the championship with some confidence. This year they draw with FC Valinor in the friendlies – so one could say that they are a better team this year than the last year… and they were already champions last season. Go figure that.

Hithlum on the other hand has put in all their financial resources to fight seriously for the Cup this year and their offence with Túrin and Beleg looks the most intimidating – especially with Hador rising to his level in the friendlies (2+0 in two games) and the ever-dangerous Húrin parked in the middle of the offence. With a Balrog and Hador’s sons in the defence it should not be up to their defence either. Although many hold Huor to be a questionmark at the goal as he skipped the last season. But with a man like him you know that even his performance on a bad day would be a great achievement to a lesser one.

And it is clear neither team is prepared to lose a single game – even if some analysts hold Hithlum’s two draws in the friendlies a discouraging omen telling they are not up to the task this year either – while Real Valinor’s beating of Valimar confidently 3-1 is to many a sign of the sheer brilliance of the team. But the difference between the teams would be soon found out.

“The Cave” was full already for the afternoon game as everyone wanted to see the two teams included in the short list of the “most talked” teams of the tournament (add to them AC Beleriand, T-I-G and FC Valinor and there we kind of have it). Tulkas and Hador led their teams to the field showing great respect to each other following the fair play theme Menegroth had created for this year’s tournament. The Breelanders in the audience stood in awe for the nobility and both inner and visible strength radiating from the men of old while the elves recognized their partners of the days gone by with accepting embrace, but with the entrance of the Valar, Maiar and the noblest Noldor everyone just held their breath. The spectators knew they were witnessing something out of ordinary indeed.

The game itself was just as intense and high-quality everyone had hoped for. Both offences created beautiful combinations and chances at scoring but to counter that both defences played superbly forcing the shots from difficult angles allowing minimum reaction time to the strikers. During the first half an hour Real Valinor had probably a little more of the possession but Hithlum had probably an inch better chances at scoring – when Miriel suddenly exploded the stadium with a beautiful cross-run sweeping in Nerdanel’s inch-accurate pass from the air past Huor – leaving him standing in awe to the exact finishing of the great striker.

Many people seem to have forgotten that Nerdanel and Miriel had their dynamic duo already before Arien joined them – and now they showed why they are so feared by the opposite defences all over Arda. That was just fantastic.
After the goal allowed Hithlum put in a new gear and you could see the seriousness of their effort from Túrin’s game – he, and all Hithlum players, were chasing every ball, fighting for every possession to the end – and his eyes, which were shining steel and determination. And the sudden flame of Hithlum forced even a team like Real Valinor to draw back a bit to better contain the massive attack Hithlum was bringing forth.

Real Valinor managed to keep Hithulm at bay most of the time, even quite comfortably at times. Nienna was superb cutting passes into the box while Nahar and Ingwinion took care of Túrin and Beleg – and even Tilion worked hard in the defence running after anyone who was looking dangerous. But the sheer determination and number of chances Hithlum created led to the inevitable result.

Hithlum scored the game even just one minute before the half-time!

Hador gave a pass diagonally backwards from the edge of the box and while the defenders were busy closing any further passing-lines Húrin ran for the ball and booted such a swerving boomer into the upper-left corner of the goal even Tulkas had no chance of picking it.

Whether Hithlum had just exhausted themselves with the dynamic rage of the last fifteen minutes of the first half and never recovered or whether they were too happy to draw or whether it was something else no one will probably ever know. But the second half was just a Real Valinor show.

It was a different game on the second half. Real Valinor was in the driver’s seat commanding both the tempo and where the game was played. Moving the ball quick from player to player exhausted the Hithlum squad who were always running a bit late after it.

So if it was determination that decided the latter part of the first half it was confidence that decided the second half.

Balrog #5 was forced to take a yellow card when Oromë was breaking through into the box with the ball and the giant was just late. From the ensuing free-kick just inches behind the edge of the box Oromë himself made one of the greatest goals of the first round sure to end up in most of the YouTube compilations. He booted a cannon of a shot that swereved around the wall put up by Hithlum and before Huor realised it was not going wide after all it was too late for him to react as the ball went in hitting the post first.

Real Valinor was not finished with claiming the lead once more but continued dominating the field leaving little or no room for any counterplay ti Hithlum – even if they had a few controlled attacks and Túrin’s one fiery shot missed the post only about half a meter. But Real was the team calling the shots now – and it was no wonder they actually scored yet one more time about ten minutes before the end.

This time they just saw the defences open with criss-crossing passes finally leaving Nessa to just move the ball into the empty net from one meter’s distance. And many were just amazed of the energy Tilion had rushing to the last pass – it seemed to be true he flourishes immediately when he’s not just following Arien everywhere.

Sad for team Hithlum but in the last ten minutes of the game Real Valinor was actually closer of making it 4-1 than Hithlum was to cut the lead into 2-3. It had been an unexpectedly uneven game – even if some reporters were nodding their faces knowledgeably with the “what did I say” –look. Happily those few would be soo very wrong in their next predictions that no one cared.

Hithlum 1-3 Real Valinor
on target 5-9
tot shots 14-22
GOALS:
*29, 0-1 Miriel (Nerdanel)
*44, 1-1 Hurin (Hador)
*61, 1-2 Orome
*79, 1-3 Nessa (Tilion)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Hithlum- Arroch, Balrog#5
*RealV- Nienna

If the team Hithlum can be called a kind of an family-affair the same could be said of Doriath as well with Elwë and Melian and then their grandchild Dior with Elwing – and their forefathers and daughter – form the core of the team aided by a few of Elwë’s trusted elves. But talking about quality and family: many missed Beren and Lúthien.

Shire-Bree on the other hand looked more like a mötley crew of vagabonds and strangers walking into the bright lights of the Menegroth Stadium: a wizard, a great white horse, three Nazgûl, a beast, a couple of hobbits and men (of which one didn’t look exactly sporty)…

So when the hometeam took the reins into their hands with their organized play, most of the homeside-fans relaxed and cheered approvingly for a nice evening of football. But not everyone was happy with the seeming grip Doriath had on the game – for Gandalf was tricksy and with the two Nazgûl up front (and that odd but sturdy hobbit Bandobras Took) they were actually able to sneak in chances of scoring every now and then – and even if Doriath held the ball most of the time Shire-Bree did actually produce the better chances. And as the first half went on it became quite evident even to the blindest home-fans: these oddballs were challenging Doriath seriously – and that instead of a walk in the park they faced a serious struggle to win the game.

Towards the end of the first half the Shire Bree was actually calling the shots while the hometeam just tried to keep the ball out from the scoring-distance. It had so turned over that it was the Doriath fans and players who were relieved with the half-time whistle.

But Doriath-team had done some serious soul-searching during the half-time and came to the second period with a totally new energy. They were confident but not over-confident, playing now with a full 100% concentration. And they scored a goal in three minutes with Elwë sliding in a perfect pass by Mablung! And the crowds regained their confidence once again.

And it was obvious the second half was a much better football than the first as now both teams were playing seriously – and to the astonishment of the homecrowds it was an even game indeed. At times Doriath was able to press the game down to the Shire-Bree side but then on another the quests took the initiative and forced the game to the other end.

But the farther the clock ticked the more careful or unrisky game Doriath started to play to save their lead – and the more they left room for Shire-Bree to manouver. With Khamûl hitting the post less than ten minutes before the end the homeside fans went on gnawing their fingernails.
From the next attack Elwing managed to cut the releasing pass by Gandalf to Nazgûl #6 and Melian took care of heading the ensuing corner far away to the midfield.

On the next Elwing jumped in front of the crossing by Bandobras and Nimloth swept the ball away from Ferny’s feet from the throw-in.

Five minutes before the full-time Daeron slided late on Butterbur’s ankle giving Shire-Bree a free kick.

All three Nazgûl and Gandalf gathered around the ball at the 35 meters the kick would be given while Dior was organising the defences in to a wall where both Gildor and Shadowfax were trying to fit in.

Finally the referee blew his whistle and all the three Nazgûl and Gandalf rushed forwards at the same time. The Nazgûl were faster and while Khamûl was coming straigth towards the wall of defenders (and Shadowfax and Gildor who were pushing the defenders aways as hard as they could), Nazgûl #6 was rushing past the wall from left and #4 from right.

There was a moment of confusion and whilst most defenders tried to stand the center to stop Khamûl, Shadowfax and Gildor, Galadhon and Nellas fell to the sides to shadow the Nazgûls rushing forwards from the sides - and with Gandalf’s kick finally in the air and flying towards left and Nazgûl #6 Daeron also left his place from the edge of the wall to pursue the beast.

And there was the trick! Nazgûl #6 had no intention to possess the ball or put it forwards – even if Shadowfax, Khamûl and Gildor were making leaps forwards – and made Melian, Elwë and other defenders to fall in with them effectively breaking the defensive wall. But the Nazgûl just played it back diagonally to Gandalf who had meanwhile ran forwards and a little right to gain a free line to shoot – and with the combination of Dior concentrating on the other end of the goal and the power of Gandalf’s shot the ball went into the net just beside the right post before Dior had a chance to even try and stop it.

The Shire-Bree fans were exploding with righteous-joy while the homecrowds were silenced for good. It was four minutes of the game left and the game was even.

And it ended that way even if both teams made a decent try to change it at the last minutes – but it was clear that both teams were afraid of losing more they were keen in winning the game at the last minutes.

So Shire-Bree had forced the hostsinto a draw and no one could say the result was unfair.

Doriath 1-1 ShireBree United
on target 3-5
tot shots 9-12
GOALS:
*48, 1-0 Elwe (Mablung)
*86, 1-1 Gandalf (Nazgul #6)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath-
*SBUnt- Ferny, Khamul

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-14-2013, 01:35 AM

Stadium on the Rock
Inter Beleriand vs Dwarves United

Banners of white, gold, and red, the colours of the royal house of Gondolin, flew upon the walls of the Stadium on the Rock, commemorating the return of the city’s ruler. Despite the fact that Gondolin’s match wouldn’t take place until evening, thousands of locals flocked to the stadium to watch Turgon play for Inter Beleriand. Their king was a wise ruler and a talented player, they said to each other. It’s just that his philosophy didn’t mesh well with the team’s style. They would be glad to support him—if he’s not playing against the home team, of course.

Dwarves United players entered the pitch to much applause. Aulë was still the Vala most beloved of the Noldor, and Galadriel, Celebrimbor, and Azaghâl were respected names. Then the Inter Beleriand players walked out of the tunnel, and the stadium exploded with cheers. And lastly, with the build-up of a returning hero, Turgon’s name was announced over the speakers, and the crowd replied with a roar that reverberated throughout the city.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/inbvdwu_zps6af8113e.jpg~original

Turgon was fortunate that Inter dominated possession for the first few minutes of the game, so moved was he by the home crowd’s warm reception that he looked a bit out of it at the beginning. Dwarves United had more midfielders (3 vs Inter’s 2), and their trio of Gimli, Fíli, and Kíli were technically better than Hunthor and Forweg, but they preferred to play on the break, whereas Inter felt the need to take control of tie so that they could get a leg up over their potential qualification rivals Gondolin. Beren moved inside from the left to be a third central midfielder, and Lúthien took up a more advanced position, turning Inter into a 3-4-1-2 when in possession. Luckily, their side of the pitch had the less attacking full-back Durin, meaning the only player of concern was right midfielder Gamil Zirak. On the other wing, Haleth played a more disciplined role, keeping an eye on Celebrimbror’s movement and often leaving right-back Baragund to deal with Telchar’s forward runs.

The first half ended with little incident. Dwarf U’s defence shut down all possible avenues of Inter’s attack, and Inter could not commit to an all-out attack due to fear of Dwarf U’s counterattacks. Legolas clearly received instructions to ignore link-up play—he latched on to passes from the defence and attacked Inter’s defence all alone. For most parts, Gorlim and Haldad limited his chances, but his pace was enough to give them fits. Their best chance of the half came from a sublime Aulë long ball behind Inter’s defence. Legolas outpaced the centre-backs and rounded Turgon. It took Baragund’s impressive goal-line clearance to keep Inter from going into the break a goal behind.

The second half began with another Aulë interception and long pass, another Legolas solo run, and another nervy defensive stop from Inter. Haldad got a leg in Legolas’s on-target shot, sending it out of bounds and giving Dwarf U a corner. Gamil Zirak took the corner kick, and Aulë met it at the near post to with a powerful header towards the top corner. Turgon leapt as high as he could and got a finger in to nudge it towards the crossbar. The crowd applauded their king’s effort wildly.

After the first few minutes, the game settled down and Inter slowly imposed their control on the game. Fingon shuttled between attack and midfield, giving Inter four passing options in the centre of the pitch and providing more creative outlets (Beren had been too easily shut down by the sons of Dís.) In the sixty-fifth minute, Beren, Lúthien, and Fingon formed a triangle down Dwarf U’s left flank, passing their way through Kíli, Gamil Zirak, and Durin. Beren got to the byline and cut the ball back for Maedhros. Aulë had been paying too much attention to the proceedings at the left flank that he failed to track Maedhros’s movement. The eldest son of Fëanor rounded Azaghâl and fired low past Galadriel for the lead.

After a goal Inter Beleriand were a little more relaxed. They could now start playing to their strengths, returning to their preferred counterattacking style, knowing that Dwarves United would be forced to commit more players forward. Barely two minutes after the opener Hunthor cleared a Dwarf U corner and Beren took the ball in stride and outsprinted Fíli. Kíli, Azaghâl, and Durin were all that stood between Beren and Galadriel, but the latter two were occupied by Maedhros and Lúthien’s runs. Beren jinked past Kíli, who fell to the ground trying to keep up with him. He reached out for Beren’s leg to trip him, and the referee rushed towards him, red card in hand, for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. Kíli apologised to Beren and shook his hand before leaving the pitch.

Dwarves United player were obviously deflated after Kíli’s sending off. They were a man down and a goal down, and the crowds were firmly behind Inter. In the seventy-sixth minute, Haleth took on Gamil Zirak then surprised Celebrimbor by cutting inside on his weaker left foot. He fired a clumsly looping cross that looked to sail wide, but Fingon, who easily outleapt Azaghâl, managed to nudge it goalward towards the far corner, just out of Galadriel’s reach. The people at the stadium were silent for a beat, but then cheered wildly at the awkward-looking goal. Now Dwarf U was in a deep pickle: two goals behind and a man down. They elected to concede the field to Inter, conserving their energy for the next two matches. Inter silently accepted Dwarf U’s surrender and took their foot off the pedal for the remainder of the match.

Inter Beleriand 2-0 Dwarves United
GOALS:
65, 1-0 Maedhros (Beren)
76, 2-0 Fingon (Haleth)

Total Shots:
11-14
Shots On Target
5-5

YELLOW CARDS:
2-0
INB: Baragund, Forweg
DWU: -

RED CARDS:
DWU: Kíli (67, straight red)

AC Beleriand vs Gondolin

And now, the main event. AC Beleriand managed to bring a strong contingent into the hidden city, and they easily scooped up all the thirty-thousand tickets allocated for the away side. And of the ten thousand tickets for the neutral, they hoped that the Inter supporters would also support their fellow Beleriand team, although Turgon’s influence might tilt them towards supporting the home team instead. There was, however, nothing they could do against the forty-five thousand-strong home crowd. They were banging drums and singing ‘Gondolin, pride of the Noldor,’ at the top of their lungs.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/acbvgdn_zps9addb679.jpg~original

The game soon started, and the home team fed on the crowd’s energy. They also remembered last year’s humiliating defeat. Salgant, especially, was like a different player—he was more judicious in his tackling, keener to stay on his feet than to launch into reckless two-footed slide tackles, but he remained dogged in chasing his mark around the pitch—last year it was Beren; this time it was the Fiery Boot himself, Fëanor.

The first half was a disjointed affair, a battle of tempo. AC Beleriand wanted to slow the game down, play the ball on the floor and gradually work it up the pitch towards their attacking four, whereas Gondolin played a very direct game and concentrated on getting the ball into the box as quickly as possible. Both teams had a decent number of chances, but none of them were clear ones. Duilin and Maeglin frustrated Ulrad and Denethor, keeping them from playing easy passes towards Fëanor and the wide players. On the other side, AC Bel defenders Imlach and Rochallor bracketed Gondolin’s forwards well, and full-backs Fingolfin and Balrog #4 checked the runs of Gondolin wingers Idril and Elemmakil.

Towards the end of the first half, AC Beleriand abandoned their patient build-up play and started launching long balls towards Gondolin’s box, disorienting the home team’s back line. Fëanor had the best chance of the half—he slipped Salgant’s mark and took a long pass from Imlach. He jinked past Penlod and Aranwë, but Rog snuffed his side-footed shot easily.

AC Beleriand finally scored the opener three minutes after the restart. With a burst of pace, Denethor managed to evade Maeglin’s marking long enough to fire a long diagonal to the right of Gondolin’s box. Angrod and Eöl dashed past their markers towards the ball, while Fëanor made a run towards the penalty area to draw Salgant and Penlod away. The Dark Elf took the ball with top of his foot, making it bounce up, and then launched himself into an overhead kick towards the top-left corner of the goal. The AC Beleriand supporters stood up and roared, while the neutral fans applauded Eöl’s effort. They have taken the lead in impressive fashion.

Gondolin pushed forward with renewed ferocity, but they were unable to make headway against AC Bel’s defence. More often than not, they had to get back quickly on defence after an attacking attempt; as soon as they lost possession, AC Bel played the ball forward quickly against Gondolin’s disorganised defence. During one such sequence, AC Bel gained a four-on-five opportunity, pitting their front four against Gondolin’s back four and Salgant. Aegnor managed to gain a few metres of space in the marking confusion and, after taking Eöl’s backheel pass, shot a fierce drive from fifteen metres out. Rog managed to make a stop; he then leapt after the rebound ahead of a sliding Fëanor. Scanning the field as he stood up, he threw a long overarm pass towards Duilin at the edge of the box, and the Gondolin midfielder sprinted past Denethor and Ulrad. Imlach stepped up to challenge him, but by then Duilin had already spotted Maeglin’s run from the right wing. He slid in a through ball past Imlach and Rochallor, and Maeglin needed just the simplest of tap-ins to put the ball past Marach.

There was less than half an hour left to play, and the mood at the stadium was tense. AC Beleriand had an advantage in possession, but Gondolin’s energy, fuelled by their home crowd, allowed them to play last year’s semifinalists almost evenly. Who will take control of this tie and take all three points?

After a brief huddle that took place while Gondolin celebrated their goal, Fëanor moved higher up the pitch to become a second centre forward, turning AC Bel into a 4-2-2-2 (Angrod and Aegnor were too far ahead of Ulrad and Denethor for them to be a bank of four.) The two wide midfielders were also instructed to send crosses into the box—high crosses when Fëanor was matched against Aranwë, low ones when their captain was marked by the taller Penlod. Twelve minutes before full time, AC Bel’s tactic paid off; Angrod crossed low for Fëanor, and the Fiery Boot easily exploited his quickness advantage to dribble past Penlod. With only the goalkeeper to beat, he curled his shot past Rog for the lead.

Gondolin pressed relentlessly for an equaliser, but, with Fëanor, Angrod, and Aegnor joining Ulrad and Denethor in midfield, AC Bel kept the ball successfully and killed the tie. The home team, however, didn’t surrender until the final whistle, and their supporters appreciated their effort. At least they managed to score a goal against a top defence, and, with their toughest fixture out of the way, they still have a chance to advance.

AC Beleriand 2-1 Gondolin
GOALS:
48, 1-0 Eöl (Denethor)
63, 1-1 Maeglin (Duilin)
78, 2-1 Fëanor (Angrod)

Total Shots:
16-12
Shots On Target:
7-6

YELLOW CARDS:
2-2
ACB: Eöl, Imlach
GDN: Penlod, Salgant

--------------- W-D-L Pts GD
Inter Beleriand 1-0-0 3 +2
AC Beleriand 1-0-0 3 +1
Gondolin 0-0-1 0 -1
Dwarves United 0-0-1 0 -2

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference

the phantom

07-14-2013, 12:15 PM

A Look at Phantasy Competitions
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

As always there are quite a few folks in Middle-Earth entered in Phantasy Leagues based around this year’s Arda Cup. Of course the rules are slightly different—e.g. in many of the Orc-run leagues yellow cards are actually worth positive points, and Numenorean leagues going a game without being caught flopping or whining is worth a point. But overall the scoring mechanics are similar. So here’s a bit of blanket advice when it comes to picking your squad—and we’ll start with the two most important words.

Matchups matter.

Take a look at the teams your players are going up against. Are you picking a forward or midfielder that is about to battle a highly ranked defense like FC Valinor, Real Valinor, T-I-G, etc.? Then just know that it’s a risky play. Are you choosing a defender that’s about to be attacked by Hithlum, AC Beleriand, Nargothrond, etc.? Then don’t bet on getting points for a shutout. You can’t just pick good players—the opposition is every bit as important a consideration.

Also, you may want to see if you have players on your team that are set to face off against each other. Do you have an offensive player going up against a defender? Well then, it’ll be pretty tough to gain good points from both players.

And finally- what to do about a point train? In other words, if someone is scoring well, do you trade for them and hope they’ll keep going, or stay away because they’re due to fall off? Well honestly that’s a tricky question, but one thing to keep in mind—is that player a frequent strong performer? If a player that doesn’t typically score well goes on a binge, more likely than not they will fall off, whereas if a solid player hasn’t scored well perhaps they're due for a good game. Of course there are exceptions to every rule, but it’s something to keep in mind nonetheless.

Anyway, that’s just a bit of advice for you Phantasy players out there. Here’s hoping you score well!

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-14-2013, 07:31 PM

Group Tables:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/standings-matchday-1_zps2d6d8737.png~original

Power Rank:

The Power Rank shall return in the next issue of ArdaCup.com Stats Report.

Top Individual Performers:

GOALS + ASSISTS

2+1
Curufin (FC Valinor)

2+0
Scatha (Wilderland)
Glaurung (Nargothrond)

1+1
Irmo (Valimar)
Smaug (Erebor)

0+2
Nazgûl #3 (Wilderland)
Haldir (Anduin)

GOALKEEPING

100% – 5/5 – Turgon (Inter Beleriand)
100% – 4/4 – ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
100% – 4/4 – Amroth (Anduin)
100% – 4/4 – Silent Watcher (Mordor)
100% – 4/4 – Orodreth (Nargothrond)
100% – 3/3 – Manwë (Valimar)
100% – 3/3 – Ungoliant (Anfauglith)
100% – 1/1 – Huan (FC Valinor)

Boromir88

07-15-2013, 12:17 AM

TTN's Stars (Round 1)
-Boro88

One thing we wanted to add to this year's Arda Cup is the "Star Performances." AKM launced their own "AKM Stars", but they've dropped the concept the past couple years. TTN wanted to add something noticeably different to their phantasy coverage this year, so we've come up with a revised "Stars" concept, and a different methodology from AKM's to highlight the best individual performances every round.

*Disclaimer: TTN's Stars are completely separate from the "star players" when picking phantasy players. This is simply our way of highlighting the top performances from each round. So, if TTN gives One Star to Tar Atanamir, that does not mean Tar Atanamir costs one "*" on your phantasy teams now.

Now here's how TTN has decided to award their stars. We had our field of reporters attending every match in every group and they picked the best players nominating from 2 to 4 for consideration in each match.

We obviously can't award every FW who scored a goal with stars, or every GK who saved 3/3...etc. So our panel deliberated, making cases for why so-and-so should be awarded a star (or why someone should be dropped off the list for this round) and how many stars someone should be awarded. Here is the system for this year.

Top Game performers "One Star" (5 at each position)

Top position performers "Two Star" (2 at each position)

Best Round Performance "Three Star" (One player, position doesn't matter)

Sometimes just scoring a goal or a couple assists isn't going to be good enough when stacked up to other players, so we had to take into account several different factors in coming to the final decisions. Factors included: strength of opponent, strength of victory, impact on the game (a MF scoring a game winning goal with under 10 minutes left is going to carry more weight than a MF scoring a single-goal in a 4-0 blowout for example).

We won't explain every choice made by the panel, but we will try to explain the choices that were the most contentious and debated.

ONE STAR

Goalies
Marach (AC Beleriand)
Ungoliant (Angfauglith)
ShastaWolf (TIG)
Amroth (Anduin)
Silent Watcher (Mordor)

The goalies were pretty much easily agreed on. Manwe was the one left off during the vetting process, because despite saving 3/3, our experts agreed it was against a weak opponent (The Barrow-downs) and other players for Valimar (namely Irmo) had a larger impact on the game.

Defenders
Maglor (FC Valinor)
Barahir (Nargothrond)
Tilion (Real Valinor)
Alatar (Barad-Dur)
Aragorn (Eriador)

A shutout plus an assist from a defender pretty much assured you of catching our attention and thus being awarded with at least one star (Maglor and Barahir). The debate came in when trying to decide if a defender who got the shutout has more impact than a defender who gave up 1 goal, but also contributed with an assist, in most cases we sided with the latter.

Real Valinor allowing only 1-goal against the deadly Hithlum attack, is worthy of notice, and then adding Tilion's key assist in the game it was a no-brainer. The other two were a little more hotly contested, but in the end Alatar's assist in a 1-1 draw was a big result in the game against Gondor. And Aragorn's assist in the 2-1 victory against the Misty Mountains had more impact than Luthien shutting down the pathetic Dwarve's United attack, or the Balrogs from Angfauglith shutting down the equally as bad Imladris attack.

Mid-fielders
Turambar (Gondor)
Nessa (Real Valinor)
Glorfindel (Eriador)
Nazgul #3 (Wilderland)
Nazgul #2 (Mordor)

The toughest choice here was 3 players (Turambar, Glorfindel, and SallyWight) battling it out for essentially 2 spots. Glorfindel's game-winner in the 87th minute held the biggest impact on the game. Where case for SallyWight was stronger opponent and stronger victory. But looking at other TIG performers (Shastawolf and NilpWolf), not that SallyWight's goal had no impact on the game, but just not as large of an impact as those two, nor as large as Glorfindel's game winner. Turambar's goal in the 1-1 draw vs. Barad-dur was also key. Without Turambar's performance, Gondor loses that game.

Forwards
Smaug (Erebor)
Earendil (Havens)
Feanor (AC Belerind)
Ecthelion (Angfauglith)
Ar Pharazon (Armenelos)

Ar Pharazon and Feanor both had late game winners in wins over their opponents. Ecthelion scored the only goal in a crucial result against Imladris. We decided to give the last One Star FW spot to Earendil (Smaug was automatic with its 1+1) because despite Armenelos' staunch guarding and gameplan to try to stop Earendil, they still couldn't and The Havens had Armenelos on the ropes for a significant portion of the game.

TWO STAR

Goalies
Turgon (Inter Beleriand)
Tar Atanamir (Armenelos)

Turgon's 5/5 was the top goalie performance of the round. Tar Atanamir's 5/6 we valued as next best (even over the other goalies who got shut outs) because he did it against a quality offense and the saves were crucial in limiting Earendil to just 1 goal.

Defenders
Fram (Anduin)
NilpWolf (TIG)

Mid-fielders

Irmo (Valimar)
Haldir (Anduin)

Both were the key factors in their team's offense. Both teams had 2-0 victories, and both contributed to each of their teams' goals.

Forwards

Scatha (Wilderland)
Glaurung (Nargothrond)

2 goals each from 2 dragons, they had the top performances amongst the forwards in Round 1.

THREE STAR

The single best performance in Round 1 then goes to...

Curufin, FW for FC Valinor.

Most might say this is not surprising, but it was one of the most contentious debates for our panel in Round 1. Whether to say Curufin had the best performance or Nilpwolf. The wolf's shutout of Angband (the result that probably shocked TTN the most) plus contributing with a goal. Where Curufin's evisceration of Isengard should not have shocked anyone. Still Curufun won out, I mean he should have had a hat-trick and scored 2 goals in a matter of mere minutes which had the game over by half-time for FC Valinor. Performances like Curufin's are the best, no matter the opponent.

Nogrod

07-15-2013, 04:21 PM

Group A

First games:
Armenelos vs. The Havens 2-1
Barrow-Downs vs. Valimar 0-2

The Havens vs The Barrow-Downs

Group A is a threeway game and by beating The Havens Armenelos has taken a huge step towards qualification. So it is the Havens’ turn to take the must win over the Barrow-Downs for if they fail in it they can kiss their chances of qualifying good-bye. Now it should be self-evident they will do it but for the Barrow-Wight and Bombadil.

The AKM joins the group of football fans who question the existence of a B-D team as long as it is composed mainly of fictional entities whose only merit is their capability of making lousy jokes and behaving badly. And we hope the AFA would come up with a decent solution of giving the slot to a proper Arda-team the next season.

That said the AKM thinks there is nothing to stop the Havens from winning the game unless Bombadill is awake and willing to play (which we actually hope for fairness-sake he isn’t). For unlike with Valimar there are no Valier to stop him if he suddenly decides to play…

The Havens is actually a pretty tough team and the AKM would see them fighting neck to neck with Valimar for the spot in the qualification. Drawing in the friendlies with this year’s wild card team Inter Beleriand 3-3 and losing to the T-I-G only 1-2 makes them a team one should consider seriously as one to qualify.

If nothing unexpected happens the last round game between The Havens and Valimar will be a real thriller! But before that can take place Havens needs to beat the Barrow-Downs, which the AKM predicts they will.

The AKM predicts: The Havens wins 3-1

Armenelos vs Valimar

Armenelos vs. Valimar will be the hair-rising game of this round. Just think of the historical burden it carries with it and behold! And it will be a very hard one to predict as well.

Now both teams belong to the founding teams of the Arda Cup – and to the first teams to play football in the first place – and still belong to the top ten of the tournament, in the general meaning of the term. Neither though impressed the experts with their friendlies, but yet they both took pretty confident victories from the first round of the group-phase.

To spell that out let’s see their games this year. Armenelos draw 3-3 with the top-quality offence-machine Nargothrond and lost to the serious contenders for the whole Cup AC Beleriand 1-2. Then on the first round of group-play they beat the decently tough team of the Havens 2-1.

Meanwhile Valimar lost to Ulmo’s serious contender-team The Sea 0-1 and got beaten by the flashing Real Valinor 1-3 only to show they still were no pushovers by beating the the Barrow-Downs confidently 2-0.

So looking at the earlier results you might think Armenelos being the slight favourites – and that is the decent deduction. But with team Valimar and Manwê, Namö and Irmö playing nothing is that clear-cut or simple.

Probably one of the toughest games to predict on this round…

The AKM predicts: Draw 1-1 or Armenelos wins 2-1 (in the situation Arien gets wild Valimar has chances of winning the game, not otherwise)

Group B

First games:
Inter Beleriand vs. Dwarves United 2-1
AC Beleriand vs. Gondolin 2-1

AC Beleriand vs Inter Beleriand

The two Beleriand-teams make it out and while the AC is the obvious big brother when it comes to the success in the footballing-fields Inter seems to have built a very competitive team for this year to challenge their kin and friends.

Now that doesn’t mean AC Beleriand wouldn’t be the favourites to win the game and like last year, leave Inter to fight for the qualification with Gondolin (a fight they lost last season). But Inter did win Doriath and played even with The Havens in the friendlies and then managed the hurdle called the Dwarves United at the first round whose defence many teams fear by scoring two goals.

But looking at the AC Beleriand’s track record & the list of their players brings anyone wishing to see an even game back to the stands: AC Beleriand beat both Armenelos and Anfaughlith 2-1 in the friendlies – like they did with Gondolin on the first round of the group phase.

Long story short: everyone expects AC Beleriand to qualify, with decent reasons, and so the other three teams would only fight it out between themselves for the second position. Inter has beaten Dwarves United and have reason to be content – but as it is possible they need to go on counting goals made and allowed (if they end up in a draw with Gondolin and Dwarves United doesn’t make surprises) so they will be playing defensive trying to contain AC Beleriand -to AC Beleriand a win will do.

The AKM predicts: AC Beleriand wins again 2-1 (or 1-0)

Dwarves United vs Gondolin

Gondolin just needs to win this game against Dwarves United. There is no other way to qualify. Now you might ask why we don’t say Dwarves United needs to win this game? Well they lost already to Inter Beleriand and their chances are pretty low indeed while Gondolin “only” lost to AC Beleriand which is most probably going to qualify anyway.

But that doesn’t mean Dwarves Utd. would be giving up because of that. On the contrary. The AKM thinks Dwarves United will be the pain in the – well you know where – for every other team of this group with it’s tough defences and only teams that can really attack can actually walk over them. AC Beleriand seems to have what it takes to do that – and Inter did that already – so now all the pressure is on Gondolin to show they have it as well… And that is the trick of the game.

So the question becomes, whether Gondolin is able to break those defences for good or not. The good news are that they were able to beat tough-defending Arnor last year 4-0 – the bad news are that the architect and hero of that game for Gondolin Gothmog is no longer playing for them.

The AKM predicts: Draw 1-1 (or Gondolin wins 1-0)

Group C

First games:
Hithlum vs. Real Valinor 1-3
Doriath vs. Shire-Bree United 1-1

Hithlum vs Shire-Bree United

Hithlum faces a “must-win” and Gandalf would be just too happy to deny it from them as the leading player of the underdogs and the team everyone thought would have no chance standing up against the greater teams of the group. Now their draw with the hosts Doriath has changed the mood somewhat and instead of a walk in the park everyone looks forwards to a fighting team Shire-Bree making it hard for Hithlum.

That said, it is clear Hithlum has the quality and stamina Shire-Bree lacks, even if they have proved themselves able to put up a fight. Gandalf, the three Nazgûls and Shadowfax are quality players and able to challenge the human heroes of team Hithlum (even if the Nazgûl were before the rings far lesser breed of kings than the Hithlum-heroes are). But the rest of the team just isn’t able to carry the day for them. Now there have been somewhat justified concerns about the narrowness of Hithlum’s talent as well – but that, the AKM thinks – is relevant only when we start comparing their eighth or ninth toughest player to those of the Real or FC Valimar or AC Beleriand… and not to these Fernys and Butterburs.

Just remembering their games this year might help put things into perspective. In the friendlies Hithlum draw with both Angband (tough team) and Gondolin (pretty tough team) and then lost round 1 game to Real Valinor (super-tough team). Shire-Bree has won the Barrow-Downs (crap team) and drawn with Anduin (decent team) and then on the first round with Doriath (decent / decent minus -team).

Also none of the teams Shire-Bree has met thus far this year has had a real killer-offence. But Hithlum has that. How will their defence handle it is a question worth asking.

So even if there is this nice idea the underdogs could shake the order of the world the AKM sees Hithlum being overall at such a different level that they will claim their first win of the year – and with the self-confidence thus boosted, who knows how far they will go?

The AKM predicts: Hithlum wins 3-1

Doriath vs Real Valinor

There is one clear conclusion to be made from the first round of Group C: Real Valinor is a plain marvellous team and anyone meeting them will have tough times. With Arien gone there seems to be a half-dozen players ready to fill in to score. So if the defence takes one out, another will make the goal. Bad news to any phantasy-players as it is hard to pick the right one from there, but great news for the team.

After the confident victory over Hithlum it is hard to see Real Valinor challenged for real by any other team of this group unless they just relax too much – which doesn’t sound like a plausible idea regarding the personalities playing for the team – and Tulkas as the one calling the shots in the end.

Doriath craves for a win after the disappointing draw with the Shire-Bree and they have the support of the home-crowds, but they just lack quality to pull out one from this game. And it might be added that the draw they played with the Shire-Bree was only partly following from the goodness of the S-B team – and there was also some real lack of flair and excellence in Doriath’s game – and it looks like the home team will not qulify from this group.

Anyway, this is one of the round’s most clear games.

The AKM predicts: Real Valinor wins 2-0 (3-1)

Group D

First games:
Isengard vs. FC Valinor 0-4
Barad-Dûr vs. Gondor 1-1

Barad-Dur vs Isengard

With Barad-Dûr and Gondor drawing their first round match it is then time for Isengard to make their claim for the other qulification-position in this group meeting Barad-Dûr. But unless FC Valinor means to beat the other two teams with such ugly numbers the Isengard-start wasn’t the best one. And lets face it: who would bet on Saruman against Sauron?

One could make a hypothetical case for Isengard by looking at the friendlies and stating that they had a caliber tougher opponents and only lost decentlyish (losing only 1-2 to Wilderland is actually prettu good for a weaker team) whereas Barad-Dûr didn’t convince in their own friendlies (a 0-0 draw with Arnor isn’t the best possible result from a team that aspires to go far in this tournament).

But still. Even if Barad-Dûr isn’t exactly the favourites to go far in the tournament Isengard seems to have little or nothing to throw against their reasonably strong defence.

The AKM predicts: Barad-Dür wins 2-0 (or possibly 2-1)

Gondor vs FC Valinor

The result of the game depends mostly on the attitude of FC Valinor. If they want to play with full strength and give their best there is probably nothing Gondor could mount against them and the game will end something like 6-0.

But that is not probable. FC Valinor got venting some of the steam out making the confident win over Isengard and can now either get some rest from pressures or practise their gameplans – and as Curufin has gotten his confidence back it seems he has nothing to especially show-off this time.

So the only possibility this might turn out an interesting game is if FC Valinor has a total attitude problem and think they can just walk with half-pace, score a few goals and the go home looking for the qualifiers. If that happens, Gondor’s organized team-play might frustrate them and then who knows with a lucky breakthrough by Anarion or Eldacar?

Then again, looking at the roster of FC Valinor it’s hard to see them as a team who would come to the pitch half-heartedly. But it is hard to see them playing with full-effort the whole 90 minutes either. THE script they probably wish to execute is making a few goals and then sitting back making sure the game is won.

Like the other game in this group, this looks like pretty much settled already as to who wins it, but with what kind of a score?

The AKM predicts: FC Valinor’s game-plan holds and they win 3-1 (2-0)

Group E

First games:
Eriador vs. Misty Mountains 2-1
Erebor vs. Wilderland 3-3

MistyMts vs Wilderland

After their pretty mediocre show at the friendlies Misty Mountains made a fresh performance in their game against Eriador and thus made themselves a bit more serious contender for the qualification. But fighting for the second qualification spot against both Erebor and Wilderland looks like a bit too tough a project for them.

Misty Mountains looks actually like a b-class version of the two other teams of the group. They all like to play rough and aggressive and outscore their opponents but whereas both Erebor and Wilderland have quality to actually pull that off Misty Monutains just falls short of it.

Wilderland needs the three points from here and it needs them bad. But the problem is that Misty Mountains defences would look like suited into denying them. Just think of the following: Gwaihir taking off the Nazgûl, Caradhras blocking the slow and unwinged Scatha, Watcher keeping it’s eye on Thranduil and William just blocking the first elves with its size.

But how many of you would betting on that scenario to work in the end – especially as Imin already showed he can score in the first game?

On the other end the ents should be able to hold Azog and Narvi at bay but Durin’s Bane will be a real problem – and it will mean the Misty Mountains will score. But Thranduil and the elves will still outscore Misty Mountains.

The AKM predicts: Wilderland wins 3-1 (3-2)

Erebor vs Eriador

Looking at the last year and the teams in paper this year it would seem Eriador is one of the top contenders to reach the final stages of the tournament once again this year. But somehow the AKM has been – and is – sceptical about their success unless they really show how they play first. If they clear this group with clean stats then yes, the AKM will give them a thumbs up, but before that we will be quite reserved indeed.

And the reason is simple: they haven’t impressed us yet.

Yes, it is not their style to beat the opposing team 6-0 if 1-0 is enough. And yes they can score when they wish to (like they beat the B-D 3-0 in the friendlies – or Gondolin 3-1 last year). But this year they have only won Anduin (decent team) 1-0 and the B-D (crap) 3-0 – and they didn’t impress with their win 2-1 over Misty Mountains on the first round even if you could say the Misty Mts. is a better team some people might think.

If one wishes to think about Eriador’s chances in this tournament they’d need to produce results against teams like Real or FC Valinor, or AC Beleriend, or the T-I-G, or… and there is nothing to show they are able to do that. And the AKM remains sceptical unless they play one tough game and show what they are made of this year.

That said Erebor is kind of a tough opponent to Eriador. The last year’s fourth is a considerable team even if most analysts agree it has weakened from the last year – and losing Gwaihir and Thranduil is exactly that, weakening of the team. Also, the last year they beat Wilderland in the group phase but this year they draw the game. ‘nuff said.

But still, their offence will finally give a preliminary test to Eriador’s overpaid defences (the AKM still thinks the signing of Aragorn and Arwen with 10 million each was a a bad move sportswise even if it felt nice to Elrond).

A lot will depend on how Smaug will fare against the Eriador defences – and in the last instance against Elrond. Nazgûl #7 will have no frightening effect whatsoever against Eriador’s defences and both Bolg and Bard will have hard times trying to outwit Gil-Galad, Aragorn, Arwen and Asfaloth.

But the real question is how confidently Glorfindel and Isildur can play against the eagles – and Beorn at the goal – and do Arveleg and NogWight have what it takes to support them when needed…

The AKM predicts after a lot of to and fro: Eriador wins 2-1 (3-2)

Group F

First games:
Minas Tirith vs. Nargothrond 0-3
The Sea vs. Tirion 1-1

Minas Tirith vs Tirion

Minas Tirith was facing an uphill battle in this group to begin with and then losing to Nargothrond 0-3 didn’t exactly make their situation any easier. To put it bluntly they basically have to beat both The Sea and Tirion to qualify now. And after they lose to Tirion on this coming round it is then clear they will not be qualifying.

Tirion in turn seems to have the bad karma to be always put in a group that has some relatively tough competition. But after their ill luck of being in the same group with both Real and FC Valinor and Armenelos last year they can consider this group a piece of cake – and they would truly deserve to qualify this year. And they have it in their own hands. Now they just have to pick that cake-piece.

But that may also require beating Minas Tirith with as big numbers Nargothrond did it just to be on the safe side – so Tirion will not go for this game intending only to win. They intend to win big.

Will they do that?

Drawing with The Sea gave them the keys. Now they may have some problems with really strong defences like Angband (they drew 1-1 in the friendlies) but Minas Tirith has nothing of the sort Angband has to offer. Then again, if they could score two goals behind Gondolin, scoring at least that much should be no problem against Minas Tirith.

The AKM predicts: Tirion wins 2-0 (3-0)

Nargothrond vs The Sea

Now the Sea might just have a problem. Keeping the scores low and accepting draws might just mean they are going to stay in the group phase with the offensive powerhouse Nargothrond and a very effective Tirion team there to beat the fourth team of the group with bigger numbers the Sea will…

So with a draw with Tirion already under their belt it probably has dawned to Ulmo they can’t afford to draw with Nargothrond any more – or then they need to put up some real fireworks against Minas Tirith.

But Nargothrond will have none of that. They count on their offensive power and will give The Sea a run for their money. And so it will be a real thriller indeed! One of the best defences against one of the toughest offences fight it out – and the proze for the winner is nothing less but a pretty good chances of qualifying (for Nargothrond it would actually be a safe qualification if they win).

For the stat-freaks there is an intereting piece of information: while Nargothrond has made eight goals in their three games this year (two friendlies and one group-game) The Sea has meanwhile only given up one. The opposite numbers are interesting as well: Nargothrond has allowed four goals while The Sea has scored two.

One of the hardest to predict this round…

The AKM predicts: Draw 1-1 (or Nargothrond wins 1-0)

Group G

First games:
Anfaughlith vs. Imladris 1-0
Angband vs. Tol-In-Gaurhoth 0-2

Imladris vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth

Tol-In-Gaurhoth made quite a spectacular show of their skills and stamina in their first game against Angband – with the restrictions on how many werewolves there can be eased and with a couple of sharp sign-ins they have reached back to the level they used to play years ago. And that spells trouble for Imladris.

If the T-I-G doesn’t win the game with at least two-goal difference the AKM thinks they’re showing a soft spot somewhere – or then they will just be guilty of playing it lazy.

Now that is a possibility – that the werewolves just walk around and hit one ball in – or if Imladris should score by chance before them – they get enraged and miss their chance for the clear sheet. But that is only a possibility – and too probable one.

On the other hand, with a win the werewolf-pack has a chance to nail their qualification in this game and they’d probably wish to do that and – knowing that the number two of this group will most probably meet AC Beleriand in the first qualification round – they are not that crazy to try their luck if they can avoid such an opponent in their first qualification-game.

So the T-I-G has the team, the skills, the toughness and the reason to beat Imladris – and that is exactly what they are going to do.

The AKM predicts: T-I-G wins 3-0

Angband vs Anfauglith

Now the game between Angband and Anfaughlith is a tougher one. Melkor and Ungoliant have a mutual history – and they have fought it out before. If Melkor’s Angband would stand against Sauron’s Barad Dûr few would wish to bet on the latter, but Ungoliant’s Anfaughlith is just a few levels tougher a team. And Ungoliant has never been Melkor’s minion…

Looking at the friendlies you could say both had tough opponents. Anband managed to draw with both Hithlum (maybe not so toug a team afterall?) and Tirion (a good team but needs to fight for qualification), whereas Anfaughlith lost narrowly 1-2 against both AC Beleriand (one of the toughest this year) and Nargothrond (with their killer-offence).

One might say Anfaughlith’s first round win over Imladris only 1-0 was a disappointment and might tell of a lack of quality in the team – and that would not be totally unfair a judgement as Anfaughlith hasn’t been a top scoring team at any point. But then again Angband’s humiliating loss to the T-I-G werewolves 0-2 is if possible even a darker shadow hanging over Morgoth’s team.

And looking at the group it will be this game that decides the second qualifier. So neither will back off or give ground to the other even an inch.

It is a game of survival.

The AKM predicts: Draw 1-1 (or then Angband wins 2-1 with Melkor having a major role in at least one of the goals)

Group H

First games:
Mordor vs. Rohan 2-0
Anduin vs. Arnor 2-0

Arnor vs Mordor

Many media outlets were saying that Arnor would be topping the table while the AKM said Anduin would rule over them – and well that’s what happened. Now Arnor needs to win if they wish to have any hopes of qualification alive – but they might be facing a tougher opponent anyone expected; or then the Rohanians are just an easily scared bunch of lesser men of late ages (well, which they are, actually).

But then comes the common sense and settles the matter: if Gondor was able to beat Mordor 3-1 then why couldn’t Arnor do the same – and there is a nice comparison to them, do they wish to be outperformed by their southern brothers and cousins?

Just looking at the overall price-tag of their team it must be admitted that Shelob, Mouth and the two Nazgûls have fared a lot better anyone expected thus far – but giving them the easily scared Rohanians as their first opponent may have boostec their image a bit over it’s real value.

The AKM still thinks Arnor will qualify, led by the Witch King – only to be devoured by whoever comes to meet them from group A – but nevertheless.

The AKM predicts: Arnor wins 2-0 (2-1)

Anduin vs Rohan

Now Rohan may prove to be a tougher opponent to Anduin than Arnor was – but nothing they couldn’t handle. Then again, if Rohan wishes to keep any hopes alive for qualification they must win the game – and if they fall in trying too much Anduin will surely punish them for that.

So it will not be a walk in the park for Anduin but they will emerge the victors in the end whether they just prove themselves the better team or punish the Rohanians for too far-reaching attack. For Anduin defences are far better than those of Rohan or Arnor – and if one of the teams from this group could challenge a team from group A it would be Anduin (well, we’d doubt their chances against Armenelos but against Valimar or The Havens they might put up a fight).

Rohan will play serious and will get some balm to their wounds as now everyone laughs at them, but it will most probably not be enough.

The AKM predicts: Anduin wins 1-0

Boromir88

07-15-2013, 07:33 PM

GROUP A

1. The Havens vs. Barrow-Downs -
The Havens will be a better match up for The Barrow-Downs team than Valimar was, but will it be enough? Now The Havens have conceded 2 goals in every one of their matches so defensively they're vulnerable and The Barrow-Downs is good enough to exploit it. But The Havens has also scored in each one of their games and against much tougher defenses than the BDs. Question, good enough to score 3? We'll take the odds and call it a draw 2-2.

2. Armenelos vs. Valimar-
The premier game of Round 2. In previous years Armenelos' strong attack has taken it right to Manwe's conservative style and completely embarrassed the Valar on their home field. Ar Pharazon would want nothing more than to do the same by spoiling the Valar's return to home after the 1-year hosting ban. Neither team will want to end this game with a draw, they both desire to beat the other too badly. The difficulty time we're having is choosing which one! *Valimar wins 2-1

GROUP B

1. AC Beleriand vs. Inter Beleriand-
Inter did good to get the needed result against Dwarve's United but now a different challenge facing their more trimmed and experienced land-mass rivals, AC Beleriand. We'll go with the experience and what this year has so far shown us *ACBel wins 2-1

2. Dwarve' s United vs. Gondolin-
Gondolin's defense is a little shakier than Inter's and the Dwarves will be determined to play better after a rough 2-0 defeat. Gondolin's attack however, is comparable to Inter's and Galadriel simply must save more than 3/5 to be worth the price she commands. *Gondolin wins 2-1

GROUP C

1. Hithlum vs. Shire-Bree United-
Shire-Bree's defense has the legs to run with Hithlum all game, and that's probably what they'll be doing. Gandalf and Khamul can spring a couple surprise counters that might be able to go in goal, but they can't get into a scoring contest or they'll lose. *Hithlum wins 3-1.

2. Doriath vs. Real Valinor-
We weren't surprised Real Valinor beat Hithlum on Round 1, but we surprised by how easily they dealt with Hithlum's offensive firepower. Containing Doriath then shouldn't be a problem for them and even without Arien their offensive talent is still good enough to beat Melian's girdle at least twice. *Real Valinor wins 2-0.

GROUP D

1. Barad-Dur vs. Isengard-
Isengard should play better in this one, but merely because it's hard to play any worse than their 0-4 shelacking in round 1. The blue wizards will be tasked with stopping their fellow wizard Saruman. Saruman has led those two off into the wilderness before, but other Isengard attackers shouldn't be too much of a hastle. Barad-Dur's offense hasn't been as impressive as expected, but surely it's shown more quality than Isengard's defense. *Barad-Dur wins 2-1.

2. Gondor vs. FC Valinor-
Defensively Gondor will be much stiffer than FC Valinor, but they don't have the skill nor talen to hold out indefinitely. Nor do they possess the killer strike needed to beat FC Valinor's defense, even if FC Valinor takes Gondor fairly easily. *FC Valinor wins 2-0.

GROUP E

1.Misty Mountains vs. Wilderland-
The Misty Mountains played a tough game against Eriador and Wilderland's attacking ability certainly surprised us being able to score 3 on Erebor. Although, in our group breakdowns we thought Erebor was overpriced (and overrated) this year, while Misty Mountains is getting good value comparable to the talent they've put on the field. Wilderland will be able to score, but the question is are they capable of stopping anyone? With Eriador waiting in the final game this is more a must win for Wilderland than it is for Misty Mountains. But to prove the doubters wrong (and TTN correct) Misty Mountains needs the win as well. *Misty Mts wins 3-2.

2. Erebor vs. Eriador-
A disappointing draw against Wilderland puts Erebor in a precarious situation. Now Erebor's attack is a nightmare to contain to a defense like Eriador, who plays mistake-free but seriously lack the aerial player to stop Smaug. However, it's also why they have Elrond at goal, because the Elf lord just stops everything game after game. This could end in a draw simply because Erebor should come away with most the possession and more shots on goal, but still can't find a way to get 2 past Elrond. Tough to call and go against Eriador, but we do agree with AKM here, they've lost some of their glitter (definitely hurt by Witch-King's departure). *Draw 1-1.

GROUP F

1. Minas Tirith vs. Tirion-
We were disappointed by Minas Tirith's round 1 performance. Make no mistake once put in this group their fate to take the cellar in the group seemed certain, but we thought there was still enough talent to challenge the teams in this group and make a real fight of things. Now we're left wondering if they'll even be able to score a goal in this group. *Tirion wins 3-1.

2. Nargothrond vs. The Sea-
Nargothrond definitely impressed us, even if it was against a must weaker Minas Tirith squad this year...this was a team that was really hemhorraging goals last year and appeared to have lost it's way. Last year must have been rock bottom and they have apparently placed everyone in their proper positions. Having said that, The Sea just exemplifies experience and defensive excellence. We foresee a breakout performance by Tar Minastir in this one, that leads to...*The Sea wins 2-1.

GROUP G

1. Imladris vs. Tol-in-Gaurhoth-
TIG has put it all together this year and that spells trouble for Imladris. Imladris is stout defensively and there is no way they're going to be intimidated with Varda leading the defense (that much is proven after round 1). Their offense though is seriously lacking, especially against the fearsome defenses in this group. *TIG wins 2-0.

2. Angband vs. Angfauglith-
Another premier game in round 2 and we're just sitting here anxiously wondering how this one turns out. It's hard to see that Morgoth won't come into this game full of fury and might that will put the Balrogs and Angfauglith in their proper place (2nd fiddle to Angband). But it's time to be blunt about Angband here...they don't look right and haven't looked right since losing on penalty kicks to Minas Tirith last year. Even in the friendlies, just to manage their draws Morgoth needed to come forward to get late goals. Now Angfauglith has a lot of problems in the midfield that won't be as troublesome to Angband as TIG's midfield was...We'll go with *Angband wins 1-0.

GROUP H

1. Arnor vs. Mordor-
Mordor did what they needed in a convincing 2-0 win over Rohan, proving what TTN said that there is more talent to the roster than what the payroll shows. However, we do agree with AKM here too that Mordor's roster, while perfect against Rohan, is not so good against the veteran rangers led by their king, Elendil. And on the attack, the Witch-King is clearly superior to The Mouth and Nazgul. Arnor is in more need of the win, even if Mordor has Anduin waiting in the last round, because a draw will probably give Mordor enough points to advance. This is one of the more difficult matches to call. We'll take the draw 2-2.

2. Anduin vs. Rohan-
Anduin lived up to their pricetag in round 1, and that was the questionmark with this team. While beating an opponent like Arnor isn't a sparkling achievement, it did show they were at least as good on the field as they were on paper. Rohan will be looking to bounceback after being frightened off the field by Mordor, and well at least the Anduin team shouldn't scare the wits out of Rohan. But Rohan's lost way too much talent from last year's strong playoff team, and the great Grimbeorn is quite scary too. *Anduin wins 2-1.

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-16-2013, 11:11 PM

AC Beleriand vs Inter Beleriand

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/acbvinb_zpsd592efe7.jpg~original
[Projected formation. AC Beleriand in red and white; Inter Beleriand in blue and yellow.]

Formation:

A formation battle tends to be of greater importance if both sides wish to play proactive football—the spare man in the midfield is especially important when pressing to recover the ball, as well as when trying to get out of opposition pressing. Inter Beleriand’s preferred strategy is to sit back and attack on the break, so the midfield battle is less important than how effective both sides would carry out their strategies.

Tactics:

The more important tactical questions, then, are:

a) How would AC Beleriand break down Inter’s defence?
Inter have solid full-backs but defensively suspect centre-backs—Dwarves United forward Legolas managed to gain a few chances against them despite his lack of support. AC Bel would occupy Baragund and Lúthien with Angrod and Aegnor, leaving Eöl and Fëanor to play through Gorlim and Haldad. Ulrad’s forward runs and Denethor’s long passes from the midfield would help force Inter’s midfield to close them down, giving Fëanor additional space in the hole. Another attacking option AC Bel have is their full-backs, but they must be careful about the timing of their forward runs (Inter’s wing play on the counterattack is excellent). And advancing both of them at the same time looks out of the question—with Maedhros and Fingon occupying both centre-backs, AC Bel would have no spare man at the back.

b) How effective would Inter’s transition from defence to attack be?
Inter can sit back all they want, but their best way of getting a goal is to exploit AC Bel’s high defensive line with quick passes from the defence. Maedhros can exploit Rochallor in the air, and Fingon can attack Imlach with his pace. If Fingolfin and Balrog #4 are caught too high up the pitch when Inter gain possession, then Haleth and Beren would have space to run forward and outnumber AC Bel’s defence.

Prediction:

Inter are too good on the counter to be shut out. Imlach and Rochallor looked defensively solid last year because of their effective partnership, but they don’t have the individual talent to deny Maedhros and Fingon one-on-one. With that said, AC Bel would control the game—Denethor, especially, now looks comfortable in his deep-lying role, spraying forward passes to their wing players. Also, Eöl and Fëanor will run circles around Gorlim and Haldad, defenders who struggled against Legolas. Anything other than an AC Beleriand win seems unlikely.

AC Beleriand 2-1 Inter Beleriand
__________________

Dwarves United vs Gondolin

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/dwuvgdn_zps90920de2.jpg~original
[Projected formation. Dwarves United in black and white; Gondolin in blue and white.]

Formation and Tactics:

Gondolin’s 4-4-1-1 would have a slight disadvantage in midfield against Dwarves United 4-5-1. Maeglin would have to drop a few metres deeper to help maintain possession. In Dwarf U’s last match, Inter flooded the midfield with Fingon dropping deep and Beren moving infield from the wing, giving them a comfortable 4 to 3 advantage in the centre of the pitch. Gondolin, however, couldn’t replicate this tactic—Idril, their more central-minded wide midfielder, is needed to defend against Dwarf U’s strong left wing (with Telchar and Celebrimbor on that side), whereas Elemmakil is a natural wide player and plays poorly when fielded in the centre.

Inter controlled the game vs Dwarf U because they used their spare player intelligently. Left-back Lúthien, with no one to mark, moved higher up the pitch and essentially replaced Beren as wide-left midfielder, giving them an additional attacking player to help break Aulë’s defence down. Gondolin, on the other hand, might regret their lack of attacking full-backs. Look at part of the pitch closest to Rog—Gondolin have four players in an area where Dwarf U only has one. While Egalmoth would be needed to help Idril defend Dwarf U’s strong side, Galdor is clearly a surplus. Would he then push forward when Gondolin is in possession? And if so, what could he contribute to Gondolin’s offence?

Prediction:

Gondolin look like they’ll have a harder time than Inter breaking Dwarf U’s defences down. They don’t have an attacking full-back to break them down the flanks, nor the midfield advantage to play them through the middle. With that said, their front five have enough individual talent to take Dwarf U on—if they commit a lot to their offence, a strategy that would then give space for Dwarf U to play their counterattacking game. With the home crowd spurring Gondolin on, this looks set to be a game of two halves—a passive first half and a crazy second half.

Dwarves United 1-1 Gondolin

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-17-2013, 12:36 AM

Minas Tirith vs Tirion

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/mtivtir_zpseaad9ed0.jpg~original
[Projected formation. Minas Tirith in silver and black; Tirion in teal and yellow.]

Formation:

A fierce midfield clash seems to be in the works for these two sides. Minas Tirith have a natural numbers advantage in the centre of the pitch (3 vs 2), and Mardil has a tendency of tucking in to allow Cirion space to move forward, giving them a fourth player in that area. On the other hand, Mahtan also prefers to play more centrally, and either of Tirion’s forwards is comfortable dropping deep to close down the opposition’s deepest midfielder (Eärnil II, in this case.)

Tactics:

Whoever wins the midfield battle—a battle for possession—has a leg up over the other team. If Minas Tirith wins the possession battle, they could deny the ball to Tirion’s impressive attack and allow Cirion to move forward more often (with a possession advantage, Cirion would have less fear of a Tirion attack through his vacated part of the pitch.) They could then patiently probe Tirion’s solid defence and wait for a crack to show up.

If Tirion wins the possession battle, then the game would resemble Minas Tirith vs Nargothrond from the last round. Tirion could pen Minas Tirith in their own half and then bring their full attacking power into breaking them down. Considering the talent gap between the two teams, the greater onus is on Minas Tirith to control the centre of the pitch.

Prediction:

Minas Tirith’s midfield advantage might be enough to balance Tirion’s talent advantage, but, whereas Minas Tirith would have a tougher time breaking Tirion’s defence down, Finwë and Aredhel would need only a few chances to score against Minas Tirith’s defence. This won’t be the hammering that Minas Tirith-Nargothrond was, but the result for Minas Tirith would be the same.

Tirion 3-1 Minas Tirith
__________________

Nargothrond vs The Sea

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ngrvsea_zps72a0bb3a.jpg~original
[Projected formation. The Sea in white and blue; Nargothrond in green and yellow.]

Formation:

Nargothrond’s midfield advantage means nothing to the Sea. Ulmo’s team would sit back, absorb the pressure, and then move the ball quickly up the pitch upon gaining possession. Nargothrond’s task would then be to turn possession dominance into tangible results against a team far more defensively solid than Minas Tirith.

Tactics:

Glaurung has shown ability to dominate games from his position in the hole, but in this game he would need more help. Gwindor would not run circles around Salmar the same way he did against Cirion, and Tar-Ciryatan and Voronwë would give the dragon a little more trouble than Eärnil II and Tarondor had; Finduilas and Nienor need to show more attacking intent than they did against Minas Tirith.

The tip of the Sea’s offence is Tar-Minastir, a forward far better than Boromir I of Minas Tirith. Orodreth should be quicker to claim passes played behind their defence—he would get worse than a ball in the face if ever Tar-Minastir gets a decent touch in. Also, Barahir should be more careful with his forward runs—Tar-Meneldur, along with his son Tar-Aldarion, is frighteningly quick on the counter, rushing forward to support the lone forward.

Prediction:

This game is one of the underrated gems of the round. The Sea has an Arda-class defence, as shown by their clean sheet against FC Valinor, but Tirion managed to breach it. Nargothrond’s attack is about a notch better than Tirion’s, but their defence is a lot worse. However, they managed to keep an impressive clean sheet against Minas Tirith through their high pressing and control of possession. If they hope to make serious noise in the cup after two years of disappointment, this is where they should start. On the other hand, a clean sheet against one of the premier offences of the tourney would be another feather on Ulmo’s cap. With that said, it is likely both teams will score, but not by much.

Nargothrond 1-1 The Sea

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-17-2013, 01:28 AM

Group A
The Havens 2-1 The Barrow-Downs

It must be terrifying for Olwë and company to be a good Bombadil game away from being eliminated. But they have to win, and they have to keep something in the tank for their game against Valimar.

Armenelos 1-1 Valimar

Unless Arien gets her chances and makes them, this game has the makings of a draw. Valimar’s defence could blunt Armenelos’s on-form offence, while the Westron defence would be enough to contain any Valimar attacker short of a dominant Arien.

Group C
Hithlum 3-1 SB United

While one could argue that SBU’s offence can give Hithlum’s defence problems, no one would argue that SBU’s defence would be in for a proper shellacking.

Doriath 0-3 Real Valinor

A game even more one-sided than the other fixture in this group.

Group D
Barad-dûr 2-0 Isengard

A Sauron-led team finally has a proper defence. This doesn’t bode well for Saruman’s squad.

Gondor 1-3 FC Valinor

Provided the Black Tower doesn’t spring an upset in the last round, the second spot of this group would go to whomever outscores Isengard—and whoever gets hammered by FC Valinor less.

Group E
Misty Mts 2-3 Wilderland

Misty Mts offence looks stronger than expected (with a goal against Elrond), while Wilderland’s defence looks as brittle as ever. This has the makings of another high-scoring affair.

Erebor 1-1 Eriador

Eriador’s defence won’t be as porous as Wilderland, but their offence doesn’t pack the same punch as Wilderland’s, either.

Group G
Imladris 0-3 Tol-in-Gaurhoth

Much has been made of Varda in Imladris’s back line. She is just one defender, whereas TiG has three quality attackers who can overpower or outmanoeuvre defences.

Angband 1-1 Anfauglith

A tough game to predict. One came off a bad loss, while one managed a narrow win. Still, it’s difficult to imagine Angband losing twice in a row. But it’s also difficult to see how they can score more than one against Anfauglith without opening themselves up to counterattacks.

Group H
Arnor 2-1 Mordor

Rohan was a favourable match-up for Mordor (Minas Morgul also beat Dunharrow in the 2011 Arda Cup), but the Men of the North won’t be similarly intimidated—especially since the Witch-king leads their line.

Anduin 2-0 Rohan

Anduin finally lives up to the quality shown by their price tag, defeating a decent Arnor squad featuring last year’s finalists Witch-king, Malbeth, and Arassuil. Surely they could also dominate against last year’s quarterfinalists who have lost much of their quality.

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-19-2013, 02:59 AM

Elenrod: Today: Valinoreans arrive in Middle-earth and lay the smackdown on some petty tyrant. It’s not like they haven’t been doing it for ages. Meanwhile, in Doriath, scoring contest disappoints as Real Valinor and Hithlum put up only four goals, with Túrin getting none. Elsewhere: did anyone say goals? Dragon goals galore as Glaurung put two past the smouldering crater that was Minas Tirith, and Smaug and Scatha exchange blows in a draconic derby. And, finally, in Anfauglith, who’s afraid of the Big Bad… Dark Lord? PhantomWolf and company ask as Wolves maul Morgoth… and his little cats, too. All that, and more, in today’s Matchday. I’m your host, Elenrod, and with me today is someone who’s never won the in-house Phantasy Tournament, Maikalomion.

Maika: Yes, sadly. No luck for two years straight.

Elenrod: And joining us again, because we’ve been talking too much behind his back, not the economist, Adam Smith.

Adam: Oh, were you talking behind my back? I didn’t notice, because my head was enclosed in a block of wax.

Felagundion … That’s sarcasm, isn’t it?

Adam: So kind of you to notice.

Elenrod: And our captive guest for two centuries, Felagundion.

Felagundion: I’ve been betting on lotteries like mad. All I need to do is win one, then I’m free.

Adam: Good luck with that.

Elenrod: So, anyway, the games. Let’s start with Group A. How was it?

Adam: It was what I expected. The Havens put up a fight, but Armenelos win. Then the Barrow-Downs get hammered by Valimar.

Felagundion: Well, I was slightly surprised by the lack of fireworks from Arien or Bombadil—I mean, not even a goal between them—but other than that, I agree with Adam.

Maika: I was a bit surprised by Havens’ formation and tactics—Círdan was played out wide instead of just behind the main striker, and Olwë bombed forward a lot to help the attack. It almost paid off, too—they created a lot of chances.

Adam: Armenelos look pretty safe with a win then a game at hand against the Downs. But does anyone here think that the second seed of this group is safer because—

Felagundion: They’d avoid the AC Bel-Valinorean teams side of the bracket? Yeah, I thought that, too. Assuming those three finish first in their groups, any team winning Group A need a lot of miracles to get to the finals.

Elenrod: You think they’d drop the game against Valimar just for that, though? That’s a lot to ask, especially with the rivalry between Ar-Pharazôn and Manwë. But I guess that’s it for Group A. How about the games at the Stadium on the Rock?

Felagundion: Did anyone expect Inter to score twice against the Dwarves? I was thinking ahead of the game, this’ll go 1-0 either way, but kablam, Inter just dominated the game.

Adam: Dwarf U were a player short, though. But yeah, it would still have been 2-0 had Kíli not brought Beren down. He had a head of steam; I don’t think Galadriel could have done anything about him.

Maika: And Dwarf U’s attacking strategy was weird—Legolas just took the long balls and ran away with them without waiting for support. Had he a teammate during some of those chances, they could have passed their way past the centre-backs.

Adam: I guess that’s just due to his poor hold-up play. Gorlim and Haldad aren’t defensive studs, but they can outmuscle Legolas off the ball. So Legolas just exploited their clay feet instead of playing to their strengths.

Felagundion: And the three Dwarves behind him did try to catch up on the break—Dwarves are natural sprinters, after all. It’s just that Leggy’s so fast with the ball on his feet. Not particularly good control, though. Fluffed a lot of chances.

Elenrod: And AC Bel-Gondolin? Did anyone expect Gondolin to score a goal?

Maika: Gondolin do have a lot of pace in their squad. And AC Bel usually reserve their suffocating keep-ball play during the knockout rounds—remember, Doriath scored twice against them last year.

Felagundion: Also, Fëanor’s not that good at playing in the hole, is he? Glaurung’s this big beast who can overpower midfielders, but he can also supply other attackers.

Maika: Finwë also has the pitch awareness to play support striker/central attacking midfielder, despite being an out-and-out striker. His son, sadly, just doesn’t have the vision. When he gets the ball, he has this tunnel vision where it’s just him and the goal.

Elenrod: I guess we’ll see if they’ll keep their 4-2-2-2 permanently next game. How about the games in the Cave? Was anyone disappointed with Hithlum-Real?

Adam: Disappointed? It was a cracking match! They shot 36 times—more than once every three minutes of the game. It’s just that Hithlum’s defence improved, and Real’s defence remains Arda-class.

Felagundion: The game just showed where Hithlum are on the list of possible champions; they’re contenders, sure, with all that talent, but a notch below true favourites. Then again, Real last year were also taught a lesson by FC Val in their first game. Look what happened.

Maika: As for the other match, it was sad to see how far Doriath have fallen. They can’t even control possession against Shire-Bree, with the crowd behind them.

Elenrod: They did lose two Arda-class talents over the transfer window. Now, let’s move on to Group D.

Adam: Group of Desperately Scrambling for Second Spot, you mean. Well, what do you get when you put a full-grown tiger among kittens?

Felagundion: The other game was actually interesting. Surprising to see Barad-dûr just score one and concede one. Other than that, it was par for the course.

Maika: The highlight of the group was Curufin’s first goal—

Elenrod: We’ll leave discussion of that for later, Maika. On to the games at the Arkenstone Arena. The question: do dragons need wings? Scatha scoring two; Smaug had one and assisted one.

Adam: Now Group E had the first major shock result. I mean, did anyone expect Erebor’s defence to slip this badly? Last time I checked, Beorn’s still their goalie, and Wilderland’s offence is actually worse in terms of personnel, compared to last year. And their defence’s still rubbish.

Felagundion: Fun match, though. The fireworks.

Maika: A lot of people were surprised by Misty Mts goal vs Eriador. Elrond hasn’t exactly been as otherworldly as he had been two years ago, when he led in phantasy points for a long time. And Misty Mts’ offence is quite good. Rúmil, Azog, Narvi behind Durin’s Bane is a decent front four.

Felagundion: So long as he’s not conceding twice in a single game, I’m okay with it.

Elenrod: Okay, now, Group F, for Felagundion.

Felagundion: The hammer, baby!

Maika: The clean sheet was the most surprising result. Nargothrond’s pressing from the front was excellent, and adding Orodreth and Barahir to their back line worked wonders. You expected their scoring binge, though.

Felagundion: Glaurung is back in his favoured position, and he’s back on the score sheet!

Adam: Equally surprising: The Sea allowing a come-from-behind goal. Weren’t they supposed to be this suffocating defensive force that kept a clean sheet even against FC Val?

Maika: Tirion are about as talented as they are. Both these teams are in that contender tier Hithlum are in—I think they’d go far in the tourney. But not all the way, barring upsets.

Felagundion: Not if Nargothrond take one of the two spots.

Maika: We’ll just see how their defence holds up against the two.

Adam: By the way, did any of you catch Denethor’s post-match press conference?

Elenrod: The one where a reporter asked him if they need a miracle to qualify from this group?

Felagundion: ‘A miracle is just a trick played on your minds by conjurers and wizards,’ he said. Well, if he starts praying to Eru, the sea might just swallow the other three teams up. I don’t see any other way they’re staying up.

Elenrod: From Denethor, it’s on to the Den we go. Was anyone expecting TiG to do that to Angband?

Felagundion: Angband are in this funk ever since they lost Tilion. They’ve been struggling to replace his influence in the midfield since.

Maika: In one stroke, the Werewolves went from contenders to favourites. They look about as confident—and as talented—as their 2011 squad.

Adam: And Imladris look like sacrificial lambs. Anyone think they’ll score this year?

Felagundion: With Angband, a famous defensive squad, and TiG, the team who kept a clean sheet against said squad? I doubt it.

Elenrod: And last, Group H. Did anyone watch their games?

Maika: Anduin finally lived up to their billing, quite literally. They were the most expensive squad there, had the most talent, but they weren’t showing it during the friendlies. They showed it now.

Felagundion: And Mordor, wow! That’s the shock result of the matchday. I mean, Mordor are dirt cheap. Heck, even my outstanding debt to TENT is worth more than their entire wage bill.

Adam: Yeah. And Rohan were quarterfinalists last year. They were gutted of talent, true, but still. You didn’t expect Mordor to be anything more than a filler team.

Maika: They scored twice against last year’s top defence, and kept a clean sheet with their last year’s 27th ranked defence.

Felagundion: Maybe Sauron’s finally started training defenders and goalies.

Elenrod: Haha, maybe that’s it. Now, before we go, I’d like each of you to share your favourite goal of the week. I hope you’d all choose something different.

Maika: Like I said earlier, Curufin’s first goal (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-j4qP9vtyE). When I first saw it, I whistled and thought, ‘Are you sure you have enough defenders, Saruman?’

Adam: Hey, that’s a suggestion to Saruman: play a 9-0-1.

Felagundion: As much as I liked all of Nargothrond’s goals, my favourite was Eöl’s bicycle kick vs Gondolin. First, Denethor’s long diagonal pass was soo sexy, then he just receives with this Simon Cox (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2MeN4EaPL4) touch, and finishes it like Philippe Mexes (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAZ1HXhx07s).

Adam: Eärendil’s solo run was the best for me. It had pace, technique, power. But, most importantly, it had plonk at the start.

Felagundion: ‘Plonk’? What’s that?

Adam: When he headed the ball towards space before he brought it down, the sound effect in my mind was ‘plonk’.

Felagundion: Um, okay.

Maika: Ar-Adûnakhôr’s turn on Imrazôr in the build-up to the winner was also brilliant.

Felagundion: Yeah! That one. I don’t really like him because he was the first of the Adûnaic kings, but his ball control—bloody hell.

Elenrod: I liked Thuringwethil’s knockdown for TiG’s opener. It was simple, but it was her telepathic connexion with SallyWight—she knew she was making a run, so she faked a goalbound header then placed it just right for SallyWight to one-time it in. But my real favourite was Shire-Bree’s set-piece routine.

Adam: Yeah, that was some tippy-tappy mind games from Gandalf.

Elenrod: Indeed. And with that, we’ve come to the end of our program. Our thanks to Adam, Maika, and Felagundion. Hope to see you again next time.

Nogrod

07-22-2013, 03:20 PM

A few clips from the pre-game press conferences in Menegroth and Erebor, brought to you by the AKM.

Group C @ Menegroth

The AKM: How do you see your chances in challenging the Hador House and fighting for the qualification?

Gandalf: You know, small feet may move the wheels of the world when the eyes of the great are elsewhere.

Túrin: With due respect Mr. Olorin, we’re not intending to look “elsewhere” during the game.

Gandalf: I grant you a mutual respect – but not if you continue making puny jokes. You know, a wizard is never wrong.

Túrin: Uhh…

The AKM: Wait a minute. Wasn’t it that a…

Tilion: Should we continue the press conference? I’m in no doubt my fellow-Maia here says exactly what he means – and you should have nothing to correct there. Right?

The Menegrother: Have you been able to annul the first round catastrophy – or will it effect your game today?

Túrin: I suggest you media people try it out yourselves whether losing 1-3 to Real Valinor is a catastrophy – or shall we just wait until your hometeam meets them? And to your hidden agenda behind the question… no, your team Doriath has no chance of qualifying, for unlike your team we’re intending to bash the Shire-Bree team into oblivion – and we’re not in the mood to play it lopsidedly against your team either even if many of your players are good friends and former protectors of many of ours.

Melian: Now hear, hear. Sure this is football and not something that might danger friendships or question good-will… and we accept the challenge our friend Túrin here gives as far as the game goes. But we will be defending our goal with the same determination Menegroth was defended the days gone by - even against him. And weren’t I strongly against gambling of any sorts, I’d be giving him an open bet here that we will not allow three goals for Real Valinor like they did – and I will predict they will have a lot tougher time with my old friend Olorin and his team he thinks they will.

The AKM: Good, well… Tilion, how’s your form personally? Is it true what some people say that you perform well immeadiately when you don’t have Arien around aka. that her presence muddles up with your concentration on the game?

Tilion: Daring can be a good quality but it can lead to trouble as well young man. Let’s separate Eru’s orders and my private life, shall we?

Group E @ Erebor

The AKM: So some say it will be your game of life and death against Wilderland. How do you comment?

Narvi: You can say that. But with Erebor and Wilderland having a draw I’d say everything’s open. If they both lose to Eriador then it’s a three-way competition – and we’re not looking forwards to be left aside from the competition.

www,mirkwoodweb.com: A must win for Mirkwood then?

Thranduil: Well, as we clearly were not able to conquer Erebor in a straight fight we need to pick them the indirect way – and I think we have experience of that. So maybe doing some battle with the western neighbours could help us beat them?

The AKM: So you count now to beat Misty Mountains with as big a difference possible?

Thranduil: What else?

The AKM: And so the same applies to you Thorin?

Thorin: Lord Oakenshield to you boy… But yes. Of course.

Erebor Chronicler: Are going to challlenge Eriador for a win or are you just preparing for a hedgehog-defence?

Thorin: Do I look like a coward?

Goblintown Inquisitor: Well, your former track-record kind of suggests you hide your head when in trouble…

Thorin: Team Erebor is feared for it’s attacking frenzy and colossally firm defences all over Arda. I could take the lead in the offence if required but my post in the team is to defend and that is what I’m going to do. Standing firm and not allowing anyone to pass is not “hiding your head”.

The AKM: But it means allowing three goals for your opponent like against Wilderland?

Gil-Galad: I think this press conference has ended. It has been duly disrespectful and unless you can show some journalists with better manners I’m not sure there will be one for the last round.

Imladris Enquierer: Lord Gil-Galad, just one question, if you please. It seems many media-outlets don’t think you’re as good as you were last year even if your budget is higher. Anything to comment on that?

Gil-Galad: You fight only when you have to. Now we’re off to concentrate on the evening’s games, thank you.

the phantom

07-22-2013, 05:19 PM

Group A at Valimar

The sun found its way over the top of the mighty Pelori and at last the second round of games was ready to begin in Valimar. The bells tolled once to announce the half-hour warning before kickoff—yes, the bells were ringing again. It didn’t take terribly long to get new ropes after they had been cut during the Valimar vs Barrow-Downs match, but the stadium caretakers were still mighty annoyed.

Everyone was quite certain that the culprits were Wights from The Barrow-Downs, but they didn’t leave any proof behind. “Today all maintenance areas, dressing areas, etc. will be under guard,” said one security official. “There will be no similar incident today.”

As Armenelos found in the first round, The Havens received solid support from the Valinoreans, and against The Barrow-Downs no doubt the crowd would be overwhelmingly against the Wights, particularly after their bit of vandalism. But the small section of Wights and their squad didn’t seem to mind, and looked eager to take the opportunity to annoy the stadium. During warm-ups whenever a Downs player spotted someone nearby in the crowd walking through an aisle with a full drink tray, they did their best to hit them with a ball. The first couple times were misses and people thought they were merely grossly inaccurate attempts at the goal, but then Saucepan Man kicked a beauty and struck an elf smack in the back of the head, causing him to spill his food and drinks all over the folks he was edging past in the row.

When SPM shouted in triumph and received enthusiastic high fives from teammates, the crowd realized what was going on and they were quite infuriated. A couple minutes later GwathWight saw a perfect opportunity and managed to knock a vendor down, causing quite a few bottles of wine to break. The near section of the stadium looked prepared to rush the field and take matters into their own hands, but it was game time and the refs asked for the players to take their positions.

As the match got underway it was clear to the spectators that the BDowns was doing a lot of talking, but they weren’t doing anything physical to get them in trouble with the refs. A couple of Havens players in particular seemed to be singled out for attention—Ar Zimrathan and Eriol couldn’t go anywhere without BDowns players getting right in their ear.

But The Havens were professionals and didn’t react, and began testing the defense of their opposition. Only a few minutes in Falastur found Earendil in the middle and he broke down the BDowns defense with a quick turn and pass to Cirdan who gave it right back, and only a correct guess by Alien in goal kept The Havens from taking the early lead. The Barrow-Wight and other defenders didn’t look concerned though—they knew coming in that they would have trouble containing Earendil and friends. And as the half rolled along it was clear that they planned for it, holding the ball for long periods of time and pulling back their forwards to help out with defense and possession. It was clear that they wouldn’t score playing like that, but neither would The Havens. BDowns was just trying to shorten the game.

Havens responded to BDown’s passivity by turning up their defensive pressure, and on offense they figured if things were going to be tough sledding they may as well go for some set pieces, hoping that the athleticism up front and their Numenorean height might yield a goal. And so they started purposefully earning corners—kicking it off of defenders and out of bounds instead of attempting to attack from the side. The tactic led to some wasted possession, but it also earned them a few opportunities, and sure enough it yielded results. On their second attempt Ar Zimrathan managed to get a clear header and forced a save, and then finally at minute 36 Cirdan put one nearly in and Earwen volleyed it back off the rebound. Havens had the lead!

As expected the bells rang in celebration, and the crowd felt much better indeed. It would satisfy them immensely to see these trouble-makers beaten.

When the second half started the crowd was expecting more of the same, but BDowns had a surprise in store, and on their first opportunity they played a long ball to SPM and dashed forward like maniacs in support. SPM brought it down brilliantly, stalled for just a second baiting his mark, then made the move past and sent one hanging up in the box. The mass rush had caught Havens off-guard and they were outnumbered in front of goal five to four, with WilWight and BarrowWight close behind. Mithrellas managed to get just the top of her head on the ball, but it went straight to Goldberry, and she immediately sent it at the left post. Amandil saved it brilliantly but couldn’t gather it in, and when Annael tried to clear it he was in too deep and surrounded, and the clearance was blocked across the goal face by Lalwende, and showing amazing reaction speed Bombadil stretched his big boot forward and redirected the ball into the net. It was tied!

The Havens supporters and Valinoreans groaned while the small Wight section cheered, and then to everyone’s surprise the bells started ringing! But it wasn’t the usual beautiful deep melodious booms, but rather more tinny and percussive, and no wonder—lone Wights around the top of the stadium were throwing rocks at the bells!

It took the security teams several minutes to round up and subdue the guilty, and while the crowd was paying attention to that the game on the field was going again. When the crowd finally paid attention again it looked like the game had reset back to the first half—apparently the Wights had forged their tie and were just going to keep it that way until near the end, back to the original plan. The Havens went back to work on offense, but they were trying a bit too hard it seemed, as they just didn’t look as clean and controlled as they were finishing the first half. And then to add to it all the talking (what on earth were they saying?) finally got to Ar Zimrathan and Imrazor, and just two minutes apart they both got carded for reacting aggressively, so now they couldn’t defend as aggressively.

Near the hour mark the BDowns changed their tactics back again. Earwen sent a long curving ball at the goal, but Lumpkin headed it away, and when it fell to Barrow-Wight he launched it high and across midfield. Olwe moved into position to receive it at his feet, but then realized that the entire Downs team was bearing down on him and may actually arrive before the ball, so he moved forward and headed it just before Goldberry could arrive. His header flew half the distance back to the goal, but unfortunately it was straight at GwathWight, and he boomed it forward again. Imrazor and Annael saw it too late and made a bad decision of moving the line up. If they had done so sooner they would’ve caught BDowns on the wrong side, but since they were late starting they released Bombadil, SPM, and Hookbill all behind them to face Amandil! The crowd hoped that the pass forward would be too tall or too hot to handle, but Bombadil caught it and slowed it with a deft touch, sent it over to Hookbill, and he made Amandil commit before sending it to SPM for the easy finish. The Barrow-Downs was up!

And again, the bells were being bombarded by naughty Wights, only there were more of them this time, and extra security had to be called upstairs to help apprehend the culprits, who led the guards on a merry chase. Meanwhile back on the field The Havens wasn’t looking as outraged as the crowd, but rather they seemed to appreciate the fight the opposition showed, and acknowledging that a worthy opponent was on the field seemed to steel their resolve and cause them to raise their game. The next ten minutes was just a clinic of spacing and ball movement and moving to open areas without the ball, and twice The Havens made BDowns sweat—once with a strong drive from Cirdan that went just wide, and again as Earendil found the seam only to be foiled last-second by Alien.

But The Havens could not be denied, and at last their star forward Earendil got the payoff he deserved off a nice cross from Falastur, and the game was level yet again. The crowd roared, happier than they had been since the first half. But the bells were silent. It turned out when extra security was called up to subdue the rock throwers, that left the bell ropes unguarded and yet again devious Wights had climbed up from below and cut them. (In fact that was probably the whole point of the rock-throwing in the first place—to give the bell-guards something else to worry about.)

The fans were annoyed again, and they grew only more annoyed as it was made obvious on the field that their team was at last slowing down, tired from the previous push, and somewhat unwilling to pressure the BDowns possession, perhaps concerned about another furious charge? At last the final whistle sounded and the fans half-heartedly applauded. They had gotten a point at least, but they had really hoped for more. Now Havens would have to defeat Valimar—the home team and true favorite for most of those in attendance.

Havens 2-2 Barrow-Downs
on target 7-5
tot shots 17-13
GOALS:
*36, 1-0 Earwen (Cirdan)
*48, 1-1 Bombadil (LalwendeMP)
*59, 1-2 SPM (Hookbill)
*71, 2-2 Earendil (Falastur)
YELLOW CARDS:
*BDowns- LalwendeMP, Hookbill
*Havens- Imrazor, Eriol, Falastur

The Havens fans and Wights streamed out and masses of Numenoreans replaced them, but the south side of the stadium stayed put—they had purchased double-session tickets. Most of the south-siders were Valinoreans that supported Valimar first then Havens, but here and there a Numenorean pocket could be found that simply wanted to see the first match as well. Once the stadium filled these Numenorean pockets gladly exchanged places with Valimar fans that found themselves in predominantly Numenorean sections, thus the stadium became nicely uniform, with Armenelos fans on the north and Valimar everywhere else.

Both sides were greeted enthusiastically—these were the clear group favorites after the first round, and particularly after the early game had resulted in a draw. If Armenelos or Valimar could claim a victory, they’d officially clinch a spot in the playoffs, and more than likely the right to host their first playoff match. There was definitely tension between the squads and fans, but things stayed respectful. They appreciated good play and sportsmanship enough to know that the respect was deserved.

As the match started it was soon clear that both sides were being careful. They trusted their discipline and intelligence, confident that they could keep the other side off the board so long as they didn’t make mistakes. And for the first half hour it seemed like they were correct, as neither side could make any headway. The best chance Valimar had was a long drive from Irmo that Tar Atanamir caught easily, and Armenelos only managed a couple headers that sprayed wide.

But knowledgeable Valimar fans were a bit worried, as those headers were won a little too easily, and too close to Manwe. The back line was getting out-jumped and muscled and couldn’t do enough to push Ar Pharazon and Ar Adunkhor away from where they intended to be. At the 40 minute mark it really got the attention of Manwe, as Tar Miriel curled in a beauty and Ar Adunakhor headed it perfectly, and only a finger-tip stretch from Manwe sent it off the post and away.

After that Namo retreated for the rest of the half and did his best to take on the forwards for Armenelos, and co-directing the defense with Manwe. During halftime Armenelos didn’t make any adjustments as really there hadn’t been time to see if the new defense was working better, but quickly into the second half it was obvious that Valimar was gaining ground. At 52 minutes Arien gained her first threatening look, as she took Vaire’s pass with a nice sideways first touch to get around Tar Calmacil and then held off Tar Telperien as she gave it a boot, but Tar Atanamir blocked it straight down and gathered it in.

The crowd was all a bundle of nerves, constantly rising out of their seats with a cheer only to have it die in their throats as they sat back down, and other times groaning and then sighing in relief as the other side had their turn. Both sides were playing skillfully, and the commentators were no doubt handing out compliments left and right.

Finally at the hour mark the scoreboard saw its first action—Tar Telemmaite appeared to look for the forwards and sent in a cross, but instead it bent farther out and to the opposite side for Elros, and the defense had sagged off of him towards the forwards leaving him clear. He sent a pinpoint header high and to the near post, and Manwe barely batted it away, but it ricocheted off Este and to Ar Pharazon, and he nudged it down and forward with his chest and kneed it between Namo and the diving Manwe to send Armenelos into the lead!

The Numenoreans began singing their ancient fight songs and the Valinoreans shook their heads. Armenelos already had the win over the Havens and was up a goal with 30 left against Valimar, and their remaining game was against the team picked to finish last. They were certainly in the best position, and if both of the home favorites were to advance Valimar would need to come back and do it fast.

And they certainly tried, opting for a more aggressive positioning and devoting Namo to supporting the attack again, but Elros ordered Armenelos to go on full defense and time-wasting mode, and it was tough sledding for the Ainur and their friends. The Numenoreans in the crowd debated the strategy, wondering if they could now catch Valimar with a counter if they were more aggressive, but most agreed that it was the right percentage play. Even if Valimar did manage to score once, surely they wouldn’t score twice, and a draw would be plenty good for Armenelos with only Barrow-Downs remaining on their schedule.

But the strategy was second-guessed quite a bit after the 70-minute mark when Namo nearly put one past Tar Atanamir, who was fortunately on top of his game. And then a bit later Ingwe managed to wrong-foot two defenders and took advantage by splitting them with a shot that skimmed just over the crossbar. While the Numenoreans were sweating, Valimar was more so, as close calls don’t equal goals, and time was ticking away.

At minute 85, just as Armenelos fans were starting to feel good, Valimar’s big off-season addition finally earned her paycheck. Arien received it from Ingwe a good 40 yards out, and she made to send it back, but instead turned suddenly and was past two defenders before they could register what she was up to. Tar Palantir was there to meet her but she angled right and rounded him with precision just as Telperien closed from the side. She then faked the shot to freeze the remaining defender and keeper then snapped her left foot and squeezed it between the post and Atanamir’s outstretched arms. Valimar had drawn level! And the bells were working again.

Arien wanted to push for the lead after that, but the rest of the team (and the stadium) thought it smart to just take the result as it was, and Armenelos seemed to agree. Both teams would leave with 4 points in group, sitting atop the standings and controlling their own destiny.

Armenelos 1-1 Valimar
on target 4-5
tot shots 12-14
GOALS:
*60, 1-0 ArPharazon (Elros)
*85, 1-1 Arien (Ingwe)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Armenelos- ArPharazon, ArGimilzor
*Valimar- Namo, Amarie

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

GROUP A STANDINGS

--------- W-D-L Pts Score
Valimar 1-1-0 4 3-1
Armenelos 1-1-0 4 3-2
Havens 0-1-1 1 3-4
BDowns 0-1-1 1 2-4

LAST GAMES
Armenelos vs Barrow-Downs
Havens vs Valimar

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-23-2013, 04:52 AM

Stadium on the Rock
AC Beleriand vs Inter Beleriand

From the atmosphere and the energy in the stadium you would have thought that this was a home game. The Stadium on the Rock was packed and evenly split between the supporters of AC and Inter Beleriand—one side was a sea of white and red, the other a wall of yellow and blue. Chants and insults were traded back and forth between the two parties.

Where’s your Beren gone? Inter fans would ask.

You’ve got Gorlim in defence, AC Bel fans would answer.

What does third place feel like?

At least we’re not third and out.

Good-natured barbs were thrown hither and thither across the divide, sign of two parties very familiar with each other, like brothers teasing each other. The closest Middle-earth derby to match this friendly rivalry was the North-South derby between Arnor and Gondor—although a closer equivalent would be the Westernesse derbies between Armenelos and the two Númenórean kingdoms in Middle-earth, a younger ‘brother’ with something to prove against the elder. This was not the heated rivalry of Gondor vs Mordor, nor did it possess the historic enmity of the Arda Classic between Angband and Valimar. This was the Beleriand derby.

Various historians tried to explain how the rivalry developed. Marnen of Arda thought that it was born from the rivalry between the sons of Míriel and the sons of Indis, even though Fëanor, Fingolfin, and the sons of Finarfin were teammates in AC Bel, as well as Maedhros, Fingon, and Turgon for Inter. Iorithil of QN Sport wrote in his book Battles of Beleriand: Football in the First Age:

‘Basically, Maedhros and Fingon were tired of the first generation’s feud. Even on the eve of the Noldor’s game vs Angband, Fëanor still managed to turn against Fingolfin and form his own Eldar United squad. After his father went out injured during the Noldor’s victory over Angband, Maedhros conceded captainship of the squad to Fingolfin. Whereas Fëanor and Fingolfin were never united even against a common enemy, Fingon and Maedhros were always in each other’s counsel.’

This explanation made more sense, even though Fingolfin was AC Bel’s vice captain (with a say in defensive organisation and tactics); not to mention that Angrod and Aegnor, AC Bel’s new acquisitions belonged to the second generation.

But back to the stadium: Both teams walked into the pitch met with cheers and boos in equal measure. Fingon, Maedhros, and Turgon shared a hug with their father and half-uncle, and then shook hands with their cousins from the House of Finarfin. The Edain of the First Age also exchanged handshakes. They were all rivals on the pitch, but they were also family off it.

But there was still a match to be played between them. The opening whistle was soon blown, and AC Bel dominated possession from the start like it was their birthright, with Ulrad, Fëanor, and Eöl easily passing their way through the middle of Inter’s defence. In one such sequence during the eighth minute, Baragund moved from his position on the right to deny the Dark Elf a clear run at goal, but Baragund’s original mark Angrod darted behind him as Eöl played a through ball. The events that followed afterward were unclear, but AC Bel players were appealing to the referee for a penalty, while Gorlim and his teammates pleaded his innocence. When the referee shook his head and pointed to the corner instead, the AC Bel fans whistled in disapproval. In the slow-motion replay, Gorlim seemed to have brought Angrod down with a late challenge, but the son of Finarfin appeared to go down a little too easily considering the lack of strength behind Gorlim’s tackle. It was just one of those difficult decisions in football that would prove to be debate fodder for the next few days.

AC Bel mixed their intricate passing game with some accurate long balls from deep in the midfield, keeping the entire Inter back line and midfield on their toes. Maedhros told Fingon to close down Denethor and prevent him from playing his long diagonals towards the sons of Finarfin, leaving him all alone to deal with AC Bel’s centre-backs. But Imlach and Rochallor spread to the flanks during AC Bel’s build-up play, allowing the full-backs to go forward and forcing Maedhros to commit himself to marking only one of them. He chose Imlach; Rochallor then had freedom to advance to the midfield and play a long pass forward. Eöl easily got to the ball and chipped Turgon, who had left his goal to try to claim it, for the lead.

Inter sent players forward as they tried to gain an equaliser as quickly as possible. Some of the Inter fans on the stands debated the wisdom of this strategy; wouldn’t it be better to keep the game 1-0 as long as possible before trying to score a late equaliser? But others pointed out that once AC Bel applied their vice grip on possession, there was no way they’d concede a late goal. So they realised that Maedhros and company had to score before AC Bel switched to keep-ball mode.

Unfortunately, Inter’s strategy proved disastrous from the onset. Their full-backs advanced to support the attack, but Lúthien was caught too far forward when, on the twenty-sixth minute, Fëanor intercepted Haldad’s pass to Forweg. The Fiery Boot played a simple ball to the area Lúthien usually occupied on defence, and Aegnor ran in to side-foot a low shot past Turgon to increase AC Bel’s lead.

Amidst the AC Bel fans’ chant of ‘Two-nil, two-nil, what a hell of a way to win,’ Fëanor told the sons of Finarfin to play more centrally and control possession. Inter full-backs Baragund and Lúthien were now totally unmarked, and when they moved forward during the few times Inter got the ball, no one made a run in behind them. This encouraged them to be more adventurous when Inter was in possession. About a minute before half-time, Beren robbed the ball from Denethor, and Lúthien was off like a shot. The two passed their way past Balrog #4, and Tinúviel crossed for Maedhros, who knocked it down for Fingon. Fingon shot from eight metres out, but Marach managed to palm it away—towards Maedhros, who tapped in the rebound to reduce Inter’s deficit heading into the break.

At the start of the second half, Inter made a statement of their intent, sending long passes forward from the word ‘go’, hoping to break the composure of AC Bel’s defence. But the square of Imlach, Rochallor, Ulrad, and Denethor held firm, preventing Inter from playing through the middle. None of them could challenge Maedhros reliably in the air, but they closed down spaces where he could knock the ball down to and didn’t give him easy lanes to run into when he brought the ball down to his feet. Fingon also had a mark on him at all times, pressuring him when he latched on to knockdowns and flick-ons from his strike partner. Beren and Haleth were closed down by full-backs Fingolfin and Balrog #4, and none of Inter’s central midfielders or full-backs displayed any attacking initiative, so concerned were they with AC Bel’s fearsome front four, who advanced menacingly whenever their side recovered possession.

Inter’s attacking fury was waning after half an hour; the closest they got was a Maedhros header from a corner that sailed wide. In the seventy-seventh minute, Denethor intercepted a Beren through ball for Fingon and sent a long diagonal to the left. Aegnor took the pass, and he and Eöl played one-two past Lúthien and Haldad to restore a two-goal lead.

Inter were clearly deflated by Aegnor’s second goal. They became less combative in midfield, and soon AC Bel put the corkscrew on possession, passing to each other until the final whistle. One of the tournament favourites all but secured advancement with a game at hand, while Inter still had all to play for in their game against the home side on the last matchday.

AC Beleriand 3-1 InterBeleriand
GOALS:
12, 1-0 Eöl (Rochallor)
26, 2-0 Aegnor (Fëanor)
44, 2-1 Maedhros (Fingon)
77, 3-1 Aegnor (Eöl)

Total Shots:
13-10
Shots On Target:
6-3

YELLOW CARDS:
1-3
ACB: Balrog #4
INB: Lúthien, Haldad, Beren

Dwarves United vs Gondolin

Despite having lost their first game, Gondolin fans were still confident of their team advancing. Inter lost their game against AC Bel, after all, and Gondolin were taking on the putatively weakest team in the group. Win this game, and their destiny would be in their hands as they meet Inter in a virtual play-off for second seed on the next matchday.

The home fans outnumbered the Dwarves United supporters almost two-to-one, even with Inter supporters showing in force to root for the Dwarves. The Inter fans were hoping for a draw, since that would leave them in solo second, but they were not averse to a Dwarf U victory, since the Dwarves were playing AC Bel in the last matchday, after all, a game they were expected to lose. A draw against Gondolin would then be enough for Inter to advance.

From the opening whistle, Gondolin attacked in force, relying on their pace to gain temporary numbers advantage in certain parts of the pitch. In the eighth minute Duilin and Idril wove passing patterns that crossed up the sons of Dís; Duilin got a metre of space to shoot the ball from thirty-five yards, forcing a save from Galadriel. Five minutes later, Elemmakil got past Durin and sent a cross for Tuor, who headed wide from almost point-blank range.

But Gondolin took a gut punch when Dwarves United scored in controversial fashion on their very first attempt at goal. In the twenty-first minute, Gamil Zirak slid between another one-two between Idril and Duilin, and he sent a long ball behind Penlod and Aranwë. Gondolin fans were screaming, ‘Offside!’ when Legolas received the pass. He outsprinted the defenders and chipped Rog for the lead.

The instant replay showed that Legolas was indeed offside (his head was in advance of Gondolin’s back line when Gamil Zirak played the pass), but the linesmen didn’t call it, so the goal stood. The home fans whistled for a full five minutes after the incident, showing their displeasure at the call. On the pitch, Maeglin and company attacked with fury, but perhaps their anger caused them to misplace their passes or miss their shots, as Galadriel had to make only one save before the halftime whistle.

The second half started with the Dwarven supporters chanting in a deep voice, ‘We thought you were rivals, Tuor and Maeglin, we thought you were rivals.’ The ‘rivals’ were now both fielded as centre forwards—Maeglin occupied Aulë in hopes of matching Tuor up against the clearly aerially inferior Azaghâl. But after Tuor almost converted an Idril cross with a bullet header (requiring a Galadriel reflex save), Celebrimbor slid in from his left-back position to become a third centre-back so as not to give Tuor any significant height mismatch that he could exploit. The Lord of Belegost now played as a sweeper behind the two, and Telchar moved deeper to become the ersatz left-back. Dwarves United can afford to play this negative tactic because they were a goal ahead—with Legolas waiting to receive long balls, they can commit nine outfield players to defence.

But there was still forty minutes to play, and Gondolin fed off their supporters’ energy. Maeglin embarked on a solo run through the middle that left a trail of Dwarves behind him—the crowd gasped at how easily he wove through the packed centre, as if the ball were attached to his foot with a string. Aulë was forced to step forward from the defence to stop him, but this only opened up space for Duilin to run into. The Sharp Boot chipped past the Vala but Azaghâl was at hand to dispossess Duilin before he could control the pass.

So Gondolin tried again. At the hour mark Elemmakil easily outpaced Gamil Zirak and Durin to get to the byline, and then sent a low cross for Maeglin. Maeglin faked a tap-in, forcing Galadriel to dive left, but it was actually a short past to Tuor who stretched his foot past Celebrimbor to tap it home.

The home crowd roared in delight; the Inter fans watching were also jubilant (this was their desired result, after all.) But the Dwarven supporters and the Dwarf U players were unperturbed. Gondolin were throwing everything but the kitchen sink at them, and were sure to continue to do so to grab a winner, leaving them extremely vulnerable to counterattack. They just needed one good pass to Legolas to reclaim the lead.

As they predicted, Gondolin did press hard for a winner. Idril, Duilin, and Elemmakil were prowling around Dwarf U’s penalty box, looking for a lane to run into, a patch of space to play a ball to. Tuor and Maeglin were in a battle with Celebrimbor and Aulë for crosses and passes. Seven minutes before full time, Maeglin managed to beat Aulë on a short sprint and took a through ball from Duilin, but Azaghâl was there to make the angle of his shot trickier. Maeglin scuffed his curler, and Galadriel easily snuffed it before throwing a pass to Celebrimbor. The Elf-smith hoofed a long ball to Legolas, who was onside this time when he began his dash past the defenders. He trapped the ball with his first touch, and with his second he rifled a thirty-yard drive into the net before Galdor could close in. Dwarf U fans uttered a guttural roar (and Leggy fangirls squealed) as the Silvan Elf ran around the pitch before being mobbed by his teammates. On the other side, the Gondolin players were in shock. They had given all they had, but all their efforts were undone just like that. It seemed as if all the air had been taken out of them, and their attacks during the last seven minutes were just rote movements, with nary a hint of intelligence or passion. Soon, the referee blew the whistle for full time, and Dwarves United carried Legolas off the pitch in honour. Meanwhile, Tuor tried to console his teammates by saying that they still had a chance; the Dwarves would lose to AC Bel, and they could beat Inter. They could still advance if they get a good enough goal difference.

It remained to be seen if they could recover the confidence to do exactly that.

Dwarves United 2-1 Gondolin
GOALS:
21, 1-0 Legolas (Gamil Zirak)
60, 1-1 Tuor (Maeglin)
83, 2-1 Legolas (Celebrimbor)

Total Shots:
13-16
Shots On Target:
4-6

YELLOW CARDS:
2-2
DWU: Gimli, Azaghâl
GDN: Tuor, Galdor

--------------- W-D-L Pts GD
AC Beleriand 2-0-0 6 +3
Inter Beleriand 1-0-1 3 0
Dwarves United 1-0-1 3 -1
Gondolin 0-0-2 0 -2

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference

LAST GAMES:
@Tumladen Park: AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United
@Stadium on the Rock: Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin

Nogrod

07-23-2013, 02:41 PM

Group C @ Menegroth

If the relations between the players and the media were not the warmest possible the crowds just adored the players and the players enjoyed the cheers to the fullest. The Cave was full already for the afternoon game and the visiting crowds were yelling madly for their favourites – mainly to Hithlum, even if there was a small and loud fan-compartment for Shire-Bree supporters.

The locals were biting their nails to see how Hithlum would play after the embarrasing 1-3 defeat to Real Valinor – for it was this team they realized their own team should beat if they were to entertain any hopes of qualifying. And thusly many Menegrothians cheered for the Shire-Bree – just hoping that the team their own draw with would be good enough to challenge also the mighty heroes of Hithlum.

But as the game started everyone could see Shire-Bree was in no way able to challenge their opponents. Hithlum brought their attacks from left, right and center – they also took comfortable mastery of the midfield and contained any efforts Shire-Bree had towards their goal with some confidence – especially the Balrog took the Nazgûls away so neatly even the Shire-Bree supporters had to acknowledge his virtuosity.

Meanwhile the whole Hithlum attack was in flames.

It took Túrin only seven minutes to break free from his guards at the edge of the box and break in to score 1-0 from a neat cross by Morwen. A fair ten minutes later it was time for Beleg to score from a corner sent millimeter sharp into his head by Húrin. Ten minutes before the half-time Aradan made it 3-0 with a beautiful far-shot volley (from a full run!) fed by Balrog #5’s long-range forward-pass.

At the half-time it seemed the game was over. Hithlum was just that impressive and there was nothing Shire-Bree had done to give anyone an idea they’d bounce back. Hador’s sons Galdor and Gundor had made Gandalf mostly invisible at the first half following him like shadows and the Balrog had took care of the Nazgûls more or less single-handedly. Meanwhile Hithlum attack was making results on a wide front – for the three goals five different players were credited either scoring or assisting.

And when Hador then made the score 4-0 when only four minutes of the second half was played it was the end of the game.

After the fourth goal Hithlum clearly loosened it’s game and that in turn gave Shire-Bree some chances of counterplay – but it was clear the Shire-Bree understood well enough the hopelessness of their situation and didn’t go for any extravagant effort, just not to tire themselves.

Gandalf did flash his skills at 73rd minute leaving the brothers to bite the dust while ducking between them and heading Nazgûl #6’s neat pass in to the back of the net past Húor who had no chance to even react to the wizard’s sudden move.

But there was no serious come-back after the goal as Hithlum just pushed a bit stronger denying Shire-Bree of any opportunities for the last fifteen minutes.

A confident victory for Hithlum then – and a show of how dangerous team they can be when their game really rolls forwards.

Hithlum 4-1 ShireBree United
on target 8-4
tot shots 18-10
GOALS:
*7, 1-0 Túrin (Morwen)
*19, 2-0 Beleg (Hurin)
*34, 3-0 Aradan (Balrog#5)
*49, 4-0 Hador (Túrin)
*73, 4-1 Gandalf (Nazgul#6)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Hithlum-
*SBUnt- Bandobras, Fellbeast#5

The first game of the day was a sad reminder for the Doriath fans of the toughness of the team Hithlum they’d need to beat if they’d wish to qualify. But maybe they could stand against Real Valinor? Winning that game would make such a difference in the group. Elwë and Melian, supported by Mablung and Dior and all the other heroes – why couldn’t they do that?

Well because of the quartet of the Valar: Tulkas, Nessa and her brother Oromë, and Nienna.The two iron-firm “Fëanorians” (like Miriel and Nerdanel were called by some) and well the whole team of pure magnificence…

But the home team did put up a fight indeed! And many sighed on just why they didn’t seem to get this effort on when playing against Shire-Bree the first round – a team they had just witnessed drawn to pieces by Hithlum just a moment ago.

To be honest it must be said that even if they were defending bravely – and even smartly closing any routes from Oromë, Miriel and Nerdanel to break through – they were not especially dangerous in their own attacks and the few shots they had went mostly over or wide from the posts. Meanwhile Real Valinor had a half a dozen chances to score, but they were most of the times denied by skill – at others with luck and chance.

The teams withdrew to their lockers for the half-time with 0-0 on the scoreboard and the home-fans cheered wildly for the great achievment. Now they’d have to stand only another 45 minutes and a valuable draw could be theirs – or who knew if they could actually score and win?

Real Valinor came to the second period with a twist. They started mixing their formation a little every now and then – with fex. Miriel falling down to the defence while Ingwion would leap to spearhead an attack – or Oromë switching to the bottom of the midfield letting Quennar leap forwards. Adding to that the always unpredictable Tilion with his free role the Doriath defences were soon totally lost.

And it took Real Valinor ten minutes to score. Elwing was in charge of keeping Miriel off the ball and followed her a bit too far away from the box when the noble Ingwion leaped forwards to fill her in. Enerdhil the smith had just changed places with Nerdanel and while receiving the ball from Oromë from the midfield Nimloth was just that second late that Enerdhil had time to pass the ball diagonally forwards – meeting the onrushing Ingwion – and it was such a boot from roughly ten meters that Dior stood no chance.

With one goal behind Doriath needed to risk some more openly forwards game and Real pulled back to their normal positions playing a hugely effective counter-play. And it did bring results as well.

While Doriath was pushing their heads against the wall of defence led sovereignly by Tilion this time, Real actually carried out the more dangerous attacks – and in the end the familiar names stood on the scoreboard.

Tilion nicked the ball from Daeron’s sloppy pass and sent it fast to Quennar who in turn passed it forwards with one touch to Miriel in full speed on the right – outrunning Elwing she crossed it from ten meters from the corner, and Nerdanel had known exactly where to run (after passing Nimloth) and volleyed the ball in from close quarters from in front of Dior.

Hugging each other after the goal both Miriel and Nerdanel bowed towards the lighting-tunnel up on the roof from where the sunlight was shining in. The gesture didn’t pass unheeded. The media was of course all buzz around it but one can only figure what Arien felt seeing that…

The second goal basically killed the game and the last fifteen minutes were more like academic tossing the ball around – even if during that time Mablung manged to make Doriath’s second shot on goal over the whole game – while Tulkas had no problems picking it. That kind of is the image of the whole game: the home team had a valiant effort but they were just given no chance by their superiors.

Doriath 0-2 Real Valinor
on target 2-7
tot shots 8-15
GOALS:
*55, 0-1 Ingwion (Enerdhil)
*74, 0-2 Nerdanel (Miriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Daeron
*RealV- Oromë

Team W-D-L pts. score
Real Valinor 2-0-0 6 5-1
Hithlum 1-0-1 3 5-4
Doriath 0-1-1 1 1-3
Shire-Bree Utd. 0-1-1 1 2-5

Last games:
Real Valinor vs. Shire-Bree United
Doriath vs. Hithlum

Boromir88

07-24-2013, 09:36 AM

GROUP D @ Dol Amroth

The group outlook before round 2 looked like FC Valinor had already taken firm control on towards sweeping the Middle-earth squads, while neither Gondor nor Barad-Dur were able to impress in their 1-1 draw. It was even bleaker for Isengard who got blown off the pitch by Curufin & co., but Saruman still kept up the morale of his team and supporters. Many were rightfully questioning though whether the fallen Maia had lost his powerful Voice.

Isengard maintained stronger sympathies from the crowd, not only because Barad-Dur was still a black name in Gondor, but Gondorians rationalized if Isengard could possibly steal a point, or beat Barad-Dur in this match, than that would basically eliminate Barad-Dur already (having to play FC Valinor in the final round). Then Gondor would have their fate in their own hands against Isengard in the final round.

The ref blew his whistle to start the match and it certainly appeared Isengard had not yet lost hope. Anxious to show they were better than the 0-4 debacle and that FC Valinor had just been a bad match up for them. In the 17th minute Saruman made complete fools of Alatar and Pallando, dribbling them out of the game and passing the ball to Quickbeam. The ent was just outside the box and wasted no time in shooting. The speed Quickbeam was able to pull his leg back and snap forward, like a rubberband, was remarkable and Grishnakh had no chance of stopping it.

Sauron could not have been happy about that goal, but you would not have been able to tell by his subdued and calm expression. Saruman was looking to take advantage and go up 2 goals, but Barad-Dur's defense fed off Sauron and quelled Isengard's attack. As the half minutes ticked away Isengard's forwards had ran themselves tired and Barad-Dur had an easier time controlling possession. Still Isengard's defenders were well prepared and held their lead.

It appeared they were going to hold it until half-time, if it was not for a Barad-Dur free kick. Sauron is absolutely deadly with free kick opportunities from dangerous positions. In the 39th minute he brought up practically his entire team, leaving only the two fellbeasts and Sangahyando behind Sauron when he took the kick. By bringing forward so many players, Sauron found the opportunity he hoped to create, a match-up problem as Wulf was marking Castamir and the Numenorean had no trouble beating the weaker dunlending defender for a close-range header.

Isengard began the 2nd period with renewed vigor to grab another early lead. Even if they weren't losing, it was generally the accepted belief Isengard needed another goal because Barad-Dur was too good (especially from set pieces, which they would surely get more chances in the 2nd half) for Isengard to hope for a 1-1 draw. So, Isengard came out as the aggressors but this time Barad-Dur's defense was able to handle Saruman's tricks and it wasn't long until Barad-Dur pressed for the lead.

This time it wasn't a set piece though, as Beruthiel simply weaved her way between and around the ent defenders, releasing Sauron, who broke on goal a few steps ahead of Mauhur. Ugluk laid out to try to cut off Sauron's angle, but Sauron didn't go for the quick shot, he got around Ugluk and passed the ball into the empty net.

Barad-Dur fans finally looked relieved after the shaky start to the game, and began working up to a cheer after seeing their team wasn't just sinking back to defend the lead. Sauron perceiving this group would be determined by goal differential was pressing for more goals. Isengard continued to defend bravely though and managed a few counter attacks that made Barad-Dur's fans nervous. But Isengard was lacking quality upfront to cash in on their chances and Grishnakh and the defense handled the counters securely.

Barad-Dur left Seaside Financial Field with the points lead (with FC Valinor still needing to play though) and Isengard was elminated.

Barad-Dur 2-1 Isengard
on target 5-5
tot shots 13-11
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Quickbeam (Saruman)
*39, 1-1 Castamir (Sauron)
*70, 2-1 Sauron (Beruthiel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*BDur- Fellbeast#2, Sangahyando, Castamir
*Isengard- Lugdush, Lurtz, Mauhur

Gondorians were rightfully nervous before the start of their evening match against FC Valinor. Barad-Dur had won their game a few hours before, which meant Gondor could not get shelled by FC Valinor if they wanted to advance.

But Anarion, being a wise-king and knowing the hearts of his people, gave a stirring pre-game press conference that lifted fans' spirits: "All we've heard leading up to this game is how does your team have any hope of stopping Curufin? Have you seen Curufin play? He can't be stopped. Curufin is a superb player, no doubt, and we have no one who can match up against him one-on-one. But the trap too many teams fall into is panicking and abandoning their strengths to focus on stopping one person. Gondor is team-centric and we'll continue to play the tactics the team knows best. Whether it's against Curufin, or Turin, Sauron, or whoever, we'll play organized and united around a team effort."

Anarion's words might have frustrated some Gondorians "team-play-shmeem-play, give me Curufin's talents anyday and it'll show you team-play is worth nothing." But most were standing behind their King. They were going to the stadium and were going to give their whole hearts to support Gondor. And it was Curufin and FC Valinor that were getting even more frustrated by Gondor's team-centric obsession.

They were having no success getting through Gondor's packed and over-whelming midfield. And the defenders instead of mindlessly trying to chase around Curufin, always remained in proper positioning, cutting off passes, and timing perfect offside traps. It must be said Gondor's offense was having just as much success against FC Valinor's organized defense. So, no success at all, but the Gondor crowd was enthralled and ecstatic over just how committed to "team effort" Gondor was, and how successful those tactics were in stifling FC Valinor's attack.

Curufin ever hungry for goals was getting evermore desperate, but his selfish play was playing right into the hands of the type of game Gondor likes to play. After another bad turnover by Curufin, in the 42nd minute, Gondor sprung a sudden counter attack. Anarion fired a quick shot between Maglor and Indis but Huan barely pawed the attempt away. Eldacar sprinted in to punch in a rebound, but it just went wide! The Gondorians had stood up to burst in song and cheers but had to swallow their jubilations, knowing you needed to convert on those opportunities when playing FC Valinor. But it would go into the half 0-0.

If the first half proved excellent team commitment can stop selfish (however great a talent) individual play. Then the 2nd proved that no matter how strong the the commitment to team-effort is, eventually superior skill and athleticism will win out. Whatever was said to Curufin during the break sunk in to the son of Feanor and he started getting teammates more involved.

It didn't take long, once other players were consistently involved, for FC Valinor to break the deadlock. 15 minutes after the break, Yavanna found Argon, and he hit a drive that snuck between the left post and the outstretched arms of Imrahil. Then in the 81st minute Argon turned provider, feeding Celegorm who scored his first goal of the tournament.

Gondor took a heroic and honourable fight to FC Valinor, but in the end it was still a 2-goal defeat. And deserved too because FC Valinor's defense had been dominant, once their offense worked out some kinks it was fortunate Gondor didn't lose by more.

So now, FC Valinor was already qualified (and with a win or draw against Barad-dur will take 1st place) and Isengard already eliminated. 2nd place was up for grabs between Barad-dur and Gondor.

Gondor 0-2 FC Valinor
on target 2-6
tot shots 8-14
GOALS:
*65, 0-1 Argon (Yavanna)
*81, 0-2 Celegorm (Argon)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Earnil I, Meneldil, Calimehtar
*FCVal- Indis, Findis

Standings after 2 Rounds:

Group D W-D-L Pts. GD
FC Valinor 2-0-0 6 +6
Barad-Dur 1-1-0 4 +1
Gondor 0-1-1 1 -2
Isengard 0-0-2 0 -5

Round 3 Matches: (games played concurrently)
Barad-Dur vs. FC Valinor @ Pelargir Park
Gondor vs. Isengard @ Seaside Financial Field

Nogrod

07-24-2013, 04:46 PM

Group E @ Erebor

The day was full of anticipation. With the homeside drawing with Wilderland on the first round everything was open – and a lot would depend on this day’s games. And the draw had also rekindled the hopes of those who supported the Misty Mountains. So even if Eriador was like it would qualify, with the draw of Erebor and Wilderland there were now three contenders for the second place. And sure the homeside fans and many others wished Eriador could be beaten and thrown off – the posh Westerners… And yes, if they only managed to win Misty Mts. 2-1 – would they be vulnerable indeed, or was it because Misty Mts. is indeed a good team?

Loads of orcs and trolls and Lothlórien elves had rushed to Erebor after the first round to support Misty Mts. and so in the end the fans of both Wilderland and Misty Mts. were quite even in attendance while many of the local dwarves tended to support Misty Mts. just hoping their support to the opponent of their own perceived rival number one would somehow help things out for their own team.
It is funny how things go. Before the tournament no none would have thought Misty Mts. but a walk-through for Wilderland – but suddenly with a draw in Wilderland’s back and Misty Mts., making a decent effort against the favourites Eriador – everything seemed like open in a totally new way – even if neither result was like some real news to anyone…

So when the referee whistled the game started there was a huge roar of the crowds. The winner of this first game would be soo close qualifying – and Misty Mts. was taken seriously by every Wilderland supporter – this was going to be a killer!

Both teams started the game in careful fashion which earned them some booing from the stands as everyone were looking for daringly attacking football – and slowly things started happening and Wilderland started controlling the game. But with no results.

Indeed Misty Mts. defences proved especially hard for Wilderland attack to get rid of: Caradhras was immobile maybe but hard to get around while the witless troll William had pure physical power and stamina to hold lesser attackers in check quite easily; The Watcher’s eerie and timeless presence was enough to make even stronger souls to hesitate – and Gwaihir had speed, power and presence to challenge even Scatha.

But just before the half-time it happened! Thranduil wrestled himself free from William’s embrace and went for a header to the ball centered by Radagast – and heading it with a curve from behind Caradhras left the Chief Wolf no chance of seeing it coming until it was too late.

Wilderland was thus leading 1-0 when the teams retreated from the field for the half-time – the Wilderland –fans were singing loudly whilst the supporters of Misty Mountains team were too nervous to stay at the stands and were queuing for sausages and beer at the interval.

Misty Mts. came to the second half with some real decision forcing Wilderland intob defencive mode. Durin’s Bane was especially on fire forcing his way through the ent-defences despite their supposed eqaulity of physical power.

And to the great delight of the Misty Mts. fans and the mixed joy of Erebor supporters Durin’s Bane actually set the scores even with a scaringly powerful curveball from the edge of the box.

Wilderland answered the equalizer with putting in a new gear and went on their normal frenzied-attcking –style – which gave their fans a real boost – and with that to them as well. And suddenly Misty Mts’s decisiveness and self-confidence was washed away.

Six minutes from the earlier goal Scatha then scored Wilderland into the lead again with his typical tail-shot from inside the box totally dieregarding the attempts of William to stop him. Well what was a troll to move a dragon?

But from somewhere the Misty Mts. still found a new pace to fight for the evener – and the game was back on the Wilderland half of the pitch – even if especially Thranduil proved dangerous with his fast runs forwards when Misty Mts. concentrated all their effort in the offence.

It paid off though for Misty Mts. Pressing on resulted in a number of corners and from one given by Rumil the ball went to the edge of the box from where Durin’s Bane chested it towards the goal but just as Skinbark was “boughing” it away Azog dived in between and headed the ball from the reach of Skinbark and into the net behind the totally astonished Great Warg.

Wilderland tried to force the game back to the Misrty Mts. side for the last ten minutes and partly succeeded – but only partly for the whole Misty Mts. team had dropped back to defend their goal – except Durin’s Bane and Azog whose presence at the midfield forced Wilderland to keep a few players back there to guard them as well.

And so the game ended in a draw. A great result for the Misty Mts. fans but nightmare to the Wilderlanders.

Misty Mts 2-2 Wilderland
on target 5-7
tot shots 13-18
GOALS:
*43, 0-1 Thranduil (Radagast)
*60, 1-1 DBane (Narvi)
*66, 1-2 Scatha (Fimbrethil)
*78, 2-2 Azog (DBane)
YELLOW CARDS:
*MMts- Gwaihir, Orophin
*Wilder- Oropher, Fimbrethil

With Wilderland struggling against Misty Mts. and forced to a draw the home crowds were torn with different interpretations they should make out of it… but winning Eriador would just change everything – or even drawing the game – and was this Eriador team really the last year’s finalists, winning Misty Mts. only 2-1? If the Misty Mts. managed such a result why shouldn’t Erebor make it better?

With an insecure confidence the home crowds welcomed the hometeam into the field – while most of the visitors to the mountain gave their loudest cheers to the Erebor team as well – oh how they loved to hate the Western elves and men with their self-imposed “nobility” – although some elves from Lórien did support the Eriador team.

The name of the game became quite clear early on. Eriador was shutting the wild offence of Erebor out quite confidently not letting them shoot but from very bad angles or under pressure. But Eriador was neither the attacking team number one as everyone knew: yes they made decent attacks and in the end seemed even a bit more dangerous on offence than the home team, but there was not the flair or sparkle of going forwards you could see with Wilderland or Erebor at their best. Sadly for the fans Eriador seemed more than cabable of shutting up any flaring attacks from the home team this day.

And just before the break Eriador hit it in. NogWight gave a neat backwards heel-pass on ground to Isildur inside the box his back against the defence exploiting the weakness of the eagles in the defence – and Isildur manged to get rid of Thorin with the ball and to shoot it from near enough giving Beorn no chance to catch it.

It was 0-1 on the break and the homeside fans were gnawing their nails. It was not that uneven a game but somehow Eriador just seemed to produce the results unlike their own team. It was so annoying and yet Eriador played just that inch sharper and cooler – and there was nothing the fans could do about it.

And that was true of the second period as well – even if Erebor rushed into it with some real energy getting the crowds high with their effort – only to be shut off by the Eriador defences and their organized midfield.

Erebor was soon exhausted with the effort they made early on the second period and the game gradually turned towards the Erebor side in the end but even with the decent tries by Glorfindel, Isildur, Arveleg and NogWight there was not to be a second goal on their favour either – and so Eriador won 1-0 securing their qualification in no uncertain terms.

Like Gil-Galad had said in the press conference in the morning: “You fight only when you have to”. That is not probably entertaining for the crowds but it seems to be effective as far as the results go – and securing number one seat from this group was vital for them anyway as the second of the group will most probably meet FC Valinor the next round...

Erebor 0-1 Eriador
on target 3-5
tot shots 12-12
GOALS:
*40, 0-1 Isildur (NogWight)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Erebor- Smaug, Dain, Nazgul#7
*Eriador- Isildur

Team W-D-L Pts. Score
Eriador 2-0-0 6 3-1
Wilderland 0-2-0 2 5-5
Erebor 0-1-1 1 3-4
Misty Mts. 0-1-1 1 3-4

Last games:
Eriador vs. Wilderland
Erebor vs. Misty Mountains

the phantom

07-25-2013, 04:33 PM

Group H at Amon Hen

Many of the host sites had experienced some amount of tension between fan-bases, but such activity had been kept to a bare minimum on the shores of Nen Hithoel. Part of the credit had to go to placing Mordor and their supporters across on Amon Lhaw in such comfortable fashion. Were the Orcs mixed in with the horse-lords, Arnorians, and various Anduin groups (Beornings, Lothlorienites, etc.) no doubt there would be trouble here and there, and if the Orcs were shoved aside or banned from lodgings then that would be asking for trouble as well. But the way the Coliseum Construction Committee had done things ruled out such things, as reasonable Mordorians had no reason to complain about getting their own new well-built area at the foot of Amon Lhaw.

Everyone knows all Mordorians aren’t reasonable however, so something was keeping even the worst Orcs in line as well. Some theorized it was the Coliseum itself, and the way they had purposefully incorporated designs of all sorts and grouped them sensibly. The Utumno, Angband, Mordor, Moria, and Gundabad sections are all close, and Mordor fans were given seats in those sections, which combined with their private living area made them all feel as if they were at home.

But some commentators have insisted there is something else at work. “The Mordor folk have just been too well behaved,” said Haldan, MESPN correspondent for Gondor League football. “The incidents aren’t low or minimal—they’re non-existent. I’ve checked, and there have been zero arrests for vandalism, fighting, etc. I mean, there’s always at least one, even among friendly sides.” When asked what could account for this, Haldan said it had to be Sauron. “It seems to me he’s keen to keep in good graces with Arda Cup, so I can only suppose he’s trying to win some hosting rights or trade allowance or something.”

Whatever the reason, the folks at Amon Hen Coliseum certainly were enjoying the calm. The Arnorians drank with the men of Rohan in the pubs, and promised to avenge their defeat when they played Mordor, and the folks from Rohan promised they’d slow Anduin’s roll for Arnor. But if people from Arnor and Rohan were found drinking with Anduin supporters, they were congratulating them for their fine play. It was just a pure atmosphere of enjoyment.

The stadium was still filling when the first game of the day kicked off—Arnor versus Mordor. The Mordorians had their loud section of support, but Arnor had the backing of scattered Rohan fans as well as the Elves and Gondorians there in support of Anduin. And Mordor didn’t own a monopoly on Orcs either, as the Witch King, forward for Arnor, caused quite a few to splinter off.

Those fans didn’t have much to cheer about though—Mordor looked impressive from the start. The men of Arnor frankly looked nervous around the Nazgul. Some wondered before the game if practicing with the Witch King would cure them of the Black Breath, but it seems it’s different when they are playing in opposition. And Shelob was being a bit terrifying as well. The Arnorian defenders weren’t running scared the way the horses of Rohan did, but they still didn’t feel good about her presence.

Only four minutes in Shelob managed to clear herself some space and one of the Nazgul found her perfectly with a cross, and only great anticipation and reaction from Arvedui kept it scoreless. A few minutes later Mouth put one on the mark, and again Arvedui staved off disaster, stopping both Mouth’s tricky curve but also stuffing Shagrat’s put-back attempt.

After that Arnor changed things up. Elendil was the tallest and boldest, and he volunteered to give up his role in the possession and attack in order to shadow Shelob, and Malbeth took it upon himself to foil the pair of Nazgul, using his powers of foresight to ascertain their likely plan of attack and position himself to upset it. The change-up worked like a charm, and Mordor was stifled, and they reacted by trying to win past defenders on the dribble, but Arnor was having none of it. Instead of attacking the ball they just maintained some space and forced the ball wide around them over to another defender’s area, essentially making them run for nothing. And when they approached the offensive area, there were simply too many defenders around to have any hope of taking them on—not without an Arda-class skill player.

As the halftime break approached Mordor looked more and more ragged and Arnor began to press the advantage, pushing farther upfield as a team and threatening to open the scoring themselves. At 38 minutes the Arnor supporters gave their first true shout of excitement as Witch King beat everyone in the air and forced Silent Watcher to exert his maximum evil will to turn the shot aside. Just a few minutes later off a corner it was the same exact recipe, only this time the shot found the crossbar. A great many bodies hit the ground as everyone went for the loose ball, and as it came down Arantar and Gothmog II got tangled up and fell leaving the approaching Gorbag free to bicycle it the other way.

By Mordor’s good fortune Gorbag’s blind kick flew between where Malbeth or Malvegil could reach it and the Mouth took it in stride, putting just enough of a touch on it to keep it from drifting farther towards the side. When he reached the ball to put his second touch on it, he faked a pass to the Nazgul in the middle, which Valandur had been expecting, thus he bit the fake to attempt the steal and Mouth dashed on. Upon reaching the edge of the penalty area Mouth gave another fake then sent it sideways to Nazgul#2, who sent it directly back and completely sending Earendur in a hopeless circle. The Mouth would surely attempt the close range shot, but instead he skidded it towards the far post, just barely beyond the sliding Elendil, but not beyond Nazgul#1 who practically slid into the net himself taking the ball with him.

The Mordor supporters waved their red and black banners and blew their war-horns and beat upon their drums! This was the Arda Cup they dreamed of—taking the field and defeating their foes from Rohan, and then the kingdom of Arnor of the north! The teams exited the field for halftime and Mordor just continued their party throughout the break. And why not? They were sitting at +3 in goal differential and controlled their own fate for first place.

As the second half started it looked like the victory was indeed as good as claimed, as Mordor looked more likely to increase their lead than Arnor looked to draw level. Already at minute 49 Shelob had a free chance of a corner, and only a good guess by Arvedui spoiled it. Then ten minutes later Mouth released both Nazgul behind the back line, and only a rather suspect tackle by Valandur saved the day, as the wall turned aside the resulting free kick.

At minute 68 another corner forced a save to be made, and Arnor fans were half out of their chairs ready to leave, but Arvedui was to the rescue again. And then suddenly, the game changed.

No doubt there will be many reviews of the game tape during the next week or so, and many different theories will be spun, but there can be no denying that the entire field was turned on its head at minute 70. Most spectators agreed that the men of Arnor suddenly looked hopeful, and that the two Nazgul for Mordor appeared wary and lost their aura, and with that gone their Orc-support and Fellbeasts looked a little disorganized. It is this writer’s opinion that Arnor had the Witch King to thank for the sudden turn—perhaps he had some mystical way to make this come about? But then why not do it earlier? Then perhaps it was but a temporary measure that couldn’t be counted on to last long…

But only 20 minutes remained in the contest, so if that was the case, it was now or never. Suddenly Mordor gave way and grew over-careful and timid, and Arnor pressed relentlessly and forced mistakes, and defenders got in one another’s way, and after but five minutes it was the Witch King himself evening the score with a point blank chip in.

The Mordor players shook themselves, as if attempting to recover from a blow to the head, and they looked a little less panicked, but still Arnor had the mastery. At minute 83 Witch King earned another chance to slot it home, but a Fellbeast tail managed to get in the way. Two minutes later Argeleb nearly broke the tie with a 30-yard strike, but Silent Watcher managed to put it aside off the side post. But the resulting corner—Arnor would not be denied. They knew they wouldn’t get it free in the air with the Fellbeasts and Shelob packed in close, so they passed to the far side, then one-timed it to the middle, then back to the original side, and Arassuil found a small alley to send it through the box and that late-game specialist Araphor somehow found it flying through the traffic and redirected it down under Shelob’s legs and it bounced in to hand Arnor the lead!

What did it matter that Arnor only had the lead for 4 minutes? It’s the score at the finish that counts, and the Northern Dunedain had secured it. They were right back in the thick of the playoff hunt! The Mordorians on the other hand filed out in bitter disappointment. Some felt that the Witch King was a traitor, while others seemed grateful that they at least lost to one of their favorites. But on the bright side, they still had the edge in differential, and thus still controlled their own destiny—provided the contest in the evening went the right way for them.

Arnor 2-1 Mordor
on target 6-6
tot shots 13-15
GOALS:
*43, 0-1 Nazgul#1 (Mouth)
*75, 1-1 WitchKing (Arantar)
*86, 2-1 Araphor (Arassuil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Arnor- Arassuil, Valandur
*Mordor- Gothmog II, Gorbag, Fellbeast#3

The Rohan supporters awaiting kickoff were discussing the previous result with mixed feelings. While they generally liked Arnor and disliked Mordor, seeing Arnor win just made them that more disappointed by their own loss. Many still blamed the King of the Dead and his untimely red card, while a few gave him credit for being the most active Rohan player on the field while many of his fellows had seemingly frozen around him.

At the least the Arnor victory meant that a win tonight by Rohan would catapult them into a four-way points tie, so they had to feel good about that. But it also meant that Arnor in their final game would have something to play for, which could make that game harder than it perhaps might have been.

But the homeside Anduin had no thoughts of a four-way tie. They were keen to take a death-grip on the group by scoring a win over Rohan. In their first match they had looked quite impressive, the power of Grimbeorn and the Gondorians and the skill of the Elves and the athleticism of Eorl and Fram all working together seamlessly.

Tonight the stadium was nearly filled to capacity, as even more Gondorians had come up-river to enjoy the atmosphere for the remainder of group-play. There weren’t any Mordorian hold-overs from the first contest, as they were far too disappointed to stick around, but many Arnor fans were still around basking in the joy of their triumph. The Arnor supporters largely didn’t care who won the evening match so long as they got to see some good football. After all, if Rohan won then everyone would be tied, but Arnor could clinch first. If Anduin won though first place would be less likely but qualifying in general might be easier.

And so it was the the crowd was rooting 25% for Rohan, 50% for Anduin, and 25% for just plain good play. And quite soon 75% of the audience was pleased, as Anduin looked impressive indeed and threatened, threatened, then scored just under 20 minutes in thanks to a resounding boom from Grimbeorn. For a while Anduin relaxed and preserved their lead and their energy, but Rohan was late in trying to take advantage, only looking a serious threat just before the break.

Right from the start of the second half Anduin was in full attack mode, wanting to take the game out of the hands of Rohan, and the horse-lords were surprised and unprepared for the sudden show of skill and power. Only three minutes in Grimbeorn forced a fanastic save from Theoden, and Eorl nodded the rebound over to Boromir who volleyed it straight into the back of the net. The home team was up two-nil!

Though there was still ample time for more goals, most of Anduin seemed to agree to pull up, and those keen to push things quickly went along with the majority to better accomplish the chosen strategy. Rohan recognized the opportunity presented and started looking more impressive, not having to worry about their own defensive efforts as much, but with Celeborn, Fram, Felarof, and Minalcar receiving the full help of the Anduin midfield Rohan couldn’t get much of anything developed.

The closest Rohan came was at 58 minutes when Amroth was forced to catch a swerving effort from King Dead, and at 67 minutes when a lucky deflection fell to Faramir and he sent it perfect to the far post, but Minalcar was positioned smartly and he got up and headed it away. Once the game passed 80 minutes the Anduin fans began opening the celebrations. Rohan couldn’t manage two goals in ten minutes. Rohan fans sat back and shook their heads. What had happened? Weren’t they a dangerous playoff team last year? Now they were sitting in last, with little hope of qualifying. If only they had Eorl and his steed playing for them instead of Anduin—perhaps then things would look more as they should.

Anduin 2-1 Rohan
on target 4-5
tot shots 12-14
GOALS:
*19, 1-0 Grimbeorn (Eorl)
*48, 2-0 Boromir II (Eorl)
*72, 2-1 Eowyn (Faramir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Leod, Minalcar
*Rohan- Wildfola, Helm

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

GROUP H STANDINGS

-------- W-D-L Pts Score
Anduin 2-0-0 6 4-1
Mordor 1-0-1 3 3-2
Arnor 1-0-1 3 2-3
Rohan 0-0-2 0 1-4

LAST GAMES @ AMON HEN COLISEUM
Arnor vs Rohan
Anduin vs Mordor

needfran

07-26-2013, 01:51 AM

Real Madrid have warned United off Cristiano Ronaldo, with president Florentino Perez insisting the 28-year-old forward will sign a new deal to end his career at the Bernabeu.

Franchise in India (http://www.franchiseneed.com/)
Franchise opportunities in India (http://www.franchiseneed.com/)

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-26-2013, 09:31 AM

On the morning after the first round of games in Group F, Tol Eressëa Mobile raised anchor and sailed down the Anduin, before turning west. Thousands of Gondorians cheered along the shore as the island made its way through the heart of southern Gondor. The four teams, as well as some of their supporters, were now aboard the floating isle as it made its way to the next stop for the second round: a reunion with the Isle of Balar, south of Beleriand.

The BalarDome, with a capacity of 40 000, was to be the secondary site for the next round of group F games. It played host to team Balar of the Beleriand League during the apertura (summer/autumn) regional league of Beleriand. The Nargothrond city council had requested for Tol Eressëa to make its way up the Narog, so that Nargothrond fans would have less distance to cover as they watched their team’s game. Unfortunately, the mobile island’s draught was too deep for the river—only truly mighty rivers like Anduin and Sirion were wide and deep enough for it to pass through safely. Nargothrond fans were not dismayed, however, and travelled in droves south to Balar. They reasoned that Minas Tirith supporters also had to travel far to support their team during the first matchday; would they do any less?

Tol Eressëa Mobile was by now a little more crowded than when it had left the shores of Aman. The fans of FC Valinor that they have ferried to Gondor have left the island, but they have been more than amply replaced by the Nargothrond fans who travelled by land for the first round (the whole Bëorian contingent, and even some of the Orcish horde) and a group of Gondorians supporting Minas Tirith. Unfortunately, none of them could see their teams in training—all four teams have asked that the public stay away from their training grounds in order to protect their strategies from leaking to their opponents. Many opined (including some realistic, if disheartened, Minas Tirith fans) that no strategy could save the White Tower from elimination, but for the other three teams, all of whom seem evenly matched, knowledge of another team’s tactics and formation could be the difference between victory and defeat.

BalarDome
Minas Tirith vs Tirion

Despite that gap in talent between the two teams, tactics still played a role in the game between the Tirion and Minas Tirith. A few pundits believed that, with their athleticism, stamina, and organisation, the Stewards could contest the midfield from Tirion and win the possession battle. If they could keep the number of chances for the Tirion attackers low, while giving themselves more chances to score, they could conceivably win the tie.

So it was surprising that, during the opening stages of the game, Minas Tirith retreated into their own half with two banks of four, leaving Éomer as the only attacking support behind Boromir I (even though the Rohirric midfielder was anonymous in the first game.) Some Minas Tirith supporters argued that, since Tirion had better defenders than Nargothrond, letting the Eldar attack and hitting them on the break was a better strategy than attacking an organised Tirion defence. But even they thought that the move was a bad one; Tirion, like Nargothrond, prefer to apply attacking pressure, but were less comfortable when the opposition attacked back.

Minas Tirith did well to hold on for half an hour. In the eleventh minute, Aredhel hit the post when put through on goal by Mahtan. Thirteen minutes later, Finwë’s header from a Rúmil cross was saved by Denethor II; Firefoot cleared the rebound moments before Mahtan got a boot in. But Finwë opened the scoring in the thirty-fifth minute by converting a Caranthir corner; Denethor did well to get a palm in the shot, but was unable to redirect the bullet header from its trajectory. After the goal, Tirion eased the pressure on Minas Tirith’s backline, but Minas Tirith were slow to change gears from defending to attacking. They were thankful to go into the break only a goal behind.

The second half began with Minas Tirith’s first significant foray forward. Mardil got past Rúmil with a neat dribbling trick and took on right-back Irimë. Suddenly, Cirion flew in from all the way in the backline and took a short lateral Mardil pass. He then beat the surprised Irimë to the byline and crossed for Boromir I in Tirion’s penalty box. The Minas Tirith forward won the header against Amrod and knocked the ball down on to Éomer’s path, but Anairë slid in to clear the ball moments before the Rohan lord got to it.

Minas Tirith became more adventurous as the half wore on, sending as many as six players forward as Tirion conceded ground to them. But the Eldar of the First Age reminded the Men of the Third Age of their counterattacking threat when, in the fifty-second minute, Aredhel took an Amras long ball behind Minas Tirith’s defence; she ballooned her chip well over the Stewards’ goal. But with Minas Tirith chasing the game, the warning fell on deaf ears. In the sixty-sixth minute, Finarfin had to stretch to keep out a stinging drive from Mardil. The rebound was cleared only as far as Telumehtar on the edge of the Tirion box, but when he attempted to take on Mahtan, the Noldorin smith dispossessed him easily and found Aredhel ready to sprint past Ecthelion II. Mahtan sent a slide-rule through pass for the White Lady of the Noldor, who made sure this time that her chip past the Minas Tirith stopper was on target.

Now Tirion’s threat on the break was well and truly heeded, but it was closing the stable door after the horse has bolted. Minas Tirith were already two goals down, and now they were scared of attacking en masse. Had they been more combative before Tirion opened the scoring, had they been more careful when they were a goal down, they probably wouldn’t have been in this hole. Tirion easily handled Minas Tirith’s tame attacks and saw the game through without further trouble.

With Tirion already on four points, and since either the Sea or Nargothrond were sure to be at or over four points after the next game, the Stewards, with zero points from two games, were already eliminated.

Minas Tirith 0-2 Tirion
GOALS:
35, 0-1 Finwë (Caranthir)
67, 0-2 Aredhel (Mahtan)

Total Shots:
9-16
Shots On Target:
3-8

YELLOW CARDS:
2-1
MTI: Eärnur, Cirion
TIR: Eldalótë

Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium
Nargothrond vs The Sea

With Tirion taking temporary first place in the group, the game between Nargothrond and the hosts took on an even greater significance. They were determined not to fall behind in what has become a three-horse race. Even the number of goals scored and conceded might be important when it came to deciding who advanced. This was a group of fine margins.

Even from last year, the Sea have not been a high-scoring team. Because of that, they elected to keep the game’s tempo slow at the start. Instead of pressing the defenders, their front four prevented easy passes from being played to Finduilas and Nienor, the engine room of Nargothrond’s attacks. And when the Sea were in possession, they simply held onto the ball instead of passing it forward quickly. But that played right into Nargothrond’s hands—Finrod advocated pressing from the front, acting as their first line of defence and forcing turnovers in dangerous areas of the pitch. In the sixth minute, Gwindor intercepted a weak Salmar back pass and sprinted past the rest of the Sea’s defence. He would have scored the opener had Hyarmendacil not guessed correctly and dove for the far post at full stretch.

Finduilas took the resulting corner kick; Finrod had ordered all but Baran and Arminas in and around the penalty box, leaving them vulnerable to a quick counter if the Sea managed to survive the pressure. But his gamble paid off when, after a mighty goalmouth scramble involving three attempted clearances that was booted right back into the mixer, Nienor tapped in a shot that trickled past Hyarmendacil to give Nargothrond the lead.

Surprisingly, the game got more open after the goal. Nargothrond had scored too early; they couldn’t possibly keep the Sea scoreless by sitting in front of their penalty box for the next eighty-two minutes. So they continued to attack, advancing as many as five players into the Sea’s half. With the Sea chasing the game, the tie began to resemble more a basketball game than a football match with its quick exchange of possession.

It was one of those transitions that led to the Sea’s equaliser. With ten minutes left in the first half, Barahir was caught well past the halfway line when Voronwë intercepted an attempted Finduilas through ball. He quickly got the ball to Tar-Meneldur, who was occupying the space Barahir had left unmarked. Tar-Minastir drifted to the right to support him, and the two passed their way to Nargothrond’s penalty area. With Baran, Arminas, and Guilin totally focused on the pair of Númenórean kings, they didn’t notice Aldarion’s run from the opposite wing until Tar-Minastir fired a backheel pass to him. The Nargothrond defence was too slow to reorient itself, and Tar-Aldarion’s strike found the net to tie the game.

The game calmed down a bit after the Sea’s equaliser—no team created chances between then and the halftime whistle. But after the break, Nargothrond attacked with renewed aggression, which the Sea met with equal defensive determination. Tar-Ciryatan did well to deny Glaurung touches; when the dragon did get the ball, he did not try to contest him on the turn, leaving him instead to Ossë. The Sea Maia was strong enough to prevent Glaurung from getting past him, and he even doused his fires with well-timed jets of seawater.

Gwindor on the right was faster than his marker Salmar, but the Maia was big and tall enough to block his crosses even if he were half a step behind him. Five minutes after the hour mark, Gwindor cut inside instead of making for the byline, but when he shot from twenty metres the recovering Salmar managed to get a boot in the way. The ball fell to Ulmo, who whacked it to Tar-Minastir up front. The Númenórean king held off the challenge of Baran and laid the ball off to a charging Vëantur, whose shot drew a save from Orodreth.

Tar-Aldarion took the resulting corner. Ulmo leapt highest to head the ball in, but he didn’t connect well with the ball, giving Orodreth enough time to palm the weak header clear. Tar-Ciryatan got a boot in the rebound, but his shot bounced off Guilin’s leg and fell to Uinen on the edge of the box. Her aim was true this time, and Orodreth dove after her shot too late. His head was buried on the ground in despair as he realised that he might have cost his team advancement to the knockout stage.

But there was still twenty-three minutes left to play, and the squad from the Caves of Narog drew strength from their captain. Finrod was all over the pitch, orchestrating the movement of his forwards and midfielders. The Nargothrond players passed the ball to each other at an increasingly high tempo, and the ball moved from flank to flank, confusing the Sea’s backline, who were constantly forced to alter their position and their line of sight; inevitably this created blind sides that the pacy players of Nargothrond were able to exploit. In the eightieth minute, Glaurung was on the left with Nienor, weaving their way through the Sea’s right wing; a moment later Nienor launched a quick pass to Finrod a few yards from the arc; without looking, he fired a pass to his right where Gwindor ran in and belted in a fierce drive. The ball crossed the width of the pitch in about a second, and by the time Ulmo and his players had realised Gwindor had got it the ball had already hit the net.

There was little celebration of the goal; Gwindor rushed to get the ball and handed it to the referee. In the meantime the two captains conferred with their players. Press for a winner? Shut it down? Tar-Minastir convinced Ulmo to try to go for the win; Finrod and Barahir decided to live with the draw. Both sides reasoned that Nargothrond’s front line were exhausted and could not press as effectively as they usually did, leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks; therefore the Sea could attack almost with impunity. But with Nargothrond outnumbering the Sea in midfield, they were able to enforce their decision, keeping possession until the full-time whistle was blown.

With four points secured, and a greater goal difference than second-place Tirion, Nargothrond were in a pretty good spot. The Sea, with only two points from two games, need to win their last game against Minas Tirith to have a chance to advance.

Nargothrond 2-2 The Sea
GOALS:
8, 1-0 Nienor (Bëor)
35, 1-1 Tar-Aldarion (Tar-Minastir)
67, 1-2 Uinen (Tar-Cirytan)
80, 2-2 Gwindor (Finrod)

Total Shots:
13-15
Shots On Target:
6-7

YELLOW CARDS:
2-2
NGR: Gwindor, Arminas
SEA: Salmar, Ossë

------------ W-D-L Pts GD
Nargothrond 1-1-0 4 +3
Tirion 1-1-0 4 +2
The Sea 0-2-0 2 0
Minas Tirith 0-0-2 0 -5

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference

LAST GAMES:
@Alqualondë Seaside Stadium: Tirion vs Nargothrond
@Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium: Minas Tirith vs The Sea

Boromir88

07-28-2013, 09:42 AM

GROUP G @ Anfauglith

The late match would be played in Anfauglith as the home team will battle Angband in hopes of securing a playoff spot (while also sending Morgoth's side away with no points in 2 games). But the earlier game was taking place in Tol-in-Gaurhoth, this time underneath the ghoulish dome of Tol-in-Gaurhoth.

The wolf supporters of TIG were loud and raucous leading up to the game, still ecstatic over their convincing 2-0 win against Angband. Now they were licking their chops at the prospect of playing Imladris, "We'll slaughter them like the lambs they are!" laughed AganWolf. "We already beat two elven sides in the friendlies, and they were both better than Imladris. We'll make it three out of three for sure!" said LomWight.

As for the events of the match, there isn't much to tell other than only one team appeared to be playing on the field: Tol-in-Gaurhoth. The elven side, like Doriath were playing frightened out of their wits in the face of the TIG defensewolves. But they weren't only relying on strong scare tactics, they were playing an organized team game as well. Moving the ball smoothly from defense, to their mid-fielders and peppering Imladris' goal with shots.

Imladris' defense was playing well, but again without any ability by Imladris' offense to build up attacks it was only a matter of time before their defense broke to the relentless TIG attack. In the 33rd minute Thuringwethil simply stole the ball from Galdor and scored a cheap unassisted goal, as Valandil wasn't prepared when his defense turned the ball over.

The 2nd half was like a replay of the first, which didn't bother the wolves and wights packing the stadium at all. They could watch performances like this one all day long. After working the ball all around Imladris' box, with crisp passes and searching for an opening, NerWight spotted the opening, finding InzilWolf who put TIG up 2-0.

Imladris played the remainder of the game frustrated and angry, trying to play more physical against the wolves. But it wasn't successful in creating any offense to the biteless Imladris attack. All it did was make the ref hand out several yellow cards and leave the wolves laughing at Elladan's and Elrohir's feeble attempts to rough them up.

The party continued inside the stadium, and outside, well after the final whistle. TIG was 1st in their group and had yet to surrender a goal in group play. In fact, including the friendlies, TIG has only allowed 1 goal in 4 matches.

Imladris 0-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
on target 1-6
tot shots 8-14
GOALS:
*33, 0-1 Thuringwethil
*68, 0-2 InzilWolf (NerWight)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Imladris- Celebrian, Elladan, Elrohir
*TIG- LegateWight

Under the night skies in Anfauglith, the ancient coliseum was packed but split fairly even in terms of fan support. Angfauglith was the home team, but Morgoth still had a considerable influence in the area to beat his own fans into attending. Even if Angband was feeling rather disheartened by their first round loss to TIG. They had allowed themselves to be outplayed by the wolves, and that was unacceptable. Morgoth was going to have none of that against Angfauglith, or so he cursed.

Yet Angfauglith was feeling confident. Already with a win under their belt and behind Ungoliant, the only evil creature who had ever given trouble to Morgoth, they believed they could win again. There were hostilities in the stands, as well as on the field of play. One wouldn't be able to tell by the cards given, but the referee was probably intimidated by being in this atmosphere. I mean the orcs and evil men, breaking out into brawls could be scary enough to anyone, then having to call a game involving balrogs, Ungoliant, and Morgoth one can not blame the ref for swallowing the whistle. If the players wanted to bruise eachother up, let them have at it.

Morgoth was seemed relieved and happy the ref held a permissive line to not be the decider and it allowed both defenses to test the strength of the other. The first half ended without any goals, mostly because Morgoth was committed to playing lockdown defense after his team gave up 2 goals in the first game. But Angfauglith was also a mighty defensive team, although Ungoliant had to come up with a couple good saves, denying Ancalagon and keeping her goal clean.

The 2nd half started much the same with both defenses playing ridiculously rough and tempers in the stands ready to boil over. But both teams just kept battling and it was looking like a warzone upon the dry plains of Anfauglith. After 15 minutes passed, finally the game was broken open. Ulfang lobbed a high ball into the box, Ungoliant was anticipating the Angband dragon to try the on-goal header, but at the final second, Ancalagon saw that Oikeroi manuevered around his Balrog-marker and was open on the right post. Ancalagon hit it back on the ground and Oikeroi bumped the ball over the goal-line. And after over 150 minutes of actual game time, the Angband fans had something to truly cheer about.

Morgoth now renewed his efforts to play lockdown defense and protect the lead. This was allowing Angfauglith's offense to start getting a grip on the match as Gothmog and Ecthelion were starting to get some chances. There chances weren't particularly great, but they would have brought the game even if it wasn't for a couple fabulous saves by Carcharoth. Just when an Angfauglith goal seemed to be coming though, Gorgol made a terrible decision. Ulfast had intercepted a pass from the Angfauglith mid-fielder and Gorgol wickedly tripped Ulfast in an attempt to get the ball back. With Gorgol's 2nd yellow, he was sent to the showers early.

Now with the 1-player advantage, it was no surprise Morgoth was able to take advantage of the chaos and confusion. He thrives in chaos and Angfauglith was just desperately trying to hold onto the 1-goal defecit now. It didn't hold. In the 81st minute Telvildo weaved into Angfauglith's box, and drew the defense on him. He then skidded a pass out to Ancalagon who hit a rising thunderbolt off his tail that zoomed past Ungoliant.

Morgoth's team had recovered after the first game, and they now leap-frogged Angfauglith in the standings, based on a better goal differential. With Angband having Imladris in the final round, and Angfauglith against group leaders Tol-in-Gaurhoth, Angfauglith's prospect of advancing looked bleak indeed.

Angband 2-0 Angfauglith
on target 8-3
tot shots 19-10
GOALS:
*55, 1-0 Oikeroi (Ancalagon)
*81, 2-0 Ancalagon (Telvildo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Oikeroi, Ulwarth
*Angfaug- Borlach, Gorgol
RED CARDS:
*Angfaug- Gorgol (75, second yellow)

Group G W-D-L Pts. GD
T-I-G 2-0-0 6 +4
Angband 1-0-1 3 0
Angfauglith 1-0-1 3 -1
Imladris 0-0-2 0 -3

Nogrod

07-28-2013, 01:16 PM

The AKM will provide the advanced Phantasy Players some statistical material to take better hold of what is going on between the teams – which are their specific strengths and weaknesses.

So here are the stats from the two first rounds of the tournament thus far...

After the group definer (A, B, C…) and the venue(s) there are all the results of the games played on the first two rounds in that group – in the end there are the group-standings (inside the coded brackets... showing the points and the goal-difference respectively) and the last games to be played.

In the middle there are some stats – and here is the guide on how to read them.

Let’s take the alphabetically first team of Group A as an example: it goes as follows:

Armenelos 3-2 1-1-0
10/26 – 11/28
Offence 3/26 11,5%
Tar Atanamir 2/11 81,8%%

Row 1: Team name, goals made – goals allowed, wins – draws –losses
So:
Armenelos has made 3 goals and allowed 2, they have won 1, drawn 1 and lost no games.

Row 2: Shots aka. shots on goal / overall shots made, shots on goal allowed / overall shots allowed
So:
Armenelos has shot 10 shots on goal while shooting 26 shots overall, on their own side they have allowed the opponents to shoot 11 shots towards goal from 28 opposing teams shots overall.

Row 3: Offence aka. number of goals / shots overall, scoring percentage from all shots made (not from shots on goal *).
So:
Armenelos has scored 3 goals from 26 shots overall – which means they have a scoring percentage of 11,5% from overall shots.

Row 4: Goalkeeper aka. number of goals allowed / shots on goal allowed, keepers saving percentage from shots on goal.
So: Armenelos goal-keeper Tar Atanamir has allowed 2 goals from 11 shots towards the goal (so he has saved 9 shots from 11) and thus his saving percentage is 81,8%.

* We could have chosen also counting the shooting-percentage from only their shots towards goal, but as that number would have only mirrored the stats of the goalkeepers they have faced we thought counting it from all the shots would be more informative, giving a slightly different perspective to the stats.

~*~

So here are the stats. The AKM will refer to them with it’s further analyses for the last round of the group-phase, but will not make a detailed and separate analysis on the basis of it – but what little follows this article.

ADD ON: Hah, only group H looks like I would have liked the stats to look like but there are too many tables to be corrected. WIth the above instructions they should be clear enough even if the lines aren't aligned properly in every case...

Group A
GROUP A at Valimar & Taniquetil

Armenelos 2-1 Havens
Barrow-Downs 0-2 Valimar
Havens 2-2 Barrow-Downs
Armenelos 1-1 Valimar

Armenelos 3-2 1-1-0
10/26 – 11/28
Offence 3/26 11,5%
Tar Atanamir 2/11 81,8%%

Barrow-Downs 2-4 0-1-1
8/23 – 11/27
Offence 2/23 8,7%
Alien 4/11 63,6%%

The Havens 3-4 0-1-1
13/27 – 11/27
Offence 3/27 11,1%
Amandil 4/11 63,6%%

Valimar 3-1 1-1-0
9/24 – 7/22
Offence 3/24 12,5%
Manwë 1/7 85,7%

Valimar 4 3-1
Armenelos 4 3-2
The Havens 1 3-4
Barrow-Downs 1 2-4

Last games:
Armenelos vs. Barrow-Downs
Valimar vs. The Havens

Group B
GROUP B at Gondolin & Tumladen

InterBeleriand 2-0 Dwarves United
AC Beleriand 2-1 Gondolin
AC Beleriand 3-1 InterBeleriand
Dwarves United 2-1 Gondolin

AC Beleriand 5-2 2-0-0
13/29 – 9/22
Offence 5/29 17,2%
Marach 2/9 77,8%

Inter Beleriand 3-3 1-0-1
8/21 – 11/27
Offence 3/21 14,3%
Turgon 3/11 72,7%

Dwarves United 2-3 1-0-1
9/27 – 11/27
Offence 2/27 7,4%
Galadriel 3/11 72,7%

Gondolin 2-4 0-0-2
12/28 – 11/29
Offence 2/28 7,1%
Rôg 4/11 63,6%

AC Beleriand 6 5-2
Inter Beleriand 3 3-3
Dwarves Utd. 3 2-3
Gondolin 0 2-4

Last games:
AC Beleriand vs. The Dwarves United
Inter Beleriand vs. Gondolin

Group C
GROUP C at Menegroth & Neldoreth

Hithlum 1-3 Real Valinor
Doriath 1-1 ShireBree United
Hithlum 4-1 ShireBree United
Doriath 0-2 Real Valinor

Doriath 1-3 0-1-1
5/17 – 12/27
Offence 1/17 5,9%
Dior 3/12 75%

Hithlum 5-4 1-0-1
13/32 – 13/32
Offence 5/32 15,6%
Húor 4/13 69,2%

Shire-Bree United 2-5 0-1-1
9/22 – 11/27
Offence 2/22 9,1%
Halbarad 5/11 54,5%

Real Valinor 5-1 2-0-0
16/37 – 7/22
Offence 5/37 13,5%
Tulkas 1/7 85,7%

Real Valinor 6 5-1
Hithlum 3 5-4
Doriath 1 1-3
Shire-Bree Utd. 1 2-5

Last games:
Real Valinor vs. Shire-Bree United
Doriath vs. Hithlum

Group D
GROUP D at Dol Amroth & Pelargir

Isengard 0-4 FC Valinor
Barad-Dur 1-1 Gondor
Barad-Dur 2-1 Isengard
Gondor 0-2 FC Valinor

Barad Dûr 3-2 1-1-0
11/27 – 9/24
Offence 3/27 11,1%
Grishnakh 3/9 66,7%

Gondor 1-3 0-1-1
6/21 – 12/28
Offence 1/21 4,8%
Imrahil 3/12 75%

Isengard 1-6 0-0-2
6/18 – 12/27
Offence 1/18 5,6%
Ugkluk 6/12 50%

FC Valinor 6-0 2-0-0
13/28 – 3/15
Offence 6/28 21,4%
Huan 0/3 100%

FC Valinor 6 6-0
Barad Dûr 4 3-2
Gondor 1 1-3
Isengard 0 1-6

Last games:
FC Valinor vs. Barad-Dûr
Gondor vs. Isengard

Group E
GROUP E at Erebor & Mirkwood

Eriador 2-1 Misty Mts
Erebor 3-3 Wilderland
Misty Mts 2-2 Wilderland
Erebor 0-1 Eriador

Erebor 3-4 0-1-1
12/34 – 12/30
Offence 3/34 8,9%
Beorn 4/12 66,7%

Eriador 3-1 2-0-0
11/24 – 7/24
Offence 3/24 12,5%
Elrond 1/7 85,7%

Misty Mountains 3-4 0-1-1
9/25 – 13/30
Offence 3/25 12%
Chief Wolf 4/13 69,2%

Wilderland 5-5 0-2-0
14/36 – 14/35
Offence 5/36 13,9%
Great Warg 5/14 64,3%

Eriador 6 3-1
Wilderland 2 5-5
Erebor 1 3-4
Misty Mts. 1 3-4

Last games:
Eriador vs. Wilderland
Erebor vs. Misty Mountains

Group F
GROUP F at Tol Eressea Mobile & Pelargir/Balar/Alqualonde

Minas Tirith 0-3 Nargothrond
The Sea 1-1 Tirion
Minas Tirith 0-2 Tirion
Nargothrond 2-2 The Sea

Minas Tirith 0-5 0-0-2
7/21 – 18/41
Offence 0/21 0%
Denethor 5/18 72,2%

Nargothrond 5-2 1-1-0
16/38 – 11/27
Offence 5/38 13,2%
Orodreth 2/11 81,8%

The Sea 3-3 0-2-0
11/27 – 10/26
Offence 3/27 11,1%
Hyermendacil 3/10 70%

Tirion 3-1 1-1-0
12/29 – 7/21
Offence 3/29 10,3%
Finarfin 1/7 85,7%

Nargothrond 4 5-2
Tirion 4 3-1
The Sea 2 3-3
Minas Tirith 0 0-5

Last games:
The Sea vs. Minas Tirith
Tirion vs. Nargothrond

Group G
GROUP G at Anfauglith & Tol-In-Gaurhoth

Anfauglith 1-0 Imladris
Angband 0-2 Tol-In-Gaurhoth
Imladris 0-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
Angband 2-0 Angfauglith

Angband 2-2 1-0-1
12/33 – 9/25
Offence 2/33 6,1%
Carcaroth 2/9 77,8%

Anfaughlith 1-2 1-0-1
6/19 – 11/27
Offence 1/19 5,3%
Ungoliant 2/11 81,8%

Imladris 0-3 0-0-2
4/16 – 9/23
Offence 0/16 0%
Valandil 3/9 66,7%

Tol-In-Gaurhoth 4-0 2-0-0
12/29 – 5/22
Offence 4/29 13,8%
ShastaWolf 0/5 100%

Tol-In-Gaurhoth 6 4-0
Angband 3 2-2
Anfaughlith 3 1-2
Imladris 0 0-3

Last games:
Angband vs. Imladris
Anfaughlith vs. Tol-In-Gaurhoth

Group H
GROUP H at Rauros

Mordor 2-0 Rohan
Anduin 2-0 Arnor
Arnor 2-1 Mordor
Anduin 2-1 Rohan

Anduin 4-1 2-0-0
11/28 – 9/27
Offence 4/28 14,3%
Amroth 1/9 88,9%

Arnor 2-3 1-0-1
10/26 – 13/31
Offence 2/26 7,7%
Arvedui 3/13 76,9%

Mordor 3-2 1-0-1
12/30 – 10/25
Offence 3/30 10%
Watcher 2/10 80%

Rohan 1-4 0-0-2
9/26 – 10/27
Offence 1/26 3,8%
Theoden 4/10 60%

Anduin 6 4-1
Mordor 3 3-2
Arnor 3 2-3
Rohan 0 1-4

Last games:
Arnor vs. Rohan
Anduin vs. Mordor

Some comments.

Reading the stats FC Valinor seems like on a league of it’s own. Their scoring percent from shots on goal is far better than any other team’s aka. 21,4%, while the next best AC Beleriand has 17,2% - Hithlum has 15,6% and then the next effective teams’ percentages hang around 13-14%. Also the number of shots they have allowed the opponent to make (3/15) and Huan’s saving percentage (100%) are also remarkable. T-I-G has allowed the opponents to shoot only 5/22 and the next most effective defences reach 7/21 (Tirion) and 7/22 (Real Valinor and Valimar). Shastawolf shares the 100% keeper-record thus far while a few reach 85% and 80% results.

But – and here’s the but – FC Valinor has played clearly lesser opponents many of the other top-teams have so their stats should look that good. If they were as good as with other serious contenders to win the Cup FC Valinor would look pretty weak indeed. In the same vein T-I-G’s remarkable defencive stats are partly explained by the quality of the offences of the teams they have played: Angband and Anfaughlith are tough teams but hardly offencive powerhouses – and Imladris plays in a group far exceeding their skills (zero goals made thus far).

So one should look for teams that perform very well in tough groups and have already played some tough opposition… The list looks hardly surprising: Armenelos, Valimar, AC Beleriand, Real Valinor, Nargothrond, Tirion – added with Hithlum (not impressive in defence – mostly due to meeting Real Valinor) and Eriador (not impressive in offence partly due to their philosophy of “just winning is enough”).

Does anyone think Minas Tirith, Imladris, Rohan or Isengard are in deep trouble? Just take a glance at their stats and you see why… also teams like Shire-Bree and Gondolin just allow too many goals while Doriath and Anfaughlith have too big problems in making them.

But also bad stats can mislead. “Case Gondor” is a nice example. Looking at their stats it would look like they are one of the teams dropping off from this tournament after the group phase – but alas, there’s more!

Let’s look at it. Isengard is out from group D, disqualified for sure as there is no way they can make it four points from one game (and the second, aka. Barad-Dûr has that many points already). So it will be between Barad-Dûr and Gondor which one will qualify as FC Valinor has also a safe qualification now as two teams can’t overcome it’s six points.

So let’s compare the stats of Barad-Dûr and Gondor. Barad-Dûr shoots about 25% more (27 vs. 21 shots) and their efficiency in scoring is nicely over double the numbers of Gondor (11,1% vs. 4,8%!). Now Imrahil of Gondor has a 10% percent lead in goalkeeping comparing to Grishnâkh (3/9 vs. 3/12 – resulting in 66,7% vs. 75%) but Barad-Dûr actually lets the opponent shoot 25% less – so that is kind of dealt with, right? And Barad-Dûr will qualify?

Well, there is one “but”. First of all Gondor and Barad-Dûr played a game already and it ended up in a draw 1-1. But while Gondor’s last game will be against already disqualified Isengard, Barad-Dûr will meet FC Valinor… so it is clear, whatever the outcomes of the last matches, that the stats will be much more closer after the last round – when they are strictly speaking comparable.

So the stats can be an aide for sure – letting one notice patters or tendencies, or sudden or unanticipated strengths or weaknesses of the teams – but one can’t apply them just like that. One needs to consider both the games against who they have been gathered and what kind of team is the next opponent.

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-28-2013, 09:12 PM

Group Tables:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/standings-matchday-2_zps3f8b9482.png~original

(1) secured first seed
(q) qualified for the knockout stage; seeding undetermined
(x) eliminated

Power Rank:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/pr-matchday-2_zpscd6b1e1b.png~original

Greatest gain:
+20 Anduin, Mordor
+19 Valimar
+12 FC Valinor
Greatest loss:
-22 Gondor
-20 Shire-Bree United
-12 Erebor, Imladris

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking, combined with the adjusted goal difference rank of each team. The listed offensive and defensive rankings are from the actual numbers by the teams, and not adjusted. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss record; and b) goal difference.

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

Top Individual Performers:

GOALS + ASSISTS

3+0
Scatha (Wilderland)

2+1
Curufin (FC Valinor)
Eöl (AC Beleriand)
Sauron (Barad-dûr)
Argon (FC Valinor)
Durin’s Bane (Misty Mts)

2+0
Glaurung (Nargothrond)
Ar-Pharazôn (Armenelos)
Eärendil (The Havens)
Aegnor (AC Beleriand)
Maedhros (Inter Beleriand)
Legolas (Dwarves United)
Gandalf (Shire-Bree United)
Aredhel (Tirion)
Grimbeorn (Anduin)

GOALKEEPING
100.0% – 5/5 – ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
100.0% – 3/3 – Huan (FC Valinor)
88.89% – 8/9 – Amroth (Anduin)
85.71% – 6/7 – Elrond (Eriador)
85.71% – 6/7 – Manwë (Valimar)
85.71% – 6/7 – Tulkas (Real Valinor)

the phantom

07-28-2013, 11:26 PM

A Look at Group Scenarios
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

In case you are wondering which teams look likely to advance, or to take first place, or have already done so etc. this is a handy little guide for where the teams stand with one game remaining.

GROUP A

Armenelos vs Barrow-Downs
Havens vs Valimar

No team here has clinched, and no one has been eliminated. Valimar and Armenelos are in the lead though, as both can clinch a spot with a win or a draw and can even survive a narrow loss, whereas Havens and Barrow-Downs need to win their games by two goals to take a spot. If Havens and BDowns both win 1-0, Valimar would advance in first and Havens in second.

GROUP B

AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United
Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin

AC Beleriand hasn’t technically clinched, but to be left out they’d need to lose by three goals to Dwarves United combined with Inter Beleriand beating Gondolin. If they lose to DwUnt let’s say 2-1 they’d still finish in first unless Inter beats Gondolin by two goals. If Inter and DwUnt both draw then Inter finishes ahead for the second spot. If DwUnt wins or draws and Inter loses then DwUnt qualifies. If AC beats DwUnt then Gondolin could qualify by beating Inter.

GROUP C

Shire-Bree United vs Real Valinor
Doriath vs Hithlum

Real has clinched a spot, and will finish first unless they lose to Shire-Bree United and Hithlum beats Doriath and the margins add up to 3 or more. Hithlum clinches the second spot with a draw unless SBUnt beats Real by at least four goals. Doriath can take the second spot with a win over Hithlum combined with a SBUnt loss, draw, or narrow win.

GROUP D

Barad-Dur vs FC Valinor
Gondor vs Isengard

FCVal has clinched a spot, but Barad-Dur can still finish first with a win over FCV. BDur clinches second with a draw, or with a Gondor loss or draw. Gondor can take second with a win combined with a BDur loss so long as the margin adds up to three. Isengard is eliminated.

GROUP E

Erebor vs Misty Mts
Eriador vs Wilderland

Eriador has clinched first place, and second place is up for grabs. If Erebor and Misty Mts draw then Wilderland clinches second with a win or draw. They can also clinch with a one goal loss and an Erebor-Misty draw so long as Erebor-Misty don’t outscore them by more than one goal (Wilderland is up two in goals scored). If Wilderland loses or draws then Erebor or Misty can claim second with a win.

GROUP F

Nargothrond vs Tirion
Minas Tirith vs The Sea

Minas Tirith is out, but that’s all that is known. If Nargothrond or Tirion pick up a win against the other then they will clinch first. The loser can still advance if Sea loses or draws against MTirith, but if Sea wins then they will take the second spot. If Nargothrond and Tirion draw then Sea can take the second slot from TIrion by beating MTirith by three goals, or only by two so long as they score more total goals than Tirion.

GROUP G

Angband vs Imladris
Angfauglith vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth

Technically no one is eliminated here, and first hasn’t been clinched. If TIG beats Angfauglith and Imladris beats Angband by two goals, Imladris can take second. If Angband draws they take second with a TIG win or draw. If Angband wins by only one goal TIG would still finish ahead with a one or two goal loss, and a two-goal loss would cause Angfauglith to tie with Angband on differential. A two-goal win by Angband safely clinches a spot. If Angband loses then Angfauglith takes a spot with a win or draw, and if Angband draws then Angfauglith needs to win to pass them.

GROUP H

Arnor vs Rohan
Anduin vs Mordor

Technically no one is eliminated here either. Anduin clinches first with a win or draw, while Mordor can clinch first by beating Anduin so long as Arnor doesn’t defeat Rohan by three or more goals. If Arnor loses or draws then Mordor can take second with a draw. If Mordor loses then Arnor can take second with a win or draw. Rohan can grab the second spot with a two goal win combined with Anduin beating Mordor by two goals.

What This Means for Phantasy Owners

Remember, most leagues limit trades once the final round of group play begins, so you don’t want too many players that are at risk of elimination. We’ve tried to look at the likelihood of various scenarios and narrow the teams into categories of how much of a risk it is to own players from those squads.

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS WILL BE GONE
Isengard
Minas Tirith

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE AT HIGH RISK
Imladris
Shire-Bree United
Rohan
The Barrow-Downs

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE AT RISK
Angfauglith
Arnor
Doriath
Dwarves United
Erebor
Gondolin
Gondor
Misty Mts
Mordor
The Havens
The Sea
Wilderland

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE AT SLIGHT RISK
Angband
Armenelos
Barad-Dur
Inter Beleriand
Hithlum
Nargothrond
Tirion
Valimar

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE RATHER SAFE
Anduin
AC Beleriand
Tol-In-Gaurhoth

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE ENTIRELY SAFE
Eriador
FC Valinor
Real Valinor

Boromir88

07-29-2013, 08:38 AM

TTN's Stars (Round 2)
-Boro88

ONE STAR

Goalies
Denethor II (Minas Tirith)
Elrond (Eriador)
Carcharoth (Angband)
Finarfin (Tirion)
Grishnakh (Barad-Dur)

After agreeing Elrond, Carcharoth, and Finarfin's shutout efforts should be rewarded with at least one star, and Grishnakh saving 4/5 in a close 2-1 victory for Barad-dur, the last goalie slot was a battle between Tar Atanamir, Beorn, and Denethor II. Tar Atanamir and Beorn, both like Grishnakh saved 4/5...Beorn's side however had fallen in a 0-1 defeat to Eriador. It's not a shame to lose a close game to Eriador, but this was a big game for Erebor and they came up short. Tar-Atanamir's efforts were good enough for a solid draw against the strong Valimar side, but based on both teams winning in round 1, and the Havens-BDowns game ending a draw the hype for the game was larger than the true impact the results had on the group.

But why give the last spot to Denethor II, Minas Tirith was eliminated by an 0-2 defeat to Tirion? I'm sure many will say it is TTN showing home team favoritism, but Denethor is the only one who has apparently decided to show up for Minas Tirith. In two games he's saved 12/17 as his defense is leaking big time, his offense is doing nothing, Denethor is the only one who kept Minas Tirith from another humiliating loss against Tirion.

Defenders
NilpWolf (TIG)
Eonwe (FC Valinor)
Gil-Galad (Eriador)
Morgoth (Angband)
Uinen (The Sea)

This week we thought the defensive leaders, who had commanded their teams to shutout wins had a stronger case than the defenders who gave up at least one goal but aided the offense with an assist (Celebrimbor, Rochallor, Radagast). NilpWof, Eonwe, Gil Galad, and Morgoth all had a dominating presense that just shutdown the opposing offenses. The Sea surrendered two goals, but Uinen's goal was instrumental in The Sea's tie with Nargothrond, and to keep The Sea's playoff chances beating.

Mid-fielders
Nazgul #1 (Mordor)
Nienor (Nargothrond)
Beleg (Hithlum)
Hador (Hithlum)
Earwen (The Havens)

This was one of the tougher positions to deal out stars, since there were really only two great performances from midfielders (Aegnor and Argon) this round, the rest were just ok. Hithlum's mid-field dominated the game against Shire-Bree and also showed up on the scoreboard, so Beleg and Hador were both givens one star each. Nazgul #1 had kept Mordor ahead for most of their game, and only a late surge the Witch-King saved Arnor's playoff chances. Earwen and Nienor both scored in their matches that ended in 2-2 draws and kept their team's playoff hopes alive.

Forwards
Turin (Hithlum)
Eol (AC Beleriand)
Ancalagon (Angband)
Eorl (Anduin)
Witch-King (Arnor)

The forwards were pretty straightforward this week, several FWs contributed with 1 goal and 1 assist in their games. The final slot came down to arguments made for the Witch-King, Araphor, and Arien. Araphor and Arien both had late game heroics. Araphor's goal was a game-winner, Arien's just a game-tier. Also, Arnor winning Mordor was more crucial, picking up 3 points and their playoff chances alive, over Valimar. Even if Valimar lost 0-1, they could still make the playoffs by simply beating Havens in Round 3.

We went with the Witch-King over Araphor though, because it was evident the Witch-King inspired the late offensive surge and deflated the Mordor team which looked strong and commanding the previous 70 minutes.

TWO STAR

Goalies
Arvedui (Arnor)
Galadriel (Dwarves Utd)

If The Witch-King led Arnor's offense to a late victory, it was Arvedui who kept the game close enough making the late heroics possible. His 5/6 saves kept victory within reach. Galadriel also saved 5/6 and we judged this was a better performance over any of the goalies who commanded shutouts. Galadriel was against a deadly Gondolin offense, and Dwarves United shocked the Arda world again when everyone had written the team off.

Defenders
Ingwion (Real Valinor)
Caranthir (Tirion)

The two defenders who did more than contribute to their teams shutouts, by also scoring a goal (Ingwion) or an assist (Caranthir)

Mid-fielders
Aegnor (AC Beleriand)
Argon (FC Valinor)

This was a no-brainer, Aegnor and Argon were clearly the two top mid-field performers this round.

Forwards
Sauron (Barad-Dur)
Durin's Bane (Misty Mts)

The Forwards were a little harder because there were several 1goal + 1 assist FWs this round. Ultimately Sauron contributed to both of Barad-durs goals in a 2-1 victory. While Durin's Bane contributed to both of Misty Mts goals in a 2-2 draw. Both results were important to their respective teams.

THREE STAR

Legolas, FW for Dwarves United.

There was considerable debate for the three-star performer too, would it be Ingwion's shutout and goal against Doriath? Well, that result was even more expected than the case we had for NilpWolf's shutout and goal against Angband in Round 1. What about Aegnor's 2 goals...were they better than Legolas' two goals? Again it wasn't shocking anyone AC Beleriand would beat Inter Beleriand, so that 3-1 victory was anticipated.

What no one anticipated was a team that had serious goal scoring problems, would get 2 goals from their elven forward and beat Gondolin 2-1, in Gondolin's own stadium. This put a dagger in the heart of the Gondolin fans. Their team is still not eliminated, but have a tough climb, as they fall victim to the resilient dwarven side.

Stars after 2 Rounds

THREE STARS
DF NilpWolf (TIG)
FW Curufin (FC Valinor)
FW Legolas (Dwarves Utd)

TWO STARS
GK Turgon (Inter Beleriand)
GK Tar Atanamir (Armenelos)
GK Arvedui (Arnor)
GK Galadriel (Dwarves Utd)
DF Fram (Anduin)
DF Ingwion (Real Valinor)
DF Caranthir (Tirion)
MF Irmo (Valimar)
MF Haldir (Anduin)
MF Aegnor (AC Beleriand)
MF Argon (FC Valinor)
FW Scatha (Wilderland)
FW Glaurung (Nargothrond)
FW Sauron (Barad-Dur)
FW Durin's Bane (Misty Mts)

Nogrod

07-29-2013, 05:11 PM

Group A
Valimar 4 3-1
Armenelos 4 3-2
The Havens 1 3-4
Barrow-Downs 1 2-4

Valimar and Armenelos seem to dominate the group and the most likely outcome would be that they will qualify leaving The Havens and The Barrow-Downs to the group-phase. But it is also possible all teams end up with four points each and it will be up to comparing the goal differences. But that would require a sort of a double-surprise as both Armenelos and Valimar can secure their qualification with a draw.

The numbers would also side with Valimar and Armenelos qualifying. Their goal keepers Manwë and Tar-Atanamir are way on another level than Amandil and Alien. Also Valimar is the superbly defending team and Armenelos attacks the best (at the moment the stats say The Havens attacks slightly more and with similar percentages than Armenelos but they haven’t played against the defencive powerhouse of Valimar unlike Armenelos – so that stat will change after the last games).

Armenelos vs. Barrow-Downs
Armenelos should win the Barrow-Downs quite confidently were it not for Bombadil who can change games almost single-handedly - well depending on the opponent. Facing a strong Valar-defence even Bombadil was made look more like a mortal – and Eriador beat then 3-0 in the friendlies (whether Bombadil was playing for real in that game remains in obscurity though).

It is very improbable Armenelos loses the game but a draw is a possibility – even if the AKM actually thinks the wise way to put one’s money is betting on an Armenelos win.

The AKM predicts: Armenelos wins 2-1 (or 3-1).

Valimar vs. The Havens
Arien is far from her glorious radiance with the new team but everyone is looking at her to start to deliver and she did score a goal on the last round. Meanwhile Lórien has risen up to answer the fans’ call with Ingwë, the High King of all Elves also finding his pace. So even if Arien still finds herself unsecure with her new team, it seems Valimar can score also without her – even if her awakening would finally make the team really dangerous also offensively.

Whatever, Valimar’s defences are just, well one of the best in the tournament – if not the best. And even if Eärendil would be “just the guy” to score against them – and a great striker in his own right – it just doesn’t seem like enough. and it is just because of Eärendil that the AKM will predict The Havens will score one.

The AKM predicts: Valimar wins 2-1.

An added factor: Now it wouldn’t be Arda Cup if there weren’t these hidden agendas… so whether Manwê’s dislike of Ar-Pharazôn and his likes crowding the Armenelos-team is enough for them to purposefully lose to their friends with the Havens allowing them a chance to qualify instead of Armenelos is a question worth asking oneself. Do they have any influence on Bombadil is another matter – for the Barrow-Downs would also need to win to make that possible… and that sounds unlikely without some divine intervention – which again, as the question begs, isn’t out of the question.

Group B
AC Beleriand 6 5-2
Inter Beleriand 3 3-3
Dwarves Utd. 3 2-3
Gondolin 0 2-4

AC Beleriand has practically secured their qulification already while the hosts Gondolin is almost certainly out – and thus it would seem to be a fight for the second qualification between Inter Belelriand and Dwarves United – with Inter the heavy favourites to qualify as they play Gondolin when Dwarves need to meet AC Beleriand. And that’s what the AKM will predict - but not without some reservations.

If Dwarves Utd. loses to AC Beleriand (which is more likely than not) and Gondolin wins Inter with one goal all three teams end up with the same points having cross-won each other – but Inter and Gondolin have similar and better goal-differentials than Dwarves Utd. dropping them off. And then we’d be seeing some penalty shoot-outs. If Gondolin wins with two goals or more they will qualify.

Dwarves Utd. has a chance of qualifying if they win. They can also qualify with a draw if Gondolin beats Inter Beleriand. Then again Inter Beleriand willl strongly disagree with both these scenariois – and the AKM believes their will shall actually prevail.

AC Beleriand vs. The Dwarves United
Now AC Beleriand is both the most active attacker and the most dangerous one in this group – actually one of the best in the whole tournament. At the same time Marach has turned out the coolest goalie of the group and AC Beleriand’s defences the hardest to break through. So even if Dwarves Utd’s more offensive playing style of this year has surprised and delighted many, with AC Beleriand they are having just a level too tough an opponent.

Celebrimbor is a mighty player but hardly match for his grandpa and uncles – and Aulë can take in only as much – but maybe Galadriel will prove the secret weapon messing with Fëanor’s head?
Well if that, then others than Fëanor will score the goals needed – and they, especially Aegnor and Eöl, have showed it in the last games they can do it.

The AKM predicts: AC Beleriand wins 3-1 (or 2-0).

Inter Beleriand vs. Gondolin
One could say team Gondolin is the prodigal son of this group: they attack and shoot as actively as AC Beleriand but have scored only two goals while AC Bel has scored five with the same amount of shots…But the wasted opportunities are not their only problem – Rôg is. That sounds like being rude but it is also true: while all the other keepers of the group have saving-percentages from 73-78%, Rôg’s is a disappointing 63,6%.

Inter Beleriand on the other hand has shown efficient finishing – and why not as Maedhros and Fingon are as dangerous they’ve ever been. It seems after the splendid last season Beren has had some problems fitting into the team (1+2 in four games would be good for most of the players but people naturally anticipate more from him). But if he does find his place there it is going to make Inter Beleriand a lot more dangerous team.

That said, it is going to be a tough match indeed. Gondolin did force Hithulm into a draw in the friendlies and will not give up their chance of qualification in front of the home-crowds – so Inter, lacking the stamina and aggressiveness of AC Beleriand will face a tough evening if they wish to win the game. The problem for Gondolin though is that even a draw might be enough for Inter Beleriand – if AC Bel wins Darves Utd. in the other game.

The AKM predicts: draw 2-2 (or Inter Beleriand wins 2-1).

Group C
Real Valinor 6 5-1
Hithlum 3 5-4
Doriath 1 1-3
Shire-Bree Utd. 1 2-5

Real Valinor is one of the few teams that have already secured their qualification 100%. They could lose to Shire-Bree 0-6 but would still qualify. Even if both the home-team Doriath and Shire-Bree have their chances of qualifying the AKM thinks Hithlum will take the other qualifying position: after seeing the way they crushed Shire-Bree it is hard to see how Doriath could challenge them for real.

So one game has no relevance to the other team involved – unless one thinks of tactical issues aka. Real rather wishing to go to the “lower” bracket and avoid meeting FC Valinor & AC Beleriand (well there they’d have T-I-G to face – a team most traditional teams would like to leave to others to deal with). Although that result would require both a big loss to Real and Doriath being able to beat Hithlum. It is hard to se Real trying that way.

Which means the winner of the other game decides the other qualifier – and only a few would bet on Doriath on that.

Real Valinor vs. Shire-Bree United
Real Valinor is just on a different class from Shire-Bree. A simple comparison might do well to explicate it: Shire-Bree’s most dangerous player and the soul of their team, Gandalf, is the apprentice of Nienna, just a Real Valinor defender (aka. not a star of their team – just a solid back). Also the intimidating power of the Nazgûls would seem nonexistent when facing the Valar, Maiar and Noldor based line of the opposing team.

And what is worst to Shire-Bree: Real Valinor has one of the most aggressive offences while their own defences are one of the worst in the whole tournament – Halbarad seriously fighting for the position of the worst goalie in the tournament with his 54,5% saving-percentage.

The AKM predicts: Real Valinor wins 3-0.

Doriath vs. Hithlum
It looks pretty grim for the homeside. They need to win Hithlum and that is a mighty task against the offencive machine they have against them. Hithlum has kind of underperformed in their friendlies and the first round, but their 4-1 victory over Shire-Bree last round kind of showed what they are cabable of.

The hope the hometeam has relies then on defence. Melian is quite a wizard in it. And maybe with some fast counter-attacks Mablung or Elwë could score from? Huor sure isn’t one of the hottest goalies… But even if Doriath’s defences were capable, the Hithlum offence just looks overwhelming: Túrin, Húrin, Beleg, Hador Lorindol… and even if a Balrog would not be a cause for overt “fear and trembling” for the Doriath offences he would be an obstacle enough to make it hard for Elwë and Mablung to break free from.

Doriath will not be an easy opponent to Hithlum – the game has indeed the ingredients of a classic brewing with all the old friendships, debts and rivalries. But the AKM will still see Hithlum the winners.

The AKM predicts: Hithlum wins 2-0 (or 2-1).

Group D
FC Valinor 6 6-0
Barad Dûr 4 3-2
Gondor 1 1-3
Isengard 0 1-6

FC Valinor is another team that has already secure qualification – while Isengard is another team that has no chance of qualifying any more. Now how much these facts affect the results of the last round is hard to say: some play seriously just for the virtue or honour of it while others might just not give a darn. Or whether there are some tactical considerations that overrun pride? No-one knows.

The gret interest for this group surely is in the game between Gondor and Isengard: if Gondor manages to win Isengard while FC Valinor holds Barad-Dûr at bay it will mean Gondor qualifies – while Barad-Dûr needs to go at least for the least possible disadvantage with the goal-difference. So will FC Valinor lighten up to score a lot or not?

Gondor will need a lot of goals against Isengard while Barad-Dûr needs to lose FC Valinor as little as possible (or to draw or win of course). And how will FC Valinor and Isengard take their role in this fight for qualification between the two other teams?

FC Valinor vs. Barad-Dûr
It is hard to see FC Valinor having any symphaties towards Sauron. On the contrary it looks more like a game they’d love to win – and with players like Curufin, Celegorm, Huan and Eönwe in the team it looks improbable they would play lazily even if they are already qualified.

Barad-Dûr’s defence has thus far shown some qualities but it will be put in a totally different test with the attack of FC Valinor, and even if the wizards might prove worthy recruits on this game it hardly looks they’re going to keep FC from scoring.

Now whether FC Valinor would purposefully lose to get a place on the lower bracket is a possibility you might imagine players like Curufin or Celegorm to entertain – but as it would demand a loss to Sauron – well forget it. Their honour would not admit it.

The AKM predicts: FC Valinor wins 3-0 (3-1).

Gondor vs. Isengard
This game should end in a win for Gondor – not the least because Isengard has no chances to qualify any more while Gondor has all the reason to play it with full stamina. Does that mean Gondor has all the pressure while Isengard can play pressure-free? Well it does – and that could be a problem for Gondor.

A second problem for Gondor is that even if the ents, Uruk-Hai, a Nazgûl and a wizard were no serious opposition to Sauron and his minions aided by a few wizards, or the Valar & Maiar and Noldorian heroes aided by Thorondor – team Gondor only consists of men and there might be a difference here called intimidation…

So it will be a lot closer game the stats might tell one. That said the AKM still believes Gondor will win the day – or at least draw, which would be the victory for Saruman, being able to aid his master in the end.

The AKM predicts Gondor wins 2-1 (or a draw 1-1).

Group E
Eriador 6 3-1
Wilderland 2 5-5
Erebor 1 3-4
Misty Mts. 1 3-4

Eriador has cleared their qualification already – actually they have secured their place as number 1 of the group which means they will play most probably against Barad-Dûr or Gondor on the first round of the qualifications – a much more reasonable opposition many other teams will have. So are they feeling too good already? Well they shouldn’t even if their defences seem to work. Thus far for they kept reasonably strong attack of Erebor at bay – this round they will be tested Wilderland who can’t afford to lose and will thusly come with full strength against them.

Basically all the other three teams have a chance to qualify which predicts a hot last round at Erebor and Mirkwood. And to make it even more interesting, the one of the three having two points (Wilderland) is playing the thusly unbeaten Eriador at their homeforest (well home for Thranduil and kind of for some others) while the two with only one point meet at the Arkenstone Arena.

What that means is the following: If either Erebor or Misty Mts. wins their mutual game Wilderland is out unless it wins it’s own game against Eriador. In the case Erebor and Misty Mts. draw Wilderland’s hopes reside in the number of goals they have scored – and it has an upper hand there at the moment but sadly is facing a team who has only allowed one goal thus far while it’s rivals are not exactly masters of defence when clashing against each other. So all the three will wish to score – a lot.

Eriador vs. Wilderland
Eriador kept Smaug and a Nazgûl at bay so there is no need to think Scatha and a lesser Nazgûl would break down their defences. Thranduil, playing in front of his homecrowds might be a bit tricksier, especially aided by the first elves, if compared to Bard and Bolg they totally shut out.

That said Eriador blocked the attacking frenzy of Erebor neatly letting them only shoot 3/12 and there is to begin with no reason to believe they wouldn’t be able to contain Wilderland’s attacking fury as well. But there is a but – and that is that Wilderland is desperate for a win and will bring forth all they have.

Adding to that Eriador’s somewhat easy-going attitude to the games aka that they are not trying to win every game 6-0 if less is enough creates kind of an interesting situation were defender-champions team Eriador already belly-full meets attacking prowess of Wilderland crazy for a win…

The AKM predicts (after some serious to and fro): Draw 2-2 (or Eriador wins 2-1).

Erebor vs. Misty Mountains
Unless Wilderland surprises most everyone with a win over Eriador then the winner of this game will qualify – and the hungry homecrowds want and see Erebor to be that team. The problem is that even if there were not too many betting on Misty Mts. to have any say in this group before the tournament, now at the crucial moment they actually seem to have some. It is clear Misty Mts. is one of the most positive surprises this year.

Erebor sure has the backing of the frenzied homeside behind them but otherwise the stats look perplexingly even.

After both teams have met Wilderland and Eriador they have the same draw (with Wilderland) and a loss (to Eriador with one goal) and thus the same goal-difference, and actually also the same numbers of goals scored vs. allowed (3-4), and both have allowed about as many shots (Erebor 12/30 vs. Misty Mts. 13/30).

The difference between the two lies in the fact that Erebor shoots overall about 30% - and on target 25% - more than Misty Mts. But on the other side of the coin Misty Mts. has been 25% more accurate on their scoring and Chief Wolf’s saving percentage of 69,2% actually beats that of Beorn’s 66,7% - even if the difference there isn’t that remarkable (Beorn has let 4/12 shots in while Chief Wolf has let in 4/13 – so a one shot difference).

Statistically it does smell of a draw – but the AKM feels there is a slight edge favouring the home-team.

The AKM predicts: Erebor wins 3-2 (or draw 2-2).

Group F
Nargothrond 4 5-2
Tirion 4 3-1
The Sea 2 3-3
Minas Tirith 0 0-5

No one has secured qualification from this group but Minas Tirith has lost their hopes for it and are out. So it is a threeway game here – and it might end up hair-risingly close.

Whatever happens in the other game, the winners of the game between Nargothrond and Tirion will qualify – and Nargothrond will qualify also with a draw. But those are the only safe results and everything else is up in the air.

To put it into a nutshell. So Nargothrond qualifies with a win and with a draw. If they lose to Tirion they can still advance if The Sea doesn’t win Minas Tirith – but that surely is hypothetical. Tirion in turn qualifies with a win, but with a draw it goes down to goal-differentials, assuming The Sea beats MT naturally. In case of a draw between Nargothrond and Tirion the following takes place: if the Sea wins MT with one goal Tirion qualifies, if the difference between The Sea and MT is more than two goals The Sea qualifies. But if the difference is exactly two goals, well then it goes more subtle as the goal difference would be the same – and then the number of goals made overall would decide – and as the starting point is the same (three goals made by both teams) it means whichever team scores more on the last round qualifies.

The Sea has the most uncertain future of all the three contenders as even (the most probable) win will not secure their qualification – but a draw or loss would mean certain disqualification. Now if either teams of the other game loses the game (aka. it is not a draw) The Sea qualifies just winning Minas Tirith. But if the other game ends up in a draw they need to win preferably with three goals.

So both Tirion and The Sea wish to score a lot and Nargothrond’s philosophy has always been outscoring the opponents – so what a round of games to see! The AKM promises a lot of goals! And it is such a shame one of the three teams will have to drop from the tournament while there is fex. group H where every team would be just plain overrun by any of the three. But well, that’s tournament games…

The Sea vs. Minas Tirith
The Sea would seem to face the easiest team to score against with this last round’s scoring-competition. Tirion won Minas Tirith 2-0 and that is the minimum they will have to reach – so the question becomes can the Númenorian strikers deliver when needed, or will Ulmo himself – or Uinen who scored in the previous game – rise up to the occasion to add in the attack?

The AKM doesn’t see a reason to bet for Minas Tirith. They are not only out-classed in quality by The Sea but there is also the question of incentive. Now someone might object to the latter by saying that honour can be even stronger motivator to great deeds, even if there is no hope of reaching your goal. And The AKM will accept the statement. But will add that Ulmo’s The Sea has as much of their honour at stake here (for losing to Minas Tirith would be so embarrasing) but they have the added motivator in their real chance of qualifying.

Were the opposing team any other than Minas Tirith (who hasn’t yet scored a single goal) we might entertain a possibility of them scoring one goal when The Sea is too busy attacking and possibly their defence vulnerable by that. But Minas Tirith will not be able to use that opportunity.

The AKM predicts: The Sea wins 2-0 (or 3-0).

Tirion vs. Nargothrond
A draw would be enough for Nargothrond and sure Finrod, Orodreth and Finduilas should have some feelings towards their father/grandfathers/grandgrandfathers and just plain not wish to win them if it would mean the relegation of their own elders while another team would qualify.

Now sure that will not be Nargothrond’s general policy and the team goes for a win like any honourable team – but it might prove a small factor in the subconsciousness of those of the line of Finwë.

That said, the teams look pretty close: Nargothrond looks somewhat better of the two on offence and Tirion in defence – and both are pretty much top-class teams in both. And the game smells of a draw.

The AKM predicts: draw 2-2.

Group G
Tol-In-Gaurhoth 6 4-0
Angband 3 2-2
Anfaughlith 3 1-2
Imladris 0 0-3

Imladris has theoretical chances of qualifying and in the same vein it is theoretically possible that the T-I-G team will not reach the semifinals. The AKM does not hold either of the scenarios in the least bit believable and sticks to “the game” being played between Angband and Anfaughlith for the second position behind the T-I-G team.

Looking the last game-pairs from that perspective reveals the fact that Angband is very well set to qualify while Anfaughlith’s chances are thin indeed: both Angband losing (or not winning) Imladris and Anfaughlith beating T-I-G would both be major surprises indeed. So T-I-G and Angband will qualify.

Angband vs. Imladris
Imladris’ fate was sealed already with the group-selection but the team has still been a bit of a teethless disappointment. They did score two against Misty Mts. and one against Arnor in the friendlies while drawing with both teams – but with the group games they have not scored a ingle goal and their goal-difference is 0-3. Varda is quality in defence and the young Elladan and Elrohir should be decent forwards but nothing seems to happen: the opponents score the goals needed and they themselves are left scoreless.

That trend looks like continuing against team angband who are keen on qualifying and will not wish to leave anything for second-quessing. The only problem the AKM sees for Angband is that unlike the wolves of T-I-G or the Balrogs of Anfaughlith, Varda might be an exceptionally terrifying defender to their attackers. Not that it would mean Imladris had a chance to win the game, but it might mean Angband is not going to win with ugly numbers.

The AKM predicts: Angband wins 1-0 (or 2-0 the most).

Anfaughlith vs. Tol-In-Gaurhoth
Anfaughlith seems to be falling short of the goal once again even if their team is not that bad – it is actually pretty strong one but is just in too tough a company.

The only chance the AKM sees for them to draw or win this game is if T-I-G goes into one of their extravaganzes and decides to take the day off after securing the qualification or something along the lines. But if the T-I-G plays it in some serious fashion there’s no hope for Anfaughlith: their scoring sucks and their famous defence doesn’t seem to hold that well against Angband – so why would it suddenly against T-I-G who beat Angband 2-0?

Believing the T-I-G will play the game for real…

The AKM predicts: T-I-G wins 2-0.

Group H
Anduin 6 4-1
Mordor 3 3-2
Arnor 3 2-3
Rohan 0 1-4

So Anduin has already qualified while Rohan’s chances are not far from being purely theoretical (they’d need to win Arnor with pretty definitive numbers). The surprise team Mordor with it’s 51 million budget stands now their backs against the wall, for carrying forwards from the group phase they’d need to beat Anduin who even if possibly already satisfied with their qualification would love to see a Mordor team sink and let Arnor to qualify instead.

In the optimal situation for Arnor even a draw with Rohan could be enough but they will not be letting things into second guessing if they can just win and do it – and in the case of a threeway-tie they are actually in the worst situation in what comes to the goal-differences, so they’ll sure do what they can – and it is a nice later-age men derby between the northern Dúnedain and Rohanians, so the aKM thinks both teams will give their best.

Arnor vs. Rohan
So Rohan will fall with honour. Why is it thay will fall? Well, first of all northern Dúnedain kings are stronger and have more stamina than Rohanians in general. Secondly the Rohan team have a couple of Mearas to help them (which is actually one of their greatest weapons in defence) and the King of the Dead. But on Arnor team there are not only the Witch-King (who can win games alone when in the mood or needed) but also Elendil organizing the defence.

Team Rohan’s blood was drawn too heavily after the glorious last season and this is now the result – they will stay in the group-phase even if their effort would have been valiant, at times (referring to the 0-2 defeat to Mordor).

The AKM predicts: Arnor wins 2-1 (or even 3-1).

Anduin vs. Mordor
Mordor will do its best to fight Anduin and to qualify but it will just not be enough against an opponent not only that much better than they but also – despite their qualification already – because of their willingness to throw Mordor out of the tournament just for the pleasure or righteousness of it.

After two games their stats on shooting and allowing the opponent to shoot look pretty much similar (and the opponents have been the same) – but Arnor is clearly the more efficient finisher and Amroth nicely “outkeeps” the Watcher. That said Mordor is decent team enough to not let Anduin just walk over them – and thus the ending numbers might be tighter some would like them to be ot would foresee them.

The AKM predicts: Anduin wins 2-1.

Boromir88

07-30-2013, 04:15 PM

TTN Predictions: Round 3

GROUP A

Armenelos vs. The Barrowdowns-
Now the Downs did well to spoil a pseudo-home victory for the Havens, but it won't be the same against Armenelos. Armenelos' physical and tactical prowess will be too much for the Downs, and considering the Valimar crowd have cause to protest the Downer fans, Armenelos may actually no longer be public enemy #1 in the Blessed Realm. *Armenelos wins 3-1.

Havens vs. Valimar-
The Havens really needed to win the Barrowdowns to advance. They might be good enough to draw with Valimar, but a draw won't be enough. And we don't see anyway Manwe, Arien and co. will let a playoff appearance slip away, when they're playing at home. *Valimar wins 2-1.

GROUP B

AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United-
Dwarves United doesn't have anymore tricks remaining up their sleeves. Their victory over Gondolin insures AC Beleriand won't overlook them as an easy opponent. But if they were shut out by Inter, AC Beleriand should get a confident shutout here. *ACBeleriand wins 2-0.

Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin-
TTN had predicted Gondolin to take 2nd place before the round robin, but a disappointing loss to Dwarves United has nearly dashed all hopes. Gondolin can still advance with a 2-goal victory, but all gameplay and stats show that is an extreme longshot. A one-goal victory by Gondolin would put the 2 in a virtual tie and then which one advances? Shootout to determine 2nd place? The reason Gondolin won't advance this year though, Rog. *Draw 2-2.

GROUP C

Shire-Bree United vs Real Valinor-
Shire-Bree is outclassed in every aspect of the game. Their only quality player able to keep up with a team of Valar and their friends is Gandalf. Against the Valar one might expect some type of "gentlemen's" approach, where they only play respectfully as not to embarrass Shire-Bree, but that's not consistent with Tulkas' teams. *Real Valinor wins 3-0.

Doriath vs Hithlum-
We do agree with AKM here, that despite the large differences in the payroll of both teams, thie will be a closer and a more intriguing battle. In the end Hithlum's an offensive powerhouse and Doriath is no Real Valinor to be able to keep it contained. *Hithlum wins 4-2.

GROUP D

Barad-Dur vs FC Valinor-
Group D is going to be a tough one to figure out this round. It's clear FC Valinor will sweep the group, but how hard will they press to wrack up goals against Barad-Dur? And Barad-Dur will surely be going all in...how much success they'll have, well we're not betting much. Although Sauron poses a more dangerous threat than Quickbeam and Eldacar. And the blue wizards are better equipped to take on the deadly duo of Celegorm and Curufin. *FC Valinor wins 3-1.

Gondor vs Isengard-
How hard will Isengard be trying on this game already eliminated is unknown. But also what must be considered is Sauron's part ownership of Isengard might give them enough spirit to play spoiler against Gondor. They'll be able to stay with Gondor on the field, but will they have enough motivation to push for a win? *Draw 1-1.

GROUP E

Erebor vs Misty Mts-
Here's the match TTN has been waiting to see. We predicted earlier, that we didn't like the make-up of the Erebor team this year and put Misty Mountains forward as the other qualifier. Both teams look dead even, so that gives evidence the Mountains will be able to hang with Erebor, but it also begs the question are they good enough to get the win? A draw will not be good enough. *Misty Mountains wins 3-2.

Eriador vs Wilderland-
Eriador doesn't have the same ability to score when needed, like last year, but their defense and Elrond is just as good as ever (which isn't surprising). Wilderland's a decent team, but they won't score 2 against Eriador, and thats what they will need. *Eriador wins 2-1.

GROUP F

Nargothrond vs Tirion-
This is going to be the group filled with the most anticipation. Nargothrond's playing much better than their form last year. Tirion is showing their quality now that they're not in a murderous group. It's unfortunate one of these 3 teams will miss the playoffs, be we haven't the slightest clue which one. We'll go with our beginning of year picks. *Nargothrond wins 3-2.

Minas Tirith vs The Sea-
It must be said The Sea has been a disappointment so far, granted they haven't lost. It's always hard to beat Ulmo's team, but in this group not losing (or even winning 1-0) might not be good enough. It's hard to think all that high payroll going down the drain if The Sea is eliminated, but that might happen. *The Sea wins 2-0.

GROUP G

Angband vs Imladris-
Angband bounced back nicely, behind their strong defensive efforts, and we don't expect Imladris to be able to pull off any surprises. They're all alone in a sea of baddies and have not lost their dignity or honour. But they're still losing. *Angband wins 1-0.

Angfauglith vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth-
Tol In Gaurhoth has looked sharper than anyone so far in this tournament and Angfauglith has serious problems in the mid-field. Angfauglith looks to be a tougher match-up defensively for the wolves and with advancement almost surely secure, perhaps TIG will be off on their game a bit and take it too easily. Draw 1-1.

GROUP H

Arnor vs Rohan-
Arnor did well in a comeback against Mordor and Rohan has looked like one of the worst teams in the tournament thus far. I mean I know teams like Minas Tirith and Imladris haven't scored, but they're also up against significantly tougher competition. Group H is the weakest this year and Rohan is still not playing very well. It'll be an interesting match if only because Dunedain vs. Rohanion royalty, so it will just be a good clean game showcasing the skills of both teams. But nothing memorable or special for the recordbooks. *Draw 2-2.

Anduin vs Mordor-
TTN picked Mordor as one of our longshot chances to advance out of Group H. Nearly everyone else had Mordor written off as easy fodder, but they've been a worthy and difficult opponent. It at least showed the Arda world Mordor could rise again if someone actually invested some more money into the team. But their key must win match was last round against Arnor, and they couldn't hold onto it. Andun has played up to their talent so far, and it's hard to see with an attack force of Grimbeorn, Eorl, Boromir II and Haldir that they'll be troubled by Mordor's defense that relies on fear and pure evil will. *Anduin wins 3-1.

Boromir88

07-30-2013, 04:17 PM

TTN Predictions: Round 3

GROUP A

Armenelos vs. The Barrowdowns-
Now the Downs did well to spoil a pseudo-home victory for the Havens, but it won't be the same against Armenelos. Armenelos' physical and tactical prowess will be too much for the Downs, and considering the Valimar crowd have cause to protest the Downer fans, Armenelos may actually no longer be public enemy #1 in the Blessed Realm. *Armenelos wins 3-1.

Havens vs. Valimar-
The Havens really needed to win the Barrowdowns to advance. They might be good enough to draw with Valimar, but a draw won't be enough. And we don't see anyway Manwe, Arien and co. will let a playoff appearance slip away, when they're playing at home. *Valimar wins 2-1.

GROUP B

AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United-
Dwarves United doesn't have anymore tricks remaining up their sleeves. Their victory over Gondolin insures AC Beleriand won't overlook them as an easy opponent. But if they were shut out by Inter, AC Beleriand should get a confident shutout here. *ACBeleriand wins 2-0.

Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin-
TTN had predicted Gondolin to take 2nd place before the round robin, but a disappointing loss to Dwarves United has nearly dashed all hopes. Gondolin can still advance with a 2-goal victory, but all gameplay and stats show that is an extreme longshot. A one-goal victory by Gondolin would put the 2 in a virtual tie and then which one advances? Shootout to determine 2nd place? The reason Gondolin won't advance this year though, Rog. *Draw 2-2.

GROUP C

Shire-Bree United vs Real Valinor-
Shire-Bree is outclassed in every aspect of the game. Their only quality player able to keep up with a team of Valar and their friends is Gandalf. Against the Valar one might expect some type of "gentlemen's" approach, where they only play respectfully as not to embarrass Shire-Bree, but that's not consistent with Tulkas' teams. *Real Valinor wins 3-0.

Doriath vs Hithlum-
We do agree with AKM here, that despite the large differences in the payroll of both teams, thie will be a closer and a more intriguing battle. In the end Hithlum's an offensive powerhouse and Doriath is no Real Valinor to be able to keep it contained. *Hithlum wins 4-2.

GROUP D

Barad-Dur vs FC Valinor-
Group D is going to be a tough one to figure out this round. It's clear FC Valinor will sweep the group, but how hard will they press to wrack up goals against Barad-Dur? And Barad-Dur will surely be going all in...how much success they'll have, well we're not betting much. Although Sauron poses a more dangerous threat than Quickbeam and Eldacar. And the blue wizards are better equipped to take on the deadly duo of Celegorm and Curufin. *FC Valinor wins 3-1.

Gondor vs Isengard-
How hard will Isengard be trying on this game already eliminated is unknown. But also what must be considered is Sauron's part ownership of Isengard might give them enough spirit to play spoiler against Gondor. They'll be able to stay with Gondor on the field, but will they have enough motivation to push for a win? *Draw 2-2.

GROUP E

Erebor vs Misty Mts-
Here's the match TTN has been waiting to see. We predicted earlier, that we didn't like the make-up of the Erebor team this year and put Misty Mountains forward as the other qualifier. Both teams look dead even, so that gives evidence the Mountains will be able to hang with Erebor, but it also begs the question are they good enough to get the win? A draw will not be good enough. *Misty Mountains wins 3-2.

Eriador vs Wilderland-
Eriador doesn't have the same ability to score when needed, like last year, but their defense and Elrond is just as good as ever (which isn't surprising). Wilderland's a decent team, but they won't score 2 against Eriador, and thats what they will need. *Eriador wins 2-1.

GROUP F

Nargothrond vs Tirion-
This is going to be the group filled with the most anticipation. Nargothrond's playing much better than their form last year. Tirion is showing their quality now that they're not in a murderous group. It's unfortunate one of these 3 teams will miss the playoffs, be we haven't the slightest clue which one. We'll go with our beginning of year picks. *Nargothrond wins 3-2.

Minas Tirith vs The Sea-
It must be said The Sea has been a disappointment so far, granted they haven't lost. It's always hard to beat Ulmo's team, but in this group not losing (or even winning 1-0) might not be good enough. It's hard to think all that high payroll going down the drain if The Sea is eliminated, but that might happen. *The Sea wins 2-0.

GROUP G

Angband vs Imladris-
Angband bounced back nicely, behind their strong defensive efforts, and we don't expect Imladris to be able to pull off any surprises. They're all alone in a sea of baddies and have not lost their dignity or honour. But they're still losing. *Angband wins 1-0.

Angfauglith vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth-
Tol In Gaurhoth has looked sharper than anyone so far in this tournament and Angfauglith has serious problems in the mid-field. Angfauglith looks to be a tougher match-up defensively for the wolves and with advancement almost surely secure, perhaps TIG will be off on their game a bit and take it too easily. Draw 1-1.

GROUP H

Arnor vs Rohan-
Arnor did well in a comeback against Mordor and Rohan has looked like one of the worst teams in the tournament thus far. I mean I know teams like Minas Tirith and Imladris haven't scored, but they're also up against significantly tougher competition. Group H is the weakest this year and Rohan is still not playing very well. It'll be an interesting match if only because Dunedain vs. Rohanion royalty, so it will just be a good clean game showcasing the skills of both teams. But nothing memorable or special for the recordbooks. *Draw 2-2.

Anduin vs Mordor-
TTN picked Mordor as one of our longshot chances to advance out of Group H. Nearly everyone else had Mordor written off as easy fodder, but they've been a worthy and difficult opponent. It at least showed the Arda world Mordor could rise again if someone actually invested some more money into the team. But their key must win match was last round against Arnor, and they couldn't hold onto it. Andun has played up to their talent so far, and it's hard to see with an attack force of Grimbeorn, Eorl, Boromir II and Haldir that they'll be troubled by Mordor's defense that relies on fear and pure evil will. *Anduin wins 3-1.

Nilpaurion Felagund

07-31-2013, 10:36 PM

Elenrod:: Today: thousand-yard stares at the ready; classic relegation shock as Gondolin get shot by Legolas and Dwarves United, and the Havens get clattered by the Saucepan Man and the Downs, leaving both teams with zero wins. Elsewhere, more elimination blues as Imladris and Minas Tirith are still unable to get on the score sheet, with defensive powerhouses Angband and the Sea still waiting on the last day. Meanwhile, in Menegroth: “Don’t panic”, says Túrin and company, as the Hithlum scoring machine finally churns out goals. All these stories, predictions, quotes, and more, in today’s Matchday. Joining me today is the hopefully on-form tactical expert, Maikalomion.

Maika: Hello.

Elenrod: And the hopefully out-of-form, with regards to making controversial comments, Adam Smith.

Adam:: Still not the economist.

Elenrod: Indeed. With them is, in whatever form he is, Felagundion.

Adam: How was the lottery?

Felagundion: Wasted a hundred on my first week. I don’t think trying my luck is the way out of slavery.

Elenrod: The same could be said of many of this week’s teams, don’t you think? As usual, we’ll make our way down the list, starting with Group A. Now, what happened to the Havens?

Adam: Alien looked like he had one of those days any top-flight goalie has, when nothing but the absolute best shots seems to get past him. Combine that with an interested Bombadil, and the Havens were lucky not to lose.

Felagundion: The Barrow-downs were as dogged—and disruptive—as their fans. And they’ve chosen a grand stage to show that to the world.

Maika: As for the other game, we see glimpses of Arien’s 2012 form with his game for Valimar. It’s just so sad that she’s not getting enough touches. From what we’ve seen last year you know she can participate in the build-up play as well as bang in the goals. It doesn’t it have to be her against the entire defence, like what Legolas did; she can get Irmo and Ingwë involved in the attack.

Felagundion: All Manwë teams—heck, many Valar teams this year: Aulë’s, Ulmo’s, and Varda’s, for example—play a low-tempo game. Combine that with Valimar’s inability to dominate possession against a cohesive Armenelos midfield, that leads to how little of the ball Arien sees. Valinor and Real were very much up-tempo team—recover possession, then three passes later they’re in the opposition box. That’s where she thrived.

Adam: Next round they face a Havens team with a similarly cohesive midfield, especially with their double pivot of Eärwen and Mithrellas. So expect more of the same for Arien, I guess.

Elenrod: Any predictions for the final round?

Adam: Assuming Bombadil reverts to being uninterested, 2-0 Armenelos.

Maika: 1-all for the other one. No, 2-1 Valimar—the Havens defence is atrocious, and I expect Arien and one of Valimar’s midfielders to score.

Elenrod: That’s it then. Moving along…

Felagundion: Poor Gondolin. They met Leggy on his day, when his usually mediocre first touch was impeccable.

Adam: First goal was offside, though.

Felagundion: That wouldn’t have been anywhere near a goal had Penlod challenged the ball in the air instead of getting into a foot race with Leggy.

Adam: Hey, Penlod is fast. He was a poacher for Vinyamar, where he played more to his explosive speed than his height to get into the box and score those late winners.

Felagundion: Yes, but this and that are different. Over short distances of five to ten metres his sprinting is gold, but if your defensive strategy hinges on him running twenty meters to chase a water bug then you’ve lost.

Maika: I guess it’s just poor team-building on Gondolin’s part. They have a solid front five—when they switched to 4-1-3-2 to chase the game, they created a lot of chances and troubled Aulë enough to force him to change formations. But the ‘1’ in their 4-1-3-2 is not a real holding midfielder, and their defenders aren’t ones you want playing a high line. That’s why they’re so open in the middle and vulnerable to counterattacks.

Felagundion: They should’ve got a horse or an eagle instead. By the way, did any of you catch what Azaghâl said in the post-game press conference?

Elenrod: When he was bashed by the local press for how they treated the Gondolin players?

Felagundion: ‘Do you mean when we were a little bit rough with the tackling? In our league, we do that quite often. That's actually allowed in football.’ Brilliant quote.

Elenrod: Any comment on the other game? Or is that what you expected from the Beleriand derby?

Adam: AC Bel are still pretty much the bigger fish between the two, so yeah.

Felagundion: Denethor! I love him and his long diagonal passes. If your team is based on playing on the wings and outnumbering full-backs, then he’s gonna create a lot of chances.

Elenrod: What do you think happens to their next games?

Felagundion: 2-0 AC Bel. I expect Leggy to regress to the mean, fluff chances again, and he won’t be running past Rochallor. Also, Marach, unlike Rog, actually comes out of his box to clear long balls.

Maika: 2-1 Inter. Gondolin will have to attack, and that plays right into their hands. The next meeting between Beren and Salgant won’t be pretty. He’ll probably get sent off again.

Elenrod: On to Menegroth we go then. So what do we have here? Two teams just proving they’re on a different level to the other two?

Adam: Yeah, that’s basically it. But I’m worried about Hithlum. When you pay their attackers too much respect, when you set up defences a little closer to your box and concede the midfield, that’s when they shine, score four like they did here. But the teams in the quarterfinals or semis won’t give them that. They’d be like Real—be in-your-face and try to deny Túrin and company the ball.

Felagundion: In the other game, for a few minutes Real turned into the 1970s Netherlands team, dragging Doriath defenders all over the pitch. I’d be wary of them doing that against better squads, though—if they give away possession, and the opposition manages to find a mismatch quickly, that’s pretty much a goal conceded. Imagine if Ancalagon gets matched up with Enerdhil.

Elenrod: Predictions?

Felagundion: Can’t I just say both will be cricket scores? Oh, all right. 3-1 Hithlum.

Adam: 3-0 Real.

Elenrod: All right, then. Maika, you were a little bit quiet there. Not interested?

Maika: Not much to analyse, is there?

Elenrod: That’s true. Maybe Group D will be more to your liking.

Maika: Well, both teams who won had more talent than the teams they beat. Gondor’s approach was interesting, though. They didn’t just park the bus; they offered something going forward. It almost paid off, too—they created the first clear chance of the game. Eldacar should’ve converted that.

Felagundion: Didn’t you find Isengard scoring first vs Barad-dûr interesting?

Maika: Not really. Barad-dûr must have been expecting Quickbeam to win aerial balls, so they put the fellbeasts on him. They were then surprised when Saruman played a ball to his feet. But they adjusted after that and he was quiet for the rest of the game.

Elenrod: How do you think Gondor would fare against FC Val?

Maika: That’s a tough one… Barad-dûr has a better defence, and a slightly better offence, than Gondor. But enough to score against FC Val? I think 2-0 FC Val.

Adam: So second seed hinges on Gondor’s score vs Isengard. Hmm… 2-1 Gondor? Penalties for the last spot?

Elenrod: I guess that’s it for Group D. How about Group E? Will Erebor still make it? Do Misty Mts have a chance?

Maika: Aside from Eriador, this group looks open. Well, Wilderland are in a tough spot—they’re playing Eriador.

Felagundion: Which they can win. Erebor lost just by a goal.

Maika: It was a pretty comprehensive 1-0 defeat. Eriador were just better in all areas. Classic Elrond stuff; they just don’t overexert themselves. Then again, they don’t concede much, so they hardly have to chase a game.

Adam: Also, Wilderland are atrocious at the back. Maybe it’s just match-up problems, Ents guarding creatures with flames.

Elenrod: So how many goals will Wilderland concede against Eriador?

Adam: I’m thinking 1-0 Eriador.

Maika: Then 3-2 Erebor, with Bard scoring the winner.

Elenrod: On to Group F, then.

Felagundion: When Uinen scored the Sea’s second goal I was distraught. Distraught, I tell you. I didn’t think Ulmo and company would concede a second. To my great relief we did score an equaliser, but afterwards, our players were all knackered. If there had been extra time, or if there had been a bit more time on the clock, I think we would’ve lost. We really need one good centre-back.

Adam: That’s a bad thing, because Tirion cruised past Minas Tirith. Tirion v Nargothrond’s very important for deciding who advances, because I don’t think the Sea would drop the ball against Minas Tirith.

Felagundion: Yes, I’m very worried. Good thing we have a better goal difference, but we can’t play for a draw, because we don’t have all that good a defence to sit on. I hope we control possession, score an early goal, then just play on the break.

Maika: Glaurung will get a lot of space in the hole. He’d have a better game than he had vs the Sea.

Felagundion: It was depressing how easily Tar-Ciryatan stuffed Glaurung in his pocket.

Adam: By the way, another wonderful quote from Denethor II after the game. ‘You say talented players, but I don’t know. Are they that talented? I don’t know, really. I wish you were right.’

Felagundion: And then afterwards, when someone asked him if he had any regrets. ‘If I had a chance to change anything, I would have tried harder to get my son in. I wouldn’t have wasted 10 million on Éomer, who’s been useless.’ What I wouldn’t do to be a fly in their locker room.

Elenrod: The scores?

Felagundion: Oh, Eru… Nargothrond and Tirion draw 2-all?

Adam: Maybe 2-0 Sea. They’d win, and I don’t think they’d concede, but I doubt they can score three or more.

Elenrod: So spot kicks between Tirion and the Sea for the last spot? That’d be fun—second straight time the Sea would need penalties to qualify. Moving along; Group G, then. Was anyone surprised when Angband beat Anfauglith?

Adam: What? No. Angband have a better squad overall than Anfauglith. Anfauglith’s goalie is better, definitely, and maaaybe they have a better second striker, but in all other areas…

Felagundion: Well, both of their midfields are crap.

Adam: There is that.

Elenrod: How about Imladris? Is anyone alive there?

Maika: Well, if they or Minas Tirith—or both—fail to score, that’d be the first time a team failed to score in the Arda Cup. Even the hapless Shire-Bree squad placed in a group with that Doriath squad, as well as Himring and Tirion, managed to score.

Elenrod: Tough luck to be placed in a group of solid defences when you don’t have an Arda-class striker. What do you think will happen?

Maika: 2-0 to Angband.

Adam: And 1-0 to TiG.

Elenrod: And, finally, group H. So, Mordor beat Rohan, but they lost to Arnor. What happens if Rohan beat Arnor?

Felagundion: A whole lot of fun. The same scenario’s in play in Group B—there’s a chance of a team advancing to the knockout rounds with only three points. There’s a lot of firsts that could happen in this Arda Cup.

Maika: I don’t think it’ll happen, though. Arnor are clearly the second most talented team in the group.

Elenrod: Despite leaving it very late against Mordor?

Maika: Well, they upped the tempo only in the last twenty minutes of the game, when they still had to chase the game. Super intense pressing is usually done in either of these two phase—very early, when you hope to score an early goal then just sit back and play on the break, or late, when you can bear down superior attackers on tired legs.

Felagundion: It also helps when you have a specialist late-game poacher. Loved the ‘Super Araphor’ chants by the Arnorians.

Elenrod: Scores?

Maika: Hmm, 2-1 Arnor.

Felagundion: 3-1 Anduin? Well, I hope someone scores more than two in this group.

Elenrod: Do you have any favourite goals this week?

Felagundion: Arien’s solo effort was the only one that really appealed to me.

Adam: I liked Legolas’s winner. One touch and then a screamer from thirty metres.

Felagundion: A better goalie would have come out of his box and made the angle more difficult.

Adam: True, but Legolas doing his thing—maybe I’m a closet Leggy fanboy.

Maika: Aradan’s volley from a long ball was something special; to anticipate it and boot it in first time took some skill.

Elenrod: None of the Fëanorion stepped up this week, did they? By the way, did no-one think of Inter’s goal vs Roma (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/inter-passing_zps167f21de.gif~original) when they saw Mordor’s goal? Just slick passing from the Nazgûls and the Mouth.

Felagundion: I suspect shenanigans from Sauron.

Elenrod: Haha, that’s possible. And that brings us to the end of another episode of The Matchday. Join us again next week as we discuss the winners and the losers of the groups, as well as predict the round of sixteen games. As usual, our thanks to Maika and Adam and Felagundion. Bye for now, and see you then.

the phantom

08-04-2013, 10:41 PM

Group A @ Valimar

Finally it appeared that all the Numenoreans would get to see their football. They had come in droves over the sea—far too many to get tickets and still leave room for the home fan majority. But for this round most of the Valinoreans were dead-set on seeing their two favorites play in the Havens vs Valimar contest, and as the games were being played simultaneously that left open tickets for the visitors. Not to mention Valinoreans were feeling pretty hostile towards the Barrow-Downs what with their rudeness and outright vandalism, thus the home folks didn’t feel badly about allowing Numenor to own the stadium and hoping Barrow-Downs would be routed.

There were a few that were hoping for both Havens and Valimar to qualify, but the precise scenario necessary for that to happen was unlikely thus the more realistic folks didn’t dare to dream and were content if they could see a fine competition for the spot that Armenelos didn’t earn.

The feature game between The Havens and Valimar would be played in Valimar’s grand arena just as the first two rounds had been. The game between Armenelos and The Barrow-Downs however would be played a little ways away—more up than over. The stadium was called Ilmarin Field, but of course it wasn’t actually on the very top of Taniquetil where Manwe and Varda had their seats and halls, but rather it was partway up the winding path on a low shoulder of the mountain (which at 9,000 feet was still high enough to make a difference in the match).

Manwe and his squad call Ilmarin Field home during the summer/autumn regional league season, thus many though that team Valimar would opt to play their final contest here to gain an even greater home-field advantage. Manwe and his Ainur have quite a good record at Ilmarin through the years, partly due to the elevation. While their lesser degree of incarnation robs them of a degree of fine touch achieved by some others, it also leaves them more free to exert themselves without the annoyance of needing copious amounts of oxygen, thus the high stadium worked quite well for them.

But in the end team Valimar wanted to play their contest in the larger and more historic stadium, and frankly they were feeling comfortable there after two games and several practices. Why stop something when it’s working? And some said that another reason was to keep Barrow-Downs and their supporters from causing more trouble there. They were tired of the famous stadium bells being messed with. Ilmarin field on the other hand—there were just fewer things to mess with. Everything was solid rock construction carved right out of the mountain and held together with the power of the Valar, though more than likely the Barrow-Wights would merely see it as a challenge.

It was 2 o’clock and both stadiums were packed and eager to begin. Both Armenelos and Valimar looked confident, and their fans felt the same, but the Barrow-Downs and Havens were keen to stake their own claim to the playoffs. Upsets do happen after all.

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

The Numenoreans had their own proud football tradition, but they weren’t too proud to appreciate being in the stands at Ilmarin Field. All of the walkways beneath the stadium were open along the western side of the stadium, and fans that were seated in the eastern seats made sure to walk the long way around so they too could see the view of the plain of Valinor stretched out beneath the stadium’s perch.

There was much pointing as onlookers tried to pick out the arena of Valimar in the mass of miniscule structures far below. Some that were knowledgeable about the layout of the city doubtless guessed correct, but from such a height only Elf-eyes could be certain.

Upon entering the stadium it didn’t take long to notice that their opponent, The Barrow-Downs, had very little support indeed. A small section of Wights at the north end was all—perhaps two-hundred at the most. The few locals that had opted to attend this match rather than the Valimar contest were understandably worried. “Where are the rest of the Wights?” they wondered, and they were certain the answer was—“Causing trouble somewhere.” But the Numenoreans were happy to turn the arena into their home stadium, and soon play was underway to the tune of various match-songs and traditional chants of Numenor.

Team Armenelos was firmly in command from the start—they were crisp and precise, and they had the size advantage as well without lacking speed. It was obvious that Elros and his team were giddy with seemingly the entire world willing them to win, and they were energized and keen to blow away the competition. Only five minutes in Ar Adunakhor gained a header that was just barely too tall, and then minutes later Tar Ancalimon sent a snipe that was hardly turned away by the keeper. At the 15 minute mark Armenelos saw their best chance yet as Elros was released perfectly and took an immediate shot, but Alien guessed right and made the improbable save.

The crowd groaned, but all wearing smiles. It was only a matter of time until the goal came—they kept getting chances. But then the fans at the top of the western side of the stadium grew silent, and the silence slowly spread, but was soon followed by a buzz of noise. The rest of the stadium wondered what the cause was, but word soon reached them—fans on the top row had heard from far below a tumult of sound, and as they fell silent they could hear it well enough to tell the familiar notes of the mighty stadium bells of Valimar. The sound of the bells was said to carry far beyond what they should so as to make all in the land aware of homeside goals, and evidently the sound carried far indeed.

Valimar had scored. But of course The Havens might’ve scored before, so they couldn’t truly tell the score. “Really they should have a different pattern or something to signify taking-the-lead or drawn-level,” several folks were heard to say. But soon their attention was drawn back to their own game, as Ar Pharazon had earned himself a free kick from about 25 yards out. Before the anticipation could fully build the ball was set quickly and Pharazon struck it, just barely clearing the wall. Alien had no view of it until it flew up over the heads of his teammates, and for the briefest of instants he thought it was going right to him, but it broke to his right and he had no chance of stopping it as close as it already was and moving at a decent clip. Armenelos had the well-earned lead!

As the crowd celebrated in song an eagle took flight out from the window of a solitary tower on the east side of the stadium, and he banked immediately to the west and went into a dive towards Valimar below.

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

Meanwhile the Elves and Ainur watching the Havens vs Valimar match were intensely into things down in Valimar. It was an absolute battle, but a clean one, and a beauty to watch for fans of fine defensive work. Both sides were denying quite well, and both sides had gained but one dangerous look, thanks to the skill and athleticism of Arien and some nice pair work by Cirdan and Earendil. The difference was Manwe had saved the shot while Arien’s had been too hot for Amandil to handle, thus Valimar was sitting on a 1-0 lead.

Only minutes after Arien’s goal a messenger eagle arrived and word soon spread through the crowd that, as expected, Armenelos was leading Barrow-Downs. Havens and Valimar were at a stalemate in the meantime, with both holding possession decently in the midfield but entirely unable to advance. After the half-hour mark The Havens changed things up and tried a few long speculative passes, but Namo and his fellow defenders were having none of it. Shortly before halftime Valimar tried to send a few all the way to Arien, but Ar Zimrathan and Imrazor got in the way every time. With only seconds remaining in the half Arien finally knocked one down and got a decent touch on it and sent it to Ingwe, but Olwe beat him to it and cleared it.

Just as halftime arrived another messenger eagle flew in with news. There had been another goal at Ilmarin Field. The spectators nodded their heads and pointed to the eagle, telling neighbors that they had expected the Numenoreans to dominate, but then the message spread—it was The Barrow-Downs that had scored!

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

Back up at Ilmarin the Armenelos supporters were worriedly conversing with neighbors during the halftime break. At around the 30-minute mark their team had started losing their edge, and as time approached 40 minutes they were beginning to look almost sluggish. Most of the fans hadn’t had to wonder what the cause was, as they were feeling it themselves after a half-hour of singing, yelling, and jumping. It was just hard to breath that high. Of course they and the players had noticed it from the get-go, but they had come in with so much energy and had pushed right through it, but there came a point where all the exertion without sufficient breath was taking a toll. The players were cramping easily, and were developing pains in their sides.

The Barrow-Downs on the other hand featured several players that didn’t seem to have such limitations—the Wights obviously, as well as Bombadil and Goldberry. In truth only Fatty Lumpkin looked the least bit bothered, and thus the game quickly swung the way of the Downs. First Bombadil wound his way through the tired defense for a snap-shot that was barely blocked by Atanamir, then Saucepan Man nearly scored off a corner, and then a bit later Hookbill forced a save again after a dizzying series of passes that the Numenoreans simply didn’t have the energy to follow.

Seeing the plight of the Numenoreans the Downs switched to an attack that quickly flipped sides of the field in an attempt to outnumber Armenelos on one side, which forced the defenders to flow left to right following the ball. After several minutes of such treatment Armenelos looked downright ragged and with but two minutes until halftime Bombadil and company ran right through the defense like water through a sieve, and the match was level.

The Armenelos supporters vented their frustrations on the Valinorean host committee. “That’s why they made us play here! They knew this would happen! This is ridiculous playing in conditions like this. It’s entirely unequal.” But the spectators near the section of Wights found themselves answered mockingly. “You good-guys are always making Orcs and Wights and such play games when the sun is high and shining down. This is no different. How does it feel?”

But Elros and company were not shaken as easily as the spectators, and they looked calm when they emerged for the second half. Soon it was clear that they had recovered and had adjusted their play to compensate. They were doing their best to avoid long runs, and were sharp and focused on their possession passing, sending the ball front to back, side to side, but withdrawing whenever they looked in clear danger of losing possession. After ten minutes of it the Downs began to turn up the pursuit, and attempting to force passes into traffic, and so Armenelos simply kept going all the way back to the rear. After a few more minutes of that the Downs, having only had possession for a couple minutes the entire half, decided to get much more aggressive, not even allowing the keeper to receive the ball without pressure. And that’s when Armenelos struck!

As if they were one unified being the whole team recognized the opportunity and acted accordingly. Atanamir sent it over to Telperien who sent it all the way to the middle to Ancalimon who ran to meet it and chipped it back to Tar Miriel who was rushing directly at him, and she immediately booted it forward over the defenders. Adunakhor, Pharazon, and Elros were all sprinting flat-out to catch up to it, and River Woman, GaladriWight and Lumpkin sandwiched between. When it fell Adunakhor managed to get in the way of River Woman and Pharazon leaped and faked a head-touch, which momentarily slowed Lumpkin and GaladriWight—just enough for Elros to dash past and receive the ball himself, and after one touch to slow it and one touch to set it he sent a perfect rocket to the right post and Alien had no chance for the save. Armenelos was into the lead once again!

Soon after word was passed around that just before the goal the folks at the western top had heard bells again—evidently Valimar had scored once more. But of course no one knew if it was 2-0 or 2-4, but the messenger eagle exiting the tower would soon know, as he was on his way down to Valimar to tell of Armenelos’ lead.

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

When the eagle arrived to deliver his news he found that his beloved Valimar was in firm command, having just taken a 2-0 lead. It was Arien again doing the damage, this time off a feed from Vaire. As would be expected of a Manwe-led team (particularly one already as good as qualified and playing a likable foe) Valimar went into full defense after the second goal, content to hold their lead and confident they could do so. And even if Armenelos were to score a smashing victory and gain the top spot in the group, Valimar felt equally confident whether they were in the playoffs in the top of the bracket or the bottom.

But as time ticked away without any messages of further scoring at Ilmarin Field it seemed evident that Valimar would in fact take first in the group, and the home fans really grew excited, as they would have the opportunity to host the first round playoff match. All eyes went immediately to a messenger eagle when he arrived near the 75 minute mark, but he simply reported that Armenelos was still going full possession, but keeping the Downs honest with an occasional dash forward with a long pass, and they were smartly alternating the runners so as not to tire anyone.

When the clock went past 80 minutes fans began to talk seriously about buying tickets to the first-round match, but Havens was a proud team with good players and it turned out they wouldn’t go down without a fight. Finally Cirdan and Earendil managed to confound their marks with a spectacular one-two game from the left side, and Earendil drove it home as if he was stabbing a sword into Ancalagon. The fans applauded the goal, now somewhat nervous about losing their lead in the group (if Armenelos scored again), but the final minutes of both games passed without an event of import.

It was Valimar grabbing the first spot and Armenelos grabbing the second! And their fans celebrated far into the night….

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

Armenelos 2-1 Barrow-Downs
on target 8-7
tot shots 16-15
GOALS:
*22, 1-0 Ar Pharazon
*43, 1-1 Bombadil (SPM)
*66, 2-1 Elros (TarMiriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Armenelos- TarAncalimon
*BDowns- LalwendeMP, Lumpkin

Havens 1-2 Valimar
on target 5-4
tot shots 11-9
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Arien (Namo)
*63, 0-2 Arien (Vaire)
*84, 1-2 Earendil (Cirdan)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Havens- Mithrelas
*Valimar-

--------- W-D-L Pts Score
Valimar 2-1-0 7 5-2
Armenelos 2-1-0 7 5-3
Havens 0-1-2 1 4-6
BDowns 0-1-2 1 3-6

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

MESPN Exit Interviews

MESPN: Mr. Bombadil—how would you summarize the performance of your squad this year?
Bombadil: Well, derry-dol, it was a delight to play alongside my dear Goldberry, and I’m certainly looking to do so again!
MESPN: But what about your results? Are you pleased?
Bombadil: Results are what they are, and you can’t change them—you can just enjoy being here now. We earned what we got, but I think we can do better next time, my hearties!
MESPN: So you’re back next year?
Bombadil: Unless my lady Goldberry leaves, I can’t say that I will.
MESPN: Barrow-Wight, can you tell us where this squad is headed?
BWight: We were so low-budget that we made out with cash despite the early exit. You can bet we’ll be looking to spend some next year.
MESPN: Any targets?
BWight: I can think of a couple, but I’m not sure it’s appropriate to discuss them while they’re still playing with other squads in the tournament.
MESPN: We understand. Thanks a lot, guys.

MESPN: So guys—tough loss today.
Olwe: Yes indeed. Valimar is solid obviously, but we didn’t feel outclassed in this group. I think we were right there.
Falastur: Oh yes! It’s just an inch here and there that we need to scrape out and we’ll be into the playoffs again.
MESPN: Cirdan, do you think this squad looks the same next year?
Cirdan: Well, one can never promise, but given that we’re not horribly over-budget and very close to qualifying, I don’t see any radical changes on the horizon. I’m back certainly.
Olwe: And me as well.
Falastur: Me too.
MESPN: Any possible additions to shake things up that you already have in mind, or can you not say?
Falastur: Well, I can say I’ve had discussions with the other Gondorin ship-kings in the past, and one or two of them may have shown some interest.
MESPN: Well all right. Good luck, guys.

Nogrod

08-05-2013, 12:02 PM

Group C at Menegroth & Neldoreth

The last round of group C was played at two marvellous venues: Real Valinor and Shire-Bree United would have their game at Neldoreth’s beautiful Holly Fields -stadium, while the home-team Doriath would face Hithlum in the “winner takes it all” -match home at Menegroth Arena.

To be fair, also Shire-Bree United had theoretical chances of qualification, but they were quite theoretical indeed. For Shire-Bree to qualify they would need to win Real Valinor with basically two goals more than with which Doriath would have to win Hithlum. Now both ideas, that Shire-Bree would beat Real Valinor or that Doriath would beat Hithlum, sounded a bit far-fetched to anyone who had seen the previous games or knew what kind of players different teams had on their rosters. It was true that Real Valinor had nothing at stake any more as they had already qualified, but even then it was not very probable they would take a lazy game in just before the important matches and risk losing their game-tempo & touch.

But the other game at “The Cave” in Menegroth was laden with expectation. Hithlum sure were the favourites by a mile, but there was still the fact that it would take Doriath just a win in that one game to qualify and leave Hithlum into the group-stage. Many at Menegroth had lost their hopes after the first two games that hadn’t gone as well they had hoped for, but realising the situation their hopes were rekindled: Hithlum were known as the tough offencive powerhouse but Real Valinor had been able to stop them (and Gondolin had been able to counter them in the friendlies!) – so why wouldn’t Melian be able to do that as well – and weren’t the Hithlum players more like their protegées than their masters?

Understandably then, the game with Doriath and Hithlum was the talk of the town and could have possibly sold double the tickets if there just had been room. Anyway, both arenas were sold to their capacity as the Holly Fields offered cheaper tickets in comparison to Menegroth Arena’s luxury-packages. Consequentually the game between Real Valinor and Shire-Bree also drew in those people who couldn’t afford tickest to Menegroth in the first place and though got their first sight of Arda Cup football this season in this last match of the group-stage.

The AKM will follow both games simultaneously as they deem it a good practise at this point of the tournament – even if there isn’t such a tight competition on group C where the results from the other game would dramatically alter the situation in the other game – or who knows?

Neldoreth

Shire-Bree must be given credit for their brave effort. Gandalf had somehow beaten the Nazgûls to show a fresh face and while Ferny had been left to play a more defending center-midfielder, Bandobras Took seemed to be all over the place causing harm to Real Valinor’s defences (well making Ingwion to run after him) as he would have been double the size and strength.

But to be honest, Real Valinor handled the early fury of the Shire-Bree offence with grace and sheer professionalism. The worst news to any Shire-Bree fans was the imminent fact how Nienna just diminished Gandalf – their top-scorer and soul of their game seemed small and insignificant beside his mentor – and totally unable to take the reins of the game to his hands. Meanwhile Tilion and Nahar made sure the Nazgûls were afraid of them enough to make them hesitate with the finishing of their offensives.

But that said: early in the game Shire-Bree was doing the game and Real Valinor was happy to hold it even. Many of the crowds cheered the underdogs for it – fair enough – while admiring the effectiveness of Real Valinor’s defence.

Menegroth

It has been often complained – with reason – that when the audience consists mainly of people with a lot of money to spend the atmosphere of the game suffers as the rich only want to “experience” the game-mood but are not willing to give their own effort to it by cheering, chanting or booing actively aka. creating that feeling they strive after. Many times it is true that it is the cheap parts of the stands that create the most noise and feeling to any game – and there were no cheap stands at “The Cave”.

But when the game began the stadium just burst with excitement. Even if the optimists of the home fans wished Melian could just shut the humans out, most of them realised it was a game of scoring as Hithlum would score a few anyway – so could Elwë keep on scoring, would Mablung rise to the occasion without Beleg, could Daeron or Saeros redeem themselves? There were so many questions in the fans’ heads…

And then there was a blunt answer from the field. A worst possible anwer, that is.

Túrin made Saeros look like a complete fool passing him with the age-old heeltrick, and using Hador as a wall, broke through the Doriath defences basically elbowing Nellas from his way – and just before facing Melian he shot the ball irresistibly past her – and past the reach of Dior – with such a force the spectators couldn’t but just hold their breath. Hithlum was in the lead with only nine minutes into the game.

Neldoreth

After the initial rush by the Shire-Bree, Real Valinor started to make some counterplay little by little and even if it didn’t seem like Real was making any effort the center of gravity started shifting.

At 17th minute Real Valinor earned a corner after a nice play by Nerdanel and Miriel where Halbarad just barely managed to tip the ball off the crossbar. Tilion gave a high corner towards Oromë who was marked by Gildor and Shadowfax – at the last moment Oromë ducked under the ball taking both defenders down with him – and the ball landed exactly to Nessa’s boot behind him. Some swore she had nodded to her brother in thanks before she shot the ball in. Be that as it may, it was a cool finishing and Real Valinor had taken the expected lead.

But Shire-Bree was not going to give up. On the contrary, it started to build more force to it’s attacks again and Real went into a more defending mode – just waiting for the fury to settle down it seemed.

Menegroth

Meanwhile at The Cave the homeside fans were getting even more anguished as Hithlum didn’t show any sign of being happy with the one goal lead but actually pressed their attacks forwards one after another.

Mablung did rekindle the hopes of the Doriath fans with his far-shot that swerved to miss the post with only a few inches but Hithlum called the shots most of the time. After Beleg had missed an almost certain goal to a questionable offside whistle by the linesman Elwing was forced to tackle speeding Húrin against the rules in the next Hithlum attack.

With the father and son behind the ball the defences were ready to take the hottest cannon-shot possible. While Túrin ran to the ball crossing left and Húrin trailing him crossing to the right the defences split to contain either shot – and no one quite realised Hador had sprinted forwards behind them; and after the two had jumped over the ball Hador booted it into the middle of the goal from the gap that had emerged.

With 24 minutes of the game Hithlum was leading already 2-0

Neldoreth

After Real’s goal the game felt pretty much the same it had when it started: Shire-Bree made a decent effort but Real Valinor kept them at bay with some ease – while at times they made a few pretty dangerous counter-attacks.

It was not that the Shire-Bree were totally excluded of chances but their quality was far inferior to Real. The news from Menegroth telling that Hithlum was leading already 2-0 didn’t cheer up the Shire-Bree team either.

Menegroth

With the second goal by the visitors Elwë and Melian brought their team together into a close ring. What was said there no one knows and the referees were forced to bring it down eventually as the clock was ticking. But what happened afterwards showed it worked…

For suddenly Doriath’s defences were like built from solid steel. With the help of Galadhon and Nellas they wrapped the Hithlum offences and contained them – just coolly shooting the ball away if no better solution was available. But they were also getting the ball forwards on many occasions: Mablung and Daeron were making the runs on both sides while Elwë was still keeping the middle but was clearly falling a bit backwards to feed the two more effectively – and when they were on offensive Melian would actually rise up to build the game almost beside her husband. Add to that the fact that Saeros was distracting both Túrin and Beleg in a major way, and the game started turning…

And just five minutes before the half-time the home team scored!

Melian gave a long pass from the center of the field to the left for Mablung who was rushing deep behind the defences. When Galdor and Gundor overtook him he passed it diagonally backwards to Elwë in the middle who passed it with one touch right-forwards to Daeron who got the Balrog on his neck – but fooling the beast totally by faking a shot he managed to return the ball just to the edge of the box for Elwë to rush in for.

You could see Singollo to take the shot from the bottom of his heart leaving Huor no chance whatsoever to pick it – and the ball was hammered to the upper-right corner of the goal, going there with the slight touch on the crossbar making the ball bounce violently downwards and rolling through the back of the net out and away from the goal. The crowds went wild and the sound of it was just perfect! The game was still on!

There was a huge effrot from the homeside the last five minutes before the half-time – an equalizer there would have changed the whole dynamics of the game for good. But they didn’t come closer than Mablung’s offside break-through and Daeron’s shot far and wide.

HALF-TIME

Neldoreth

The second half seemed to start like the first one with Shire-Bree building the first attack – with the news from Menegroth that Doriath was back in the game it felt like they had a chance anyway – but suddenly Real Valinor basically ended the game.

Nienna took the ball from Gandalf as easily as the proverbial adult takes a lollipop from a child’s hand. Real Valinor changed tempo and stamina in a fraction of a second just outpacing the Shire-Bree team. With the first pass Bandobras was near catching it from Quennar, Shadowfax was already a little late from Nessa receiving the ball in full speed, Gildor tried to slide to the pass coming to Miriel but ended up sliding into emptiness as Miriel had already gotten off – and the Fellbeast was far behind from Oromë when he hammered the ball in from close quarters leaving Halbarad no chance whatsoever.

The spectators were gasping. That was something they had never seen. And it probably was also what broke the Shire-Bree’s resistance for good.

Menegroth

Doriath came to the second half full of spirit and tried seriously to wrestle the game to the Hithlum side of the field – but Hithlum had decided it should go the other way. And finally the crowds at Menegroth could witness some really high-quality football with their own team involved.

The emotions were high. Morwen got a yellow card after assaulting Saeros who had been taunting Túrin for a long time kicking his heels everytime the referee didn’t see – and was only cooled down by Mablung and Beleg together… and Saeros getting carded as well. On the other hand it required all Melian’s skills to cool down Elwë when he had lost the ball to Húrin a few times in a row and Húrin had paid back with some self-righteous remarks on the matter.

It was an open game with Hithlum leading with 2 goals to 1 but Doriath really playing the best game of the season and making a real challenge.

Neldoreth

Like had been foreseeable, the pace of the game had fallen down after the 2-0 goal by Real Valinor and the virtuosity Real had shown – like if they want to, they score. But realising the situation that there were a lot of spectators watching the game at the first time since the tickets to Menegroth were so pricey both teams were clearly willing to give the crowds some entertainment, even if there was no real question as to which team would win the game. So with a kind of a common consent – which probably was never verbalized between the teams – both sides loosened their defences a bit and started trying some imaginative and / or brave ways to score resulting in a very entertaining game.

Gandalf actually hit the crossbar with a bicycle-kick from almost thirty meters – while Miriel and Nerdanel went through the Shire-Bree defences passing the ball to each other so that Miriel eventually passed the ball to Nerdanel even from in front of the empty net just to do a favour – and Shadowfax was able to cut it off at the last moment…

Even if there were no more goals the crowds were entertained to the full – and the game ended as it should have ended.

Menegroth

It was getting nerve-wrecking at the Cave. And many homeside fans swore why their team hadn’t shown this kind of game already in the earlier matches – sure Shire-Bree would have been just a bite for them with this play. But they were still trailing and the game was very even indeed.

Many think Huor at the goal is one of the weakest links of Hithlum team, but at least this day he made one of the saves of the round. Melian managed to free Mablung for a break-through but Huor made a reaction-save with his out-stretched left foot tipping the ball just slightly past the post. From the ensuing corner Huor fisted the ball confidentally away from Elwë who was rushing in for a header.

But Dior was also rising to his level on the other end of the field by denying Hador’s cannon from only fifteen meters (coming straight at him though – but anyway it was such a boot it could have pulled a lesser person with it inside the goal) and tipping Beleg’s close header just inches over the crossbar.

Túrin got his chance in the middle of the second half when Húrin freed him from the side of the box but his volley ran wide. A few minutes later Beleg ran the ball to the end of the field and centered the ball and Túrin dived to head the ball in – and Dior couldn’t pick it! His fingers did reach the ball but he was just that inch late and the power of Túrin’s header was such that it slipped between Dior’s fingers and went in.

With twenty minutes of the game remaining Hithlum was leading 3-1!

Hithlum-lead felt overwhelming but to the honour of the home team it must be said that they fought it to the bitter end – and their fans never gave up as long as there was time in the clock to be played. But to the even partially objective observer it was clear that Hithlum had the game in their control for the last twenty minutes, how much Doriath tried to come back to the game.

Doriath had made it a great match and forced Hithlum to perform their best – and many will say Hithlum got some invaluable practise on defending under pressure from it as the defence has been widely seen as their Achilles’ heel.

Results:

ShireBree United 0-2 Real Valinor
on target 3-6
tot shots 9-14
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Nessa (Tilion)
*47, 0-2 Orome (Miriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*SBUnt- Fellbeast#5
*RealV- Enerdhil

Doriath 1-3 Hithlum
on target 6-9
tot shots 14-18
GOALS:
*9, 0-1 Turin (Hador)
*24, 0-2 Hador
*40, 1-2 Elwe (Daeron)
*69, 1-3 Turin (Beleg)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Saeros, Galathil
*Hithlum- Morwen

Real Valinor 9 7-1
Hithlum 6 8-5
Doriath 1 2-6
Shire-Bree Utd. 1 2-7

Real Valinor advances as C1
Hithlum advances as C2

Boromir88

08-08-2013, 08:10 AM

GROUP D @ Dol Amroth and Pelargir

Both games in this final round of Group D were being played at the 2pm hour. A time when the sun would still be shining high in the sky and between the lunch and dinner hours for most fans attending. At Pelargir Park it would be FC Valinor vs. Barad-Dur. FC Valinor was assured qualification, but could still lose 1st place if Barad-Dur won. That would send a shock all around Arda though, as the stunning Valinoreans and Noldor have scored 6 goals and conceded 0. The only question seemed to be how much would FC Valinor want to beat Barad-Dur and thus make it easier for Gondor's qualification. And the 2nd match would be played in Dol Amroth, as the home team took on Isengard. Isengard's elimination was already assured, so the only question here, would they roll over, or would there be enough spirit infused by Sauron's minority ownership that makes things difficult for Gondor?

Pelargir

Pelargir Park was packed mostly with Umbarians and Orcs from Mordor who were there at Sauron's bidding. But several thousand Noldor were still around having booked tickets for the group (how could you pass up the show Curufin, Celegorm and company were putting on?) and hitched a ride on the large mobile stadium, that was parked in Pelargir for the round 1 games in Group F. There were also some Gondorians, fully behind the FC Valinor team with whole hearts, wanting to see a 3-0, 4-0 massacre.

It was a nightmare start to Barad-Dur. They were chasing FC Valinor's tailcoats. FC's movement, passing, and skill were just sublime and Barad-Dur was having a difficult time keeping up. Already in the 12th minute, Argon received a pass from Yavanna, he sidestepped the Fellbeast swooping down for the challenge and hit a rising blast over the diving Grishnakh.

Dol Amroth

In Dol Amroth the scoreboard lit up when FC Valinor scored, letting the massively pro-Gondorian crowd in Seaside Financial Field Barad-Dur was already losing and not even 15 minutes had gone by. The crowd bellowed melodious songs and cheers, hoping to boost Gondor's performance in their own match. Because while Barad-Dur wasn't likely to beat FC Valinor, Gondor entered the day with 1 goal, Barad-dur had 3, so they needed to not only win the match, but score some goals too.

Isengard wasn't doing anything against Gondor's stout midfield play, but their defense was playing with just enough drive to make it difficult on Gondor. "Come on!" yelled the anxious crowd "playing defensively might have been wise against FC Valinor but not in a must win match against Isengard!"

Gondor was controlling possession and finally took the initiative from the wild crowd cheering them on. Anarion hit the goal post, it had the Gondorians ready to burst and applaud the goal. With Anarion only rattled the woodwork, their joy dropped, but then Romendacil fought his way past Mauhur and cleaned up the rebound! Gondor had the lead, and a quick glance at the scoreboard showing the other match showed FC Valinor still held the 1-0 lead too!

Gondor wasn't done, the midfield was still controlling the majority of the possession and taking every opportunity to push forwards. Anarion, Romendacil and Eldacar were wreaking havoc in Isengard's defensive half and their defensive mid-fielders were stopping any sort of Isengard attack in their tracks. With minutes to go in the half, Meneldil took the ball from Grima and sent it immediatly to Anarion. Gondor was on the break and committed several bodies forward. Anarion passed it wide to Ciryandil who, in turn flicked a high ball to the other side of the field. Eldacar was able to chest it down and with Gondor able to switch up the point of attack within seconds. Eldacar only had Lugdush on the right side to beat. He easily sprinted past Lugdush and ran straight on goal, Ugluk was helpless and indecisive, and Eldacar gave Gondor the 2 goal lead right before the halftime whistle!

With Gondor playing exciting football for the final 15 minutes before half, the fans didn't stray their eyes off the field, nor see what was happening in the other match. So, what had been happening in Pelargir?

Pelargir

After the early goal, Barad-Dur was threatened by the fact this game could get out of control really really fast. Afterall in a span of 15 minutes they put up 3 goals on Isengard and in another quick period of time put up 2 on Gondor. Barad-Dur didn't have the athletes to run with FC Valinor's attack, nor did they have the solidity of a team organized midfield of Gondor. But don't underestimate Sauron's ability to find the right tactics and put his team in the best chances to succeed.

It was cleary early to Sauron if they tried to play FC Valinor like Isengard did, this was going to be a massacre. So after the early goal, Barad-Dur was a great offensive team from set pieces, but they showed to be a good defensive team as well. Sauron was done trying to chase Curufin and Celegorm around. If someone got beat...foul and make FC Valinor prove they'll have to score from free kicks or corners. Barad-Dur's midfield in particular, as soon as Yavanna, or Argon or one of the Feanorian sons sprinted by, they did just enough to trip them up and stop the action.

Unable to get into a smooth, rhymic attack, and with Sauron able to now set up his defense, FC Valinor was having a lot of trouble. The Valinoreans and Noldor were booing the referee, arguing it was clear what Barad-Dur was trying and thought players needed to be sent off for this type of unsporty play. But to the ref's eyes it appeared Barad-Dur was trying to make a play on the ball, and not just recklessly tripping FC Valinor players.

Whatever the case, the defensive strategy was working, as FC Valinor showed a weakness in scoring from set pieces, and Barad-Dur were experts not only creating goals from them, but defending them as well. Thus the half ended only in a 0-1 defecit for Barad-Dur. And taking into account the other game, both Gondor and Barad-dur were in a dead tie at the half: 4 points, 0 goal differential, and 3 goals scored each. If it stayed this way would that mean a shootout?

Although few fans thought based on what was at stake and the talent on the field, there were more goals to come in the 2nd. And there would be.

Staying in Pelargir, Sauron appeared to light a fire under his forwards during the break, because they had done nothing in the 1st half and how long would Sauron's new defensive tactics hold FC Valinor to 1 goal? Especially since the "foul to stop Celegorm and Curufin from getting into a passing rhythm" strategy risked getting a player sent off because a Fellbeast, Herumor, Angamaite and Beruthiel already had 1 yellow card from the first half.

So Barad-Dur furiously went all in upon FC Valinor's goal. Being unprepared by the sudden fury, were disorganized and slightly out of position, Thorondor came in late and fouled Beruthiel. It would be free kick about 7 meters out of the box. Beruthiel passed it wide to Castamir, but Maglor had him marked well and was running the Numenorean to the out of bounds. Castamir's angle had been cut off, but he somehow slid a pass between Maglor's legs. Then Sauron had cut inside Indis. Huan slid towards the near post, thinking Sauron would try to keep the ball low, but the Dark Lord cleverly flicked it over the diving hound. It was all level! And the Umbarian and Orcs went just wild. Simply wild.

Dol Amroth

So wild that when the packed crowd in Dol Amroth heard feint joyous screams (Dol Amroth stadium was relatively queit with the crowd being pleased by Gondor 2-0 lead and the 2nd half was just getting underway so many fans were still returning to their seats). They looked to see the bad news, Barad-Dur had actually come level with FC Valinor, which meant Gondor could win this game 5-0...it still wouldn't matter, Barad-Dur would have more points if they held onto the draw.

That news deflated the Dol Amroth crowd, who were now paying more attention to the other games scoreboard, hoping FC Valinor had the spirit to retake the lead, and not watching the fact that in Gondor's game Isengard was not ready to go away just yet.

Pelargir

After the thrilling game tying goal, Barad-Dur seemed to let up on the gas a bit, because the goal insured an excellent chance of Barad-Dur advancing. Sauron was still sticking to the defensive strategy of "foul an FC player when you're beat" though and he might have finally exposed a weakness with the FC team. They had trouble scoring when their superior speed and ball skills were neutralized by set pieces. If Barad-dur actually had some more invested talent, they may have just turned this game upside down and shocked the world.

But Barad-Dur's unsporty play did come back to hurt them. Not in getting one of their players sent off, but angering FC Valinor enough to make a more serious effort. Eventually in the 73rd minute, Celegorm and Curufin just plain outran Barad-Dur's defenders (and avoided the desperate tackles trying to stop them). Either one could have scored, but it was Celegorm giving it up to Curufin to reclaim the 1-goal lead.

Dol Amroth

Relief came to Dol Amroth after seeing FC Valinor quickly take back the lead, but it was still a precarious situation for Gondor. Barad-Dur now had 4 goals to Gondor's 3, so unless FC Valinor showed even more effort to increase their lead, Gondor needed another goal. They were hoping not to try to put their faith to advance on the whims of FC Valinor's ethics, and place it on their home team. But either Gondor decided to play the half more defensively, or they just believed Isengard wouldn't try to fight their way back.

Whatever the case, Isengard was showing quite a bit of spirit and found renewed spirit to play on. Maybe from Sauron's influence in Isengard's team? Who knows? 3 minutes after the crowd got a slight boost from seeing FC Valinor reclaim the lead, Saruman put a dagger in their heart. Isengard scored! How could this happen? They were eliminated...they had nothing to play for, yet they showed up with more passion and drive in the 2nd half than Gondor! Now Gondor would need another goal just to get back into a dead tie with Barad-Dur, or FC Valinor had to keep scoring goals while keeping Barad-Dur off the board (and that was less sure...I mean Barad-Dur already tied the game once!).

Pelargir

After the fantic beginning to the 2nd half and FC Valinor grabbed the lead again, the pace of the game really slowed down. FC felt assured of their 1st place spot (Barad-Dur scoring 2 goals in under 20 minutes, no way). And while Celegorm and Curufin were particularly annoyed by Barad-Dur's fouling strategy, Sauron called his team off. With the tempers soothed and FC Valinor having no need to spend energy for more goals, and tougher playoff battles on the horizon, FC Valinor in kind did not try to increase their lead. The game had been exciting, fans saw a lot of great play. The FC fans were in good moods because they had cleared the group with 9 points. The larger Barad-dur crowd were also feeling very good, their team gave everything FC Valinor could handle. Sauron had exposed a weakness, but just didn't have the talent to capitilize. Now they turned towards the scoreboard, hoping Isengard could hold the score at 1-2 in the final 10 minutes.

Dol Amroth

Gondor was frantic, their fans had chewed their fingers raw from anxiety. But Gondor was best when playing careful and methodically, not desperately trying to grab another goal. And Isengard was defending well, plus Ugluk who had seemed lost and out of position most of the time, was suddenly making leaping and strong armed saves. And then the ref blew the final whistle. No!!! That was it, it was over for Gondor. The small Isengard crowd marched out to a drum beat and chants. They were back to Isengard, and even if their team left with no points, they had not rolled over like most people had thought. They fought on to the end, even after that humilation against FC Valinor. Gondorians remained in the stadium, stunned and looking at the two scoreboards. Their team had won the match, but this had to be a terrible nightmare. They were going to wake up soon and somehow Gondor would be in the playoffs, Barad-Dur would be eliminated. But it was not a nightmare. Gondor was out.

Barad-Dur 1-2 FC Valinor
on target 3-7
tot shots 10-16
GOALS:
*12, 0-1 Argon (Yavanna)
*48, 1-1 Sauron (Castamir)
*73, 1-2 Curufin (Celegorm)
YELLOW CARDS:
*BDur- Angamaite, Sangahyando, Fellbeast#1, Beruthiel, Herumor
*FCVal- Thorondor, Argon

Gondor 2-1 Isengard
on target 7-3
tot shots 16-8
GOALS:
*35, 1-0 Romendacil (Anarion)
*44, 2-0 Eldacar (Ciryandil)
*76, 2-1 Saruman (Nazgul#5)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Ciryandil
*Isengard- Nazgul#5, Lurtz, Wulf, Beechbone

Final round...

Group D W-D-L Pts GD
FC Valinor 3-0-0 9 +7
Barad-Dur 1-1-1 4 0
Gondor 1-1-1 4 -1
Isengard 0-0-3 0 -6

TTN's exit interviews with the captains of the eliminated teams; Isengard and Gondor will be out after all round 3 matches.

Nogrod

08-08-2013, 06:53 PM

Group E at Erebor & Mirkwood

The last games of group E would be played at Mirkwod and Arkenstone Arena at Erebor. The hosting side Erebor would meet Misty Mountains at their home stadium inside Erebor while Wilderland would meet the already qualified Eriador at the stadium of the Enchanted River just south of the Elven road in Mirkwood.

The Mirkwood Stadium with it’s blueprint seats of different shapes and sizes and prespun webs for spiders hanging over it was once again crowded by a host of different creatures from ents to Nazgûl and elves to spiders.

The Eriador fans were facing a kind of a “first world problem”. With their own team already qualified – actually as the number one of the group – they could just enjoy the game. But if they thought about which other team they would wish to qualify most of them would have probably thought Wilderland with the bunch of elves and ents in its ranks. For even if the two other teams had great Eagles in them they were mostly composed of dwarves, men and creatures of darkness. But how to cheer for the team that is playing against your own team – or to really boo to them from the bottom of your heart if you want them to succeed rather than the two others playing another game far away?

For all the other teams and their fans it was a thrilling situation before the last games as every team had a chance to qualify – and not to. Before this round Wilderland had two points and Erebor and Misty Mts. one each. So if Erebor and Misty Mts. draw their game Wilderland could qualify even if it lost with one goal. But if either Erebor or Misty Mts. won the game between the two, that team would go to four points requiring Wilderland to win the game against Eriador to qualify.

What that means is that even if the main sight of both Erebor and Misty Mts. will be on just winning the game (and hoping Wilderland will not win Eriador), Wilderland will wish to score as many goals as possible in case of tied points. And looking at the perspective of a draw between Erebor and Misty Mts. they’d want to score a lot as well just to have a chance.

So every team but Eriador wishes to score as much as possible… and with teams whose philosophy in general is “outscore the opponent” facing this kind of a round, well there just couldn’t be better starting point for a last round, now could there?

Mirkwood

From early on it was clear both teams were starting it carefully – or then Eriador was just gracefully elegant in shutting Wilderland down. The farther the period went the more one started to think in the latter vein as the oftentimes wildly attacking Wilderland was plain denied their normal offensive game by Eriador’s tight defences. But focusing on that Eriador itself had only rare chances of making a difference in offence.

It was not exactly unentertaining, but Wilderland were just not willing to change gear in any definitive way in fear of opening a path for counteroffencives that might ruin their chances depending on what went on in the other game – and as long as it was a draw in the other game they would have been fools to take big risks early in the game.

Erebor

In a total mirror-image of the game in Mirkwood the one between Erebor and Misty Mountains was all fire and brimstone from the very beginning. No mercy was asked and none was given – and when the referees cut into the game it seemed both sides despised their efforts to create order – although they were only too happy to gain nice free kicks from good positions.

In the Erebor defence the great eagles Meneldor and Landroval were responsible for keeping Durin’s Bane at bay while Thorin Oakenshield insisted on keeping Azog in control… two great eagles against a great Balrog, or Thorin vs. Azog… it was some true wrestling of both physics and wills.

On the other end Misty Mts. played more of a position defence than guarding certain persons with Caradhras and Watcher closing the center and William the Troll and Gwaihir going around them trying to cut any passes inside the box or physically removing ones trying to come too near the center – and at times they were actually given strong support by the Great Goblin coming that much down to assist.. but even if they seemed to be insurmountable for the humans like Bard and Brand, Smaug and the Nazgûl didn’t seem to care but rushed through and beside them on their will – creating a lot of struggle and mayhem as they went. Just think of Smaug getting mad at Caradhras and then Caradhras retaliating Smaug’s offences…

It was not a game for the weaker souls – especially if one took in the stakes they were playing: the winner would qualify (most probably) and the draw would be bad and would require a game like 5-5 or something to give either team a chance of qualifying.

Mirkwood

Coming towards the half an hour marker the game was still even and Eriador was blocking Wilderland’s efforts mostly on the midfield while concentrating themselves on the few counterattacks – which were only quite dangerous at best. NogWight did boot one relatively good shot from about 25 meters but it went a meter wide and Glorfindel’s header from a corner got tangled in Skinbark’s boughs.

But as the other game was still 0-0 it would mean that Wilderland would follow Eriador into the qualifier games and thence the feeling was more or less reservedly easy – like both teams played it for real but then again didn’t.

Erebor

There was no sign of the leasurely pace of the game played in Mirkwood deep inside the lonely mountain.

On 27th minute Narvi and Rumil played themselves sneakily inside the box past the Eagles but Thorin was there to greet the two and cut the last pass that would have let Narvi to score from in front of an empty net. The two dwarves nodded to each other courteously but there was no friendship there as this was a game of life and death.

From the next offence to the other end Nazgûl #7 got the ball on the corner of the box while pressed by Gwaihir. With a sneaky backwards-pass he managed to draw the great Eagle with him and away from the ball for the short monent for Smaug to sniff the situation: grasping the ball with his right wing while curving sharply to the left he managed to pass the Watcher. Meeting Caradhras Smaug crashed head on to the mountainside while dribbling the ball from his right wing to his left and giving it a hammer-like blow Chief Wolf had no chance of getting as he had no line of sight for it behind Caradhras.

The Lonely Mountain burst with cheers so loud it felt the whole place was indeed trembling. Erebor had taken a step forwards to qualify!

Mirkwood

After the new situation from Erebor was announced at the stadium of the Enchanted River in Mirkwood it got Wilderland to suddenly burst into a totally different fight. With Erebor leading the other game Wilderland was suddenly blocked from the qualification. The abrupt change of gear created problems for team Eriador and they seemed to struggle with accomodating themselves to the new pace set by their opponents. With the roar of the crowds of local Silvan elves, Noldor, ents, huorns, and dark creatures of every kind Eriador supporters found themselves outnumbered for good- and the balance of the game suddenly shifted.

For a while Wilderland managed to break the hedgehog-defences of Eriador with their fervour – and that was enough for them. After a few unsuccesful efforts Thranduil finally found Scatha parking in front of the Eriador goal with Gil-Galad sadly late from his duties and Asfaloth only beginning to gallop that way.

Even Elrond’s skills were no match against the Great Worm from close quarters – and the impressive tail-swing almost broke the net. It was 1-0 for Wilderland and they had a tight grip on the qualification again! It’s probably needless to say the crowds were just going crazy.

But after the goal Eriador kept their calm and concentrated firstly on avoiding any more setbacks from the now very self-confident opponent – and Wilderland was not able to capitulate their high and finally even they looked at the clock and shared the hope of retreating to the half time with these numbers and not ones worse than these.

Erebor

After Smaug’s goal the game had become even more rough as Misty Mts. was having none of losing and Erebor would not give in an inch of their precious lead… but with about ten minutes to go of the first half the news from Mirkwood kind of changed it all.

Wilderland was leading – and Eriador was not known of scoring a lot anyway – so was all their struggle in vain? Was Eriador giving in purposefully aiding some of their friends in Wilderland to qualify against all of us in the field here? That kind of things should not make a difference for professional players but it clearly did – and the last ten minutes the intensity of the game just collapsed even if no one kind of meant it to collapse. Somehow the energy was gone.

HALF TIME

Mirkwood

It was clear Wilderland was looking at the other game and came for the second half with a much easier pace playing through the defence first – so unlike you’d anticipate from them. But it was a wise tactics for by keeping their lead they’d win the game and secure their qualification whatever happened in the other game

Eriador was not going to attack like maniacs either but played it safe and sound like they tend to play. But with the slight passiveness of team Wilderland Eriador actually started to get a hold of the game a little by little. Eriador was not a team that would lose purposefully but they wouldn’t over-stretch their attack either without thinking of the defence first.

Erebor

Misty Mountains had gathered all their will-power during the half-time and came to the second half blazing with fire and brimstone. They were attacking again like madmen more or less totally ignoring their defence with only a goal in mind – and thence hopefully starting the fight for the qualification for new.

Erebor had anticipated an effort from the Misty Mts. but with Wilderland leading the other game they were not in their greatest spirits and thought the other team would be in the same mind-set – and were totally unready to answer to the total onsalught by their opponents. With the aid of their homecrowds they slowly started to pick up on their defence and to pull together but it was exactly then – at the worst possible time – that Misty Mts. equalised.

And in what a way it happened! Durin’s Bane forced himself to the goal and finally got a pass from Azog drawing all the defenders to him - but he passed the ball backwards after seeing there was a clear shot for Rumil who ran in and booted it with all his might leaving Beorn quite helpless with it. And so the Lórien elf silenced the whole Lonely Mountain – except the fans of Misty Mts. who were going crazy with the equalizer!

Wilderland was still going to qualify but if there would be a change in the game between Eriador and Wilderland, then Misty Mts. was back in the game again. They had no say in the other game, but they were doing their part – and many in the audience started to fear the home-team was not… now where was their effort to fight?

It is a rare thing dwarves or the darker creatures pray for the elves to score – but now everyone at th4e Arkenstone Arena was crossing their fingers for Eriador to come back to the game in Mirkwood.

Mirkwood

Meanwhile back in the jungle… well forest, Wilderland kept on defending their lead with Eriador slowly but firmly pressing the game to the Wilderland half of the field. But compared to the match played in Erebor the energy and the tempo of the game was probably not even half of that.

Erebor

At 64th minute Bolg gets a second yellow card and is immediately shown a red by the referee! The home team or their fans can’t just quite understand what happened. Thorin is close to gain a yellow card himself running after the referee and complaining wildly – happily for Thorin the referee didn’t see him going to Bolg and punching him straight in the face after being forced away from the referee by his team mates.

But the row had started… The dwarves were booing both to the referee and Bolg – and well to goblin-spectators as well. The goblins were naturally taking none of it but jumped on the dwarven supportets. In no time the fight spread all over the stands.

It was finallly suppressed by the Eagles, Smaug, Durin’s Bane and Caradhras – together with some of their kin from the audience picking up a policing duty. Only a few dwarves and goblins were foolish enough to try and continue rebelling facing that kind of “peace officers”. After th last rebel-rousers had been kicked off from Erebor the game was ready to continue – although in a quite a reserved mood.

Mirkwood

Eriador had the command of the game now but they were not raining offences towards Wilderland but rather building the attacks slowly controlling the game to their liking.

And sure it had been a question of time Eriador evened the game… and it was a neat combination as well.

Arador sent a cross from the left towards NogWight who was breaking in from between the ents – but seeing Isildur on the move diagonally behind him NogWight let the ball go through as he was in a too tight a position between the ents. As soon as the other defenders realised it they instinctively turned towards Isildur – which meant that also Radagast from the right took the lean towards the son of Elendil only to realize that Glorfindel had time to make that extra inch from behind him to reach the one-timer pass from Isildur’s boot – and to head it in!

All those in the audience appreciating football were thrilled with the smooth team effort and neat execution of the goal – but most booed to it as with that goal Wilderland’s chances of qualification were yet again a goal away, against a team that looked like it was superior on every front and annoyingly confident.

Erebor

With the news from Mirkwood The Arkenstone Arena just burst alive after few minutes of tension and nervous anticipation. The game was on again! But the homeside was one player short!

Oh, the anguish of the home-crowd! Now it was all up to their own team and they were shorthanded!

Despite their lack of a player Erebor started pressing heavily towards the Misty Mountains defences creating the most dangerous chances of scoring with Smaug booming a “winger” just over the crossbar and Bard forcing Chief Wolf into a parade save tipping it wide by an inch.

Mirkwood

Wilderland was in between the rock and the hard place. And they decided they’d try to break through. With the leadership of Scatha and Thranduil they forced their attacks on only to find themselves contained just half-way between the center and the box. Eriador was just too good in containing their passing lines.

With Isildur and Glorfindel mainly hanging around the center ready to take a run Wilderland was not able to rise all their players up – but with Arveleg, Arador and NogWight running around to intrude the one with the ball Wilderland found little time or space to build up anything either as Eriador’s defences held their lines admirably close preventing any clear lines for passing.

And so it ended. Eriador allowed Wilderland to take one point with them but the still qualified as team number one from group E – and that was enough for them. Wilderland’s fate would be up to the other game then – which was running late now because of the incident with Bolg’s red card.

Both the crowds and Wilderland players were keeping their breath after the ending whistle for any news from the other venue…

Erebor

83 minutes on the clock! Erebor is pressing on with the attack – Brand takes a shot! And it is headed out by Caradhras.

A corner. Bard gives a swerwing ball into the middle. William heads it upwards beating Nazgûl #7 for it. Orophin dives before Dain and kicks the ball forwards with a one-timer before the ball comes down humiliating the dwarf with shooting it from above the dwarve’s head.

For a moment everyone just watches the ball go high and towards the Erebor side of the field – and Beorn starts jogging towards the midfield to catch it as to play it back as soon as possible.

Suddenly there is this odd feelling of something being going on even if you didn’t quite know what was it. Meneldor and Landroval shrieked at the same time and took it to their wings rushing high up.

A shadow went past the arena and there was a hissing sound coming from nowhere only to sweep across the field before anyone could react but the two Eagles who were sudenly seen diving behind their leader playing on the opposite side.

Gwaihir was diving down with speed only a few spectators could follow beaking the ball in front of him as he dived (the AFA rules denied flying creatures to carry the ball while airborne) and after passing Beorn who was just emerging as a bear to reach farther Gwaihir winged the ball towards the goal some thirty meters from it. Narrowly escaping a clash Landroval shrieked and took off while Meneldor dived after the ball… he managed to hit the ball with the tip of his right wing diving towards it just in front of the goal – but it was not enough! It changed the trajectory of the ball but didn’t prevent it from going inside the goal.

Misty Mountains were leading! Just six minutes before the final whistle – and they had one player advantage… which they held into. And Misty Mountains qualified in front of the astonished home crowds.

The violent clashes between the dwarves and goblins after the game are a story of their own not touched upon here but it looks doubtful Erebor will be hosting any games in near future because of what happened.

But it was clear Bolg was not welcome to Erebor any more – and some even whispered he had made it on purpose and was thus not only a clumsy and violent freak but also a willing traitor who would be hunted down if ever seen near Erebor.

Be that as it may, Erebor was out.

Results:

Erebor 1-2 Misty Mts
on target 5-7
tot shots 14-14
GOALS:
*28, 1-0 Smaug (Nazgul#7)
*53, 1-1 Rumil (DBane)
*84, 1-2 Gwaihir (Orophin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Erebor- Thorin, Bolg, Meneldor
*MMts- Watcher, William, Rumil, Azog
RED CARDS:
*Erebor- Bolg (64, second yellow)

Eriador 1-1 Wilderland
on target 3-4
tot shots 10-11
GOALS:
*34, 0-1 Scatha (Thranduil)
*70, 1-1 Glorfindel (Isildur)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eriador- Araphant
*Wilder- Nazgul#3, Imin

Eriador 7 4-2
Misty Mts. 4 5-5
Wilderland 3 6-6
Erebor 1 4-6

Eriador advances as E1
Misty Mountains advances as E2

Nilpaurion Felagund

08-10-2013, 04:29 AM

1945 Western Beleriand Time:
Good evening, and welcome to the first ever Tar-Eldar Network Television double minute-by-minute coverage.

1945:
We shall be covering the final Group B games in Gondolin: AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United at Tumladen Park, and Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin at the Stadium on the Rock.

1947:
Both stadiums are packed, and have been so for hours. As expected, the home supporters outnumber the Inter fans almost two-to-one at the Stadium on the Rock, and AC Bel fans own slightly more than half of Tumladen Park.

1948:
For fans who weren’t able to buy tickets, a giant screen has been set up just outside the old Ondolindë Stadium, displaying both games. Over a hundred thousand viewers of various sympathies have already set up camp before it.

1948:
What could happen in this group? Well, anything. The most unlikely scenario is AC Beleriand being eliminated, but it is still possible, if Dwarf U beat them by three or more goals and Inter win the other tie.

1950:
An Inter win would secure their advance, unless they win narrowly, Dwarf U win by two goals, and AC Bel score at least once to give them more total goals scored. They can get top seed if AC Bel lose by two or more goals, and they beat Gondolin by the same (or greater) difference.

1951:
Dwarf U’s advance is more fraught; they have to win, and hope Inter don’t win, unless they can win by two or more goals.

1951:
Any positive Dwarf U result would end Gondolin’s hopes. A Dwarf U loss and a Gondolin win would secure their advance.

1952:
With everyone expecting the Dwarves to be hammered by Fëanor and company, most eyes will be on the Stadium on the Rock. Tuor was right; there is still all to play for. But, of course, some have underestimated the Dwarves before, too, and it has led to grief for Wilderland and Anduin.

1954:
The projected formation sheets for both games:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/acbvdwu_zps3a6c5b48.jpg~original
[AC Beleriand in red and white; Dwarves United in black and white.]

~*~*~

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/inbvgdn_zps11d1c113.jpg~original
[Gondolin in blue and white; Inter Beleriand in blue and yellow]

1955:
All four teams walk into the pitch and were welcomed by a deafening roar, sure to be heard outside the Encircling Mountains. Fëanor looks totally focused as he shakes hands with Aulë. Maeglin’s facial expression is unreadable as he shakes hands with Maedhros.

1957:
The stadiums are now rocking; chants, cheers, and drums reverberate within the walls. Blue and white banners flutter around the walls of the Stadium of the Rock.

1959:
It’s a minute before the opening whistle is blown. All four teams take up positions on their respective pitches.

1’ The opening whistle is blown.

3’ Tumladen Park
AC Beleriand seem to be breaking out their patient passing game in preparation for the knockout stage. They set up camp outside the Dwarf U penalty box, but they are in no hurry to breach its defences, probing for weaknesses with quick passes from wing to wing.

6’ Stadium on the Rock
Meanwhile, Gondolin have already created the first chance of the evening—Elemmakil beat Haleth and Baragund to the byline and sent in a cross, but Haldad and Gorlim bodied Tuor and Maeglin well, and Turgon claimed the cross easily.

10’ Stadium on the Rock
That was almost disastrous for Gondolin. Salgant dallied too much in possession, and Beren took the ball from him. He got as far as outside the penalty box before firing narrowly over.

16’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Tuor! (1-0 Gondolin)
Maeglin managed to distance himself from Forweg’s dogged marking and played the ball to Tuor near the arc. With the Inter defenders and Turgon expecting Tuor to pass back to the Sharp Boot, he surprised everyone by turning on Haldad and smashing it home past a rooted Turgon.

17’ Stadium on the Rock
Inter might be regretting sitting deep and allowing Tuor a foothold close to the box. They’ve never played against a target man like him before.

25’ Tumladen Park
Yellow card Celebrimbor.
The other game is heating up. Aegnor created a bit of space between himself and Celebrimbor, and the crafts-Elf extended an arm to block his low cross for a breaking Eöl. Aegnor took the free kick, but Aulë managed to head it clear.

30’ Stadium on the Rock
Baragund came close to grabbing the equaliser for Inter! Beren played in Fingon, but Galdor managed to recover and come between him and the goal. Unnoticed by everyone, right-back Baragund advanced deep into Gondolin’s half and took Fingon’s backheel pass just outside the box. His dipping drive had Rog beat but sailed just wide.

31’ Tumladen Park
Gimli almost scores the opener for Dwarves United! Azaghâl intercepts an Eöl through ball and sends a long pass behind Imlach and Rochallor, who were just a few metres behind the halfway line. On comes Legolas to claim the pass, but Marach rushes out of his box to head the ball clear—towards the feet of Gimli! The Dwarf’s shot from near the halfway line sails just inches above the crossbar. A bullet dodged by AC Bel, and a missed opportunity for the Dwarves.

38’ Tumladen Park
Goal Balrog #4! (1-0 AC Beleriand)
The two AC Bel full-backs, who have never been on the scoresheet in 2013, created this goal. Fingolfin easily beat Telchar and sent a float cross into the Dwarf U box. With Eöl, Fëanor, and Angrod in the penalty area, Dwarf U’s defenders didn’t notice Balrog #4 dash in from the other wing to volley in Fingolfin’s cross past Galadriel.

39’ Stadium on the Rock
A cheer echoes around the stadium as they hear the news of the other game. As things stand, Gondolin would advance due to their head-to-head advantage over Inter (since they are tied on points, goal difference, and goals scored.)

41’ Stadium on the Rock
Yellow card Egalmoth.
Lúthien Tinúviel was too fleet-footed for the Leader of the Heavenly Arch. She easily dribbled past Egalmoth and was about to get to the byline when she was tackled from behind by the Gondolin right-back.

42’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Maedhros! (1-1 Inter Beleriand)
Beren took the free kick. His dangerous inswinger had Rog and company focused on the near post action, but a simple cushioned header from Maedhros redirected the ball into the net off the far post.

45’ The halftime whistle is blown.
AC Beleriand were comfortable in their game—Dwarves United managed only 31% of possession and two shots in the first half. In the other game both teams were as patient in possession as they possibly could, considering their situation—Inter tried to run their attacks through Beren, while Maeglin was the creative hub of Gondolin. Neither team has played long balls to their target men yet, but with Inter abandoning their deep defensive line and challenging the midfield, expect both teams to try to bypass the increasingly crowded centre of the pitch.

46’ The second half begins.

47’ Stadium on the Rock
Yellow card Gorlim.
The Inter centre-back is penalised for a studs-up challenge on Maeglin. Tuor won a long ball from Salgant and knocked it down for Maeglin, who dribbled away from his marker Haldad. Gorlim slid in to try to stop Maeglin’s forward run, but the referee adjudged that his tackle was dangerous. Gondolin gained a promising free kick near the penalty arc.

48’ Stadium on the Rock
Maeglin failed to get sufficient dip on his free kick and the ball sailed harmlessly over Turgon’s goal.

51’ Tumladen Park
Look at Legolas go! Aulë cleared a Fingolfin cross, and the ball landed near Gimli, who played a perfect through pass for a sprinting Legolas. But with Rochallor quick to recover and Marach covering the angles, the Silvan Elf elected to make the ball bounce off the horse’s hoof and past the byline. Corner kick Dwarves United.

52’ Tumladen Park
Superb Aulë header, and impressive Marach save! Gamil Zirak took the corner and the Vala rose highest to thump the ball into the net, only to be denied soundly by Marach. Imlach was first to the clearance and booted it as far from the penalty area as he could.

58’
Both games have calmed down right around the hour mark. AC Beleriand patiently keep possession around Dwarf U’s penalty area, looking for that open lane or patch of space through which to deliver a fatal blow, and Dwarves defend grimly, knowing that they won’t see much of the ball and must make every chance count. Meanwhile, at the Stadium on the Rock, the game turned into a midfield slog of pressing, failed through balls, tackles, and errant passes. Rog and his defenders remain hopeless at sending an accurate long ball towards Tuor’s head, while Maedhros is well marked by Penlod, who challenged him to every header.

61’ Stadium on the Rock
Yellow card Forweg.
Maeglin is all over the pitch, helping in the midfield battle then dashing forward in possession. Forweg and Hunthor are unable to deal with Maeglin and Duilin’s pressing, playing errant passes and conceding possession too easily.

In one such sequence, Maeglin got between Hunthor’s pass to Forweg, and the latter tugged on the Sharp Boot’s arm as he attempted to dribble forward. The free kick was conceded from middle of the pitch and is of little consequence, but with Forweg less able to tackle with abandon for fear of a second booking, Gondolin will slowly gain advantage in the centre of the pitch

66’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Maeglin! (2-1 Gondolin)
Duilin’s perfectly weighted pass, Maeglin’s exquisite volley, and Tuor’s intelligent dummy run—it seems that everything’s clicking in Gondolin’s offence. Duilin took on an increasingly timid Forweg, forcing Haldad to advance from the defence to stop him. Tuor then made a run towards the near post as if to receive a cross, dragging Gorlim away from the centre. Maeglin then had a clear path to make a run and volley in Duilin’s chipped ball over the defence, with Lúthien arriving too late to stop him.

70’ Stadium on the Rock
While the other game seems to have settled into a lull, Inter almost immediately replied to Maeglin’s goal. Beren dribbled almost the length of the field before Salgant closed him down. He fired a lateral pass to a charging Lúthien, who dribbled her way past Idril and cut inside just as Egalmoth stepped up to challenge her. With Maedhros and Fingon occupying the centre-backs, she found space to shoot a curler that Rog managed to bat away.

76’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Fingon! (2-2 Inter Beleriand)
And we’re right down to the wire, folks! It was a standard Inter play executed at high speed. After dispossessing Idril, Beren and Lúthien passed their down the left wing, as if taking a stroll to Angband. Lúthien crossed for Maedhros, who managed to beat Penlod to the header. His knockdown connected perfectly with his best friend’s foot, and Fingon volleyed in a rocket past a frozen Rog.

77’ Stadium on the Rock
The Inter fans are taking over the stadium, making a lot of noise. The home supporters are nervous in their seats, snacking on their fingers. AC Bel still hold a lead over Dwarf U with little time left, so a goal scored by Gondolin could still turn their fortunes. Would it come in time?

78’ Tumladen Park
Yellow card Telchar.
A late challenge on Fingolfin three metres from the left corner of the Dwarf U box was deemed bookable by the referee. Telchar tried to help the Noldor High-King up and apologised gruffly for his dangerous tackle. Fingolfin patted the Nogrod smith in the back in reply.

79’ Tumladen Park
Goal Fëanor! (2-0 AC Beleriand)
It’s all over but the whistle for Dwarf U. Aegnor’s free kick hit the wall, but Fëanor had the alacrity to get to the rebound quickly as the wall scattered. With Galadriel unsighted, she was unable to get to his pinpoint strike and the lead now seems insurmountable for Aulë’s team with so little time left.

82’ Stadium on the Rock
Yellow card Penlod and penalty for Inter.
Is this the dagger for the home side? Beren’s drive from twenty-five metres ricocheted off Penlod’s knees and hit his arms. He then argued with the referee that he was trying to get his hands out of the way, but the referee would have none of it and pointed to the spot. If Inter scored here, Gondolin would need two goals to advance.

83’ Stadium on the Rock
Fingon took the penalty, but Rog guessed correctly and saved it! Fingon got to the rebound first but Rog managed to tip it away to Penlod, who sent a long ball forward.

84’ Tumladen Park
Goal Ulrad! (3-0 AC Beleriand)
AC Beleriand had enough time to add to their lead, with the outlaw taking Eöl’s backheeled pass after a solo run. Ulrad’s drive proved too fast for Galadriel to handle, and it’s all but certain that last year’s bronze medallists are advancing as first seed.

84’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Tuor! (3-2 Gondolin)
Marvellous! Fantastic! It was footballing drama at its finest, as tears turn to jubilation before the home supporters! After Rog’s miraculous double save against Fingon, Idril took Penlod’s long clearance and dribbled the length of the pitch against a disorganised Inter defence. She crossed for her husband in the box, and Tuor rose to fire a thunderous header past his despairing father-in-law.

84’ Stadium on the Rock
The crowd goes wild! Tuor carried Idril in his arms and ran before the home supporters, who chanted their names in response.

86’ Stadium on the Rock
Inter pushed for an equaliser, but Gondolin was equal to them. Aranwë had got in the way of a Fingon long-range drive, and Penlod beat Maedhros to every header.

90’ The full time whistle is blown.
Gondolin advance! Inter are left behind once again by the closest of margins! Heartbreak for Fingon and Maedhros; joy and hope for Tuor, Idril, and Maeglin. What would Inter do in the long offseason ahead of them?

In the other game, it was a professional performance from the red-and-white squad, as Fëanor’s AC Beleriand stamp their domination on Group B. The Dwarves almost played spoiler to the home team’s hopes, but their losses against both Beleriand squads prevented them from repeating last year’s surprise.

Exit interviews shall be provided in The Matchday episode next week.

AC Beleriand 3-0 Dwarves United
GOALS:
38, 1-0 Balrog #4 (Fingolfin)
79, 2-0 Fëanor (Aegnor)
84, 3-0 Ulrad (Eöl)

Total Shots:
16-7
Shots On Target:
8-2

YELLOW CARDS:
1-2
ACB: Rochallor
DWU: Celebrimbor, Telchar

~*~*~

Inter Beleriand 2-3 Gondolin
GOALS:
16, 0-1 Tuor (Maeglin)
42, 1-1 Maedhros (Beren)
66, 1-2 Maeglin (Duilin)
76, 2-2 Fingon (Maedhros)
84, 2-3 Tuor (Idril)

Total Shots:
17-21
Shots On Target:
7-9

YELLOW CARDS:
2-2
INB: Gorlim, Forweg
GDN: Egalmoth, Penlod

--------------- W-D-L Pts GD
[1]AC Beleriand 3-0-0 9 +6
[2]Gondolin 1-0-2 3 -1
Inter Beleriand 1-0-2 3 -1
Dwarves United 1-0-2 3 -4

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference
[1]: team secured first seed
[2]: team secured second seed

the phantom

08-10-2013, 02:11 PM

Group H @ Amon Hen

A few folks here and there complained about Arda Cup’s “special consideration” for Group H. Why shouldn’t they have to play the final round simultaneously like everyone else? Well, obviously, it was because the Amon Hen Coliseum was unlike any other arena, and so the seating disparity that would exist between them and the alternate site would be enormous. While this could indeed provide an advantage to the squads playing the second match, it had been done in this fashion for the past few years, thus it wasn’t without precedent.

The first match pitted the Dunedain of the north against the horse-lords. Since Rohan was nearer, and because the Gondorians were their fast friends, doubtless Rohan would have the lion’s share of crowd support, but they’d also be smart enough to know that a Rohan victory would more likely help Mordor than their own Rohan. MESPN correspondent Arvagil, who especially covers squads from Eriador, had this to say: “I expect if Arnor has the lead in the second half the Gondorian portion of the crowd may go over to their side. They’ll realize that Rohan can’t advance at that stage, and so they’ll wish for an Arnorian victory in order to block Mordor’s chances.”

And what were Mordor’s chances? They’d looked impressive against Rohan, and then held the lead against Arnor until the final 15, when Arnor scored twice. But Anduin had been the class of the group thus far, defeating Arnor solidly by two and then grabbing a two-goal lead on Rohan and sitting on the lead for most of the second half. But—if Rohan and Arnor tied in the first game, or even if Rohan won by less than 4 goals, suddenly the door would be open for Mordor to advance with only a draw…

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

For the final set of games of Group H, the Coliseum was filling to the brim. A few odd extra boats from up and downstream were expected for the final round, but far more showed up with Anduin poised to win the group, which would mean that they would also host the first round of playoffs at Amon Hen, thus folks figured they could catch the final round and be on-site to be first in line to purchase tickets for the first round of the playoffs.

The teams from Rohan and Arnor looked grim and determined as they prepared for the match. They weren’t on bad terms with one another at all, but they weren’t exchanging any smiles or hugs, as they were fully set to give no quarter, as both had a shot of advancing to the playoffs.

The crowd was expecting Rohan to be aggressive from the outset since they were the ones with the most ground to make up in the standings, but it was Arnor that took the initiative from the get-go. They left behind their usual caution and possession and made some riskier passes forward, and tried to give Witch King and company chances to force the action. Hama and the horses at the back staved them off decently, but after Witch King made a nice touch and sent a quick pass that yielded a surprise drive from Araphor that rattled the goalposts, Theoden called in for some defensive help. The Rohan supporters smiled—their team preferred to play defense first anyway, and if Arnor wanted to leave themselves open at the back, that was fine with them.

Things were suddenly tougher going for Arnor, but they were well-schooled and went to work against Rohan, now playing it more carefully and working their whole team up in support, and one-touching it around close quarters with precision. After 10 minutes of work they earned themselves an Elendil header off a corner and a pretty re-direct from Arantar, but Theoden had them both played perfectly. But the Rohan fans were getting uncomfortable now, as their team hadn’t shown them anything. They were under assault, and looked to be withering.

And at minute 33 it finally happened—Witch King and Araphor managed a series of passes on the left side that scared Rohan enough to shift over, and immediately Araphor sent a ball pinpoint right through to the right side where Argeleb one-touched it back into the middle of the spinning defense and Arassuil met it in stride and fired it through a lane, and Theoden didn’t see it in time to react. Arnor had the lead!

When things got rolling again Arnor looked like they were going right back to work, but Hama sprawled out to tip away a pass and Snowmane immediately hoofed it forward where King Dead got a hold of it and served it out in front of Faramir and Eowyn, and only a sliding Malbeth forcing Faramir to take his shot out of rhythm kept the equalizer from happening, as the boot didn’t have quite enough on it and Arvedui made a heroic save. The Arnor fans sighed and then laughed it off, certain they’d be back in control soon, but the team on the field took things more seriously. After a brief meeting between Elendil and Witch King things were back under way, and Arnor was no longer attacking. They were possessing and time-wasting, and when Rohan had it they fell back swiftly, and that’s the way they finished the half.

During the break the crowds debated what would happen in the second half. Rohan needed to attack, that much was obvious, but what would Arnor do? They had so much success early on attacking, so why not keep doing it? Particularly if Mordor happened to win, they needed goals to catch them in differential. But others said that the strategy they’d settled on to end the half would continue—Arnor had been spooked that they’d lose their lead too quickly, and if they could just draw things out for a bit they’d almost certainly get a draw, and then bank on Anduin defeating Mordor.

When the second half started, it seemed the more conservative fans were correct—Arnor was playing it cautious. For the first ten minutes or so Rohan seemed downright surprised, and then seemed to struggle to adjust, but finally Faramir had the soldiers whipped into shape and Rohan started looking like the mirror image of Arnor from the first half. But the main difference is that they had no Witch King—the way he unnerves mortals is something that, while subtle, is a nice bonus, but Rohan had to earn their chances more honestly.

At around 60 minutes Rohan began to get desperate and they started taking any decent looking shot they got. They managed to put several on target and made Arvedui move, but none of the shots were close enough to truly be threatening. At minute 80 they completely muffed a corner, sending it clean over everyone, and at that point Theoden decided to shut things down. They simply didn’t have enough time to score enough goals to qualify, and if they didn’t qualify, they’d rather Arnor get in than Mordor, so rather than try desperately for the draw they elected to just whittle the time away.

Elendil accepted the turn of events graciously, and appeared to share a knowing look with the Witch King. Perhaps they had even expected the surrender slightly sooner. But better late than never. Arnor had the victory. They owned six points, and would have to wait and see what happened between Mordor and Anduin in the evening. An Anduin win or draw would send them forward, while a Mordor win would leave them out in the cold (unless they won by four goals, which was inconceivable).

Arnor 1-0 Rohan
on target 4-5
tot shots 12-14
GOALS:
*33, 1-0 Arassuil (Argeleb)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Arnor- Earendur
*Rohan- KingDead

When the evening match between Anduin and Mordor was ready to roll there were close to 200,000 ready to watch. There was a large contingent of Orcs and creepy-crawlies to support Mordor, but the Anduin supporters made them look like nothing in comparison. Groups of Elves from Lothlorien and Mirkwood were for them, the men of the Anduin vales were for them, the Gondorins were for them, and the Arnor and Rohan supporters would also be pulling for Anduin.

But what sort of game would the home side have to offer? So long as they didn’t lose by four goals they had a ticket to the playoffs, so how much did they care about winning this contest? Was there any chance that they had a preference on facing either Valimar or Armenelos in the first round? Most agreed that the opportunity to host their game was too good to pass up, so surely they’d at least try for a draw. And quite a few thought they’d prefer to lock Mordor out of the playoffs as well and let the Arnorians in instead, so surely they wouldn’t be rolling over.

When the refs got the game started though it didn’t look like Anduin was interested in taking the game to Mordor. They didn’t seem to want to hold the ball at all, and their runs looked half-hearted, and this suited Mordor fine, as they were looking to attack out of the gate. But it must be said for Anduin that while their attackers lacked energy, Fram, Celeborn, and the rest of the folks at the rear were dialed in, and seemed to enjoy Shelob and company coming at them. Surely it was by design—but why? Were they just using the game as a final tune-up before the playoffs?

If that was the case, their preparations were looking good, as they were taking everything Mordor could throw at them, and that’s without getting extra help from the front or even bothering to keep Mordor honest with serious attempts to counter. Mordor grew frustrated indeed and pushed ever more aggressively. Fram was just harassing Shelob—everyone knows what a monster-stopper he is ever since he turned Scatha into a lamb in that historic clash years ago. And while Minalcar at times was unsettled by the Nazgul, Celeborn and Felarof tried to handle them for the most part leaving him to dog the steps of the Mouth of Sauron.

Finally around the half-hour mark Mordor started looking threatening, as they had nearly every player dedicated to the attack, and they were really starting to find rhythms thanks to their long testing of the Anduin defense. First one of the Fellbeasts managed to gain a decent tail-shot, forcing Amroth to make the save, and then a few minutes later Shagrat managed to sneak into a dangerous position and one-timed a Nazgul pass, but again Amroth was there for the save. The hard-core Anduin supporters applauded, but the Arnor fans were annoyed. “Don’t just treat this as a practice!” they could be heard shouting. “Our playoff fates are in the balance!”

And just a few minutes before halftime their darkest fears were realized, as the Mouth fired a rocket off the crossbar and Shelob used one of her many legs to clean up the rebound, and Mordor was into the lead! The Orcs went absolutely wild, as they knew they were now sitting in line to qualify in the top position from the group! As play resumed many of the Arnor and Rohan fans especially began to boo, as they were most displeased with Anduin’s play and the results it was getting, but Anduin ignored it and kept doing more of the same, and to the relief of most of the spectators Mordor didn’t quite manage another serious threat before the halftime break.

During the half many of the fans considered leaving in protest and demanding their money back at the ticket office. But the vast majority thought better of it in the end, saying, “They can’t do that for the entire second half surely—something will change.” But as the second half started they looked to be quite wrong, as Anduin let Mordor have it and Mordor rushed forward to attack yet again. Many were halfway out of their seats to go demand their money back when it happened—Celeborn got in the way of a pass and rifled it downfield, and Haldir and Grimbeorn were swiftly after it with Eorl and Boromir II close behind!

The Mordor defense was caught completely off-guard and it was a four-on-two. Haldir brought it down and sent it over to Grimbeorn, who laid it back for Eorl, who sent it forward to Haldir, and he sent it across for Grimbeorn and he headed it home! Just like that the score was level!

But no! Lost in the action was the offside flag! Eorl was judged not to have sent his pass before Mumakil and Gothmog II stop-started and let Haldir and Grimbeorn on the wrong side of them! It was a very desperate maneuver, but most that had a good view of it said that the Mordorians had timed it right and the call was the right one. Amroth knelt and pounded the field a few times, and the rest of Anduin showed their disappointment as well. They’d been waiting to do just that and they had blown the opportunity! They couldn’t hope to catch Mordor sleeping again—they now knew that Anduin wasn’t going to roll over any longer.

But despite Mordor being wise to their plans, the game turned against them anyway. They now had to play more honestly and Anduin was suddenly possessing well to boot, and after a while it became obvious that Mordor just couldn’t match them. At first they noticed their attack was getting nowhere, and then the game moved to the midfield, and then it was on their side. Around 60 minutes Anduin started willing the game to go their way for real. First Boromir II sent a drive barely high, then Leod nearly put in a loose ball, then Grimbeorn forced a save on a corner, then Haldir forced an even better save from a perfect free-kick bender.

And finally at minute 70 Anduin got their equalizer, as Haldir found Boromir for a quick give and go and Boromir made no mistake with a step on his man and an opening to shoot through. The Anduin supporters applauded the effort, while the Arnor fans leaped up and down and screamed! Now they were in the playoffs instead of Mordor!

Mordor wasn’t going to go down without a fight—they needed but one goal to turn the group on its head again, but there was nothing they could do. Anduin was dominating now, and before the final whistle sounded they nearly scored twice more. Though they wanted the win and showed some momentary disappointment with the result, Anduin eventually broke into smiles and embraced, realizing that they’d be hosting a first-round playoff game. Anduin had conquered their home group, and Arnor had finished in second!

Anduin 1-1 Mordor
on target 5-3
tot shots 14-10
GOALS:
*37, 0-1 Shelob (Mouth)
*70, 1-1 Boromir II (Haldir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Boromir II, Grimbeorn
*Mordor- Nazgul#2, Gorbag, Shagrat, Mumakil

-------- W-D-L Pts Score
Anduin 2-1-0 7 5-2
Arnor 2-0-1 6 3-3
Mordor 1-1-1 4 4-3
Rohan 0-0-3 0 1-5

MESPN Exit Interviews

MESPN: So, Theoden—I can’t imagine you thought you’d end up pointless in group.
Theoden: Obviously.
MESPN: What could have changed?
Theoden: We could’ve played better.
MESPN: Faramir, any thoughts?
Faramir: What he said.
MESPN: Okay. Is everyone going to be back next year?
Faramir: Eowyn and I are determined to be back. I can’t speak for others.
MESPN: Theoden?
Theoden: *sigh* I don’t know.
MESPN: Is Rohan shopping for new blood?
Faramir: We always have our eyes open.
MESPN: But any names anyone can give us?
Eowyn: Anything at this point would just be reckless speculation. But I suppose there is one that I’m somewhat certain of. He’s never played in Arda Cup before—he’s not overly fond of crowds and large cities.
MESPN: Ah—hoping he’ll join you in driving away the bad dark of this year’s campaign?
Eowyn: Heh, he’ll like that.
MESPN: All right then, good luck.

MESPN: So close to the playoffs, guys.
Mouth of Sauron: We have failed our investors. They will not be pleased.
MESPN: Mainly Sauron, right?
Mouth: Indeed.
MESPN: At least you were low-budget enough to make a bit of money anyway.
Mouth: Making “a bit” isn’t the standard. In the end we want it all.
MESPN: Well then, what’s the plan for the future?
Mouth: It’s tough to say until all the games are finished, but rest assured we’ll look to gain in competitiveness without putting ourselves at financial risk.
MESPN: Any new faces for next season that you can predict?
Mouth: I would guess a player or two will swap from Barad-Dur, but Sauron will have the final word.
MESPN: Are you saying you’ll receive their castoffs?
Mouth: No. Both Mordorian squads will improve.
MESPN: You certainly have confidence for someone that got bounced from group play.
Mouth: Make your little jokes while you can.
MESPN: Thanks for giving your permission.

Nilpaurion Felagund

08-11-2013, 02:20 PM

1740 Valinor Time:
Good evening, and welcome to the second ever Tar-Eldar Network Television double minute-by-minute match report.

1741:
We’re reporting to you live from just outside the city of Swanhaven, beside whose harbour is anchored the Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium. This would be the stadium’s last stop in this year’s Arda Cup competition, but many football fans (count us among them) hope that the stadium would be put to use again next year.

1744:
The Sea vs Minas Tirith would be the last game played in the mobile stadium, unless the Sea manage to win Group F. So what are the chances of that happening? If the other game ends in a low-scoring draw, and they beat Minas Tirith by three or more goals and score at least three goals more than the teams from the other game, they take first place. On the other hand, any result other than a Sea victory would eliminate them.

1747:
Provided that the Sea win their tie (and analysts as well as betting agencies are unanimous that they will), the loser of the other fixture would be eliminated. A draw would favour Nargothrond, having a superior goal difference (+3) to Tirion (+2). In case of a draw, the Sea would need at least a two-goal victory to have a chance of advancing.

1749:
Nargothrond vs Tirion would be played in Alqualondë’s Seaside Stadium. Alqualondë Arena has been opened to visitors, and both games would be shown live on the arena’s giant screens.

1751:
Expect both the Sea and Tirion to be heavily supported in both of their games, with their fanbases much closer to the stadiums than Nargothrond or Minas Tirith’s. Some supporter groups of the latter two teams have come across the Sea aboard the mobile stadium, though, and Finarfin’s folk would probably be split, rooting for their lord in Tirion and his son in Nargothrond.

1754:
The projected formation sheets for both games:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/mtivsea_zps6f74a48e.jpg~original
[The Sea in white and blue; Minas Tirith in silver and black.]

~*~*~

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/ngrvtir_zpse66660e7.jpg~original
[Tirion in teal and yellow; Nargothrond in green and yellow.]

1755:
There are five minutes left before the games begin, and a roar goes around both stadiums as the teams walk into the pitch. Noticeably absent is the captain’s armband on Denethor II, probably as a result of his, ahem, interesting post-game comments during the previous matchday; Mardil is wearing it this evening.

1757:
At the Seaside Stadium, the crowd applaud warmly as Finarfin and Finrod share a hug near the technical area. Meanwhile Finwë chats with his grandson Orodreth and great-granddaughter Finduilas.

1759:
With a minute left before the start of the matches, teams take up position on their respective pitches. The Sea field an offensive 4-2-1-3, which is understandable given their need to score a lot to have a chance of going into the knockout rounds.

1’ The opening whistle is blown.

5’ Seaside Stadium
It is predictable that Nargothrond are controlling possession, considering their numerical advantage in the centre of the pitch, but Tirion are surprisingly giving Nienor and Finduilas time on the ball, pressing aggressively only when Glaurung receives the ball; Anairë and Eldalótë are doing their best to keep the dragon from turning to face the goal.

6’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Meanwhile, Minas Tirith start with much energy. Éomer and Mardil close down Tar-Ciryatan and Voronwë whenever they have the ball, preventing them from passing to Vëantur.

12’ Seaside Stadium
Nargothrond vs Tirion is turning into a slog. With Glaurung tightly marked, and Caranthir doing a good job on Gwindor, Nargothrond have no way of getting forward. Despite their dominance in possession, they haven’t created any chance yet. To their credit, neither have Tirion. And a draw suits them better than it does the home side.

14’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
The Sea have created the first chance of the evening. With Mardil helping in the midfield, the Sea right-back Uinen is left unmarked. She had time to move forward with the ball and deliver a cross for Tar-Minastir, but he couldn’t get a clear header due to Ecthelion II’s marking and Denethor II easily gathers the tame shot.

20’ Seaside Stadium
Goal Mahtan! (1-0 Tirion)
Tirion draw first blood! It was a classic Tirion goal: Rúmil beat his marker Barahir to the byline, got a cross in for Finwë to knock down on to Mahtan’s path. The Noldo smith had enough space for a curler that evaded Orodreth’s diving save.

21’ Seaside Stadium
The Tirion fans are chanting and cheering. They are clearly unused to being left behind in the group stages and relishing the idea of their return to the knockout stage. Meanwhile, Nargothrond supporters must be worried that Tirion scored on their very first attempt. Would their defence hold up against the best strike partnership in the group?

23’ Seaside Stadium
One advantage Nargothrond have in this tie is the amount space their midfielders can get. Since Glaurung is a few metres higher up the pitch than Nienor and Finduilas, Anairë and Eldalótë’s marking of the dragon has given the two a lot of time on the ball. Mahtan is essentially Tirion’s third central midfielder, but he cannot cover both of them at once. Nienor and Finduilas exploited this by passing their way around Tirion’s midfielders. They managed to advance deep into the teeth of Tirion’s defence; Finduilas’s drive from twenty-five metres was barely tipped away by her grandfather Finarfin.

26’ Seaside Stadium
Eldalótë moved a little forward to track Nienor’s runs. This leaves Anairë all alone to deal with the Father of Dragons. Let’s see if he would exploit his newfound freedom.

28’ Seaside Stadium
Yellow card Amras.
And so he does. With Nienor and Finduilas finding their way forward blocked, they passed the ball back to Bëor, who played an accurate long ball for Glaurung. The dragon easily turned on Anairë and stormed forward in possession, forcing Amras to stop Glaurung with a cynical trip.

29’ Seaside Stadium
Goal Glaurung! (1-1 Nargothrond)
While the Sea are still unable to get on the score sheet, the game in Alqualondë is tied. Finrod took the free kick, which silkily flew over the Tirion wall before dipping straight into his father’s path. Unfortunately Finarfin spilled his save into the path of Glaurung, who snouted the ball past him to bag the equaliser.

31’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Goal Tar-Meneldur! (1-0 The Sea)
Finally, the Sea score. Vëantur had to drop deeper to receive a pass from Tar-Ciryatan, who was being hounded by Mardil. But when he got the ball, it took him a little more than a second to notice Tar-Meneldur’s run into the channel between Cirion and Ecthelion II then play a millimetre-perfect through ball for him. All it took then was a simple side-footed finish past Denethor II and the Sea are finally in contention. They still need to catch up to Tirion’s +2 goal difference, though.

32’ Seaside Stadium
With news of the Sea’s goal, the match between Tirion and Nargothrond becomes a little cagier. Losing the game would mean elimination, unless Minas Tirith can get an equaliser, which is a tall order to put it mildly.

35’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
But the Stewards are trying to claim an equaliser. After some neat wing play between Cirion and Mardil, Cirion found space to cross for Boromir I. But Ossë calmly heads the ball away before the Minas Tirith forward could get it.

37’ Seaside Stadium
Nargothrond are playing keep ball, knowing that have the better goal difference and would advance if all three teams finish with five points. But Tirion are fighting to win the ball back; Aredhel dropped to the midfield to pressure Bëor in possession.

41’ Seaside Stadium
Goal Aredhel! (2-1 Tirion)
Bëor dithered in possession, and Aredhel easily dispossessed him. She then passed the ball to Mahtan before turning and sprinting behind Baran and Arminas. Mahtan dinked the ball over the top of Nargothrond’s defenders, and Aredhel controlled the pass before Orodreth could clear it then slotted home into an empty net.

45’ The halftime whistle is blown.
The last four minutes must have been a nightmare for Nargothrond. The home crowd is really turning up the noise and the team on the pitch is responding by defending with gusto. As things stand, Tirion and the Sea would advance to the round of sixteen, leaving Nargothrond behind in the group stage. But Finrod’s squad have already grabbed a late equaliser before, and surely Tirion must bear in mind what happened to the Sea when they met Nargothrond.

In the other fixture, the Sea must be frustrated, scoring but once against a team with nothing to play for. They would hope that the second half would be kinder to them in terms of goals, since they shouldn’t fully trust Tirion’s lead to last until the end of the game.

46’ The second half begins.
A single goal can still change the fortunes of three teams in Group F. Which two teams will advance at the end of ninety minutes?

48’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Goal Tar-Minastir! (2-0 The Sea)
With the second half only three minutes old, the Sea already doubled their lead. Cirion was caught out of position when Voronwë stole the ball from Éomer. Noticing Tar-Minastir run behind the empty left-back zone, Voronwë played a long diagonal to the Númenórean forward. Tar-Minastir then fired a near-impossible curler from an acute angle before Ecthelion II could close him down.

49’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
I think Tar-Minastir violated the laws of physics. He was about a metre from the byline when he took that shot.

55’ Seaside Stadium
Yellow card Baran.
The first High-King of the Noldor took an elbow to the face from Baran while challenging for a long ball. Baran apologised to Finwë, but he should probably think of apologising to his teammates more. He has conceded a free kick thirty-five yards from goal, a distance Mahtan or Aredhel could easily cover.

56’ Seaside Stadium
Superb free kick, and an equally impressive save. Mahtan curled his free kick past the Nargothrond wall. Orodreth was equal to it, however, staying on his feet until he saw the ball swerve away. He dived at full stretch to punch it away, and the rebound fell to Bëor, who hoofed it clear.

57’ Seaside Stadium
Yellow card Caranthir.
The situation almost resembled that of Gondolin’s winning goal; Gwindor took Bëor’s long clearance and attacked Tirion’s disorganised defence. With Glaurung romping through the middle, a backpedalling Caranthir was unsure whether to show the Nargothrond winger inside or to the touchline. When Gwindor made his move to take Caranthir on, the Tirion left-back deliberately tripped him.

Caranthir might rue the booking more than the conceded free kick—he was able to handle Gwindor when he’s in front of him, but has trouble containing him when forced to run backwards.

58’ Seaside Stadium
Finrod’s free kick slammed into the wall, and Irimë booted it clear.

65’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Yellow card Tar-Ciryatan.
The Númenórean was penalised for a handball, using his upper arm to control a defensive header against Éomer.

66’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Hyarmendacil got a finger on Mardil’s dipping free kick and tipped it over the crossbar. Corner to Minas Tirith.

67’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Goal Éomer! (2-1 The Sea)
Minas Tirith finally score a goal in the tournament! Telumehtar took the corner, and Mardil was able to win the header against Voronwë, flicking it to an unmarked Éomer, who met the ball with a ferocious overhead kick. The goal conceded won’t cost the Sea much so long as Tirion is winning the other match, but would this come back to haunt them?

74’ Seaside Stadium
Nargothrond knows that if they can get the ball past the midfield to Glaurung, Gwindor, or Finrod, they have a chance of scoring. Barahir briefly left his zone to play wall to Nienor, who got the ball quickly to Glaurung. The dragon easily shrugged off Anairë’s challenge and charged forward in possession. As Amrod stepped forward from the back line to stop him, Gwindor ran into the space, closely tailed by Caranthir. His one-touch drive from Glaurung’s through ball deflected off Caranthir’s toes and out of bounds. Corner kick Nargothrond.

75’ Seaside Stadium
Goal Finrod! (2-2 Nargothrond)
It didn’t take more than eight minutes for the Sea to regret Éomer’s goal. Finduilas played a short corner kick to Finrod, who stutter-faked his way through the heart of Tirion’s defence before slotting in a low shot past Finarfin.

76’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
The Sea know that if they can get a goal, or either one of Nargothrond or Tirion score, they could still advance, so they are calmly trying to break down Minas Tirith’s defence. But Éomer’s goal seemed to encourage the Stewards, and, urged on by their small band of supporters, they smartly repulse any attempted Sea attack before launching their own counterattack.

80’ Seaside Stadium
With ten minutes left to play the energy level in the Seaside Stadium seemed to have dropped. Nargothrond are content to play keep ball in the midfield, and Tirion are surprisingly not closing them down as energetically as they did before, perhaps with half an eye on the scoreboard. A Sea goal would be dangerous to their chances of advancing, but under current circumstances they would advance as second seed.

84’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
The Sea have abandoned calm precision attacks and are trying the battering ram. They are trying to win corner kicks, before bringing up Ulmo and Ossë to win headers. But Denethor II and the defenders are up to the task of denying them.

85’ Seaside Stadium
It’s as if Tirion remembered that the second seed would be playing the imperious Real Valinor in the round of sixteen, so they now tried to win the ball back from Nargothrond. Nienor and Finduilas were now liberated from the need to attack, and they drifted around looking for space before receiving a pass from each other. Tirion could not keep up with their pass-and-move tactic.

87’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
The Sea must have had about as many shots in that seven-minute spell as they have had the whole game, but Minas Tirith also showed a bit of fang during that span. Boromir I received a long clearance from Firefoot, but fluffed his lines when Hyarmendacil left his goal to close him down.

90’ The full time whistle is blown.
The two teams who failed to advance last year are now through to the last sixteen, and they two teams who advanced last year are left in the group stage.

Finrod, having twice saved his team from defeat, is now being carried off the field in honour; the Nargothrond supporters applaud them off the pitch. Tirion also receive a standing ovation from their fans. They hope that, having improved greatly from last year, they could take the game to Real this time around.

Minas Tirith were not expecting much, having been drawn into a group of First and Second Age legends. Some fans would find it mildly amusing that the Man whom Denethor II called useless scored their only goal in the tournament.

And as for the Sea… paying a nine-digit wage bill only to be left in the group stage must be painful. After their high point of keeping a clean sheet against FC Valinor in a friendly, they sort of slowly spiralled downward. Their primary problem was the lack of aggression going forward, since the group stage is more about scoring goals than keeping clean sheets. They were eliminated by the narrowest of margins against above-average opposition, so one is unsure whether they would trim some wages or try to improve the squad. It would be a difficult offseason for Ulmo and company.

Exit interviews shall be provided in The Matchday episode next week.

Nargothrond 2-2 Tirion
GOALS:
20, 0-1 Mahtan (Finwë)
29, 1-1 Glaurung (Finrod)
41, 1-2 Aredhel (Mahtan)
75, 2-2 Finrod (Finduilas)

Total Shots:
15-18
Shots On Target:
6-8

YELLOW CARDS:
1-2
NGR: Baran
TIR: Amras, Caranthir

~*~*~

Minas Tirith 1-2 The Sea
GOALS:
31, 0-1 Tar-Meneldur (Vëantur)
48, 0-2 Tar-Minastir (Voronwë)
67, 1-2 Éomer (Mardil)

Total Shots:
10-11
Shots On Target:
3-5

YELLOW CARDS:
1-1
MTI: Eärnil
SEA: Tar-Ciryatan

-------------- W-D-L Pts GD
[1]Nargothrond 1-2-0 5 +3
[2]Tirion 1-2-0 5 +2
The Sea 1-2-0 5 +1
Minas Tirith 0-0-3 0 -6

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference
[1]: team secured first seed
[2]: team secured second seed

Boromir88

08-12-2013, 10:29 AM

Group G @ Anfauglith

One game in Group G would be played at Tol-In-Gaurhoth's stadium between Angband and Imladris. And the other game at Anfauglith's Coliseum between Angfauglith and Tol-In-Gaurhoth. Before the two primetime matches kicked off two things were almost completely certain. TIG would advance and Imladris would be eliminated. There were circumstances which could prove these statements wrong, but most pundits said 2 halflings blindly walking into Mordor and destroying the ultimate ring of power is more probable. TIG doesn't give up a lot of goals and they're up against Angfauglith, who doesn't score a lot. So, the chances they lose by 2 or 3 goals is indeed improbable. Imladris would need Angfauglith to lose and to also beat Angband that makes up their -3 goal differential. They've been kept off the scoreboard by TIG and Angfauglith so far, and will have no lesser of a challenge against Angband tonight.

The starting of the match could not have gone better if Morgoth had sang the theme for it. Telvildo and Oikeroi were constants pests to the Imladris players. Not afraid of the band of Valar, Elven, and mortal players the cats had no problem sneaking by and stealing possession from right under their feet. Already in the 12th minute Angband got on the scoreboard from a screaming bullet off of Ancalagon's tail. Then a few minutes later Oikeroi quickly stole a pass from Galdor and tried to shoot a quick one in. Valandil stopped it, but couldn't hold on, and made a further mess trying to dive on the ball he fumbled, but Ulfast got to it first and punched it in. And just like that Angband was up 2-0 before the 20 minute mark.

The crowd was roaring cheers, even if it was in TIG, there was no shortage of Angband sympathizers and the TIG team had already convincincly defeated Angband, so they were just geared up for a bloodbath against the goodie Elven squad from Middle-earth.

Being up 2 goals, Morgoth switched to his shutdown defense that everyone in the stadium was used to seeing. Although, maybe in this case their pride led to overconfidence or they thought Imladris' spirits were completely broken from a poor tournament. It wasn't a particularly good attempt by Elladan. Carcharoth should have had an easy save but he was caught napping and it somehow got past him. No matter how it comes about, a goal is a goal. It counted and just like that Imladris felt they were back in the game.

Imladris tried to ride the positive feelings to the break and maybe get a quick equalizer, but Morgoth, angered by conceding a goal to Imladris was having none of it. Angband ordered his team into keeping possession for the remainder of the half and they were able to do so quite easily.

The 2nd half began and it surprised the crowd it was still a close game, because watching it just seemed Angband had a firm grip and everything was going exactly as Morgoth planned. But the scoreboard told a different story, even though if probably only the small Imladris crowd still believed their side could challenge the mighty power from the North.

Imladris would have no such halflings luck today though, the 2nd half was a defensive clinic in playing a possession game. Carcharoth could actually nap at the goal and not worry about anymore goals. In the 66th minute Angband sealed their victory, and it was none other than Morgoth himself scoring off of Ulfang's corner. It was now 3-1 and Imladris did not have the will to try to fight back as they had in the 1st half.

Imladris would have the long road back home with quite a disappointing group performance. Angband was sitting in 2nd place with 6 points and +2 differential. It put them in good position to advance, but whatever had happened at Anfauglith had the final say of which 2 advanced. So, what had been going on in Anfauglith?

Angband 3-1 Imladris
on target 8-3
tot shots 17-9
GOALS:
*12, 1-0 Ancalagon (Telvildo)
*18, 2-0 Ulfast (Oikeroi)
*31, 2-1 Elladan (Arahael)
*66, 3-1 Morgoth (Ulfang)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Ulfang
*Imlad- Varda, Galdor

----

Tol-in-Gaurhoth had "it" back. The intimidation, the swagger, the athleticism, everything that made the team a fearsome title contender year-after-year. But they felt like a road team for the first time in Anfauglith's massive stadium. Angfauglith fans had spent the hours before the match trying to convince themselves their team could score the multiple goals needed to steal one of the playoff spots. TIG was calm and confident though in their defense to get another win and go into the playoffs yet to even give up a goal.

Scoring on Angfauglith's stiff defense is still a tough challenge for anyone and there was no hope TIG could intimidate the Balrogs and Ungoliant, so they would need to rely more on their skills and a concerted team effort than they were used to. TIG was dominating possession, but without the fear factor, nor their full focus and heart to drive their attack Angfauglith's defense was having an easy time stopping the wolves.

TIG seemed to just be going through the motions, and in the 32nd minute it cost them when Ungoliant saved one of InzilWolf's half-hearted shots and the spider began a quick counter attack. The Balrog defenders burst forward, not at all confident in their mid-field players to get the job done. Eventually Haldir got the ball on the left flank and gave it up to Gothmog. Gothmog froze the wolf defenders just long enough to blast it past ShastaWolf. ShastaWolf was furious growling at his defenders for leaving Gothmog unpressured for that long and they needed to close down on the Balrog immediately.

Anfauglith Coliseum blasted it's warhorns and chants, they scored on TIG. Not even Morgoth could say he accomplished that and more importantly they held the lead, which also held going into the half.

That still didn't change the facts of the game, even losing 0-1 TIG would advance and advance as the group winner too. And when the halftime score in the other game revealed Angband was beating Imladris 2-1, Angfauglith fans realized they needed more goals.

No one had yet to score 2 on TIG and as correctly called by PhantomWolf, Gothmog is a fantastic forward, but he can't possibly take the ball from the defense and run the length of the field himself all the time. Angfauglith's mid-field was the weakest in the tournament and so TIG was having no problems controlling possession in Angfauglith's half. They still didn't seem to have the focus or motivation that was needed to score on the suffocating Angfauglith defense, organized in front of Ungoliant.

In truth, it didn't matter though, because they were still leading the group. But after seeing in the other match Morgoth put his team up 3-1 in the 66th minute, that brought more life to TIG's attack. Wanting to have no room for doubt now, and let 1st place slip away, at the 71' LegateWight passed it to PhantomWolf who put a wicked curve on his shot that even fooled Ungoliant.

TIG had levelled the match and that deflated the crowd who had been teased with the possibility of Angfauglith advancing, but now were facing the reality. It wasn't TIG's fault, they were a worthy and stout opponent. And Angfauglith had some of the most fearsome talent in the game today, so why had it failed to make the playoffs for the 2nd straight year? It was clear there were a lot of problems with the mid-field, but was that the fault of the mid-fielders or the way the investors (principally Morgoth) organized the team?

Angfauglith 1-1 Tol In Gaurhoth
on target 3-5
tot shots 8-14
GOALS:
*32, 1-0 Gothmog (Haldir)
*71, 1-1 PhantomWolf (LegateWight)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfaug- Balrog#2, Gothmog, Haldir, Borlach
*TIG- SallyWight, Drauglin, Thuringwethil

Round 3 standings...

Group G W-D-L Pts GD
T-I-G 2-1-0 7 +4
Angband 2-0-1 6 +2
Angfauglith 1-1-1 4 -1
Imladris 0-0-3 0 -5

Exit interviews from the eliminated teams will come later.

Nilpaurion Felagund

08-12-2013, 11:14 PM

Group Tables:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/standings-matchday-3_zpsab2134db.png~original

(1) secured first seed
(2) secured second seed
(x) eliminated

Bracket:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/bracket-matchday-4_zps3be89cc9.png~original

Power Rank:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/pr-matchday-3_zpsc9004396.png~original

(Teams in bold are group leaders; teams in italics are eliminated.)

Greatest gain:
+9 Angband
+8 Hithlum, Gondolin
+6 Misty Mts
Greatest loss:
-8 Barad-dûr
-6 Dwarves Utd
-5 The Havens, Inter Beleriand, Erebor

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking, combined with the adjusted goal difference rank of each team. The listed offensive and defensive rankings are from the actual numbers by the teams, and not adjusted. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss record; and b) goal difference.

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

Top Individual Performers:
(Players in italics are from eliminated teams.)

GOALS + ASSISTS

4+0
Scatha (Wilderland)

3+1
Maedhros (Inter Beleriand)
Túrin (Hithlum)
Sauron (Barad-dûr)
Argon (FC Valinor)
Curufin (FC Valinor)

3+0
Glaurung (Nargothrond)
Ar-Pharazôn (Armenelos)
Eärendil (The Havens)
Arien (Valimar)
Tuor (Gondolin)
Aredhel (Tirion)

2+2
Eöl (AC Beleriand)
Maeglin (Gondolin)
Hador (Hithlum)
Durin’s Bane (Misty Mts)
Finrod (Nargothrond)

2+1
Smaug (Erebor)
Aegnor (AC Beleriand)
Ancalagon (Angband)
Fëanor (AC Beleriand)
Fingon (Inter Beleriand)

GOALKEEPING
90.00% – 09/10 – Tulkas (Real Valinor)
87.50% – 07/08 – ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
83.33% – 15/18 – Arvedui (Arnor)
83.33% – 15/18 – Tar-Atanamir (Armenelos)
83.33% – 10/12 – Amroth (Anduin)
83.33% – 10/12 – Manwë (Valimar)
83.33% – 05/06 – Huan (FC Valinor)

Nogrod

08-13-2013, 01:55 PM

The group-phase is over and it’s time for the play-offs! And what thrillers there are on offer!

Sure a few games look like the one going through is more or less secured based on the huge difference in the quality of the groups – but even in those games one must remember that it is now up to a single game and even the mightiest teams can screw it up and the lousiest teams may have luck on their side… or then some teams just are harder for some others to play against even if they would crush other types of teams likeBalrog does a flower. But just glancing at the possible quarterfinals makes one shiver – what pairings there wil be, and how many “moral finals” already on these early stages!

But to the first round of qualifiers first.

A1 Valimar vs. H2 Arnor

Valimar: Through the years all Manwë’s teams have been formidable by their looks and scary by their inherent power but they have never quite delivered, being the team that famously wins with one to nil, gets risen only againt the baddies and loses when some real talent plays against them. This year it looks a bit different and the adding of Arien into the offence (or her return actually) makes them look really dangerous this season.

Arnor: The kings of the north are a proud team but sadly their quality is not one matching their elders or the other powers of Arda. Last season they fought bravely against Inter Beleriand and Eriador only to be run over by Gondolin – this year they started by losing squarely to Anduin only to rise up and redeem themselves with narrow victories over Mordor and Rohan – hardly teams winning of which would make you rise up on any table of odds for the cup. The Witch King and Elendil sure are players no one can bypass but neither has shown anything tremendous thus far.

From that it should be easy to deduce the AKM will not bet on Arnor to qualify. To make an immediate disclaimer the AKM notes though that Arnor is maybe suited better than any other team to prove to be a hard opponent for Valimar just because of their goody-good looks and their defence-first strategy. But there is also the issue of the Witch King who might be – and normally would be – an asset for the team having him, but who could actually arouse some righteous anger in team Valimar making them by-pass their initial drive to be nice against Arnor’s northern Dunedáin.

The stats are favouring Valimar in no uncertain terms. As themselves the stats are basically even or somewhat favourable to Valimar – but looking at the level of the game in the two groups the teams played one sees immediately that Valimar has earned their stats against pretty much a league better opponents than Arnor.

And to close the case the AKM wishes to draw the attention to two stats in particular. Valimar’s efficiency in scoring (counting all the shots) is 15,2% against Arnors’s 7,9% - and Arnor has allowed 45 shots againt them while Valimar has only allowed 33 – and that is, against a lot tougher opponents.

The AKM predicts: Valimar goes forward winning 2-0.

Valimar 5-2 2-1-0
4/10 – 3/10 5/14 – 4/12 4/9 – 5/11 = 13/33 – 12/33 5/33 15,2%
Manwë 0/3 + 1/4 + 1/5 = 2/12 83,3%

Arnor 3-3 2-0-1
4/13 – 7/16 6/13 – 6/15 4/12 – 5/14 = 14/38 – 18/45 3/38 7,9%
Arvedui 2/7 + 1/6 + 0/5 = 3/18 83,3%

B1 AC Beleriand vs. G2 Angband

AC Beleriand: Fëanor-tribe has been just cool and collected this season, rising up to be one of the serious candidates to win the whole cup this year. Their game has been impressive and efficient both ways – even if many people tend to worry about their downstairs. And it is coming forth more and more as a team and not like Fëanor and his minions; actually Aegnor, Eöl and Balrog #4 are ahead of Fëanor in phantasy points and Fingolfin shares the fourth place with him. That said, Fëanor still is the biting teeth only few teams have and he can change the course of a game single-handedly if there is need for it.

Angband: Melkor’ team took a really bad beating from the T-I-G on the first round of the group-stage and many thought their star was descending – but since that they have gathered themselves and shown they can really play some impressive and efficient football. And no team in their senses would disregard the threat of Ancalagon and Morgoth playing together. Behind them, with Tevildo there goes also Oikeroi who has shown himself a real threat as well. So Angband is not a team to be taken lightly by anyone – even the Valimar-based teams.

Fëanor vs. Morgoth would be a classic anytime but this time both teams have also a lot to claim – AC Beleriand sure is willing to go to the final from where they were shut off last year and Angband still remembers sorely the shoot-out they lost to Minas Tirith more or less to the floppiness of their performance during the game. With the animosity between the teams already in the air, everything talks of one of the hottest games of the round taking place here. Well, Fëanor vs. Melkor… how hot can it get?

Both teams have met with some real tough opposition in the group phase – but a bit different ones. AC Beleriand has met with strongly offence-orientated Gondolin and Inter Beleriand and the strong defenders Dwarves Utd. while Angband has met lousy Imladris, defending-powerhouse Anfaughlith and the all-around aggressive madness of the T-I-G. Therefore one should take AC’s statistical lead over Angband in offence with a pinch of salt. That said, AC Beleriand has been almost double more effective in scoring than Angband – and the difference of their opponents’ defending thus far hasn’t been that great.

Carcaroth may be having a shinier legend as a goal keeper but Marach is on the other hand quite unjustly one of the least appreciated top-goalies of the tournament basically year after year – and Marach does beat Carcaroth in percentages thus far. Carcaroth has the minus in his stats for meeting T-I-G – in other games his percentges are pretty good indeed (1/6 aka. 83,3%) – but as Marach has stood against both Gondolin and Inter Beleriand with 81,8% one should deem that more or less even – or then even favouring AC Beleriand slightly.

Those facts considered – and taking in the great rivalry the game is going to have the AKM thinks AC Beleriand will qualify – even if it’s going to be a tough one.

The AKM predicts: AC Beleriand wins 2-1.

AC Beleriand 8-2 3-0-0
7/16 – 6/12 6/13 – 3/10 8/16 – 2/7 = 21/45 – 11/29 8/45 17,8%
Marach 1/6 + 1/3 + 0/2 = 2/11 81,8%
Angband 5-3 2-0-1
4/14 – 6/15 8/19 – 3/10 8/17 – 3/9 = 20/50 – 12/34 5/50 10%
Carcaroth 2/6 + 0/3 + 1/3 = 3/12 75%

C1 Real Valinor vs. F2 Tirion

Real Valinor: Before the season many thought Real Valinor would not be top contenders both because they felt satisfied with the last year’s victory but also because they lost their single most important game-changer with Arien moving to Valimar. But Real has shown the doubters they’re in the game also this year for real, for Real (if you excuse bad puns). They draw with FC Valinor in the friendlies (losing them twice last season), beat the mighty Hithlum 3-1 and took comfortable 2-0 victories of the lesser teams of their group (Melian’s Doriath and Gandalf’s Shire-Bree – teams good enough to have caused a lot of trouble to many teams qualified from other groups).

Tirion: With last season’s bitter memories (facing FC Valinor, Real and Armenelos in the group phase and left the last of the group) Tirion is all for revenge – and they have been quite impressive. Beating Gondolin in the friendlies 2-0 showed their qualities and drawing with Angband solidified their status. Pushing the Sea off the qualifiers is a mark of a good team and being able to contain Nargothrond to a draw tells the same story. Finwë and Aredhel form one of the deadliest offencive duos of the tournament and with them the team either takes the glory or perishes.

Even if the AKM thinks Tirion is a great team and would have talent to advance a long way it seems Real Valinor is just a level too tough an opponent for them – as last year. The chance Tirion might have is if Real is already looking forwards to their game against FC Valinor the next round and forget they need to win Tirion first. But looking at the professionalism within the ranks of Real Valinor that seems like a vain dream.

Finwë, Aredhel and Mahtan should make any opponent worried, but compared to Miriel, Nerdanel and Oromë backed by Nessa… well there just is a difference. Caranthir leading the defence with Amrod and Amras is great and having Finarfin at the goal even more so – but compare it to a defence led by Tilion including Nienna and Nahar and goal guarded by Tulkas himself – and once again you see a difference.

Drawing with the Sea and Nargothrond are merits to Tirion, but Real Valinor’s beating of Hithlum 3-1 is just on a different class. Tirion will not let Real win easily but Real will prevail in the end – and Real will be their undoing once again.

The AKM predicts: Real Valinor wins 2-1.

Real Valinor 7-1 3-0-0
9/22 – 5/14 7/15 – 2/8 6/14 – 3/9 = 22/51 – 10/31 7/51 13,7%
Tulkas 1/5 + 0/2 + 0/3 = 1/10 90%
Tirion 5-3 1-2-0
4/13 – 4/12 8/16 – 3/9 8/18 – 6/15 = 20/47 – 13/36 5/47 10,6%
Finarfin 1/4 + 0/3 + 2/6 = 3/13 76,9%

D1 FC Valinor vs. E2 Misty Mountains

FC Valinor: Everyone is afraid of brothers Curufin and Celegorm and with Huan backing them up – aided by Yavanna, Eönwe and Thorondor… well they are a bunch no one wishes to meet in contest. Talk about elite players and here you have them, a full house scoring eight goals to one conceded in the group phase. They have so much to grunt from last season and such a crew you hardly see them lose a game this year with their superb offencive power and tight defence.

Misty Mountains: The wild-card of this year’s tournament made it through before Erebor and Wilderland – maybe because of the success of the Hobbit movies (Azog!) or something – no one really undestands it. After drawing with Imladris and losing to Barad-Dûr in the friendlies they were able to knock out two major teams! That belittling aside, Durin’s Bane is a top class player and Gwaihir has the character of being able to win things by himself when needed (like he kind of did in their last game against Erebor).

Now Gwaihir might have been able to fool Meneldor and Landroval but Thorondor, the king of Eagles, will have none of that happening under his watch. Durin’s Bane may be a mighty one but faced with Eönwe and Huan he will have no chance whatsoever to bully his way through – or to threaten Tulkas. On the other end of the field the brothers, Yavanna and Argon will just vreac havoc even if the defences are big…

One might argue that FC Valinor’s stats are mileading as they had one of the easiest groups to qualify from whereas Misty Mts. really had to battle it out – and one could add that Huan’s fit this year has not been seriously tested as he has only been shot at six times (while Chief Wolf has faced 18 shots), but even that taken in to account it is hard to see any other result but FC Valinor going forwards from this game – to meet Real Valinor!

The AKM predicts: FC Valinor wins 3-1.

FC Valinor 8-1 3-0-0
7/14 – 1/7 6/14 – 2/8 7/16 – 3/10 = 20/44 – 6/25 8/44 18,2%
Huan 0/1 + 0/2 + 1/3 = 1/6 83,3%
Misty Mountains 5-5 1-1-1
4/12 – 6/12 5/13 – 7/18 7/14 – 5/14 = 16/39 – 18/44 5/39 12,8%
Chief Wolf 2/6 + 2/7 + 1/5 = 5/18 72,2%

E1 Eriador vs. D2 Barad-Dûr

Eriador: Led by Elrond Eriador has been as effective as possible with the minimal effort once again. Eriador is a team the AKM journalists love to hate: steady, careful, risk-avoiding, temperate, quiet, low-laying yet effective and inpenetrable fortress for a team – and that doesn’t mean you can’t score against them, no way – but somehow in the end of every tournament Elrond is one of the best goalies even if he doesn’t have the most work, and they win games to reach the final stages of the games whoever they meet on the way. But like never 4-0 but rather 1-0 or 2-1. Annoyingly efficient team –and can go far this year as well.

Barad-Dûr: Sauron got it from the group phase and gave a decent fight to already satisfied FC Valinor – other than that would have been scandalous: had they not qualified as Gondor and Isengard were more jokes than real teams this year (and yet Gondor forced them into a draw). Sauron has added credibility to the defences – and he must be cursing now the fact that the stubborn NogWolf didn’t see the ingenuinity of his plan to make Nog as a wolf the pillar of his defence but went on for a mediocre midfield status to Eriador as a Wight - a classy werewolf would have been a great add-on to the wizards and one Fellbeast. But it’s not only that: Castamir and Beruthiel are not delivering – like they didn’t the last year – and Sauron has a lot to do to try and score games by himself.

Only a few would bet on Barad-Dûr but if they get it right they’ll earn some real bragging rights. And the AKM actually thinks that if you have to (or want to) bet against odds in one game this might be the one you might try it.

Now Eriador’s stats are a bit better than Barad-Dûr’s but FC Valinor disregarded the opponents of Eriador were league ahead of those Barad-Dûr has faced. Now the wizards of Barad-Dûr’s defence might pose a problem for Isildur and Arveleg but it is doubtful they could enchant Glorfindel or NogWight. On the other end Sauron is always a trouble for any defence, but looking at the line of Gil-Galad, Asfaloth, Aragorn and Arwen in front of Elrond it would seem Sauron’s chances of scoring more than Eriador as a team is slight.

As said, the stas are pretty close, but consistently favouring Eriador.

The AKM predicts: Eriador wins 2-1.

Eriador 4-2 2-1-0
6/12 – 4/12 5/12 – 3/12 3/10 – 4/11 = 14/34 – 11/35 4/34 11,8%
Elrond 1/4 + 0/3 + 1/4 = 2/11 81,8%
Barad Dûr 4-4 1-1-1
6/14 – 4/13 5/13 – 5/11 3/10 – 7/16 = 14/37 – 16/40 4/37 10,8%
Grishnakh 1/4 + 1/5 + 2/7 = 4/16 75%

F1 Nargothrond vs. C2 Hithlum

Nargothrond: The offencive powerhouse number one, but not that impressively ahead of others –they are more or less falling into the same category with teams like Gondolin or Armenelos: teams that have what it takes and yet have hard time to deliver it. But with the attacking trio of Finrod Felagund, Glaurung and Gwindor, how is it they just don’t seem to deliver? Orodreth sure isn’t the hottest goalie but guys like Beor the Old and Barahir should be able to keep the defences tight.

Hithlum: Last year was just a disaster. This time around Hithlum has put all their eggs in one bucket. Yes, they lost to Real Valinor badly on the first round and their friendlies were not exactly showing them as an unstoppable force… but nonetheless Hithum is serious to advance and it takes quite a team to stop them. Just looking at their goal difference from the last two games, 7-1, should make any opponent pause. Especially the “founding father” Hador Lorindol has really stepped up this season (well with all his familys fortunes in the team he should) and Túrin has been getting hotter and hotter every game. Huor at the goal might be their Achilles’ heel though – even if he os not exactly a bad keeper – but is he a winning keeper and for how far?

Looking at how different the two groups were it is astonishing how similar the stats of both teams are. Shots to goal and shots allowed – as well as overall shots and overall shots allowed are almost identical. Hithlum is more efficient in scoring (16% vs. 13%) but Orodreth keeps the goal reasonably safer (79% vs. 74%) – which is (with the similar numbers with shots made and allowed) quite accurately shown in their scores: Hithlum has made on goal more while Nargothrond has allowed one less.

So statistically the game starts with neither team having an edge – and both teams rely on forcefully attacking football. Add to that the tensions between some players in the teams… If Fëanor vs. Melkor is a hot duel then what should one say about Túrin and Glaurung fighting it off? And well, we’re going to have another really hot game here!

But where to pick the difference then? Nargothrond has been consistent against tough adversaries drawing with both The Sea and Tirion while Hithlum took a beating from Real Valinor. On the other hand Nargothrond beat the very weak Minas Tirith “only” 3-0 while Hithlum cleared a lot tougher (compared to MT) Shire-Bree and Doriath 4-1 and 3-1 respectively. On Nargothrond’s side Gwindor has yet to find his form and Nienor who was in flames in the friendlies has somewhat disappeared. On Hithlum’s side both Beleg and Húrin have been playing in a low key thus far as surely a lot more has been anticipated from them. So hard to say…

The AKM predicts: a draw 2-2 (or 3-3), the ensuing shoot-out will be anyone’s game.

Nargothrond 7-4 1-2-0
10/25 – 4/12 6/13 – 7/15 6/15 – 8/18 = 22/53 – 19/45 7/53 13,2%
Orodreth 0/4 + 2/7 + 2/8 = 4/19 78,9%
Hithlum 8-5 2-0-1
5/14 – 9/22 8/18 – 4/10 9/18 – 6/14 = 22/50 – 19/46 8/50 16%
Húor 3/9 + 1/4 + 1/6 = 5/19 73,7%

G1 Tol-in-Gaurhoth vs. B2 Gondolin

Tol-in-Gaurhoth: The wolfpack has been quite anemic since the restrictions on their lupinity took place and being forced to play more as Wights than Werewolves. But with the eased rules they are now allowed six werewolves in their pack (one of them being actually none less than Draugluin himself) and with the surprise-signing of Thuringwethil they suddenly look like they used to be: dangerous, aggressive, athletic, fast, furious and deadly – and all that with solid defences. And they have suddenly bounced to be one of the most talked-of team, but also a serious contender to go, very far at least.

Gondolin: Many say Gondolin is not playing up to their credentials and that the days of their glory have waned away – and somehow dismiss them as not “any more” a great team. And it is true they haven’t played on the final rounds in a few years now – but they are still a formidable team. Last year, like this one, they took themselves out from the group-phase with a glorious last match fight. Last season they had the tough luck of being thrown under a bus called AC Beleriand in their first qualification game (they lost then cleanly 0-2 but this year in the group stage only 1-2). Looking at their friendlies kind of tell a lot: they were beaten by Tirion 0-2 but draw with Hithlum 2-2 – so they are capable of challenging even the great teams on a good day and they do know how to fight – but can also collapse like they did against Dwarves Utd. at group phase.

In a sense this is actually a perfect match-up for both teams as the first round of qualifiers go. If T-I-G is willing to rise as a serious contender for the whole Cup they need to be able to beat Gondolin which is a level tougher opponent than Imladris or even Anfaughlith (which T-I-G draw with) – especially as Gondolin is going to attack in force unlike most of the teams T-I-G has played against. But also, if Gondolin is willing to pose as a serious team they need exactly this kind of very physical and rough-playing opponent to hone their defence and show they can actually outscore a team of that kind.

And yet as you could see both teams as quite challenges to each other, one can see both teams having decent chances in winning the game as well.

Leaving all that behind it is true tht T-I-G’s stats look consistently – if narrowly – better, except in goal-keeping where the difference is big indeed for T-I-G. It’s not only Shastawolf’s excellence compared to Rôg but the difference is rooted in the number of shots the teams allow. Eight shots towards goal in three games vs. eighteen shots makes a huge difference. But there is a “but” as well. Both Beleriand teams – and even Dwarves Utd.! – are actively offensive teams who shoot a lot whereas Imladris and Anfaughlith are almot opposites to that. Then again T-I-G defences managed to keep Angband’s shots relatively few in numbers even if they normally do play aggressive offence.

So in the end it will all be up to whether the T-I-G can keep their goal clean as it seems Gondolin will allow a goal or probably two anyway. So how many will Gondolin score?

The AKM predicts: T-I-G wins 2-1 (or draw 2-2).

Tol-In-Gaurhoth 5-1 2-1-0
6/15 – 4/14 6/14 – 1/8 5/14 – 3/8 = 17/43 – 8/30 5/43 11,6%
ShastaWolf 0/4 + 0/1 + 1/3 = 1/8 87,5%
Gondolin 5-6 1-0-2
6/12 – 7/16 6/16 – 4/13 9/21 – 7/17 = 21/49 – 18/46 5/49 10,2%
Rôg 2/7 + 2/4 + 2/7 = 6/18 66,7%

H1 Anduin vs. A2 Armenelos

Anduin: The strength of the team is not in having one or two superstars to bring the games home but in their quite level quality through the team. So no stars but no weak links either. Winning group seconds Arnor 2-0 was confident work but other than that they have hardly impressed anyone (playing even with Shire-Bree or Mordor hardly sounds like a quarterfinalist performance). It maybe the river Anduin may host a great team in years to come able to go far in the tournament, but it is not this year.

Armenelos: The proud kings of their great island of Númenor have downgraded their salaries but at the same time made their team more solid – with the come back of Elros the team is ready to make good the last year’s disaster. If you can call losing to FC and Real Valinor a “disaster” instead of calling it just understandable – and that might be their greatest problem this year, they themselves. If they only concentrate on setting things right on a grander scale they might forget to play football – which they sure know how to do. Taking a bit more relaxed attitude would do them good and could carry them all way at least to the semis – or even to the end. But concentrate on wrong things and their tournament might even end here.

Both teams are rare breeds in a way that they both are pretty rock-solid through and through with no real weak links in them. And the stats are astonishingly similar up to the exact same percentages in both goal-scoring and –keeping. Anduin has a little better defencive stas overall while Armenelos is an inch better in the offensive stats.

But then we come, once again, into comparing the groups in which the stats were made – and only a fool would say that playing against Arnor, Rohan and Mordor would come even near equalling games against The Havens, Valimar and the Barrow-Downs (the last one maybe, but not the two earlier ones). Taking a look back at their friendlies confirms the matter. Both lost a game in the friendlies with one goal: Armenelos to AC Beleriand and Anduin to Eriador – all respect to Eriador but quite a few would bet on AC this year if the two met. They both also played a draw: Anduin with Shire-Bree and Armenelos with Nargothrond – and there should be no question which one draw was the great deed and which one was not.

If they play their best Anduin can challenge Armenelos but the AKM wouldn’t bet a lot on their chances against the mighty Númenorians.

The AKM predicts: Armenelos wins 2-1.

Anduin 5-2 2-1-0
7/16 – 4/13 4/12 – 5/14 5/14 – 3/10 = 16/42 – 12/37 5/42 11,9%
Amroth 0/4 + 1/5 + 1/3 = 2/12 83,3%
Armenelos 5-3 2-1-0
6/14 – 6/14 4/12 – 5/14 8/16 – 7/15 = 18/42 – 18/43 5/42 11,9%
Tar Atanamir 1/6 + 1/ 5 + 1/7 = 3/18 83,3%

Nogrod

08-15-2013, 02:43 PM

Now before the play-offs really beging it’s a good time to turn one’s eyes back for a monent to hear from them who are not among the teams playing any more, for sure there will be things interesting the audience concerning both their performance this year as their plans for the next season. The AKM managed to meet Bandobras Took (Shire-Bree United), Elwë Singollo (Doriath), Bard The Bowman (Erebor) and Scatha (Wilderland) at the AFA meeting and sat them down for a short chat. And we also managed to wrestle out from them predictions on how the tournament will go...

The AKM: Mr Bullroarer, how do you think your tournament went this year?

Bandobras: Well we did draw with mr. High elven king’s team here, but if you put any team in the same group with Hithlum and Real Valinor, well then phewffft… We played well and can contain the 3 million we lost unlike many others who will be deep in trouble.

The AKM: But can you keep the Grey Wanderer and his horse with you the next year – and we understand Gildor was playing for you with a one season contract anyway? So where do you turn for reinforcements? More Nazgûl with ten million salaries each? Khamûl scored zero in the tournament and #6 collected two assists in five games…

Bandobras: Don’t you lecture on me young man. Sure we’re no AC Beleriand or Real Valinor everyone would take a major cut down in salary only to just be able to play for them. But we’re not that unattractive either. We can both attract good players as afford to make our terms clear for those possibly wishing to come or stay. Just take my word for it.

The AKM: Are you possibly referring to what what we heard from your young relative, mr. Peregrin back there that he might be having an old friend of his “from the top circles” joining him next season – and thus actualy betraying he will play for you the next season? And maybe young mr. Meriadoc is joining as well – I think he would have a friend in “the top circles” as well?

Bandobras: Oh, no… nonsense. That fool of a Took! You media-people go sell your magazines and adds with over too-early speculation. That’s what you’re good at.

The AKM: Okay, thank you mr. Took. Now lord Thingol, how about your teams performance this season?

Elwë: Well, obviously we’re not happy being left into the group stage this year, but to be fair, hats off to Real Valinor and Hithlum, they were just better teams this year and we had tough luck in the group-lottery.

The AKM: You seem to take it quite gracefully – and sure you lost some talent from last year’s squad… so what are your plans for the next season?

Elwë: Wouldn’t it be a bit premature to play or show one’s hand while this year’s tournament is still underway?

The AKM: Obviously. But could you give us something?

Elwë: Well, we made quite a nice financial result with only 5 million in losses – but all the merchadise and luxury-packages we were able to make on top of the pure ticket-sales, which of course go to the AFA, while hosting the group kind of brought us into a nice balance – so unlike some other teams which like mr. Took already noted – will have severe financial problems we stand on a firm footing and let’s say, we’re doing our best to bring some talent back for the next season to be more competitive. We sure will have the markers next year both to the players from the big teams whose teams need to make cuts and to those of smaller teams who can’t afford to pay their stars anymore.

The AKM: So you’re wishing for Hithlum to fail this year with their mighty economical investments – getting Beleg back to lead your troops by the side of Mablung? Or maybe getting Beren and Luthien back from Inter who did fail?

Elwë: That’s what you say…

The AKM: All right then… How about you mr. Bowman, not exactly a bullseye this year…

Bard: Well not… Personally, it just felt I couldn’t quite come to play on my level – and in a way the whole team had a similar kind of feeling. Don’t know where it came from, though. An underperformance, yes.

The AKM: And it all culminated in your last game against Misty Mountains… now some have already suggested there were foul play involved, especially Bolg’s red card. Was he bought?

Bard: I find that kind of speculation deeply disturbing and against the ethics of the sport.

The AKM: Are you then inferring that these baddies turn into highly ethical and virtuous beings as soon as they just get a glimpse of a white leather ball on a green?

Bard: Of course not… but that would have been degrading beyond reproach. Anyway, it is hard for me to see Bolg playing for Erebor the next season – or well, never.

The AKM: 29 million losses. How’s you next season looking?

Bard: Do you call that a question? Erebor Crftsmen Union does have deep pockets and Moneybags Monetary Management isn’t downright poor either – but sure we’re facing some major cuts… and the cuts in salaries will most probably involve everyone.

The AKM: What if Smaug is offered more somewhere else – like by Sauron to play for Wilderland?

Bard: Let’s hope even the greediest of the dragons has a spot in his soul for his home.

The AKM: Thank you mr. Bowman. Turning to you Scatha – how would it feel to play alongside Smaug the next season?

Scatha: Oh, the talented youngster? Why not, why not… our playing-styles sure are quite different – him having all those fancy wings and such – but why not? It might even be fun.

The AKM: Am I right in thinking that you were not pleased with your team’s performance this year either?

Scatha: Either you’re not too smart little-man or then you think me a simpleton – which isn’t very smart from you either… But the fact is this: if you just play three draws you seldom advance – and this year we didn’t have that final energy or stamina to pull a win from those close games.

The AKM: Who would you like to buy off from Erebor for the next year; Smaug, Bolg, a Nazgûl maybe?

Scatha: If you ask my opinion, I’d pick my kin of course – the Nazgûl are overrated as they are just men and the goblins rarely have what it takes to play a game. But the bosses decide these things, not me. I just play.

The AKM: Thank you all for your views. Now could I just bother you with your comments or predictions about the tournament: how’s it gonna go?

Elwë: With my dear commander Beleg our prodigal son Túrin will reach far in this tournament. But I’m going to cheer more for my dear friends and relatives with Nargothrond and Tirion to be honest…

Scatha: I could actually side with you cheering for Nargothrond – but unlike you I think that led by Glaurung they will crush Hithlum – and who’s to stop them then? But the team most people seem to forget is Angband… you think this Fëanor guy is that good, really? I think it’s reality-check -time.

Bard: Well, if Nargothrond beats Hithlum Eriador will stop them in the next one. I mean they may not be all the flash and all that jazz, but they produce results – and I’ll be cheering for them for sure. Anduin and Arnor are close to my heart as well and I think both have chances to get at least one step ahead.

Bandobras: Really? Have you ever seen Valimar play – or played against them? I’m afraid even the proud northern kings are no match for them – even if I will be there cheering with you for them.

Bard: I’d be betting my money rather on Anduin beating Armenelos.

Elwë: I would not wish to sound rude, but do you have any understanding of the Dúnedain – or the difference between the likes of you and them? With all due respect, that is.

Scatha: Ha-ha! Old vain elves and their golden days of old… you guys lost it, haven't you realized it?

The AKM: Okay, okay… easy, please… Your favourites to win the championship?

Bandobras: Valimar beats T-I-G in the final 2-1.

Elwë: Hithlum meets AC Beleriand in the finals and on that occasion I’m going to cheer for Túrin and his father.

Bard: I need to stick with Eriador coming through all the way from the “lower” bracket. But who would they meet there? That’s a bit fishy… Either Valinor-team or AC Beleriand. I do hope Eriador wins it and clears their runner-up status from last year into champs.

Scatha: Hithlum is the worst opponent Nargothrond could have on the first stage as they are the only other team I’d say Nargothrond needs to give credit on their side of the bracket. But if – and I’d say when – they clear it, then it is finals for Nargothrond. There they’ll meet Angband, naturally. Even if the semifinal between Tulkas and Morgoth will be a tough one I’m quite confident Ancalagon beats the Fëanor-brats.

The AKM: Well, thank you all for your time and all the best for the next season.

the phantom

08-15-2013, 04:24 PM

MESPN Round-Table Discussion
Live from Amon Obel

Philip McPhantom: Well folks, here we are- it's playoff time again! And as always we’re here to provide views of the way group-play ended up and to give predictions for the first round of the playoffs. I’m Philip McPhantom, MESPN Lead Football Coordinator, and with me I have the dragon Ruharg the Red, the lead sports editor of Monster Magazine, and Ar-Tar-Aradil, sports writer for Westernesse Weekly and president of the Numenorean Association for the Advancement of Football.

Ruharg: Hello again.

Ar-Tar-Aradil: Pleasure as always.

P McPhantom: Well, first things first, why don’t we all say where we’ve been and where we’re headed.

Ruharg: I spent group play in Erebor, and for the first round I’m headed up to Mithrim to watch AC Beleriand and Angband play.

Ar-Tar-A: I spent the first two rounds about Tol Eressea mobile stadium, and when it docked in the Blessed Realm I went on to Valimar to watch the final game there. For the playoffs I’m headed back to Valimar to watch them play Arnor.

PMcP: I watched the first round at Anduin, then I made it down to Dol Amroth in time to catch Tol Eressea when it docked briefly there and caught the second round at Balar, and then went up to Gondolin for the third round. For the playoffs I’m headed to Tol-In-Gaurhoth.

Ruharg: I have wings, so I can get around pretty darn fast, but how are you two getting around so quick?

PMcP: Well, a few eagles cut a deal with MESPN—they’d get our correspondents around quickly, and they’d have their choice of seating for free wherever we were headed, and meals on us of course.

ATA: Yeah, a big thanks to our eagle friends.

PMcP: And in case any of our listeners are wondering why we’re in Amon Obel, it was just a nice meeting spot for all our analysts. Adanel was covering the Anfauglith group and she was passing through on the way to Nargothrond, Finwanaro is also on his way to Nargothrond from the Doriath group, and it wasn’t much out of the way for Mortakh, as he’s going from Anfauglith to Mithrim.

Ruharg: Will any of those three be joining us today?

PMcP: They’re actually doing a show of their own right now, but I do have lists of their picks and comments, so maybe we’ll mention them later.

ATA: Where are the rest of the MESPN folks?

PMcP: Well, Haldan ended in Dol Amroth and he’s headed up to Amon Hen, Glain is headed from Gondolin to the Blessed Realm, and Arvagil is going from Anduin up to Weathertop.

ATA: So MESPN will have all the sites well covered.

PMcP: You know it!

Ruharg: Can we get down to business now?

PMcP: My my, can you believe someone is anxious to discuss football?

ATA: Heh, I think we all are.

PMcP: So first things first—what did you two think of the group stage? Ruharg first, since he’s so impatient.

Ruharg: I’m not exactly happy about the group I witnessed firsthand, obviously.

ATA: Yes, your dragon buddies had some hard luck in Erebor.

Ruharg: I thought Smaug and Scatha might give Eriador some trouble, but credit to them—they handled things professionally. And Misty Mts, well—I feel they sort of outdid the others at their own game.

PMcP: Durin’s Bane played like a dragon, didn’t he?

ATA: And the Misty defense proved rough and tough enough to handle the Wilderland and Erebor attacks.

Ruharg: All true. Credit to the Misty Mts.

PMcP: Why don’t we back up a minute and start at the top—Group A.

ATA: It was much as I expected—Armenelos and Valimar advancing and The Havens giving them a good run for their money.

Ruharg: And I was pleased to see the Barrow-Downs step up their game.

PMcP: Yes, they gave Armenelos and Havens all they could handle. How about Group B?

ATA: Also as I expected.

Ruharg: About everyone had AC Beleriand through, but Gondolin wasn’t who I picked.

PMcP: Picking the second team from this group was very tough. I had the Dwarves.

Ruharg: I had Inter Beleriand.

ATA: Those were both worthy picks. The defensive organization and talent of the Dwarves set them apart in group, while the offensive flare of Inter made them attractive.

Ruharg: But in the end Gondolin outscored them. I shouldn’t have doubted Maeglin and company.

PMcP: Did everyone get Group C correct?

Ruharg: Real and Hithlum here.

ATA: Same. I toyed with the idea of Doriath and Shire-Bree as a second team—they weren’t pushovers. But the other two squads just had too much firepower.

PMcP: How did you fare in Group D?

ATA: I thought Gondor would get in ahead of Barad-Dur.

Ruharg: That’ll teach you to bet against Sauron. How could you not have him in the playoffs?

PMcP: To be fair, he doesn’t have the hottest talent helping him score. Though I did think they’d have Gondor’s number—he’ll forever be a thorn in their side.

ATA: Everyone had FCVal of course.

PMcP: Heh, yes, no reason to discuss that. How about Group E?

Ruharg: Now, now, no reason to rehash those bad memories. I think we covered it.

PMcP: Ah right. Group F?

ATA: I definitely got this one wrong. I had The Sea and Minas Tirith.

PMcP: I had Sea and Tirion.

Ruharg: Sea and Nargothrond.

PMcP: So why didn’t the Sea come through?

ATA: Scoring. Tirion and Nargothrond had the weapons and the mindset, but The Sea just didn’t know how to be aggressive, so they were left out despite having good possession numbers and a solid defense.

Ruharg: Yep, they just needed a bit more fire.

ATA: *sigh* Maybe fire and water don’t mix.

PMcP: Group G?

Ruharg: This was probably my favorite group—three of the squads had creatures after my own heart.

PMcP: How did you pick between them?

Ruharg: I didn’t think there was any way Morgoth would get left in groups. He’d will his way to victory one way or another. As far as choosing the second squad, I went with Angfauglith, and I was wrong.

ATA: I picked them too.

PMcP: I got this one right, boys. I had TIG winning the group. I thought their midfield was better than Angfauglith’s, and their defense was just as good, and their style better suited for Angband. And onto the final group…

Ruharg: I had Anduin, but not Arnor. I had Mordor instead.

ATA: You were nearly right, but you should’ve stuck with Arnor.

PMcP: Arnor was smarter and more organized, yes, and perhaps Witch King was helpful in breaking down the opposition. He’s familiar with Mordor’s players after all.

Ruharg: And it’s a shame that Rohan goes home without points, but it doesn’t surprise me. They simply lost too much from last year.

PMcP: Now let’s look forward at the playoff matches, guys. Valimar versus Arnor.

ATA: We know the Dunedain of the north have upset the high-flyers of the Blessed Realm before, but I’m having trouble picking them this year.

Ruharg: Yes, Valimar wins this one. With Arien spear-heading things up front, Arnor won’t be successful with their tactics.

PMcP: What do you think those tactics will be?

Ruharg: They’ll try to own the ball a lot and clog things up and play politely etc. and generally try to keep things at 0-0 for as long as possible, then try for a miracle goal.

ATA: That does sound about right. And really I’d give them some chance at pulling it off against most given their execution and discipline, but you’re right Ruharg—I think Arien is too hot to handle like that.

PMcP: So then, any chance Arnor realizes that and tries a bit more attacking to keep Valimar honest?

ATA: I’ve debated about that, and in the end, I just think Arnor will stick to character.

PMcP: Okay then, how about perhaps the most anticipated match of the first round, Angband versus AC Beleriand?

Ruharg: This ought to be everyone’s most anticipated match. I mean—look at the squads. Before the start of the tournament, if you’d have said that this would be the championship game, no one would have expressed any surprised. It’s almost a shame that the clash happens so soon and one team will go home so early.

ATA: Heh, yes, this is definitely a match of epic proportions, but I’m not disappointed to see it early. With the way the tournament is set up there will always be a match or two like this early on, and it’s part of what keeps things interesting, right?

Ruharg: I guess that’s one way to look at it.

PMcP: Any bold predictions?

ATA: I think AC wins this one solidly. But of course Ruharg will disagree.

Ruharg: Well, actually, I’m leaning towards AC as well.

PMcP: What?!

ATA: Surely not!

Ruharg: Ha ha, yes, I know, it’s out of character. You know I’ve always liked Morgoth-led teams, and Ancalagon is definitely one of my favorite players, but just looking at the matchup…

PMcP: Go ahead and get specific, Ruharg, tell us what you see.

Ruharg: Well, AC actually has a defender that can provide some match for Ancalagon’s speed and size, with their Balrog, and Fingolfin is a fabulous athlete and should be able to shut down the primary make-things-happen man, Telvildo. And at the other end I just don’t think Angband is prepared for the four-headed attack of AC.

ATA: That’s what I saw making the difference. Eol and Feanor are so similar—Feanor is obviously on a skill level by himself, but they play the same with the creativity and ability to keep the ball on a string. To shut down the offense you have to stop both of them, and then Angrod and Aegnor seem to really work well with them.

PMcP: Yes, I thought it was a good call letting Beren go and bringing in the brothers. Sometimes quantity outdoes quality.

ATA: And let’s not pretend that those two are low quality either. Perhaps not individually on Beren’s level, but they aren’t far, and there are two of them.

Ruharg: I agree—Angband would have a better shot at shutting them down if they only had three to worry about rather than four.

PMcP: Well then, let’s get on to Real Valinor versus Tirion.

Ruharg: I thought from the start that the defending champs had a free pass to the quarterfinals.

ATA: Not so fast—I think Tirion won’t be easy.

PMcP: But you do think Real wins?

ATA: *sigh* I guess, but I don’t want to sound like it’ll be a romp. I think the three sons of Feanor at the rear will be, with their skill-set and experience, uniquely qualified to put the brakes on Miriel and Nerdanel. If Real is going to score I think they’ll need Orome to show up in a big way.

PMcP: And what about Tirion’s attack?

ATA: The trio of Finwe-Aredhel-Mahtan has to be respected. Now, I think Real can shut them down about as well as anyone if they commit to it in front of Tulkas, but that will detract even more from their offense if Tilion and midfielders have to be defense-first. I think all of this adds up to a low-scoring affair.

Ruharg: I’ll believe it when I see it.

PMcP: How about the other Valinor, FC, playing against Misty Mts.

ATA: If there’s a first-round blowout, this is where it happens.

Ruharg: I won’t say that. Misty has earned enough of my respect. I’ll say they put up a fight and frustrate FC a bit. But yes, FC wins in the end.

PMcP: Why a blowout, Ar-Tar?

ATA: Caradhras, William, and the Watcher aren’t known to be the most mobile defenders. They match up better against size and power. What chance in the world do they have with Curufin, Celegorm, Yavanna, and Argon running at them?

Ruharg: But perhaps won’t Durin’s Bane and company be able to keep pace?

ATA: Between Eonwe and Thorondor that threat will be erased, and Maglor is more than a match for any of the other attackers.

PMcP: Okay, what do you guys think of Eriador versus Barad-Dur?

Ruharg: An intensely meaningful and interesting game, Elrond against Sauron. Both of them have been trying to stretch their investment influence, and in the future I imagine they and their business partners will be seriously sparring over influence in the Misty Mts and perhaps Wilderland.

ATA: Much of that will depend upon how successful their current squads are.

PMcP: Quite right, and that’s what makes this important. It’ll be a few extra million to the winner.

Ruharg: I figure it’ll be low scoring—

ATA: No surprises there.

Ruharg: Indeed. And frankly I’m at a loss to predict a winner. I suppose I’ll go with Barad-Dur because of Sauron as the x-factor, but I don’t feel good about it.

PMcP: How is he going to score all alone against an Arda-class keeper and a fine defense in front of him?

Ruharg: That’s why I don’t feel good about it. But I don’t like Eriador’s chances of scoring either, not with the two Blue Wizards now hanging about.

ATA: My tie-breaker is the midfields—I think Eriador’s will get them more chances, whereas Sauron won’t see much of the ball.

PMcP: That’s where I ended up with my picks. So how about Nargothrond versus Hithlum?

Ruharg: This ought to be an extremely entertaining view. Both offenses should be able to overrun the opposition.

PMcP: How many goals in the game?

Ruharg: I’ll say six.

ATA: That sounds about right.

PMcP: Who wins? Adanel, Mortakh, Haldan, and Arvagil all went with Hithlum, but Glain, Mortakh, and I have picked Nargothrond.

Ruharg: Nargothrond. When Hithlum gets it they just try and score, but Nargothrond is more flexible with building their attacks, and I think their ability to morph out of the break-neck pace and control things will work to their advantage.

ATA: I think the opposite—I think Hithlum’s attitude of attacking without hesitation will lead to more goals, plain and simple. And Ruharg is just picking Nargothrond because of Glaurung anyway.

Ruharg: Har har.

PMcP: All-righty, let’s move on to Tol-In-Gaurhoth versus Gondolin.

ATA: I think Gondolin can score on TIG. They’re crafty and good tactical ball-movers—

Ruharg: Where’s the “but”?

ATA: Ha ha, yes, BUT—Gondolin won’t be able to stop TIG from scoring. They just don’t have enough at the back.

Ruharg: Exactly. TIG will play longball after longball and the Wolves and Thuringwethil will win enough to create a few chances, and from those chances they’ll score enough to win.

PMcP: So we’re all in agreement there. How about the final game, Anduin versus Armenelos.

ATA: Predictably I’m going with my home city. I think Armenelos will dominate the midfield and possession, and Boromir and Eorl won’t be able to impose their will on anyone. And at the back I think Anduin will be outmatched.

Ruharg: Slow your roll, there—I don’t think Celeborn or Fram will feel outmatched, and Felarof is always useful at getting up high for headers and blocking lanes. I can see that Armenelos will probably own possession, but I don’t think they’ll score easily. And Grimbeorn—frankly I like his chances of scoring off a set piece or off a corner.

PMcP: So you’re picking them?

Ruharg: Yes, Anduin for the win.

PMcP: Well, there we are, just in time—we made it through all the first round playoff games. Enjoy watching, you two, and of course everyone else out there listening. We’ll be back in a few days to discuss how tragically wrong or geniusly correct our picks were.

Ruharg: The latter referring to me, of course.

ATA: *chuckle* I suppose stranger things have happened.

PMcP: Now, now, you ought to know it’s too early to gloat.

Ruharg: And you ought to know that now is the only time to gloat—we never make it through with unblemished picks!

*laughter*

PMcP: Well, we’ll see if anyone can break that streak this year. Have a good one.

ATA: Thanks.

Ruharg: See you later.

Boromir88

08-16-2013, 12:15 PM

After the teams from Group D and G were eliminated the players returned to their homelands. There were no throngs, parades, or cheering crowds to greet them, just journalists and beat reporters asking the captains and personnel about next year:

GONDOR

The mood in Gondor was grim, but not depressing. I mean yes, FC Valinor was in their group, but still most Gondorians felt their team should have defeated Barad-Dur and qualified, especially since they were the host team of the group. They had not, and primarily it was their lack of goal-scoring this year. Eldacar, Anarion, and the rest just didn't deliver this year, as they had the last.

Anarion addressed the media: "We lost some money, but nothing that should bankrupt the owners or mean the team goes into a complete firesale mode. There probably won't be many changes, just some trimming here and there. If I have to accept less for my downturn in performance this year, then so be it. Hopefully we can target some annual travellers who would help us score some more goals. Gandalf, Isildur, or Eorl would be nice additions, but they might be content staying put and it would take a lot of money to lure them away. We can't overpay just to bring in one player."

ISENGARD"

As one of the lower salary teams, Isengard basically broke even despite their elimination. So there won't be any panic and Sauron (who is a co-owner with Saruman now) believes the talent on the team is good, they just need to strategize better and adjust game tactics. They were blown off the field by FC Valinor and that put Isengard in a large hole, that despite playing better in their other games, they just couldn't dig out of.

Saruman is already at work trying to use his Voice to win over potential free agents, but he refused to give any names at this time: "I called a couple former allies, and a couple enemies. And one or two of them may have been both at one time or another."

ANGFAUGLITH

This is a team that is likely in a lot of trouble. They've missed the playoffs 2 straight years and still have a high payroll. And the other investors are possibly planning what could be called a coup against the majority owner, Evil House (Morgoth).

The anger of the other investors (House Haleth, House Hador, Old Beor House in particular) began when apparently before the Angband-Angfauglith match Morgoth made a gentlemen's agreement to keep the game close and at most on a 1 goal differential. When Morgoth pushed for a 2nd goal after Gorgol's red card, it was seen as a broken promise. It should be noted, we don't put much stock in this story, because even if Morgoth had made that agreement, Angfauglith needs to know it was likely Morgoth hatching one of his tricks. But whatever the truth, it does mark the first noticeable divide between Evil House and the other owners.

A divide that has only been growing since Angfauglith's elimination, with the other owners now accusing Evil House of treating the team as an "Angband Junior" and not being aggressive enough in forming a stronger team. And we do see this as more credible, with Morgoth treating Angfauglith simply as a little-league team. After group play finished, one player from Angfauglith (who asked to remain anonymous) reported Morgoth approached and said: "Would you like to come up to the big leagues next year?" (aka play for Angband).

No one knows where Angfauglith is heading or planning next year, it is a volatile and growing more hostile situation every day.

IMLADRIS

Imladris' main problem was their low budget team was put in a tough group. They still didn't look particularly well against anyone, although Imladris is only down 4 million. With Arnor and Eriador already in the playoffs, Elrond's firm ownership over Imladris should still remain, just reinforcing the point that financially Imladris is fine.

Varda was gracious in talking to the media about next year: "Imladris is Elrond's house and so I would expect him to show the same careful hand and wise signings as he has for Arnor and Eriador. I know with how much the salary was reduced from 2012 to this year, it was asked if Imladris would just be a low-budget feeder team to make money that Lord Elrond would then spend on the deemed more important clubs. A large part of the payroll cut this year was simply losing some key highly priced players, like Elros, to other teams. We'll be adding talent for sure next year and start negotiating trades with our sister clubs, like Arnor and Eriador."

Nilpaurion Felagund

08-16-2013, 06:30 PM

Elenrod: Question: How many Inter Beleriand players does it take to change a light bulb? Answer: None; they’ll be doing fine for a while before they blow it at the last moment. Today: giving you more stomach acids than you can handle, Gondolin and Misty Mts leave it ‘til the 84th minute to secure qualification. Meanwhile, Glorfindel and Éomer play spoiler as their late goals slam the door on Wilderland and the Sea’s chances of advancing. All these stories, post-game interviews, goals of the week, and more in The Matchday. Today we’ll be discussing all the results of the third group stage round; unfortunately we won’t have time to talk about the last sixteen fixtures, but we’ll be saving them all for a special episode of The Matchday: Extra Time sometime later this week. With us today are the usual suspects: Tactics expert Maikalomion, fresh from a trip to Gondolin.

Maika: Hi. Yeah, I’ve just covered Group B for TENT. The food in the press box in the Stadium on the Rock was fantastic.

Adam: But I bet it’s nothing compared to what we had in Tol Eressëa.

Elenrod: And that was not an economist, Adam Smith, who went all the way to the eastern shores of Aman to cover Group F.

Felagundion: And I just watched all the games from here.

Elenrod: Of course, blogger Felagundion, that’s because you’re our captive pundit. And long will that continue.

Felagundion: Tsk. Don’t I have a filthy rich relative who’s about to kick the bucket and pass me some windfall?

Maika: Erm, we Elves don’t die.

Felagundion: Argh! The lot of you, the whole Eä, you’re all conspiring against me!

Elenrod: That must be similar to how Fingon and Maedhros feel, being dumped thrice in a row under very heart-breaking circumstances.

Felagundion: Ooh, well… not to that extent. Those poor lads.

Elenrod: So I guess we’ll go over Groups B and F first. Now, what happened at the Stadium on the Rock?

Maika: I don’t know why everyone’s forgotten about it—well, I guess it’s because he’s been eliminated in the round of sixteen twice in a row after winning the cup—but Maeglin is a proven match-winner. He’s someone who can go, ‘Sod it, I can’t lose this game,’ and just take over.

Felagundion: And Rog—good Eru, Rog—, he stepped up when it mattered.

Adam: Also, when I watched from my hotel room aboard Tol Eressëa, I saw Inter had no one who could challenge Tuor in the air. Gondolin had their Penlod the Tall to mark Maedhros the Tall, but Tuor won a lot of aerial balls—at least, those delivered decently, but even some of the poor ones. And his winner… that was like a slam dunk leap in basketball.

Elenrod: I liked the Gondolin supporters’ chant after that: ‘Silverfoot, Goldenhead, a match made in heaven.’

Maika: Someone screamed, ‘Tuor Deeney (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPmZeHxWR58)’ at him from near the press box. That was fun.

Felagundion: And before that, a few Gondolin supporters shouted, ‘Do a Doncaster! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4SK8PP-UP8)’ when Rog saved that penalty. It was loud enough that I heard it on TV.

Elenrod: What now for Inter? Do they break it up?

Adam: It would be tempting to say that. They were so close, again. And they lost to Gondolin, again. I think it’s more a mental thing than anything. For example, I think Beren should have taken that penalty—Fingon had too much baggage of being eliminated in the last game of the group stage to have full confidence in putting that penalty away.

Felagundion: Interesting that you mentioned Beren. He said that he and Lúthien would be coming back next year, because going out that way left a sour taste in his mouth. Maedhros then hinted that Lúthien might reinforce their weak midfield—certainly, Forweg and Hunthor were easily panicked by Maeglin and Duilin’s pressing.

Elenrod: What about Turgon’s comments to the press about missing his kingdom?

Maika: Someone asked Maedhros about it. ‘Would Turgon leave Inter?’ He said that he didn’t know what his half-cousin’s plans were, but he said that, ‘Whatever he decides to do, I’d wish him the best. Besides, with the people we have here, there will be no shortage of folks looking to come here and play together again.’

Elenrod: So I resounding ‘I don’t know’, then?

Maika: I read it as, ‘We’re ready either way.’ Which is good. This team will eventually figure it out. They’re too good to keep getting left out of the knockout rounds.

Elenrod: Right, then. On to the scenes at Tumladen Park. What do you make of it?

Felagundion: AC Bel proved that they’re one of the favourites to win the whole thing, plain and simple.

Maika: I like how their full-backs stormed forward for the opening goal. I was getting worried that they’d forgotten how to do that. Once they get to the knockout stages they’ll have to figure out how to throw the kitchen sink at teams who park the bus. I mean, compared to last year, when Bregolas was their sole holding midfielder, they now have a double pivot, so they have four players who can help stop those counterattacks that they were so vulnerable to last year.

Elenrod: Okay. So, what is the future for this Dwarves United squad? If that Gimli halfway line shot had gone in, would it have all ended differently for them?

Felagundion: No. I’d expect AC Bel would still attack them, and they’d still sit deep and play it long to Leggy, so the only thing that would’ve changed is the score line. 3-1 instead of 3-0.

Adam: I don’t agree. AC Bel’s opener came from their full-backs storming forward. Would they have done the same had they been a goal down?

Maika: I think they would have, but they would have done so later in the game, maybe around the hour mark if they still haven’t broken Dwarf U down by then.

Adam: That’s true… Fëanor’s that kind of tactician. By the way, I’m worried for the Dwarves’ finances. They made a profit last year and reinvested it into the squad, but now they’re in for huge losses. Factor in Erebor’s elimination, and we could see an offseason of tightened belts in the Dwarf U squad.

Felagundion: Not an economist, eh? But I agree. I wonder what would happen to Celebrimbor and Galadriel. I do hope we pick up Celebrimbor.

Maika: But it’s more likely that Galadriel’s leaving. Aulë hinted in the post-match presser that they’re planning to add a bit of size and speed to the very rear. Also, he said that they were unlucky to be in this year’s group of death, and they should probably be one of the sixteen best teams in the tourney. I don’t know about his second statement, but his first one’s spot on. Only goal difference separated them from Gondolin the second seed.

Elenrod: I guess that’s it for Group B. Now, Adam, what can you say about the last matchday of Group F?

Adam: As a neutral, it was a feast of great goals. But since we’re talking about our favourite goals later…

Maika: One of them was deflected, though.

Adam: Which one?

Maika: Éomer’s goal glanced off Ossë’s shin. If you watch the replay, you’ll see his sock flutter a little.

Adam: Was it? Oh, that explains it. I was thinking, ‘Unreal technique, giving a bicycle kick such spin.’ Well, that’s no good, then. He really is rubbish, as Denny said.

Felagundion: You should’ve seen the anguish of Tirion and the Sea fans after Finrod scored that unbelievable equaliser. ‘Did we blow it? Will the Sea score another goal?’ ‘Did we blow it? What if Tirion don’t get another goal?’

Adam: I thought you’re supposed to be under house arrest?

Felagundion: I have friends who are fans of other teams. They text me a lot.

Adam: Right. Anyway, the Sea’s lack of a prolific goalscorer got found out. All of their front four can put it into the net, but none of them is the brace or hat-trick type of striker.

Maika: Also, Minas Tirith were defensively solid, crowding out the Sea’s midfielders so they couldn’t get the ball forward easily. If only they’d done the same to Tirion…

Elenrod: Maybe they’d make Mardil a permanent captain of their squad; he seems to get his tactics right. What’s next for Minas Tirith?

Felagundion: Éomer’s gone; I don’t think he’d stay after the abuse he got from Denny. Also, Mardil said that he’d been looking at Armenelos’ games—in some ways they’re similar teams, possessing athletic players who have roughly the same level of talent (although, of course, the level of talent in Númenor is much higher than in Gondor.) That means they might try out a back three, too. I’m interested in that; Cirion looks like he’d be a good wing-back.

Elenrod: And the Sea? They’re one of the most expensive teams in the competition. This must hurt.

Adam: The Sea’s backers have deep pockets, so I don’t think they’d worry about the sunk costs so much as the failure to make a dent in their tournament position. Last year, at least they got out of the group and were eliminated by the eventual champions, but now they’re eliminated by what are, at best, quarterfinals-level teams.

Felagundion: I resent that. Nargothrond have a proper cup-winning squad. But anyway, the Sea lost by the narrowest of margins—goal difference, basically down to goals scored. Ulmo said in the press conference afterwards that he might add a free agent scorer, but that would mean reshuffling their line-up.

Maika: I hope Voronwë stays in his position; he’s one of the few complete midfielders in this year’s tournament—he can tackle, he can read the opposition’s attack and their defence, not to mention that he has the passing range to exploit the holes in defences he can see.

Elenrod: Right, now let’s swiftly go over the rest of the groups, starting with Group A. Thoughts?

Maika: I saw an interesting statistic about the Havens. In Group A, they were actually dominant in terms of total shots ratio, the percentage of total shots in a game taken by a team. The Haven’s TSR is 54%; Valimar’s is 50%, meaning they shoot once for every shot they allow. Armenelos’ opponents actually take more shots in a game than they do. So I think the problem with the Havens, why they can’t turn that shot dominance into game dominance, was finishing and goalkeeping.

Felagundion: Well, Amandil is atrocious, third-worst keeper this year. And Eärendil isn’t exactly a clinical finisher. Remember, when he was Eregion’s lone striker back in 2011, it was Glorfindel who was shouldering the scoring load from the midfield during the group stage, before he stepped up a little during their last few games.

Elenrod: On to Group C, then.

Adam: Children vs adults. What else can one say? Doriath and Shire-Bree performed better than expected, but Real still have that championship pep in their step, and Hithlum are serious about qualifying again after last year’s disaster.

Elenrod: And Group D?

Maika: Sauron proved that he is indeed the most talented non-FC Val player in that group, misdirecting a talented goalie like Huan in his equaliser. They ended up losing the match, but that goal was what put them over Gondor into the next round.

Felagundion: Also, Anarion did so little against Isengard. You’d have expected him to take charge and orchestrate their attacks, but nothing. Was last year a fluke?

Elenrod: We’re really going through this really quickly. Group E, then.

Adam: I think we’ll have to slow down for this one. This was an insane group. Eriador really slacked off, which was understandable, considering they’ve already won their group. But that was dangerous, considering that if they do that in the knockout stage, they’d be out.

Maika: I think that, more than the Witch-king, Eriador really miss Valandil. I thought Valandil was an understated cog in last year’s Eriador; he was an unfussy defensive midfielder, masterful at nipping counterattacks at the bud, but he also initiated their attacks with short quick passes to the attacking midfield trio in front of him. With him, Eriador had more surety, purpose, directness in possession, so that they could actually control the game instead of just being solid defensively.

Adam: I agree. We’ve talked about how scoring goals is more important in the group stage, and defending more important come the knockout rounds, but the favourites—the Valinors, AC Bel, this year’s TiG—, they control the game. They can score well and defend well because they can take the ball anytime they like. A complete holding midfielder can make an attacking team stronger defensively, and he can make a defensive team feel safer going forward—he completes a team. Last year’s Eriador can commit up to five players on the attack because the six players behind them are so comfortable dealing with any counterattack. Araphant and Arador just don’t give them that kind of confidence.

Felagundion: So basically Valandil is wasted at goal—he’s rubbish at Imladris. But the other game: What happened to Erebor’s defence? It’s like they dropped off a cliff. Beorn was terrible, and their defenders looked disorganised. Was Gwaihir that important?

Elenrod: It looked like it—his side won, after all.

Maika: And as I’ve been saying, Durin’s Bane, Narvi, Azog, and Rumil are a well-balanced strike team. You have power, pace, energy, and technique spread out among them. I won’t be surprised even if they score vs FC Val.

Elenrod: Oops, hold on, we’ll leave that for another time. Moving on to Group G… TiG pulled an Eriador? Decided to take an early holiday?

Adam: Something like that. Also, Angband are prone to those lapses of concentration that should have been ironed out this late in the tournament. A similar error against AC Bel would be the end of their run.

Felagundion: I’m somewhat sad for Anfauglith. They had that target man-quick man pairing that looked top-class, but their lack of midfield came back to bite them.

Maika: There should be a lot of cheap, underrated midfielders out there. For example, Bregolas is out of contract, and he did well for AC Bel last year. Teams should just be more persistent in finding those players.

Elenrod: Last group, Group H.

Felagundion: What is up with Sauron and his teams? He scores against the best team in his group, and Mordor draw with the best team in their group. I won’t be surprised if they turn out to have been using performance-enhancing rings.

Elenrod: I do need to tell you, Felagundion, that if you do get sued for slander, you’re on your own.

Adam: Isn’t anyone worried that Arnor only scored once against Rohan?

Maika: Well, the Witch-king and Araphor aren’t exactly whom you’d call volume scorers. And they were playing rather passively for the second half.

Elenrod: I suppose that’s it for our discussion of matchday three. Goal of the week time. Let’s start with you, Felagundion. I know exactly what you’d choose: Finrod’s equaliser vs Tirion.

Felagundion: Felagund will http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgqsaDnsEq8]pants ( for the whole world to see. It was incredible how he made Irimë, Amrod, and Amras look like Sunday league players.

Elenrod: There were a lot of good goals in the other game, too. I’m sure a lot of people had to change pants after Vëantur’s through pass for Tar-Meneldur, but Tar-Minastir’s goal http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfgNj7wH2VA]from ( [url) an impossible angle takes the cake for me.

Adam: Was Isildur’s flick-on for Glorfindel’s equaliser vs Wilderland a rabona? It seemed like he passed it from behind his legs. If it was, why doesn’t he always demonstrate that level of technique every game?

Maika: Adam already described Tuor’s winner vs Inter, but I also liked Gondolin’s second goal. The cohesion of their front line is just a joy to watch. But my favourite goal was Sauron’s one-on-one with Huan. I’ve already talked about it, but really, to have the audacity to face a two-time Arda Cup winning goalie like that, dummy him, then chip it over him… Like I said, I don’t think anyone expected them to win, but it was that goal that proved the difference in their qualification.

Elenrod: I guess that’s it for today. Don’t worry, viewers, we will be back sometime again this week for our round of sixteen preview. Thanks again to the Maika, to Adam, and to Felagundion. We might have a special guest for our Extra episode, so do tune in for that. We’ll see you again soon.

Boromir88

08-17-2013, 08:44 PM

It's that time again for TTN's star performances in the 3rd round. Also, we have special stars for the best overall peformances during group play. Since the top single game performers can overlook strong, consistent performances over a span of multiple games, TTN will award special stars as we see fitting.

We will be explaining less the awarded stars in Round 3 (since what we're looking for should be clearer now) and instead explain the awarded special stars more.

Stars (Round 3)

ONE STAR

GK- Huor (Hithlum)
GK- Tulkas (Real Valinor)
GK- Manwe (Valimar)
GK- Orodreth (Nargothrond)
GK- Silent Watcher (Mordor)

DF- Morgoth (Angband)
DF- Fingolfin (AC Beleriand)
DF- Tilion (Real Valinor)
DF- Namo (Valimar)
DF- Caradhras (Misty Mts)

Here we'll just say Caradhras was given a star because of its stout efforts in holding a potent Erebor attack to 1 goal. Misty Mts defensive performance was key to it's surprise 2nd place finish in Group E. (Well a surprise to everyone except TTN who stated Erebor's temper would be their undoing. Although, we had said Thorin would be red-carded in the game, and it ended up being Bolg instead. Can't be 100% all the time.)

MF- Nessa (Real Valinor)
MF- Arassuil (Arnor)
MF- Elros (Armenelos)
MF- Argon (FC Valinor)
MF- Ulfast (Angband)

FW- Finrod (Nargothrond)
FW- Maeglin (Gondolin)
FW- Maedhros (Inter Beleriand)
FW- Sauron (Barad-Dur)
FW- Aredhel (Tirion)

Here we'll explain Sauron's goal and overall leadership in the match against FC Valinor is deserving of a star. It kept Barad-Dur in 2nd and eliminated Gondor. Aredhel's inclusion is more for the consistent performance. Her 3 goals in 3 games were arguably the biggest reason Tirion made it back to the playoffs this year.

TWO STAR

GK- Tar Atanamir (Armenelos)
GK- Arvedui (Arnor)

DF- Balrog #4 (AC Beleriand)
DF- Gwaihir (Misty Mts)

MF- Hador (Hithlum)
MF- Mahtan (Tirion)

FW- Arien (Valimar)
FW- Turin (Hithlum)

THREE STAR

And the best performance of Round 3 goes to...

Tuor, FW from Gondolin.

After deciding Tuor's game opening and then game-winning goal in the 84th minute was a notch above Arien's and Turin's 2 goals each it was a nearly endless debate between Tuor and Gwaihir. I mean there really was no arguable difference between the two. Yes, Tuor scored 2 goals, but that's also the job of the forwards. Gwaihir did it's job by leading the defense, but also a bit more by getting a late game-winning goal. And both games were must win to advance matches for their respective teams. We had to re-vote 4 times, as our Beleriand voters and Middle-earth voters kept creating a dead even split.

In the end, one representative from Middle-earth (who will remain anonymous of course) switched to Tuor.

-----

Now then the special stars. These are awarded based on the best and most consistent performances from the first 3 games in the tournament.

Best Forward - Scatha (Wilderland). The dragons 4 goals was tops amongst all other forwards. 3 stars.

Best Mid-fielder - Argon (FC Valinor). Several forwards had 3 goals and 1 assist, Argon was the only MF in the group. After Curufin stole the show in the Game 1, Argon really has been FC's best player over the full 3 games. 3 stars.

Best Defender - NilpWolf (TIG). Tied with Tilion and Ingwion with the most fantasy points (16). But TIG has allowed the fewest shots on goal, and only allowed 1 goal. NilpWolf is thus awarded 3 stars. And for arguably being one of the best defenses in group play the other TIG defenders (BoroWolf, GaladWight, Drauglin) are given 2 stars each.

Best Goalie(s) -

Tulkas for the best SV% (90%). 3 stars.

For the most saves (15) while still having a Sv% over 80%...Tar Atanamir is awarded 2 stars.

Not to degrade Arvedui's equal stats to Tar Atanamir, but we went with Tar Atanamir based on a tougher group and thus saving shots off Earendil, Bombadil, and Arien have more weight than...Grimbeorn, Shelob, and Helm.

Finally, the best overall defense - Real Valinor. Allowed only 1 goal in 3 games (same as TIG and FC Valinor). FC Valinor's defensive stats, while being impressive needs to be looked at in the light that they were going against 3 clearly inferior opponents. Real Valinor held Hithlum to just 1 goal and that is a remarkable feat. Then their two shutouts against Doriath and Shire-Bree, while those two teams are not offensive powerhouses...they are certainly no worse than Gondor and Isengard.

Tilion, Ingwion, Nahar, Nienna. 3 stars each.

TTN's Stars after Group Round

6

GK Tar Atanamir (Armenelos)
DF NilpWolf (TIG)
MF Argon (FC Valinor)

5

DF Tilion (Real Valinor)
DF Ingwion (Real Valinor)
FW Scatha (Wilderland)

4

GK Arvedui (Arnor)
GK Tulkas (Real Valinor)

3

DF Nienna (Real Valinor)
DF Nahar (Real Valinor)
MF Hador (Hithlum)
FW Sauron (Barad Dur)
FW Curufin (FC Valinor)
FW Tuor (Gondolin)
FW Turin (Hithlum)
FW Legolas (Dwarves Utd)

Then a whole bunch at 2 stars...

(Italics are eliminated players)

Boromir88

08-18-2013, 11:42 AM

TWO TOWERS NETWORK: Octofinals Preview
-Boro88

A look back at the first 3 rounds. I was quite happy with using our "wins above replacement" stats to predict winners. 14 of 16 playoff teams correct, there were just some who ended up in reversed order. But we had identified the major underdog upsets (Misty Mountains, Gondolin) as well as the overpriced and over-rated (Erebor, Angfauglith).

Our two misses were Mordor and The Sea this year. I wouldn't even count Mordor as a miss though, because in a statistical anamoly they had more goals and a better differential than Arnor, but Arnor's magic bag of surprises got them through. Mordor was the better team, but Arnor ended with more points. Although, we had called Arnor to advance as well, and identified Anduin as the overpriced and overrated. They were not, so you could say we missed the mark there on Anduin. The other miss, The Sea, we thought defensively were strong enough to advance over Tirion. But we had said that Group F was the toughest 3-team battle for 2 spots in this year's tournament.

In those two cases WAR was off, but I'll take 14/16. And this is where it should really help us start determining winners. It's time for what TTN likes to call the "Octofinals". Where 16 teams, 8 matches, and no more ties remain. When the games get better, the opponents tougher, and there are no Rohan's or Barrow-Downs' left.

Arnor vs. Valimar- The low-budget veterans from Arnor do it again and find their team in the playoffs. Some might recall 2010 where the Norbury kings threw off the majestic Valar in thrilling overtime fashion. But they were a different team back then, and Valimar is a different team now too. After having a real motivation and complacency problem, Manwe has his Valarin mates playing very well. Arien is used to winning playoff games, and won't be content losing in the octofinals. Arnor is feeling good just being here and having a nice profitable year, they will play as the complacent team this time.
*Valimar wins 2-1

Angband vs. AC Beleriand- Wowzers, Angband and AC Beleriand...a match up from the earliest annals of this sport. A match that could be a semifinal, or even a finals battle. And then the winner goes out of the frying pan right into the fire next in having to play Valimar. This is where I hope WAR helps the most in predictions. Feanor has never been eliminated before the quarterfinals. And while I suppose there is a first time for everything, Morgoth and his baddies historically fall short. It's the playoffs, which means it's Feanor time and it's time for him to have a breakout game against the mightiest of enemies.
*AC Beleriand wins 3-2 (OT)

Tirion vs. Real Valinor-
If AC Beleriand and Angband is expected to be a bloodbath, this game should be a technical masterpiece on the pitch. Both teams of longtime family and friends should play respectfully, but it will not be boring by any means. There will be a lot of action, the defenses will be tested...in the end Real Valinor is better at playing Tirion's game, than Tirion is at being itself.
*Real Valinor wins 3-1

Misty Mts vs. FC Valinor-
Now the Misty Mts did a nice job beating out their Middle-earth rivals in both Wilderland and Erebor, but this is something entirely different. Frankly it's time for the Misty Mountains to go back home because we're seeing something similar to the FC Valinor - Isengard outcome. Misty Mountains is a better team than Isengard, so they won't give up 4 goals.
*FC Valinor wins 3-0

Barad-dur vs. Eriador-
Surprisingly this is one of the harder games to call. On the surface it looks like last year's semi-finalist should be able to confidently clear Barad-Dur. Their cool, professional style just wins games. Although they're playing with fire only beating Misty Mountains 2-1 and drawing with Wilderland. Barad-Dur gave FC Valinor a battle and their mastery of set pieces will get them the upset in this match.
*Barad-dur wins 2-1 (OT)

Hithlum vs. Nargothrond-
Another match that is just too too close to call. One of the offensive juggernauts will be eliminated here and now. Nargothrond makes a successful return to the playoffs after years of missing out, but WAR reveals their players are the "one and done" type. They usually lose the octofinals match, even when they do advance. Hithlum missed the playoffs last year too, but their roster is stacked with Arda class champions and they're also specialists at winning shootouts (which this game will be)
*Ties 3-3. Hithlum wins the shootout 4-3.

Gondolin vs. Tol-in-Gaurhoth-
Of all the teams you could say probably don't deserve to be here, it would be Gondolin. I don't mean to be harsh, but come on, they gave up 2 goals to Dwarves United and lost. TIG looks good, they played a bit complacent in the last match against Angfauglith, but they could afford to and conserve energy for this game. Gondolin's defense isn't good enough to contain a clicking (and balanced) TIG team.
*TIG wins 3-1

Anduin vs. Armenelos-
The royal Numenoreans don't look quite like their 2009 championship team, but they are resembling their 2008 semifinalist and 4th place finisher team. It is said the 2nd Age contained the greatest age of Men and they should be able to dispatch their 3rd age foes rather easily. Anduin looks good, but they were in the weakest of groups and their journey ends here.
*Armenelos wins 2-0

Nilpaurion Felagund

08-18-2013, 10:30 PM

Elenrod: Dear viewers, your televisions aren’t broken. This is The Matchday: Extra Time. It’s basically the same show as The Matchday, just with a different name, because that’s the kind of imagination that you get here. Today: the cast of The Children of Húrin meet on a football pitch in High Faroth; you know one of Nargothrond and Hithlum will end in tears. Elsewhere: is it still a siege if both teams are on the defensive? Sauron’s Barad-dûr visit Eriador again after their Second Age encounter. Meanwhile, can anyone stop a fourth Valinor derby in two years from happening? Our panel discusses whether Tirion or Misty Mts have a hope in hell of doing so. All that and much, much more in The Matchday: Extra Time.

Iorithil: You’d probably need to catch your breath after that.

Elenrod: He’s back! After weeks of hiding, Quenta Noldorin Sport’s Iorithil is with us once again.

Adam: Do you have a new book out again, I wonder?

Elenrod: And you probably thought never the twain shall meet. It’s not an economist, Adam Smith.

Iorithil: Nope, no new book. Although I am in the process of writing one.

Maika: Haha, well, there goes my suspicion that you’re both just the same person.

Elenrod: Determined not to get left behind, our tactics guru, Maikalomion, is also here.

Felagundion: I am getting paid extra for this extra time, am I not?

Elenrod: Of course, you are, blogger Felagundion. Now, let’s discuss the upcoming last sixteen ties. Making our way through the bracket, let’s start with Valimar hosting Arnor. Hm, haven’t we seen this fixture before?

Iorithil: 2010 Arda Cup Round of Sixteen, Norbury at Valimar. The game ended 2-1, with Araphor scoring both goals, including the winner.

Felagundion: ‘Araphor scoring the winner’ is such a clichéd phrase.

Elenrod: Anyone thinks the same thing would happen?

Adam: It could, but I think it wouldn’t, for two reasons. Number one: Arien. Yes, she was in that ill-fated Valimar squad, but she hasn’t won the cup then. She’d drive Valimar forward, dropping deep to collect the ball herself if necessary. Number two, and more importantly, Wiki. By which to say he’d draw the righteous wrath of the Valar.

Maika: Well, if Arien does drop deep, she still has to depend on Irmo and Ingwë moving forward; otherwise they’d just be playing in front of Arnor’s defence. Isn’t the accusation levelled towards Manwë’s teams is that they lacked incision in the final third?

Felagundion: Manwë teams are such a pain to predict. They’re usually more talented than their opponents, but they can lose—have lost—for the silliest of reasons.

Elenrod: So, has the jury reached a verdict?

Adam: Arnor’s offence hasn’t impressed at all in that unflattering Group H, so I’d guess a safe 1-0 Valimar.

Elenrod: All right, then, let’s move on to our first grudge match. Dagor-nuin-Giliath or Dagor Bragollach—whatever you want to call it—, Angband visiting AC Bel’s Lakeside Arena at Mithrim. Can Morgoth pull out something extra to beat Fëanor’s steamroller?

Adam: There are two things two bear in mind here. Number one: AC Bel are better than Angband. Anfauglith are a tough team, but Inter, Dwarf U, and Gondolin are also good, so that’s three wins against good teams for AC Bel vs only one for Angband. Number two: AC Bel’s playing style eliminates a lot of the randomness that gives weaker teams a chance to beat a stronger team. Fact is, the only team they lost to last year, Real Valinor, were better than them, so don’t expect any sucker punches to knock AC Bel out.

Maika: There’s another team that AC Bel didn’t beat last year—Doriath drew with them after going behind by two goals. They exploited AC Bel’s weakness at the time, their lack of width, and crowded out Fëanor, Eöl, and Beren in the middle. Also, they had Beleg and Lúthien, players who were clinical in finishing the few chances Doriath had.

Iorithil: Ancalagon is also a clinical finisher, I think. Morgoth is, as well, at least on set pieces. And in open, play, they have pace through their spine of cat players in defence and midfield, as well as the excellent supporting striker Tevildo. Though Angband won’t have a weakness of AC Bel to exploit now, but they basically have a better defence than Doriath, anyway.

Elenrod: So Angband have a chance?

Adam: Everyone always has a chance against everyone else—that is, until AC Bel record 60+% possession and allow Angband to shoot only five times the whole game. I think 2-0 AC Bel

Elenrod: Felagundion, you were a little quiet back there. Maybe Real Valinor vs Tirion is more to your liking?

Felagundion: Not really. But if you want, I’ll chip in. Real beat Tirion last year. Tirion got much stronger, and Real were weakened—a little. But I expect the same result: 2-1 Real

Elenrod: Well, that was quick.

Iorithil: I agree with him. Real kept the spine of their championship team: Tulkas, Tilion, Nienna, Nessa, Nerdanel, and Míriel. Basically, those players were instrumental in beating five tough teams—and Rohan—in their championship run. And this new group has to be confident after finally not losing to FC Val after three tries.

Elenrod: And there’s a good chance they’ll be meeting again, what with FC Valinor facing Misty Mts in another round of sixteen tie. Maika, do you think Misty Mts have a chance? You have been raving a lot about their front four.

Maika: Haha, well, I said they could score against FC Val, but I also think FC Val could score three or four against them.

Adam: How about Argon, eh? What a player. He got his first Arda Cup cap last year after years of being ignored, and now he’s probably the most important cog in this FC Valinor machine.

Felagundion: I wouldn’t go that far. He has the same stats—three goals and an assist—as Curufin.

Adam: But good defences are already used to dealing with Celegorm and Curufin. And Yavanna seems to have hit a rough patch of form. Argon is their most consistent performer during the group stage. Well, him and the back four, I guess.

Maika: That is true. They allowed only a little over eight shots per game, against teams that are technically offensive in style. Huan had to save just five shots the whole group stage—Arvedui of Arnor and Tar-Atanamir of Armenelos made that many saves per game.

Elenrod: Your call?

Maika: Hmm, I said Misty Mts could score against them, but I don’t think so. 3-0 FC Val.

Elenrod: And now we move on to a lesser rivalry: Barad-dûr at Weathertop, playing Elrond’s Eriador.

Iorithil: I have a feeling this is an almighty upset in the making.

Elenrod: Really, now, Iorithil? Why?

Iorithil: I watched your show last time, when Maika mentioned Valandil as one of their important players from last year. Of course, they also lost Wiki, Malbeth, and two of their attacking midfielders, Arahael and Arassuil. That’s a lot of corporate knowledge gone. Well, their defence is still top-notch, as you’d expect, but their defence-to-attack transitions look discombobulated.

Maika: Well, if NogWight grafts well into that system, he could help. He was a fine forward for the Wolves, good finisher, of course, but also excellent in linking up with the midfielders. With Eriador, he uses his positional intelligence and industry to link midfield and attack, driving them forward with his running and short passing. He hasn’t formed a seamless rapport with Glorfindel, Isildur, and Arveleg yet, but if they click…

Adam: But would Sauron give him time? Last year, Barad-dûr were full of energy, but it was all headless-chicken-running-around-the pitch style. This year they’re really snapping to tackles, pressuring ball-handlers, cutting into passing lanes, like what Sauron urged his 2011 Wilderland team to do against Valinor. And Grishnákh is still a pretty good goalie, even if he’s dropped off from his unsustainable preseason form.

Elenrod: So, what do y’all think?

Iorithil: Hmmm… 1-1, with Eriador edging it in penalties.

Adam: Sounds about right, though I wouldn’t be surprised if Sauron nicks a winner in extra time.

Elenrod: Next up is probably the marquee event of the last sixteen, in terms of goalscoring potential: Hithlum visiting Nargothrond at the High Faroth Arena.

Adam: Bookies are putting the over/under of total goals scored in this game at five. I wouldn’t be surprised if they repeated the seven-goal thriller they had in a friendly match last year.

Felagundion: Hithlum don’t have a midfield, and Nargothrond keep the ball well. I expect they’d score less than three goals.

Iorithil: The Túrin vs Glaurung angle is interesting, even if they’re on totally opposite sides of the pitch. Well, there’s also Nienor, Gwindor, Finduilas, Húrin, Morwen…

Maika: Remember how Gwindor burned Hithlum in that friendly Adam mentioned? I think he scored a first-half hat trick then. Reckon he’d do the same this year?

Adam: Arroch did a pretty decent job on Míriel. I think Nargothrond won’t have any single mismatch to exploit; they’d have to keep their offence flowing. That’s their forte, anyway.

Elenrod: And on the other end? Túrin is back, Húrin is there, and so is Hador. What would Orodreth and company do?

Felagundion: That’s a big question. They have the pace to exploit Nargothrond’s high line, and they’re superb finishers; excellent at set pieces, too. It’ll be defending from the front again for Nargothrond, preventing the ball from getting to Hithlum’s forward line through high pressing. Good news is, none of Hithlum’s back four is a good ball-handler, aside from the Balrog.

Elenrod: So what’s your call on this?

Felagundion: I fear Hithlum won’t be denied, but Nargothrond can control this game. 3-2 Nargothrond.

Elenrod: That’s it, then. Tol-in-Gaurhoth-Gondolin, anyone? Gondolin have to be pretty confident after their drama-filled victory over rivals Inter.

Iorithil: The way TiG are playing, it doesn’t matter which of Inter or Gondolin they face. It’ll be one-sided.

Maika: Yeah. The Wolves are excellent in all three areas of the pitch, and ShastaWolf bounced back from his horrible 2012 and is, once again, one of the best goalies of the tournament.

Iorithil: Considering how weak their side of the bracket is, I’d be surprised if they don’t make it to the finals. 2-0 TiG, but 3-0 is also possible.

Elenrod: Last we have Anduin hosting Armenelos. Armenelos lost top seed to Valimar by the narrowest of margins, but Anduin won their group quite convincingly.

Felagundion: Except against Mordor.

Elenrod: That is true, that is true. So, do they have a chance?

Maika: This is a pretty good Armenelos side. Anduin have talent, but most of this crew won an Arda Cup together. They’ve never been eliminated before the quarterfinals, except last year, and even then they gave the eventual champions Real a pretty good fight in that last group stage match. Ar-Pharazôn is golden again, and Elros has seamlessly slotted into that number ten role, chipping in a goal and two assists.

Adam: Yeah. It’s just their bad luck that it looks like they’d be meeting TiG next round. The Wolves have been their bogey team for quite some time now—2008 and 2011 come to mind. Otherwise, they have a good chance of beating Eriador and getting to the finals.

Elenrod: So the score?

Maika: 2-1 Armenelos. Anduin have a good attack, and a pretty solid defence. But Armenelos’ talent and experience should see them through.

Elenrod: And with that, we’ve come to the end of our program. Many thanks again to our panel. Iorithil, a pleasure to have you here.

Iorithil: I want to be back again next time.

Elenrod: And we’d love to have you again. Maika, what are your plans?

Maika: I’m going to Weathertop to cover Eriador-Barad-dûr.

Elenrod: And you, Adam?

Adam: I thought I was covering Nargothrond-Hithlum alone, but surprisingly—

Felagundion: The folks upstairs are letting me go with him.

Elenrod: Good for you, Felagundion. Have a fabulous week, everyone. We’ll meet again soon.

the phantom

08-21-2013, 03:41 PM

Trouble With Hosting in Valimar
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

In the days leading up to the first round of the playoffs there were many in Valimar that worried they wouldn’t have their grand arena prepared to host. They had hosted Group A during the group stages, and one of the visiting teams was The Barrow-Downs, which always brought with it a rowdy group of Wights, and they had done no small amount of damage to the stadium.

The match reports that covered the final round of group play for the most part didn’t include the gory details—either because much of it took place immediately following the game, or because the Valar were leaning on the press to suppress the embarrassing happenings. Everyone knew that the mischievous Wights had cut the ropes that operate the stadium bells (during all three rounds no less), and some of the bells had been dented or scratched by Wights hurling stones at them (in order to celebrate away goals). But the Wights stepped up their vandalism in a major way for the final round—actually succeeding in cutting some of the bells down and sending them crashing down the stone shafts beneath them, as well as painting on the walls, pulling decorative plants and trees up by the roots, slashing tapestries, emptying food stands of supplies, and that’s not even half the list.

In many cases the hosts would not themselves feel embarrassed, as they would be victims—the perpetrators should feel the embarrassment! But the Valar, Manwe in particular, was taking a lot of heat for the incidents, as his new policies (made for the sake of the games) were cited as the biggest reason for the damage. The policies were curiously inconsistent (as Tulkas and Orome in particular pointed out)—they were quite hands-off and free in allowing any and all into Valinor, but then restrictive inside the stadium (outlawing even ornamental or sheathed weapons). But by far the law receiving the most criticism was the one strictly punishing those caught fighting in or around the arena, as the law made no allowance whatsoever for justification—i.e. if an Elf were attacked by a pack of Orcs he would be locked up if he fought to escape. Not to mention it would be extremely difficult for Valinor to hold and punish a foreigner (like one of the Barrow-Wights), and so really the law only effectively hamstringed the Valinoreans themselves.

The trouble-making Wights were very emboldened by the rules, knowing they could do anything they pleased and the locals wouldn’t dare try and stop them, or even be equipped to do so if they wanted to. Needless to say the results were disastrous, and the law-abiding Elves and Ainur could only watch in utter rage as the Wights desecrated their playing grounds. There were authorized security forces on hand, but it wasn’t nearly enough for the large-scale and organized attack, and they were able to take very few prisoners. Those that they did capture quickly made use of the progressive in-out passage laws and restrictions and had themselves removed to captivity in their homeland, where instead of being punished they were congratulated, while some Wights merely vanished into the vapors of the underworld and spirited themselves away, giggling all the while.

“Everyone was so excited to host in the Blessed Realm after the ban was lifted,” said Tirion’s captain Finwe. “They did rectify some of the problems that were present last time, but unfortunately they created a host of new problems by moving too fast in a new direction.” When asked if the problems would continue in the playoffs, Finwe sounded hopeful. “Well, of the 6 teams playing games in the Blessed Realm in this slate of games, only the Misty Mts is likely to bring destructive fans, and they’ll be playing here in Tirion rather than Valimar. Manwe has given me permission to have some of our own rules here, and needless to say I’ve taken precautions.”

Football fans around Arda can only hope that Finwe’s positive outlook will prove to be realistic.

Nogrod

08-22-2013, 02:43 PM

Here's The AKM's short report from Valinor as the AKM is going to cover two games from there live as the games take place.

It is going to be a footballing nirvana in Valinor – after the ban of last year a total of three games of the eight first round matches will be played on sacred soil. Three group-winners from eight groups is a serious show by which Valinor challenges even Beleriand for the highest quality of football on Arda.

Real Valinor would be playing in Valmar at Tulkas’ and Nessa’s home stadium – well at their home to be precise. As everyone familiar with the Book of Lost Tales knows, under the tower of bronze and wide arcade of pillars of copper Tulkas has a court for visitors to play and rival each other in feats. During the time it was enlarged into a stadium for all kinds of competitions from pankration to javelin throwing and running – and finally to suit also football with a capacity of forty-five thousand specatators.

As one can gather, it is not the greatest stadium in size but it has history of thousands of years as a ground for feats – where young Fëanor showed his might as well as all the Maiar and some of the Valar who took part in the famous games of Tulkas. It was here Eönwë had shown his might the first time forcing the great Oromë himself into a draw in wrestling, it was here Nessa had outran Arien in the famous duel days long past… and it was called plainly “the Court”.

Now some called it “the court of Tulkas”, some called it “the court of laughter” or “the court of strength” – and some even called it “the court of fallen heroes”, referring to the games lost by even the greatest heroes on that stand facing even greater heroes… but everyone knows it with the name “the Court”.

The MESPN has already reported on the problems at Valmar’s Grand Stadium and it’s environment – where Manwë’s Valimar will be playing their first play-off game – so we need not delve into that. We only feel it decent to report that a few Wights did dare to venture to the outskirts of the great city but seeing Tulkas’ guards around his homestead they made the wise decision to retreat. Manwë might have his rule but Tulkas is not known to be lenient against anyone he thought was not deserving it.

While team Tirion would be playing against Real Valinor in neighbouring city of Valmar, their joint stadium at the city of Tirion upon Túna would be occupied by the city’s other Arda Cup team FC Valinor playing against the Misty Mountains from the Middle Earth.

The stadium is called “The Terrace of Túna” – or TT among the locals. It was built at the lowest terrace of the inner city towards the sea, under the shadow of Mindon Eldaliéva and it’s famous silver lantern shining to the sea and not far from the great square where the White tree used to flourish.

The stadium itself doesn’t boast the history of Tulkas’ Court or the grandeur of Manwë’s Grand Stadium at Valmar, but especially to the Noldor that is their stadium – and during winter-season both Tirion United and Tirion City play on that field. So it is the heart of Noldorian football – and with space up to almost sixty-thousand spectators – it is also spacious enough to host even bigger games.

As MESPN reported, Finwë had received a permission from Manwë to be able to enforce some tougher rules on vandalism and general ill-behaviour in the city. Now he would not be looking after them personally and Ingwë would also be playing at Valmar, but the brothers Curufin and Celegorm have promised publicly to look after the general safety of the city – with the reaction that Manwë has appointed Eönwë and Argon to act as lieutenants to the brothers with their own orders straight from him. And it is also rumoured that the high numbers of the Great Eagles coming to the city on the eve of the games is a part of the package Manwë and Yavanna had made with Thorondor.

Be that as it may, it looks like any rebel-rousers from the Misty Mts. fan-club might meet a stiffer and quicker justice the Wights faced at Valmar during the group stage.

the phantom

08-25-2013, 05:42 PM

“Remember three years ago…” was the most commonly heard phrase when folks were discussing Arnor versus Valimar. Valimar had won their group while Arnor had finished second, Valimar was ahead on differential while Arnor was behind, Valimar had played tougher competition, etc… All of the arguments favored Manwe and company, and yet “remember three years ago” kept creeping into the picture.

The team-names weren’t exactly the same then (Norbury instead of Arnor), but many of the players were the same. Six of Arnor’s players were on that Norbury squad, and five of Valimar’s players are the same, including Manwe, Namo, and Arien. There was just too much similarity to get through analysis without bringing it up. But could the men of the North really pull it off again?

Most thought not, and some for a surprising reason—The Witch King. As a rule his presence had improved the squad, but most thought the Valar would not look kindly upon his presence. Part of the reason the Arnorians had been able to upset Valimar previously was they had made certain the Ainur were at peace and not feeling riled by the presence of evil or bad sportsmanship, but Witch King wasn’t exactly a cuddly monkey. “The defenders and Manwe in goal will see him coming at them and be inspired to really play their A-game,” said MESPN’s Philip McPhantom. “And at the other end—Arien should be able to provide their jumpstart.”

And most of the fans crowding into the grand arena of Valimar were hoping he knew what he was talking about…

*************************

The men of Arnor were just as organized and focused as Valimar feared they would be. They defended doggedly, made the smart passes, and they had a smart adjustment—placing Witch King in a more passive role in the midfield and hoping he wouldn’t offend Manwe from there, and also he encouraged his very small group of Orc-supporters to wear festive garb and refrain from shouting profanities.

But despite these carefully laid plans and good execution, the beautiful faces that filled the arena didn’t look fretful, because Valimar was still controlling the game. They looked just sharp and professional, always a step ahead, and it was only a matter of time before the game was in hand.

Arvedui was sweating between the posts as Vaire sent one just over, Irmo hit a post, and Arien forced him to make two tough saves. The Valimar faithful were just grinning ear to ear and gasping with every attempt, and just after half an hour they were finally able to celebrate in full as the scoring was finally opened—Arvedui only barely deflected an Arien shot with the tip of his foot, and Irmo knocked the rebound down with his chest and immediately sent it in for the goal!

The Arnor squad gave each other reassuring nods and put on grim smiles—they were doing things right, and just had to hope that Valimar couldn’t sustain their level of play. But after the goal Valimar continued owning things like it was their destiny, and before the Dunedain could escape into the halftime break Valimar struck again. Ingwe sent in a picture perfect corner topspin corner that curled down precisely where Arien was headed, and she rose up and met it at the top of her leap and sent the ball forcefully into the back of the net!

During the break the section of Arnorians started pulling out their comfort food and favorite depression-breaking drinks already. Their squad was quality, but scoring two or three against Valimar seemed out of the question. Their entire plan had been to make the first half be fast and uneventful to shorten the game, and they had failed. And the smiling, singing Valimar fans knew it too.

When the second half started it was almost a slap in the face to see Valimar now sending around time-wasting passes and doing with precision what Arnor had tried to do the first half. Now it was Manwe wanting time to move quickly and uneventfully. Arien wasn’t entirely pleased to be reigned in, but she assented to the change of course gracefully. Realizing the way things were and seeing the minutes slip away Elendil and friends began to get more aggressive with their passes, trying to send through-balls from the back. Araphor and the front midfielders started looking for any opening through which to send a miracle shot, but they were for the most part deflected before they reached Manwe, or floated harmlessly by well away from the goal.

Finally as time neared 70 minutes the Witch King asked for the okay to be aggressive for himself, and seeing no other options the rest of the team agreed to it. As he had tried nothing the entire game (and Valimar knew exactly why), they just let him run right past on the right side, almost as if he was a passing bird that had wondered onto the field. Argeleb sent it forward at the perfect moment and hit Witch King in full stride, and he was headed towards Manwe one on one as Namo and Este rushed up from behind.

Just before Namo and Este converged on him he sent a drive—but no! It was a brilliant fake, and both defenders bought it as did Manwe, and seeing Araphor rushing in from the corner of his eye Witch King sent it over and forward and from point blank Araphor finished efficiently. Valimar’s lead was down to one goal!

A couple of the Valimar players looked worried, but Namo and Manwe calmed them, saying that Arnor had used the only trick they had in reserve, and that they would not threaten again. And to make this prediction come true Valimar somehow raised their quality of play, despite the fact they’d been playing as well as ever. Arnor could get nothing done at all as time approached 80 minutes, and Witch King found himself perpetually shadowed. After time passed 80 minutes Manwe, leaving nothing up to chance, asked Arien to come back and stick to Araphor like glue. His reputation for late-game heroics could not be ignored.

With the whole team focused on keeping the ball away from their goal, it was just too large an obstacle for Arnor to overcome, particularly as they grew less sharp through their frantic desperation. Soon the bells were ringing and the crowd was singing and the players were joining in. Arnor had battled bravely but Valimar just proved too much for them to handle.

In postgame interviews, the Valimar players expressed hopes that Angband would be their next opponent. “We’d love the opportunity to oust Morgoth,” said Arien. But Manwe assured everyone that they would plan to give it their best effort no matter who the opponent was. During the Arnor interviews, the players seemed mostly pleased with their year. Malbeth had this to say: “We made the playoffs and only lost narrowly on the road to a team with a payroll 34 million higher than us. That’s hardly failure. We’ve got a good core here and I imagine most of us will be back next year, with just a tweak here and there.”

Arnor 1-2 Valimar
on target 5-8
tot shots 14-17
GOALS:
*32, 0-1 Irmo (Arien)
*41, 0-2 Arien (Ingwe)
*69, 1-2 Araphor (WitchKing)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Arnor-
*Valimar- Elenwe, Este

Nogrod

08-26-2013, 09:00 AM

A great host of Noldorian and Teleri-elves travelled to their neighbouring city of Valmar to witness the game between their team Tirion against hosts Real Valinor – even if the other Tirion-based team FC Valinor would be playing at home. But there sure were enough elves to fill the stadium at Tirion upon Túna as well.

It was clear the home team was the favourite of the crowds – as well as betting agencies. Fex. every bet made on the Barrow-Downs had Real Valinor (and FC Valinor) to qualify from the first qualifying games. But the supporters of Tirion were not that easily discouraged: their team had left Ulmo’s The Sea behind them in the group phase and played even with the mighty Nargothrond – and in the friendlies they had drawn with Melkor’s Angband and won Gondolin quite confidently. Sure Real Valinor was one of the hot teams but who could beat them if not Tirion?

And that was exactly what nagged the supporters of Real Valinor deep inside them… who could beat them if not Tirion? Well FC Valinor was a monkey on their shoulder looming heavy but it would be the next round only, they said to themselves. Surely, it was no walk in the park for Real Valinor from now on. What encouraged the fans though was the thought that if they got through from the next few matches (if they got through the next two they’d most probably meet nothnig less than AC Beleriand!) they would be so strong as to be more or less invincible – for who could claim as tough a schedual than them – and every win would make them stronger! They just had to win some real big games before that – and game one was now about to begin.

Tulkas’ Court was filled to the last seat and the standing areas were packed to their full capacity. The crowds consisted mainly of elves with some Maiar and Valar attending – the few Balrogs were easy to spot from the crowds while the men of the first age blended in the general athmosphere a lot better – and nobody probably noticed the handful of hobbits but the ticket-office.

*********************

And what a game it was!

Many in the audience anticipated the home-team to dominate the game – after all they had drawn 2-2 with FC Valinor and beaten Manwë’s Valimar 3-1 in the friendlies – not to talk of them bathing the mighty Hithlum 3-1 and Elwë’s Doriath 2-0. But facing a strong elven defence and aggressive attack it proved to be as hard for Real Valinor the Tirion fans had hoped for – and Real fans had feared of.

The three sons of Fëanor proved especially hard to get by for their mom and grandmom – giving hard times to Oromë as well with their solid power. On the other end Finwë and Aredhel made Nahar and Nienna to run for their money and stature while Mahtan forced Tilion to stay alert downstairs efficiently denying him chances of making any daring runs forwards to support the attack.

The game was pretty even for a long time with both teams making a good effort but being denied by the solid defences of the other. Towards the end of the first half Tirion started to gain something like an upperhand of the game and was able to flow a few dangerous attacks against Real Valinor’s defence.

At 40 minutes Tulkas was barely able to tip Aredhel’s close effort off the post and a few minures later Finwë’s mighty boomer from twenty meters went just inches over the crossbar. So to the embarrasment of the hometeam fans the game was not only even in numbers come halftime, but it was also feeling like Tirion was slowly calling the shots.

But the home team came to the second half with a fury – and the crowds went crazy! Real Valinor had been somewhat passive on the first half but now they came to the game with full energy – and the sons of Fëanor had their hands full in the defence when Real Valinor unleashed their attack, this time led by Oromë himself. Tulkas was leading the game from behind and Nessa was was calling the shots behind the attack – in good understanding with her brother up front. But that didn’t mean Nerdanel or Miriel would have fallen back to be mere statists – on the contrary; with their deep runs inside the Tirion defences they were a constant threat.

At 58 minutes Nerdanel missed a header from just a few meters in front of an empty goal being forced to make it from an unbalanced position. Two minutes later Finarfin showed some real master-class goaltending reaching for the cannon Oromë fired from the corner of the box gluing the ball to his gloves from the top left corner of the goal when the crowds were already standing up to cheer for a goal.

But as it so often happens in football, when a team is not able to use their initiative succesfully to score the opponent strikes from behind the corner…
Tirion had a few quality counter-offences while Real Valinor was running over their defences – and at the 70th minute Rumil was actually able to send Finwë into a break-through. Facing Tulkas alone he sped towards him – and Tulkas leaped towards Finwë… just before the evident clash Finwë leaned heavily to the left like he was going to duck Tulkas that way – and Tulkas followed him. Just before losing the control of the ball Finwë gave it a nudge with the tip of his boot – and the precision of his timing was just astonishing! Tulkas had just given up his balance to rush on him when he chipped the ball from between Tulkas’ legs and while being buried under the mighty Vala the ball rolled into the goal!

Tirion was in the lead!

It was clear Real Valinor had to put even more effort in to their attack – and that opened new chances for Tirion as well – and Tirion was not going to play a second fiddle anyway, but actually rolled some definitive attacks towards Real’s defences every time they had a chance. It was fingernail-biting time for the crowds on both sides…

At 78th minute Miriel hammered a mighty volley from the edge of the box only to be denied by the post.

At 83rd minute Aredhel slided a nice centering by Rumil just inches off the post.

At 85th minute Finwë missed a nice header from the close quarters and it went high up.

At 87th minute Nessa gave a corner and Oromë dived to head it… IN! It was a goal!

Real Valinor had evened the game three minutes before the final whistle! The homecrowds went wild with celebration while the Tirion fans were forced to realise the game had just started anew – just as they had started to feel good that their team was going forwards from this game…

It was overtime then. Half an hour overtime and if that wouldn’t make a difference, then it would be a penalty shoot-out. The stakes were high indeed.
With the “sudden death” rule both teams started the overtime quite carefully as a single mistake might prove the downfall of the whole team. But little by little it started to look like Tiron was more satisfied of the two to the way things were and Real Valinor was starting to show clearly as the team more hungry for a win – and those little differences accumulated into sharper and weaker performance in the field.

And it was a tactical misjudgement that made the difference in the end – and why there was no penalty shoot-out. The sons of Fëanor thought Oromë to be their primary threat after his goal and Nessa was their target number two because of the role she had organizing the offence – but you only disregard Nerdanel and Miriel on your own expense…

So leaving only half of Amrod’s energy to play against his grandma while looking more after Oromë was the error number one as Miriel took away from her overcoat quite easily. But leaving Irimë to play against Nerdanel alone was just a disaster. Outpacing her shadow Nerdanel had no problem to head in the millimeter exact pass by Miriel leaving Irimë’s brother Finarfin no chance to save it.

It was just six minutes from a penalty shoot-out that Real Valinor nailed the game.

Tirion had showed that with a tight elven defence Real Valinor’s offence could be brought into a halt and with a quality offence they could be scored against – but Real Valinor just showed the width of their offence: if you take Oromë and Nessa out Miriel and Nerdanel will score in the end – and if you take the ladies out the Valar will score.

Tirion 1-2 Real Valinor (OT)
on target 6-6
tot shots 16-16
GOALS:
*70, 1-0 Finwe (Rumil)
*87, 1-1 Orome (Nessa)
*24, 2-1 Nerdanel (Miriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Tirion- Amrod, Mahtan
*RealV- Nahar

Real Valinor goes through to the quarterfinals.

Nogrod

08-27-2013, 01:16 PM

Tirion upon Túna was not exactly bursting with visitors even if this was one of the few chances for anyone from the Middle-Earth to make a trip to the Sacred Lands. And the reason was obvious: despite the “open seas” policy publicly announced by the Valar there were not that many ships to offer the crossing after the group stage – and there had been these rumours of tighter rules at Tirion which scared even some more peaceful travellers – especially as the games could be seen through the Palantir Network all around the Middle-Earth anyway.

But the locals really filled the stadium. Even with the strongest supporters of team Tirion away to watch the game of Tirion vs. Real Valinor at Valmar there were hosts of elves willing to see their “team of the town” FC Valinor to face the Middle-Earthians. And they were pretty confident FC Valinor would make it through easily against these oddballs from the far away ME where everything was minor in every way.

Even with the scarcity of transport there was a strong contingent of Misty Mountains supporters at the stadium in the end – fenced off from the rest of the crowds into the one end of the stadium. But with their enthusiasm and numbers of some seven to eight-thousand they were able to make a difference to the mood of the stadium forcing the locals to sing and shout not to be overpowered by the small but loud group of fans of the visiting team.

The goblins were the most numerous of the guests, then came the dwarves, wolves and trolls. There were also a few of the creatures of the deep old times and some Balrogs in the crowds – as well as a clearly visible host of Great Eagles who – even if they were there markedly also on a security mission - were supporting either team, so some of them clearly supported the visiting team.

***************************

The game itself wasn’t exactly something you would tell legends about to your grandchildren.

Misty Mountains started the game bravely trying to make a game and Durin’s Bane created some real trouble in the FC Valinor downstairs forcing Eönwë and Thorondor to play it for real at the first ten minutes – but other than that the Misty Mountains offence was kept at bay with what seemed like a half-hearted effort. Now you ask how about Azog? Well Maglor held him with a decimal effort compared to holding the Gap of Maglor against Melkor…

Misty Mountains soon learned they had nothing to throw at FC Valinor but some long shots hoping for the best. But even that realiztion was preceded by a goal by the home team.

FC Valinor started the game with an easy pace just to get the hang of their opponent – and finding it lacking any decent threat they tried a few offences of which the second brought results already at 18 minutes. After William’s late tackle on Curufin he took the free kick himself targetting his brother running timely to the corner of the goal and heading the ball in comfortably behind the Chief Wolf like fooling a pet – well with Celegorm you’d figure he’d know something about the canine creatures and their ways…

The goal was something of an anticlimax to the game as the Misty Mountains seemed to draw back in fear of a bad beating but FC Valinor didn’t seem too enthusiastic to press on either as it seemed they had the game sovereignly under control – as they had.

And so it went that even without any real effort FC Valinor scored another goal before halftime when Curufin broke free from the box with a genius cross-pass by Yavanna and booted the ball in from in front of the Chief Wolf.

The game seemed over at the half time.

Misty Mountains came to the second half with an effort but was shut down the tighter the more they tried – and they soon gave away the game for good. FC Valinor was just a level too hard an opponent for them. Leading 2-0 FC Valinor had no reason to press either but took the second half of the game as a nice pressure and passing practise.

In the end it was not only the visiting fans who were discontent but also the homecrowds started booing towards the end as they wished to see goals and to feel some excitement. But FC Valinor knew they had a few levels stronger opponent to face on their next game and were not willing to exhaust themselves in this game that was a walk-through for them – and thus resisting the calls of their supporters they were content to just pass the ball around and keep Misty Mts. at bay when they tried to attack.

Finally the referee whistled the game to end. 2-0 was a result flattering the visiting team – the home team clearly was not interested in trying to win more.

Although, and to be fair, one reason for the low numbers would also be in the fact that even if there was a wide gap between the the team’s qualities the defence of the Misty Mts. with Caradhras, Gwaihir and Watcher was tougher FC Valinor might wish to admit: getting past them would have required some work and a tougher effort which FC Valinor was not willing (or able) to make this evening after they made their two goals securing their lead.

Misty Mts 0-2 FC Valinor
on target 3-6
tot shots 8-13
GOALS:
*18, 0-1 Celegorm (Curufin)
*45, 0-2 Curufin (Yavanna)
YELLOW CARDS:
*MMts- William, GreatGoblin, Watcher
*FCVal- Eonwe, Indis

FC Valinor goes through to the quarterfinals.

the phantom

08-28-2013, 06:19 PM

Many were lamenting the fact that Angband and AC Beleriand were forced to play in the first round—particularly fans that were fearful their team would lose. Though nearly all of them expressed confidence in their side in surveys and the like, it was safe to say that half of them were consumed with private doubts. And how could they not be looking at what they were facing?

Angband had the quickness of Oikeroi and Telvildo supporting thundering strikes, intimidating size and aerial speed of Ancalagon, while they defended with the reflexes of Umuiyan, the size and power of a Balrog, and no less than Morgoth himself. On the other side was the quick creativity and ball skills of Eol and Feanor supported by the sons of Finarfin, and their defense featured a Balrog of their own, as well as the swift-hoofed Rochallor and the leadership and valor of Fingolfin.

MESPN head football analyst Philip McPhantom had this to say: “Without even thinking about it I’d pick either of these squads to defeat half of the teams in the playoffs, and there’s no team I wouldn’t give them a good chance against. Both of these two have championship potential, there’s no doubt.”

But one of these squads would have a short stay in the tournament, leaving with disappointed fans and some big bills to pay off. And everyone knew that these two wanted to win very badly, not just for themselves, but to send the other squad packing. What else could anyone expect when it was Morgoth versus Feanor—forever foes on and off the field…

****************************************

The area at the southern end of Lake Mithrim was well prepared to host the first round of the playoffs—they’d been preparing since the groups were announced after all. Some thought it was the height of arrogance, but more level heads recognized it as a good bet that had paid off. AC Beleriand was the heavy favorite to win their group, thus there was a good chance they’d be hosting in the first round.

The locals were mostly Elves, and though only some were former followers of Feanor, all were happy to have his team based there, as it brought in money when they used the practice facilities and updated the arena, and of course when they earned home games. The stadium had at one time been more famous—back when Feanor first arrived in Middle Earth he and his sons set up shop there briefly and even won the historic North League a couple times (and the Champion’s League to boot). But eventually they left and though Fingolfin’s Noldor kept things going for a while, in the end all the big stars moved on to other locations—Eithel Sirion, Tol Sirion, Himring, Gondolin, etc., and the stadium fell into disrepair, and eventually parts of it were demolished (empty seats were bad to look at) or converted—the upper west-side was sectioned off by walls and became a theater.

But since AC Beleriand had headquartered themselves at North Mithrim the arena had reclaimed the lost seats the previous season, and in the off-season they restored the top sections of the north and south sides, pushing the capacity close to 60,000. There were already plans in the works to rebuild the eastern end of the stadium in the next offseason, but as it was the stadium resembled a horse-shoe which was mostly open on the east side.

The field itself was a subject of great controversy, as Feanor and his helpers had installed an improved version of the same sort of play surface that he used of old in his underground arena at Foremenos (as many know the surface was eventually outlawed by The Blessed League & thus replaced with a more natural-feeling turf). Many objected to the new surface at Mithrim, saying that football was “meant to be played on grass”. Feanor, however, scoffed at the idea. “It is traditionally played on grass, yes, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be played on other surfaces, nor does it mean that grass is inherently superior merely because it was used first. I mean—this isn’t the year zero any more! The field we installed here gives a more consistent and true bounce across the entire field and provides surer and more consistent footing for the players as well.”

The entire field was essentially a thin layer of somewhat rubbery padding over top of perfectly flat and polished stone. Cleats were not worn, as there was nothing to dig into. Instead relatively flat-bottomed shoes were used, and if players were smart they also had material around their elbows and knees to protect against burn-marks from hard skids. And of course it was this exact factor that many objected to—one simply could not slide on the Mithrim field. It had just a bit too much grip for it.

MESPN head football analyst Philip McPhantom had this to say of the surface: “It favors folks with quick feet, plain and simple. You can’t get away with sliding into folks to stop them, but rather a defender just needs to stay upright and try to stay in front of the attacker and deflect any attempt to move or pass past them. Also, accuracy on passes and the like is more obvious as the bounces are quite consistent, and spin on the ball can really make a difference on the hop, thus those with a very deft touch can execute passes here that they couldn’t on another surface. All in all I’d say it would favor AC Beleriand against most competition, but the Werecats of Angband will probably find it to their liking as well. In this matchup the advantage is probably negligible.”

****************************************

Folks had turned up in huge numbers to witness the first round clash of the titans, and naturally many had not been able to snag tickets. The stadium support was about 80% for ACBel, but outside the stadium the crowds were roughly even with Angband so close in proximity. The locals weren’t that pleased to see Angband as the opponent as it upped the chances of vandalism, so they were taking precautions with large numbers of neighborhood patrol groups, and in fact some of the residential areas were entirely blocked off, and to enter one had to show proof of residency or have someone with proof of residency stake a guest-claim.

When the sun ducked below the edge of the arena the teams made their way out for their final warm-ups. The stadium was already filled to the brink and folks were even gathered on the tops of high nearby buildings to get a look in at the match. Feanor and ACBel looked quiet and focused, while Angband glared at their opponents and at the crowd constantly and made an occasional violent gesture (either to rile up the opposition or just to pump themselves up). Soon warm-ups were done and the ref was setting the ball, and with a swell of shouting from the crowd the game was under way!

The folks there to see a quality contest were definitely not disappointed. The tricky dribbles of the skill players had the crowd oohing and aahing, but the stout defenses could not be penetrated with just one good move, or even two. Help came to the right places at the right time, and when a defender was temporarily on an island and needed to stop, he somehow always came through well enough to keep the scoreboard untouched.

It was past 20 minutes when a keeper was finally forced to make a save—Carcharoth expertly batted away a one-timer from Aegnor after Feanor deftly passed him open. Fans from both sides applauded, for the ACBel fans were pleased their side was now threatening, while the Angband fans were pleased Carcharoth was on his game (they knew he’d have to make a couple saves to win this).

It appeared as time moved along that ACBel was gaining the upper hand, penetrating deeper into the offensive zone and only barely missing opportunities for attacks on quality crosses and the like. Angband seemed to be on their heels. But the game can change quickly, and so it did on this evening. Angrod found things entirely shut down on his side and he sent a ball back to Fingolfin to reset things and gain some space, but the pass was a little low and left and Ulrad believed he was the intended target as he could not see Fingolfin closing from 20 yards behind him and a bit to his side.

Ulrad took two quick and frantic steps back and left and leaped up to bring the pass down to his feet, as he was afraid if it got past they would lose possession or worse, that it would lead to a dangerous break-away. And in fact his efforts led to exactly what he feared, as the ball got a bit away from him, and Oikeroi pounced on it in a flash and played a brilliant pass forward, slicing across the back and bottom of the ball so that it lofted perfectly over Fingolfin and the Balrog but then bounced fairly sharply sideways before reaching Imlach and Rochallor. It fell directly to where Ancalagon was winging his way upfield, and the dragon in one fluid movement landed already in rotation and boomed a spinning tail-shot from the high point of the bounce.

The defenders had no chance of getting in the way of the high-flying rocket, and it snuck in just below the crossbar on the far right side and Marach’s best leap wasn’t nearly enough to be in time. Angband was on top!

The Angband fans went nuts, and it almost sounded like it was a home game for them. They had seldom been this loud before, and it’s easy to see why they were so excited with the lead against their bitter foes. They had a chance to oust Feanor and Fingolfin in the round of sixteen! The Elves grimaced and some put their hands over their ears, as they simply could not stomach the cruelty of the well-known game-ditty the Orcs launched into, which was first heard in the violent days of the first age…
“Come play our team lads and soon you’ll know harm,
Your posts will seem far apart like Gelmir’s arms,
Your offense soon shackled like Maedhros’ wrist,
All realms we have bested & you’re next on the list,
Gondolin Nargothrond where did you go?
Wiped clean away by superior foe!
…

And that snippet is perhaps the cleanest and least harsh bit of the whole.

Meanwhile it was decision time on the field, and Feanor and Fingolfin were discussing options. Of course ACBel needed a goal more now than ever, but both brothers were hesitant to increase the emphasis on their attack, as Angband preferred the defense-first approach anyway and had quite a good counter-attacking game (well of course with Ancalagon on the field). The risk of suddenly falling behind by two goals was judged to be too great a risk, and thus ACBel maintained course—after all they had appeared to be gaining ground before Angband’s quick strike.

But ACBel soon found they no longer held the upper hand. Their confidence and energy high and focused clearly on the task, Angband’s level of play was definitely higher, and things were quite even, and it was really a toss-up as to which team would score next. At 37 minutes Feanor got his first quality look, as he managed to outmaneuver both Umuiyan and the Balrog and gain a quick snipe, but again Carcharoth was on top of things. At minute 41 it was Angband’s turn, as once again Oikeroi fed it to Ancalagon up high, but this time he was a bit farther out and Marach managed a tough save—the ball curved wickedly at the end and nearly got in.

Finally it was halftime, and the Elves felt a good deal of relief. Morgoth may be a good tactician, but they had faith in Feanor and Fingolfin’s ability to come up with something during the break, whereas they figured the longer Angband had the one-goal lead the more they’d withdraw and defend, and if ACBel was allowed to bring its full offense to bear then surely they’d get the equalizer.

The half opened and Angband attacked with fury, but Feanor and Fingolfin had bet Morgoth would do exactly that and were prepared, and they very nearly got loose on the break going the other direction (Aegnor’s shot was just a bit tall). Upset that his gamble had been sniffed out and snuffed, Morgoth fell back to defend more strictly than in the first half. This too was what ACBel expected, and they wasted no time in applying full pressure, with Fingolfin and the Balrog charging forward in support, and the defenders had to be aware of them and position themselves appropriately between them and the goal, for both of them had strong legs from distance.

Finally at minute 59 ACBel came through with the goods! Fingolfin had it on his toe and while folks were concerned with him Angrod found some space left and forward and Fingolfin found him quickly, and while the pass was on the move so were the other attackers, and Angrod instead of receiving it just deflected it on to Eol who wrong-footed Ulwarth and skidded it low past Carcharoth, and the diving Umuiyan couldn’t catch it in time. The game was beautifully level!

Both sides appeared to get jittery and nervous after that—perhaps not certain what course of action would prove best, or perhaps just petrified by the high stakes. But doubtless nearly everyone was having a bit of trouble holding onto the ball, and passes went a bit awry and decisions weren’t quick. It was obvious many of the players just had too much on the mind—that always leads to slow decision making. Feanor and Ancalagon though seemed unaffected, and both quite obviously wanted their side to just feed them. Both tried, but with possession so spotty the only way to get it to them was long balls, and while both of them managed to haul in a couple they were unable to break through the teeth of the defense.

As the time ticked through the 80s both sides started to pull back, apparently content to reorganize before overtime, and just wanting to make another go of it then. But at 85 minutes Angband went all forward, and initially things looked promising, but suddenly Angrod dashed in front of an Ulfast pass and went the other way with it. Aegnor was with him and Eol and Feanor were out at the sides and Angband rushed to recover. Angrod sent it to Eol, he sent it to Aegnor who immediately tipped it on to Angrod. Angrod had half a step on the Balrog who was trying to harass him (their hands were at war, gripping jerseys and trying to bat the other arm aside). Suddenly due to a bit of a stiff-arm jab he had separation, and he boomed it at the goal!

There was a dark blur and the ball was rebounding back out towards midfield. The terrible speed of Ancalagon in full flight left the ACBel fans groaning—he had winged his way from the other end in time to get in the way! A few immediately shouted that he’d illegally blocked the goal with his wings, but the replays proved those with sharper eyes correct—he had met it cleanly with the side of the spikes that ran up the back of his neck.

But ACBel had come too close to be comfortable, and Morgoth knew he’d been fortunate that Ancalagon had spotted the development early and chosen to rush after it as opposed to waiting to attack again (not to mention he wasn’t too deep into the offensive zone to begin with as he was preparing to make a dash). Morgoth called all the troops back, and in the closing minutes ACBel tried for another chance, and they did force Carcharoth to catch one, but it was too distant and floaty an effort to give him trouble.

As the teams prepared for overtime, the excitement in the stands mounted. Fans could be heard commenting, “This is the clash of heavy-weights we were promised!” But of course given who the foe was they’d rather have the match over and in the win column, but at the same time, perhaps they’d enjoy the win more if it was a nail-biting historic win that catapulted them on to an Arda Cup championship. “If they get through this one then there’s no need for them to lose after!” was heard from supporters of both clubs.

As overtime got started both teams appeared to be feeling the other out, and there was no sudden rush by either side. Most of the commentators believed that Morgoth was fine with things going to a shoot-out, but MESPN’s Ruharg disagreed on the broadcast. “I do think that Carcharoth would have an advantage, but when you stack up the shooters then the option doesn’t look so good. With the accuracy and experience combined with solid shot-power you figure Feanor and Eol will be money. Morgoth and Ancalagon are a very solid 1-2 as well, but I’d give the edge the other way in a shootout. Then for option 3 they could both toss a Balrog out there so that’s a wash, but then there’s number 4, where I’d give an edge to Fingolfin over Telvildo. After that it’d be the sons of Finarfin against the two cats—a close contest but maybe a slight edge for ACBel yet again. And if it happens to go past that Marach has got quite a nice shot, and he’d definitely have the edge against any from Angband. Frankly I think the shootout is too risky. Morgoth will want to end it with a counter or set piece during the 30 minutes.”

And Ruharg must’ve indeed had a flash of insight, for his words rang true. After settling in Angband looked very conservative but then launched a full rush on a possession change at 8 minutes (but they gave it away in short order). Then at 11 minutes Telvildo clearly seemed interested more in earning a corner than working the offense as it was, and in fact he earned it. Morgoth and the Balrog tried to bully their way in and make a clear space for an Ancalagon tail shot, but Fingolfin made a strong move past Oikeroi and with a great leap got in the way of the tail’s backswing, which caused the shot to be missed badly. Fingolfin got quite a nasty cut across his shoulder from Ancalagon’s scales, but at such a tense moment he probably didn’t feel a bit of pain.

Then it was ACBel’s turn to threaten. Umuiyan found himself in close to the goal marking Feanor. Feanor bodied up on him, spreading his arms and keeping Umuiyan firmly on his back by back-pedaling. Umuiyan sensed danger and tried desperately to step around, but just as he made his step left Feanor burst forward away from him. Cursing inwardly Umuiyan took off after him, but the damage was done, as Feanor definitely had separation. And what Umuiyan couldn’t see while he was concerned with Feanor had already happened.

Aegnor had made a nice move towards the box behind Feanor and seeing what was happening he knew Feanor wanted it in front of him, but Aegnor didn’t have the angle to send it himself, so, hoping Eol had spotted it as well Aegnor skipped the ball across to Eol breaking in from the opposite side. And sure enough, Eol immediately headed it to Feanor moving forward. Angrod had the Balrog pulled to the side and Fingolfin was keeping Morgoth too nervous be down in support and Ulwarth was closer to the left post—in that split second as Eol’s pass went at Feanor it was obvious to everyone in the arena that Feanor had a free shot at the goal. For a lesser player a deflection out of midair wouldn’t be a goal in the bag, but Feanor’s touch was just other-worldly. The ball would go precisely where he wanted, end of story.

But no! He went down! Somehow someway he still managed to reposition his body mid-fall and send in a header that Carcharoth barely saved, but everyone knew he’d be getting another shot at the goal anyway. Knowing he was dead in the water, Umuiyan had made a mighty spring forward and managed with an outstretched hand to get a hold of Feanor’s trailing ankle. It was slyly done, and Umuiyan continued his motion through into making it look like he was attempting to plant all four feet for a spring in front of the ball (he was a cat creature after all and did occasionally go to all fours). The ref must’ve been unsure of exactly how Umuiyan had caused Feanor to go down, because he only showed him a yellow.

But it was a penalty awarded to Feanor nonetheless, and the Elves were high-fiving in the stands. Carcharoth was a good keeper, but this was Feanor on a penalty—the guy that could, when showing off in warm-ups, hit a chosen post ten times out of ten. The goal was as good as on the board as far as the Noldor were concerned. Sometimes the worst pain can come from having the highest confidence shattered unexpectedly, and the fans were setting themselves up for horrific disappointment… but it wouldn’t happen on this day. Feanor was flawless, and Carcharoth even guessed correctly but the ball was just too fast and too accurate, and it kissed the bottom of the crossbar as it snuck into the top right corner. ACBel had the lead back!

There was no guessing to be done about the strategy now. ACBel had to lock Angband out of their goal for 16 minutes and it would be over, while Angband would obviously be coming with every gun blazing. Morgoth led the surge forward, but to no avail. Long series of passes and sustained attack wasn’t their game—at least not against a foe such as ACBel, and they kept losing the ball. At one point Feanor sent word through Angrod and Aegnor to the defenders, and the next time the defenders got a hold of it Fingolfin called for it and immediately launched it deep and right. Clearly that’s what Feanor had asked for in his message.

With the defenders up to support the attack it was a mad dash back, and Feanor received it and darted in towards the box. Feanor made Ulwarth look like a statue with a sharp cut then held off the Balrog and darted behind him with a sneaky spin pushing the ball with his heel, and then he took a quick snipe. Morgoth came diving in from behind and just barely managed to send the ball up and off course, and though Feanor slapped his thigh in anger he quickly flashed a grin to the crowd, for he knew he had given Angband something to think about.

And sure enough, the next time Angband turned it over ACBel lofted it down to Feanor again, and though the pass wasn’t on-target enough to get to him (plus there were too many defenders around), Angband had been forced to dash back in panic, showing respect for Feanor’s abilities, and that made them just that much more tired coming forward. Indeed Ulwarth and his kin had sagging shoulders after nearly 120 minutes of chasing the Elves around, and the cats looked a bit frazzled as well. As the seconds ticked away it became obvious that the equalizer just wasn’t going to come. ACBel actually started holding the ball instead of kicking it away, and while their passes were crisp Angband just didn’t have the legs to chase the ball around.

At last overtime was run out and the ACBel players met in the middle of the field and embraced! The crowd was throwing confetti and yelling and laughing, while the Orcs and their friends were scampering out, not so much angry as they were cowed. ACBel had been a step better, and they knew it. A couple Angband players looked as if they’d shake hands briefly with the opponents, but like sheep they turned and followed Morgoth into the locker room. He was furiously glaring at the ground, determined not to observe Feanor in celebration, probably because it would infuriate him beyond all reason.

ACBel was through to the quarterfinals to play Valimar!

Angband 1-2 AC Beleriand (OT)
on target 4-7
tot shots 11-16
GOALS:
*28, 1-0 Ancalagon (Oikeroi)
*59, 1-1 Eol (Angrod)
*13, 1-2 Feanor
YELLOW CARDS:
*ACBel- Aegnor, Ulrad
*Angband- Ulfast, Morgoth, Umuiyan

MESPN Postgame Interview

MESPN: So, Morgoth, what’s the thought at the top of your mind?

Morgoth: We were so close to a title.

MESPN: But you didn’t even make the quarterfinals.

Morgoth: Any squad would have lost today. ACBel playing their best and at home—this was championship caliber, and we almost beat them.

MESPN: So you believe they will go on to take the title?

Morgoth: If they play like this, yes.

MESPN: And you believe you would’ve beat any other team today?

Morgoth: Yes.

MESPN: So despite losing some money this year you probably don’t see a need for big changes then?

Morgoth: No.

MESPN: Do you have any off-season tweaks in mind?

Morgoth: Yes. I have a very minor position swap in mind for two of my players, and I’m fairly certain an old acquaintance is wanting to come help us out next year.

MESPN: Can you give a name?

Morgoth: Well…I know it’s considered bad to sign a player with two left feet, but if they have more than enough right feet to balance it out I’d say it’s okay.

MESPN: Ah—say no more.

Morgoth: Any more questions? It need not be said that I’m not really in the mood for it.

MESPN: No, that’s fine. See you next year.

Nilpaurion Felagund

08-28-2013, 11:05 PM

Weathertop Arena
Eriador vs Barad-dûr

The Arda Cup returns once again to the home stadium of Eriador, Weathertop Arena. Sitting on a saddle between Amon Sûl and Fortress Hill, the 95 000-capacity stadium is an engineering marvel of the Northern Kingdom, a footballing jewel of steel and glass.

There remained a few hours before kick-off, and yet Weathertop Arena was already filled to the brim, with seventy-five thousand Eriador supporters, including the famed Northern Wall supporters’ group, chanting, cheering, and banging drums. Not to be outdone, Barad-dûr sent a twenty-thousand strong contigent of Orcs, Trolls, Black Númenóreans, Haradrim, and Easterlings, all determined to make the atmosphere as favourable to Sauron as possible.

When the teams walked into the pitch, there was loud applause from most of the audience, but some wondered why the Northern Wall was quiet. Soon all eyes turned on them when, as one, they all raised a black card, turning their sections into a wall of black. A second later, some black cards were replaced with white, and on the wall of black there appeared the emblem of Elendil, seven stars and one white tree. Another second, and above the tree and the stars appeared the Arda Cup, the long-desired treasure that they came close to last year. Most of the other Eriador supporters applauded the fine choreography, and even some of the Mannish Barad-dûr supporters appreciated their display. But they believed that, while the Eriador supporters showed such co-ordination in the stands, their own team were more co-ordinated on the pitch. Eriador’s front four struggled to combine against so-so defensive teams, putting just four past their three opponents, whereas the Sauron-led front line scored the same number of goals against their opponents, which included a cup favourite in FC Valinor. With their improved defence, they could frustrate Isildur and company, and with their still-potent offence, they could surely put one past Elrond.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/bdrverd_zps24eec6c2.jpg~original
[Eriador in white and black; Barad-dûr in red and black.]

The first half of the game was a cagey affair, as expected of a knockout tie, when teams are more concerned with conceding a goal than scoring one. With Eriador’s three offensive midfielders marked closely by Barad-dûr’s midfielders, play remained confined mostly in the middle of the pitch. Isildur, frustrated with the lack of service he was receiving, dropped deep to receive the ball, and in his place as leader of the line moved in Glorfindel. But the Númenórean was shadowed by Pallando, and the Noldo was double-marked by Sangahyando and Alatar. Any attempts by NogWight or Arveleg to play either of them in were cleared comfortably by Fellbeast #1 or Grishnákh.

It was the same story when Barad-dûr had the ball. Since their three midfielders were marking their Eriador counterparts, none of them was free to move the ball forward when they recovered possession. Berúthiel, who was playing higher up the pitch than the other midfielders, tried to drop deeper to receive the ball from them, but Eriador’s left-back Arwen shadowed her and gave her no time to turn with the ball. The few times Barad-dûr got the ball to Sauron, he was guarded tightly by Arador and Araphant, and his attempted forward passes were intercepted or blocked before they could reach Castamir.

The only free players on either team were on the same side of the pitch: Eriador right-back Asfaloth and Barad-dûr left-back Fellbeast #2. But both were poor on the ball, easily conceding possession whenever they were closed down by the opposing midfielder on the same wing. At one point Asfaloth tried to play a one-two with Arveleg to release him behind Herumor, but his pass was a touch too heavy and it zipped past Arveleg’s feet for a throw-in.

When one recalled the metaphor of football as chess on grass, this was perhaps one of the images that comes to mind—a closed game, with pawns (midfielders) locked tightly against each other, allowing no space for either side to break through and allow the stronger pieces (forwards) to threaten the enemy’s position. The only noteworthy moment of the half came when Sauron abandoned trying to get the ball to Castamir and drove forward himself—he dribbled past Araphant with ease, but when Gil-galad stepped up to check his run, he was unable to get past the Elven-king despite his shoulder drops and step-overs, and Araphant recovered to take the ball from him.

Soon the half-time was blown. Both sets of supporters were relieved not to have conceded, but they were clearly worried about where the game’s breakthrough would come from. The two teams’ most creative outlets, Sauron and Glorfindel, were double-marked for most of the game, and none of the other players stepped up to take their place. Some Barad-dûr fans pondered whether Alatar could move forward in support of Berúthiel, outnumber Arwen on the right wing, but that would leave Glorfindel with only Sangahyando to track him. Alatar’s timing of his forward run must be perfect.

The second half had barely begun when what they had predicted came to pass—Glorfindel lost possession as he tried to make his way past his markers, and Alatar was off like a bolt down the right wing. Berúthiel moved infield, giving Arwen a horrible choice: let Alatar continue his run, or leave Berúthiel unmarked. She chose the latter option, moving out to check the Blue Wizard’s run. Alatar then laid off the ball to the open Queen of Gondor, who skipped past Arador’s sliding challenge and got into Eriador’s penalty box. She stopped when Aragorn stepped up to challenge her, but she back-heeled the ball to Sauron, who shot between Aragorn’s legs. It was a slow ball, but Elrond was unsighted by his own defender and late to make his save. However he managed to stretch enough to push the ball into the post with his fingertips. What a fine save by Elrond! And a marvellous effort by Sauron!

The first corner kick of the game happened after fifty minutes has passed. Berúthiel took it, a perfectly-taken kick that seemed to served the ball on a plate for Castamir. But Elrond got a palm on it before the Barad-dûr forward could connect with it. Elrond’s clearance fell to Aragorn, who sent the ball long to Isildur. The Eriador forward headed it into space—and there was Glorfindel to take it in stride. He dribbled past Alatar and rounded a fellbeast, but Grishnákh was there to stand as the last sentinel, covering the angles with his long arms. Glorfindel faked a shot and passed sideways to a charging NogWight. The Eriador midfielder booted the ball with all his might—over the crossbar and into the stands! The Eriador fans groaned, and NogWight struck the ground with both fists in frustration. He’d blown a clear chance in a game where they were hard to come by.

The rest of the second half resembled the first—a midfield slog where every pass forward led more to a clearance or interception than to finding a teammate’s foot. Eriador kept a lion’s share of the possession, but the biggest problem was that the players who had most time on the ball—Arveleg and NogWight—were excellent at link-up play, positioning themselves to receive a pass, finding the open teammate, and getting the ball to him, but didn’t have enough technical ability to dribble their way past a determined marker.

The second half ended with the game still scoreless. With both teams gassed out due to the chasing and pressing and movement, extra time also ended with little of note. The two teams have to be separated with penalty kicks.

Barad-dûr:
Eriador:

Barad-dûr won the coin-flip, and they elected to shoot first. Sauron stepped up first, barely acknowledging Elrond as he placed the ball on the spot. After taking a few steps back, he charged towards the ball, then slowed down a step before taking his kick; Elrond dove hard to the right, then realised too late that Sauron was waiting for him to move. He then pinged the ball towards Elrond’s left-hand post, becoming the first player in the game to hit the back of the net.

Even some Eriador fans were impressed by Sauron’s penalty kick. They hoped that he was the best of them, and that none other of the Barad-dûr players could fool Elrond like that.

Barad-dûr: O
Eriador:

First to shoot for Eriador was Isildur. His was a fiercely-struck rising ball that clanged off the crossbar then crashed hard into the net before Grishnákh could move a muscle. Elrond shouted, ‘Isildur’, warning the striker that his shot was a risky one that could have missed the goal entirely. The son of Elendil shrugged, as if to say, ‘Well, it went in.’

Barad-dûr: O
Eriador: O

Next up for Barad-dûr was Castamir the Usurper. Here we take time to evaluate that quality all top goalkeepers have: presence, the ability to affect a shooter’s psyche just by being there. Some goalkeepers have presence by dint of their appearance: Huan, Ungoliant, and Beor in bear form are examples of this. Elrond, on the other hand, forged his presence through reputation. He was a top-drawer shot-stopper with excellent reflexes and an uncanny ability to read plays. Most attackers who get into a one-on-one situation with him remember all this, conscious of the fact that they have only a few chances to score against him; this would sometimes cause them overthink their choices and blow their shot. This was exactly what happened to Castamir. Locking eyes with Elrond, he wondered where best to place his shot to fool him, decided to slot it to the right, then despaired as he scuffed his shot, with Elrond saving it easily.

Barad-dûr: O X
Eriador: O

On the other hand, Grishnákh, despite his appearance, wouldn’t inspire fear in the Kings of Men and the Eldar. He was proving to be a good goalkeeper, but he had not yet built up a reputation. Glorfindel stepped up to the spot and completely fooled him with a left-footed shot that he sent right, with the Barad-dûr goalie diving the wrong way.

Barad-dûr: O X
Eriador: O O

Eriador fans cheered. They could smell blood. If Elrond could make one more save, it would put tremendous pressure on Barad-dûr . The next to shoot for them was Alatar. He decided to forgo trickery, firing a powerful low shot for the left post that Elrond could not get to in time despite guessing the direction correctly.

Barad-dûr: O X O
Eriador: O O

Next for Eriador was Gil-galad. Like Sauron, he started with a fast approach but slowed down on his last step before taking the kick. Grishnákh dove right, then realised that he had been fooled when Gil-galad fired a waist-high shot dead center.

Barad-dûr: O X O
Eriador: O O O

After Alatar the shooter for the Black Tower was his fellow Blue Wizard Pallando. Like Alatar, he decided to send the ball to the left. But his shot wasn’t powerful enough, and Elrond got a fingertip on it to push it past the post. Weathertop Arena exploded with cheers. What a save! The next shot for Eriador could win it!

Barad-dûr: O X O X
Eriador: O O O

The new player, NogWight, walked out of the centre circle to take that lonely march to the penalty spot. The stadium was silent. Can he do it? What would he do? Eriador fans asked. They didn’t know enough about their offseason signing to trust him with what could be the final shot. Also, didn’t he miss that chance earlier…?

But NogWight didn’t miss this time, sending a rocket of a shot into the top-left corner, giving Grishnákh no chance to get to it.

Barad-dûr: O X O X
Eriador: O O O O

He’s done it! He’s won the game! Elrond and the rest of the Eriador team chased after the Wight as he wheeled away from the penalty box into the touchline. Grishnákh refused to get up from the ground as the Blue Wizards went up to console him. Meanwhile Sauron’s eyes were locked on the Wight who had just eliminated his team, the player whose signature he almost had shortly before the tournament began. Would the results have been different had he been playing for him? He would never know.

Exit interviews shall be provided in The Matchday episode next week.

Barad-dûr 0-0 Eriador
(Eriador wins on penalties 4-2.)
Total Shots
7-9
Shots On Target
2-3

YELLOW CARDS
3-2
BDR: Fellbeast #2, Herumor, Angamaitë
ERD: Gil-galad, Aragorn

SHOOTOUT:
1-0 Sauron (goal)
1-1 Isildur (goal)
1-1 Castamir (saved)
1-2 Glorfindel (goal)
2-2 Alatar (goal)
2-3 Gil-galad (goal)
2-3 Pallando (saved)
2-4 NogWight (goal)

Boromir88

08-31-2013, 05:26 AM

-----

Gondolin 1-3 Tol In Gaurhoth
on target 4-8
tot shots 12-20
GOALS:
*6, 1-0 Maeglin (Tuor)
*38, 1-1 InzilWolf (SallyWight)
*62, 1-2 PhantomWolf (BoroWolf)
*75, 1-3 Thuringwethil (InzilWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondolin- Elemmakil, Galdor, Aranwe
*TIG- BoroWolf

Nilpaurion Felagund

09-01-2013, 01:22 PM

High Faroth Arena
Nargothrond vs Hithlum

The last sixteen fixture between Group F winners Nargothrond and Group B runners-up Hithlum was to be held in Nargothrond’s High Faroth Arena.

The forty thousand Nargothrond supporters and twenty thousand Hithlum supporters who managed to buy tickets for the first knockout round tie made their way through the narrow paths beside the banks of the river Narog before climbing up the High Faroth. They then made their way down inside the mountain itself; the arena was built inside the cliffs whose slope they have just climbed. Many among the sixty-thousand strong crowd of spectators saw construction just outside the Doors of Felagund; scaffolding surrounded the skeleton of what looked like a stadium. The more informed among the crowd told their neighbours that it was to be the Narog Bridge, a forty-thousand capacity arena that would give Nargothrond a second stadium to allow them to host group stage games in future Arda Cups.

In the meantime, High Faroth Arena would host its third last sixteen tie. The previous two ended in heartbreak for the hosts; they hoped that after tonight’s game they would be further in the Arda Cup than they ever had before.

But they were up against Hithlum, a team, like Nargothrond, with a talented attack and a revamped defence. While most of the media’s attention had been on Curufin, Fëanor, and Arien, Túrin had quietly scored thrice and made one goal in three games. Even the home faithful were resigned to the fact that Hithlum would score; their hope was that their team would score more.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/hthvngr_zpscf223070.jpg~original
[Hithlum in yellow and dark red; Nargothrond in green and yellow.]

It seemed that barely had the referee blown the opening whistle when Nargothrond opened the scoring. While Morwen kept an eye on her daughter and Hador tracked Finduilas, Bëor was left free in the Nargothrond midfield. Receiving a pass from Arminas four minutes into the game, he sent a long ball to Finrod, who dropped a little deeper to escape Balrog #5’s attention. Glaurung drifted left, acting as if to receive a pass from the Nargothrond captain, which forced Aradan to follow him and the Balrog to keep an eye on him. Finrod then dinked the ball over the top of Hithlum’s defence; Gwindor dashed past Arroch, and, receiving the ball parallel to the touchline, volleyed the ball into the top left-corner of Huor’s goal on the turn.

It was an impressive goal, and even many Hithlum fans thought so, though they were more focused on haranguing Arroch into keeping better tabs on the Nargothrond winger. It would be a long night for Hithlum if they couldn’t stop Gwindor—many of them still had memories of his first-half hat-trick against them in a friendly last year.

Fortunately for them, Hithlum would reply after five minutes. Balrog #5 easily dribbled past Finrod’s pressing and advanced the ball. Túrin twisted and turned in the penalty box, as if to create some distance between himself and the centre-backs. Arminas and Baran were too pre-occupied with him to notice Húrin outrunning Guilin as the Balrog sent a deep cross. Húrin met the ball at the far post and powered a header past Orodreth.

The game was barely ten minutes old, and both teams were already on the score sheet. It seemed that the game would be decided by who would prevail: Gwindor’s pace, Finrod’s trickery, or Glaurung’s strength for Nargothrond, or Beleg’s touch, Túrin’s instincts, or Húrin’s energy for Hithlum. After Húrin’s goal, both teams settled down from the chaotic opening spell into shape. Túrin dropped in on Bëor when Hithlum is out of possession, ensuring that the holding midfielder is not left alone to initiate the home side’s attack. This move, however, removed a key penalty box presence for Hithlum. Húrin did his best to make up for his son’s absence, leaving his right wing spot to become the most forward player. In order to avoid marking confusion, Guilin left the Hithlum forward to left-sided centre-back Baran and positioned himself to sweep up behind him instead.

After the two goals in nine minutes, it took twelve more minutes for the third goal to come. Balrog #5 once again brushed past Finrod’s pressing, but Nienor did well to slide in and dispossess the advancing defender. With such a gaping hole in the Hithlum defence, Glaurung took advantage and slithered past Aradan. Nienor easily played the dragon in, and his screaming tailer left Huor clawing after air. Glaurung spouted flames in celebration of his goal, and he was duly carded by the referee for it.

Nargothrond were hardly a team to sit on a lead, especially against an attacking force as menacing as Hithlum’s. They pursued a third goal relentlessly, leaving themselves open at the back and leading to nervous moments for both sides. In the thirty-fourth minute, Balrog #5 intercepted a Finrod through pass for Gwindor and once again dribble forward. As Nienor tried to steal possession from him, Morwen was left unmarked and received a simple pass from the Balrog. With Nargothrond in disarray, Túrin sprinted past Bëor and Arminas and controlled Morwen’s pass, forcing the Noldo to bring him down just inches from the penalty area. It was a yellow card for Arminas and a free kick for Hithlum. Túrin took the free kick, and he slid the ball under the wall as they jumped up together. His shot had enough pace that the moment Orodreth noticed what had happened the ball had already crossed the goal line and found the net.

The two teams would take a 2-2 score line into the break. In the second half, Hithlum realised the need to keep Glaurung under control and match Nargothrond’s numbers in the midfield. Balrog #5 advanced from the defensive line and marked Glaurung as a holding midfielder. Gundor tucked in to become another centre-back. Meanwhile, Aradan moved higher up the pitch to track Nienor; his stamina was better suited to a running battle than to a battle of strength against a dragon. Morwen marked Finduilas, leaving Hador free as left wing-back. Beleg played the same role, but on the right, and Húrin permanently became a second centre forward; he dropped deeper to mark Bëor when Nargothrond were in possession, leaving Túrin to become a more consistent penalty box presence. Their formation was a 3-5-2 that almost became a 3-3-4.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/hthvngr-2_zpsd0752656.jpg~original
[Nargothrond in green and yellow; Hithlum in yellow and dark red.]

Nargothrond’s attack seemed to be stymied. Gwindor could no longer gain space on Arroch and his girth was enough to block his shots and crosses. Balrog #5 kept Glaurung in his pocket, the same way Balrog #2 did last year for Anfauglith. And Finrod could no longer find space to work his magic in; Gundor followed him all over the pitch, confident that Galdor was there to sweep up behind him. In the meantime, Nargothrond’s back line no longer had a spare player, and with strikers like Túrin left alone against a so-so defender, that surely meant trouble for Orodreth.

But it Hithlum took thirteen minutes after the restart to beat him; Húrin and Hador combined on the left to get to the byline. Húrin sent a cutback zipping across the face of the goal, and Beleg beat Barahir, getting a boot in to redirect the ball into the net.

The Hithlum supporters roared. They finally took the lead! and they looked to be in control of the game. On the other hand, the faces of Nargothrond fans were deathly pale. A spirit of ‘here we go again’ seemed to have descended on their team, and only Glaurung was showing any spirit to fight back. Even Finrod looked clueless as to how to turn the tables on Hithlum.

As they pushed forward for an equaliser, they were dangerously open on the break. With quick players Hador and Beleg supporting the attack from the midfield, the Nargothrond back four would find themselves swamped as soon as Hithlum recovered the ball and got past the home team’s press. It took some impressive saves and clearance to keep Túrin and company at bay, but after nineteen minutes, disaster struck.

Nienor and Finduilas passed their way out of Hithlum’s midfield pressing and got the ball to Glaurung. But the dragon was easily outmuscled off the ball by Balrog #5. He then sent a long diagonal to Beleg, who crossed for Túrin. He leapt over Arminas to get a head on the ball, but Orodreth was there to cover the angles. Túrin, however, was in no mood to be denied; his reverse-spin header went past Orodreth’s outstretched right hand and swerved into goal. It was like a chip, but only with his head.

The Hithlum crowd seemed to have taken over the stadium. The Nargothrond faithful were stunned to silence, and their away fans’ cries of ‘Túrin, Túrin, get it in!’ reverberated off the dome of the High Faroth and filled the arena.

The Nargothrond players were about as clueless as their supporters. Gwindor’s attempts to beat his marker got nowhere; Glaurung couldn’t hold the ball against the Balrog, and Finrod, with no one to create for, tried to dribble his way to Huor’s goal, but was easily repulsed by Galdor and Gundor.

Two minutes before time, Gwindor managed to gain a metre from Arroch, but Finduilas’s through ball for him was intercepted by Morwen. She dinked the ball over the dangerously high Nargothrond back line, and Hador took her pass in stride. He easily rounded Orodreth and slotted the ball in for the dagger.

When the final whistle was sounded a few minutes later, Hithlum tried to walk off the pitch impassively, as if they had just done their jobs, but a grin spread on Hador’s face, and Húrin laughed in reply. Clearly, winning in such impressive fashion, and with everything clicking together for the team, spread a spirit of cheer among them. Soon they were arm-in-arm, shouting, ‘Quarterfinals, quarterfinals,’ which the Hithlum fans soon echoed. Meanwhile, for Nargothrond, Glaurung dashed off the field in fury, and while the rest of the team bowed to their supporters, a lot of them clearly looked like they didn’t want to be there. So they were left behind in the round of sixteen again… while it was an improvement on the last two years, it didn’t feel like an improvement at all, neither to the fans nor to the team.

Exit interviews shall be provided in The Matchday episode next week.

Hithlum 5-2 Nargothrond
GOALS:
4, 0-1 Gwindor (Finrod)
9, 1-1 Húrin (Balrog #5)
21, 1-2 Glaurung (Nienor)
34, 2-2 Túrin
58, 3-2 Beleg (Húrin)
77, 4-2 Túrin (Beleg)
88, 5-2 Hador (Morwen)

Total Shots
23-20
Shots On Target
12-8

YELLOW CARDS:
1-2
HTH: Húrin
NGR: Glaurung, Arminas

Boromir88

09-05-2013, 07:12 PM

Nutty, nutty week and hopefully it's not too anti-climatic but really need to get the scores up so we can all get moving on the next round. Stories will be filled in by tomorrow:

Anduin 1-2 Armenelos
on target 6-5
tot shots 13-11
GOALS:
*51, 0-1 TarAncalimon (ArAdunakhor)
*70, 0-2 Elros (ArPharazon)
*88, 1-2 Eorl (Boromir II)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Fram
*Armenelos- Tar Calmacil

Next match: Quarterfinal Armenelos vs. TIG in their first rematch since the thrilling Bronze medal game of 2008. When TIG walked away with a controversial 3-2 victory.

Nilpaurion Felagund

09-06-2013, 12:01 AM

Bracket:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/bracket-matchday-5_zps906d2561.png~original

Power Rank:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/pr-matchday-4_zps9704d3fc.png~original

(Teams in bold are group leaders; teams in italics are eliminated.)

Greatest gain:
+5 Valimar, Armenelos
+4 Barad-dûr
+1 Tol-in-Gaurhoth, Hithlum, Eriador, Arnor
Greatest loss:
-7 Angband, Nargothrond, Gondolin
-3 Tirion
-2 Misty Mts

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking, combined with the adjusted goal difference rank of each team. The listed offensive and defensive rankings are from the actual numbers by the teams, and not adjusted. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss record; and b) goal difference.

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

Top Individual Performers:
(Players in italics are from eliminated teams.)

GOALS + ASSISTS

5+1
Túrin (Hithlum)

4+2
Curufin (FC Valinor)

4+1
Arien (Valimar)

4+0
Scatha (Wilderland)
Glaurung (Nargothrond)

3+2
Hador (Hithlum)
Eöl (AC Beleriand)
Maeglin (Gondolin)

3+1
Maedhros (Inter Beleriand)
Sauron (Barad-dûr)
Argon (FC Valinor)
Ar-Pharazôn (Armenelos)
Ancalagon (Angband)
Fëanor (AC Beleriand)
Tuor (Gondolin)

2+3
Finrod (Nargothrond)

1+3
Míriel (Real Valinor)
Yavanna (FC Valinor)

GOALKEEPING
88.89% – 08/09 – Huan (FC Valinor)
87.50% – 14/16 – Tulkas (Real Valinor)
84.62% – 11/13 – Elrond (Eriador)
83.33% – 20/24 – Tar-Atanamir (Armenelos)
83.33% – 10/12 – ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

the phantom

09-07-2013, 12:17 PM

MESPN Quarterfinal Round Table
Live from Armenelos

Philip McPhantom: The playoffs are in full swing, and we’re here to discuss the past and predict the future. I’m Philip McPhantom, MESPN Lead Football Coordinator, and with me I have the dragon Ruharg the Red, the lead sports editor of Monster Magazine, and Ar-Tar-Aradil, sports writer for Westernesse Weekly and president of the Numenorean Association for the Advancement of Football.

Ruharg: Greetings.

Ar-Tar-Aradil: Good to be here.

P McPhantom: We’re here in Armenelos, one of the two sites for the quarterfinals. But before we set up those matchups, why don’t we reflect back to the first round. Starting from the top—what did you think about Valimar’s victory over Arnor?

Ar-Tar-Aradil: We pretty much nailed this one. I remember Ruharg and I were very much in agreement that Arnor would try to play nice and slow things down, but that Arien would wreck the plans.

Ruharg: Yes, I felt good about that one when I saw the score line. And viewing firsthand, you saw what we expected?

Ar-Tar-A: Indeed I did—Arnor managed to avoid cards and they kept Witch King hidden a bit so as not to arouse the wrath of the Valar. All in all it was quite a good gameplan and well executed, but Valimar was just better.

PMcPhantom: We’ll move on to what may have been the biggest match of round 1, AC Beleriand vs Angband.

Ruharg: Another one I had right. And Ar-Tar had it as well, though I was more correct if I may say so.

ATA: That’s fair—I did say AC would win “solidly”, and it ended up being a closer fight.

R: Well, before the tournament these two I had rated as the top two, so I figured it would be close.

PMcP: What made the difference in the end?

R: That quartet up front for AC just created too many chances to be denied forever.

ATA: It really says something of them, because Angband’s defense was quite good.

PMcP: It was definitely fun to watch—fantastic play on both sides. And now let’s move on to the other overtime game, Real over Tirion.

ATA: Now this one I was the one more correct than Ruharg.

R: Heh heh… yes, I don’t believe I’ve ever felt so foolish on a correct prediction.

PMcP: Ah, that’s right—you both said Real would win, but Ar-Tar said it’d be tight and low-scoring, whereas Ruharg—

ATA: I believe his words were “free pass to the quarterfinals”.

R: Now, now, do you have to start pulling out direct quotes?

ATA: Ha ha, sorry. I’m just feeling so good about seeing this ahead of time.

PMcP: Indeed, it seemed that Tirion was in fact uniquely equipped to slow down Real. The Sons of Feanor nicely hamstringed their mother and grandmother for most of the match.

R: But they got it done in the end. Good effort and perseverance.

PMcP: How about the other Valinor match?

R: I just watched the replay of it this morning, and it was… weird.

ATA: That’s what I thought. FC really seemed to rein things in that second half, and I wouldn’t think they’d be the ones to do that.

R: Yeah, once they had Misty on their heels I figured they’d go for the throat, but it was as if they weren’t getting any joy out of it or something.

PMcP: I wonder if this is a more serious squad this year after that infamous upset last year after they were looking so unbeatable.

ATA: Yes, perhaps they were looking at injury risk and not getting themselves tired out for the next round etc. plus just wanting to prove to themselves that they could decide to shut down an opponent and then do it.

PMcP: How about the big shootout match?

R: I got it wrong. We were right that it would be low-scoring, but I bet on Sauron.

ATA: I bet on Eriador’s midfield, on the other hand, and lo and behold the midfielder NogWight comes through in the shootout.

R: Sauron had to be upset about that one, seeing as Nog nearly signed with Barad-Dur before the season, but elected to go with Eriador instead.

ATA: It begs the question—would Barad-Dur be going through if they had signed NogWolf?

PMcP: Just goes to show that every signing matters. Now how about Hithlum and Nargothrond?

ATA: We definitely had it right that there would be heavy scoring.

R: Unfortunately I had Nargothrond scoring more. And really as I watched that match I found myself wondering why on earth I didn’t take Hithlum. Nargothrond had Turin, Hurin, Beleg, and Hador running at them. How could they not give up 5 goals?

ATA: Ha ha, I know what you mean. That’s why I went with Hithlum. If a team doesn’t have an A-level defense then they’re toast.

PMcP: You guys both were right on TIG and Gondolin.

Ruharg: Yes—Gondolin just couldn’t handle the attack, though it was nice to see that they made TIG work at the back, and even scored on them once.

ATA: It made the game much more interesting with Gondolin grabbing the early score, but in the end it seemed inevitable that TIG had it.

PMcP: Last game—Anduin and Armenelos.

R: And this one officially made this round a bad one for me. Barad-Dur, Nargothrond, and Anduin all lost, which puts me at 5 and 3.

ATA: I’ve lost track of things—you don’t happen to know my record, do you?

R: You know good and well how it stands.

PMcP: Yes, Ar-Tar, let’s not pretend to be modest, go on and blow your own horn.

ATA: Well, since I have your permission—I went 8 and 0 in the first round! Well done, me!

R: Well, you were bound to pick Armenelos, seeing as you’re from there.

ATA: Now now, I gave tactical reasons as well.

PMcP: Why don’t we go ahead and give predictions for the next round, and see if Ar-Tar can stay perfect, or if Ruharg and catch up to him…

ATA: I was waffling for a bit on AC versus Valimar-

R: Oh come on, how can you be unsure on that one!

ATA: It isn’t as easy as that! Valimar has been very sharp, and Arien’s scoring touch makes them more dangerous than ever.

R: But look at their defense. They just don’t have the right personnel to contain that AC offense.

ATA: But there’s always a chance for some righteous rage, which really ups their level. I mean—AC does have a Balrog on the squad, and that could set them off.

PMcP: Are you justifying picking Valimar, or justifying waffling on choosing AC?

R: Ha ha! He’s probably overthinking things trying to preserve his perfect record.

ATA: I’m just saying it won’t be a blowout.

R: But you’re choosing AC, right?

ATA: Yes, yes, I’m picking them. But only by a goal.

R: I’d guess 3-1.

PMcP: Well, that’s a clean sweep of picks there. How about the battle of the Valinors?

R: Now this match deserves some waffling.

ATA: Indeed! And what a great matchup! Everyone’s been looking forward to this.

PMcP: Indis will likely end up on Miriel quite a bit—the wives of Finwe doing battle. And then Maglor will be asked to take his mum out of the equation from time to time. Then two of the most dangerous defenders to make a run forward will be on the field, Eonwe and Tilion, and two fantastic keepers in Huan and Tulkas…

R: Anticipation is half the fun, isn’t it?

ATA: *sigh* But we have to choose between them…

PMcP: I’ll go ahead and volunteer that I have FC.

ATA: So do I. With those defenders and keeper they are able to slow down opponents without having to over-commit, and if the opposition dares to try and win a numbers battle up front they are just asking for Curufin to score on a counter.

R: But Nahar and Nienna will be back there to stop him, and Ingwion and Tilion will be close behind marking his outlets. Really I don’t think there’s an advantage to be gained here, so the difference will be the experience and will to win—advantage to the defending champions.

PMcP: While I agree with that statement to an extent, that they would have that intangible edge against every squad in the field, I don’t think they have it against FC. FC and Real have played three times and Real has never won. I think FC just has their number, and perhaps it is in Real’s head at this point.

R: I disagree. Real’s best result, a draw, is the most recent, so I believe they have faith in themselves, and believe that they are now due for a win.

PMcP: We’ll see. And now onto Eriador and Hithlum.

ATA: Opposing strengths for certain. Elrond is so good between the posts, and he organizes things well in front of him, and he has great players to work with at the back.

R: Yes, Gil-galad, Aragorn, Arwen, Asfaloth… Most every squad would envy a back line like that, but, but- look at who is attacking them this round.

ATA: Turin, Hurin, Beleg, and Hador, and of course Morwen, Balrog, and Aradan lending support from time to time. I agree—that’s scary stuff.

PMcP: Who emerges as the victor then?

ATA: I see this match as being a product of the opposite matchup—Eriador’s offense versus Hithlum’s defense. I think the Balrog will have to lend heavy help to contain Glorfindel, so that takes him out of the other end.

R: But I see Galdor and Gundor doing decently against Isildur and Arveleg, and with Arroch there to lend help doesn’t Hithlum stack up pretty well?

ATA: NogWight and the other midfielders will push the advantage back to Eriador. They’re too good to discount, and their offense is flexible enough to allow scoring to come in from anywhere depending on what the defense is doing. They’ll get numbers on Hithlum, because we all know that the Hithlum attackers won’t want to help at the back, as they’re always waiting for counters.

R: Which they will get, and that’s how they’ll score.

ATA: I think the back four and Elrond can handle it. They play off-the-ball defense very intelligently, and Elrond himself is always good for a miracle save or two. I’ll say Eriador 2-1, perhaps in overtime.

R: Hithlum 2-1.

PMcP: All right then, on to the final contest, Armenelos against Tol-In-Gaurhoth.

R: Picking your home friends again, Ar-Tar?

ATA: If they should win I would be quite overcome with joy, but no, sadly I cannot bring myself to pick them.

PMcP: Well, I’m the only one then. I figured Armenelos’ patience and execution might be what it takes to tempt the aggressive monsters into making mistakes.

R: That’ll be the gameplan I figure, but I think TIG has enough to overcome. Their Wights are wily and tactical, so they won’t be caught off guard, and I think the same is true of Thuringwethil. I think they’ll bring enough coolness and stability to keep such a plan from working to its full potential.

ATA: Plus there is the pure play-making ability of the Wolves. I just figure there will be a time where Armenelos plays things perfectly and TIG just one-ups them with sheer athleticism and power.

R: I can see that happening as well, but I do see McP’s point—if Armenelos can minimize those opportunities, and one of the defender Wolves gets too hot-headed…

PMcP: Exactly. I see this coming down to the play of the Werewolves at the back. I think Armenelos will be looking to get one of them carded out of the game.

ATA: Oh, definitely they’ll be looking to force such an issue, and I hope they can, but I just think TIG is working too well this season, thus 2-1 to them.

R: I picked the same.

PMcP: Well all right, we’ve made it through all the games. Now we just sit back and see what happens, and enjoy all the drama and play-making. We’ll be back before the semis to do this again!

ATA: Can’t wait.

Ruharg: Enjoy the football.

Nogrod

09-15-2013, 02:04 PM

The quarterfinals will be really tough – and superbly hard to predict. But here’s the AKM’s shortish take on them.

Valimar vs. AC Beleriand

Some Valimar players had publicly hoped to meet Angband in the quarterfinal to “kick Morgoth out of the tournament” but there was probably another reason as well for their desire, and that is the fact that AC Beleriand looks clearly the more dangerous team of the two – and Fëanor sure is a thorn on the leading Valar’s side as much as Morgoth is – but in a way more annoying to them.

The stats seem to favour AC Beleriand – and one can’t say Valimar would have had a harder tournament before this game. Actually one might claim the opposite: that AC Beleriand has made their superior stats in slightly tougher matches than Valinor.

So the AKM thinks AC Beleriand to be the favourites to win the game, even if the margin isn’t that great and many things will affect the outcome beside what the games already played can tell – like the possibility Manwë will step up their game just because it’s the “Fëanor clan” they’re opposing. And you can never underestimate Arien, if she’s on fire – if you forgive the bad pun.

The AKM predicts: AC Beleriand wins 2-1

Real Valinor vs. FC Valinor

Some analysts and fans alike think the game between the two Valinors is the moral championship-game – that had the grouping been different these two teams would have only met in the final, implying that they would both have been able to beat any other team on their way to the final. Now that view sure is backed by a host of facts and can’t be discredited lightly – but the AKM thinks it still is a bit premature stance. There are other teams that could pick the cup this year besides the two, especially AC Beleriand and Valimar (the upper side of the bracket that is) with maybe Hitlum or T-I-G as wild cards.

Everyone is probably familiar with the late history of the two teams but it might be worth recapitulating once more. So last year FC Valinor plainly crushed Real Valinor two times (once in friendlies, another time in the group stage) but Real Valinor were the champions in the end as Erebor kicked FC Valinor out from the competition in a penalty shoot-out in the quarterfinals. This season the teams met in the friendlies and played a draw. As it is now their stats are pretty much alike, but Real Valinor has had a tougher schedule than FC Valinor has.

So with the mutual draw behind the teams this season and Real Valinor having almost even stats from a lot tougher schedule, the AKM holds Real Valinor the favourites to win the game. But that said, there will be so much more than just stats to decide this game – the history, the personalities, the playing-styles…

The AKM predicts: the game ends in a draw 2-2, either team may make it to the semifinals but the AKM belives Tulkas will beat Huan in the penalty shoot-out.

---------

Eriador vs. Hithlum

So it is a game between a defending-machine vs. an attacking powerhouse. Many – including the AKM – have not been convinced on Eriador’s form this year. Compared to other teams through the last eight they clearly score a lot less than others while their defence isn’t that superb in comparison to other teams as to compensate it. Actually some teams defend better than Eriador… Then again Hithlum’s defences are the worst of the final eight – with seven goals allowed they have given in almost 50% more goals any other team has.

Now Eriador’s problem is taking advantage of Hithlum’s weak spot in their defence while keeping Hithlum’s hurricane for an attack at bay – while Hithlum’s challenge is to show they can open also tough defences while not letting the opponent to take advantage of their own uncomfortable areas of game.

The AKM thinks that Eriador is not able to stop Hithlum from scoring – even if Elrond will stand brave at his goal – and that their scoring skills are just that notch worse they would need to come even, not to talk of prevailing.

The AKM predicts: Hithlum wins 3-1 (or 2-0)

Tol-In-Gaurhoth vs. Armenelos

The Werewolves and Wights have been on fire this year after a few seasons of less impressive performances and at this point it is clear no team affords to take them lightly but as serious candidates to go far in this tournament. Now were they placed in the upper bracket of the tournament the AKM wouldn’t bet a lot on their survival into the finals, but located in the lower one they actually have a chance to get it even to the final – and the question is just on stamina and continuity: T-I-G sure could challenge any of the teams left on a good day, but being on the upper bracket would require them to win the best teams in a row. On the lower bracket, Gondolin and Armenlos are both quality teams, but not comparable to those on the upper bracket – and even Hithlum is kind of an “on-off” –team which can either perfotm brilliantly or just fall down, as Real Valinor so clearly showed.

That said the stats predict quite a tough and even game.

Tar Atanamir and ShastaWolf have the exact same saving percentage (83,3%) but Tar Atanamir has been tested twice as much as Shasta so there’s an edge for Armenelos as keeping that high quality tending for more shots speaks well of Tar Atanamir.

Both teams score with almost the same percentages but the T-I-G shoots more – and the T-I-G also let’s the opponent shoot less - so an edge from there to the T-I-G.

To be honest, the T-I-G hasn’t exactly met any offencive powerhouses thus far but some rather pathetic attacks (like Imladris or Anfaughlith) – but neither has Armenelos convinced anyone that they wolud be back in their former glory.

The AKM predicts: T-I-G wins 2-1 (or a draw 1-1 and then anything’s possible)

Nilpaurion Felagund

09-17-2013, 12:40 AM

Elenrod: Question: What’s the size of Nargothrond and can’t defend to save their lives? Answer: Nargothrond. That’s it, really; that’s the punchline. Today: like AC Beleriand before them, Hithlum give Nargothrond a high five—in the behind. Poor Nargothrond get knocked out in the round of sixteen in front of their home crowd yet again. Let’s see if we can get Felagundion to say a word about them. Elsewhere: it’s the most thrilling last sixteen tie ever—so enthralling that you’d want to gouge your eyes out and watch it again. We recap Eriador-Barad-dûr—that is, if we don’t doze off. Meanwhile, Misty Mts and Tirion fail to stop another Valinor derby, although Tirion came very close; Fëanor beat Morgoth in an extra-time thriller and face his brother Manwë in the quarterfinals; and Tol-in-Gaurhoth-Armenelos: will the Númenóreans finally pay the Wolves back for 2008? All that, and more, in this consume-sparingly-and-keep-a-glass-of-water-near-at-all-times Matchday. With us here are very familiar faces. Maikalomion, how was Weathertop?

Maika: Weathertop Arena was lovely.

Elenrod: And was it comfortable there? You know…

Maika: Haha, you mean to sleep on? Actually, I found the game interesting.

Adam: But you get excited when a team completes fifty passes. Us in the real world want that ball to get in the back of the net.

Elenrod: He’s feeling contrarian today, our non-economist, Adam Smith, fresh from a trip to Nargothrond. And with him on that visit to the High Faroth Arena was…

Felagundion: …

Elenrod: Nargothrond football blogger, Felagundion, who’s probably feeling nothing today.

Felagundion: …

Elenrod: To spare Felagundion from having to remember the pain too soon, we’ll first discuss Eriador-Barad-dûr. Maika? How did you manage to stay awake? And how did they lull the rest of us to sleep?

Maika: Haha, well, the midfield battle was interesting. Both teams, unfortunately, were set up more negatively—more focused on marking their counterparts than finding space. Only Glorfindel and Sauron were actively looking for space to receive passes and create chances, but both were double-marked, being obviously their respective teams’ creative hub.

Adam: I agree. You can also see their defensive approaches in the way both teams lined up their back four. The defenders who were most useless with the ball—Arroch and the Fellbeast—were the ones assigned to the weaker flanks, because the better ball-handlers happened to be better defenders. This means they were more concerned with containing each other’s threat than creating chances with surging full-backs.

Elenrod: So they ended up deciding the game on penalties. And what penalty kicks they were.

Maika: Someone told me that, after the game, Gil-galad approached Sauron and said, ‘We have Elrond and you don’t. That’s the difference.’

Adam: And that’s not far from the truth: except for Sauron’s brilliantly taken kick, Elrond went in the correct direction for all penalties. 75% ain’t luck, that’s pretty mad skillz, with a ‘z’.

Elenrod: What will Sauron do after this? They made a pretty pile because their team’s pretty cheap—does he strengthen and try to go further, or just keep it steady?

Maika: I reckon he won’t break the bank, just add one or perhaps two more star signings. Grishnákh’s a rough gem at goal, hard to find anyone better at that price range. And if he could convince the Blue Wizards to stay, that’s half of his back line sorted. Well, he’d probably drop one of the Fellbeasts there—#2 didn’t cover himself with glory as the only open Barad-dûr player. A ball-playing centre-back, or an attacking full-back, perhaps? His midfield and attack’s pretty coherent; after years of playing together, they’re pretty much on the same wavelength now.

Adam: Yeah. Alatar, Berúthiel, and Sauron on that one play was pretty much, tap-tap-tap, nutmeg Aragorn. Like they pretty much know where the other would be.

Elenrod: Right, that’s it for Eriador-Barad-dûr, then. There’s no avoiding it, Felagundion; we’ll have to discuss Nargothrond-Hithlum.

Felagundion: … We live by the dragon, we die by the dragon. Finrod should’ve been in that ten spot. We need a new centre forward in the transfer window.

Elenrod: Nice to see you back in the world of the articulate, Felagundion. But we’ll leave all that for later. For now, it’s all about the game. And that means the inspired second half performance by Hithlum.

Adam: Triggered by their inspired second half formation switch. Before that, you can see that the two teams were quite evenly matched; both teams had focal points who could bully their markers, a player who was occupying an entire wing on his own, and a free player who created overloads.

Maika: From what I saw of the game, Nargothrond were decent at keeping possession, even during that disastrous second half. It’s just that whenever they tried to get it to their forwards, they lost the ball quite easily and get murdered on the break.

Elenrod: By the way, Adam, you were right to call it. Arroch handled Gwindor all on his own, except for that first goal.

Felagundion: And I was surprised Glaurung managed to get to the locker room, so deeply stuffed was he in that Balrog’s pockets. Just like against Anfauglith.

Elenrod: So, will Glaurung be back? Felagundion’s of the opinion that he shouldn’t.

Felagundion: He had the gall to say that we should commit less going forward, and let more of the attack go through him. Just after that performance! Is he mental, or just really thick?

Maika: They do need more help on the defence. Bëor seems to have finally found his niche as a deep-lying playmaker, but he needs a midfield enforcer alongside him. It was agonising to see Húrin and Morwen simply strolling past him.

Adam: I had a word with Orodreth after the game. He’s fearful that teams will start sniffing around the squad, knowing that Nargothrond are haemorrhaging financially. Glaurung, Nienor, even Finrod could be poached, and that would leave them back to what they were two years ago.

Elenrod: Well, commiserations to Nargothrond, and well done, Hithlum, who now face Elrond’s Eriador in the quarterfinals. What’s your call on this one? Elrond’s 17-game concede-a-goal-or-less streak seems to be under considerable threat from Túrin and company.

Maika: Eriador’s defenders are much better than Nargothrond’s. And if Elrond set up his team to stifle Hithlum, I can see them conceding one or less.

Felagundion: Basically the same thing they did vs Barad-dûr? But Túrin’s a better target man than Castamir, not to mention his father can also hold the ball up well. Hithlum will try to play it long, something Barad-dûr explicably failed to do.

Maika: The only Hithlum defender who can play cultured long balls is Balrog #5. I’m sure Elrond has a plan to account for him.

Elenrod: So another nil-nil and penalty win for Eriador?

Maika: Why not? Well, maybe 1-1 and penalty win for Eriador.

Adam: You’re despicable. You’re the only one who finds entertainment in those kinds of games.

Elenrod: Moving along to the rest of the last sixteen results: Valimar-Arnor?

Felagundion: Arien is awesome.

Maika: Basically, Arnor didn’t have the talent to beat a less naïve Valimar side.

Elenrod: And AC Bel-Angband? A game that had the most talent on display in the round.

Maika: I don’t know about that. Real-Tirion was a spectacle. Anyway, yeah, there were a lot of talent on display on the pitch, but AC Bel were far more cohesive. Especially that front line.

Adam: Phwoar. Fingolfin-Angrod-Eöl for their equaliser, Aegnor-Eöl-Angrod for their late chance in normal time, and Aegnor-Eöl-Fëanor for that play that won the penalty. That is one scary, scary front line.

Elenrod: Fancy their chances against a Manwë-led back line?

Maika: Well, Valimar’s midfield can’t keep the ball against more combative midfields, which AC Bel obviously have, and I expect much of the game to be spent in Valimar’s half. But Valimar do have a fearsome counterattack, and a clinical finisher of them in Arien.

Adam: That’s basically it, right? Whichever score first will most likely win. Valimar can keep battering AC Bel on the break if they score first, and AC Bel can just play keep-ball if they get the opener. Oh, crap, that means it’ll be a cagey 1-0 AC Bel, despite the attacking talents on display.

Elenrod: Who’s up for some Real-Tirion?

Maika: Tirion gave a good account of themselves, taking the lead against the defending champions, and being three minutes away from upsetting them. But they need a better right-back.

Adam: Oh, Eru, yes. Irimë was responsible for conceding the corner that led to Real’s equaliser, and, of course, leaving her alone against Nerdanel is pretty much committing suicide. Where the hell was Rúmil in that play?

Felagundion: Why didn’t Tirion shut down shop after scoring? They didn’t need to get drawn in to that end-to-end action near the end of regular time.

Adam: You expect Anairë and Eldalótë to keep possession against Enerdhil and Nessa?

Felagundion: They could have pulled Aredhel or Finwë back and tucked Mahtan in.

Maika: You need mobile midfielders to keep possession against aggressive pressing teams. I don’t think Anairë or Eldalótë have the legs for that.

Felagundion: Ah, all right. Carry on.

Elenrod: In the next round, Real will be facing their inter-city rivals FC Valinor—this fixture seems to be a staple now, isn’t it? Now, before we discuss that, how about a brief account of FC Val-Misty Mts.

Adam: Another adults vs children performance. You’d have to worry whether they’re mentally prepared to face a team of Real’s calibre without prior preparation.

Felagundion: I don’t think you need to worry about that. Some great teams just have their bogey teams. Germany, for example, just don’t fancy playing against the Italians, no matter how strong or weak the respective teams are. Real were relieved just to be drawing even with FC Val, even though they’re the defending champs.

Maika: FC Val just seem a bit quicker and more energetic than Real. For example, last year, Celegorm and Curufin just gave Tilion and Caranthir the fits. The two defenders can’t get the ball past them whenever Real tried building play from the back.

Adam: But you have to admit the gap between the two is no longer that wide. I don’t think there is much between them from the very beginning, though—it’s just that the quality of the two sides amplify whatever marginal advantage there is.

Elenrod: So, what’s your prediction.

Maika: I’d go with 2-1 FC Val

Elenrod: All right. Finally, the games that were shockingly untelevised: TiG-Gondolin and Anduin-Armenelos.

Adam: Yeah, that was weird. All I saw of the Wolves-Gondolin game was: opening whistle, Duilin passes to Salgant, who passes to Penlod, who takes one touch, then hoofs it into the stands for a ShastaWolf goal kick. Then the signal died.

Elenrod: We’re still waiting for word from the broadcasters of these games to see if we can talk about the game, but it’s safe to say we can discuss the outcomes. Armenelos scored two goals after the break before Anduin pulled one back two minutes before time, so a pretty comfortable win for the Royals. Then, shockingly, Gondolin opened the scoring early before the Wolves scored three unanswered goals for a comfortable win. Now, how do you think the TiG-Armenelos quarterfinal tie would shape?

Felagundion: Speaking of bogey teams…

Maika: Tol-in-Gaurhoth always seem to get the best of Númenóreans: there’s that third place match in 2008, and another quarterfinal tie in 2011, when Westernesse seemed like world-beaters after their win over the first and best Anfauglith team.

Elenrod: But do you expect that trend to continue?

Adam: Well, TiG are pretty much as dominant as they were in 2011, and Armenelos aren’t as good as that Westernesse squad. So another 3-1 Wolves win, I guess.

Elenrod: I suppose that’s it for today’s Matchday. Our apologies that we can’t discuss goals of the week, but we hope to be able to do so next time. Until then, from all of us here, bye for now.

the phantom

09-27-2013, 02:52 PM

Vinyamar Prepares for the Quarterfinals
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

When the Arda Cup tournament used Vinyamar as a host site three years ago it led to a rebirth of the city, and a revival of football tradition as well. The meeting of mountains and sea at Mount Taras was astoundingly picturesque, and travelers that visited during Arda Cup 2010 swiftly spread the word—that buildings and homes of fine Noldorin make were sitting vacant, and that the overhaul of the roads and aqueducts etc. necessary for hosting had put everything in prime condition.

Many of the Noldorin and Dwarf craftsmen that came to work on the project stuck around and were soon joined by their families, and three years later the city had nearly reached the population that it possessed of old before Turgon moved his people to Gondolin. With increased fan support and a beautiful new stadium (with an increased capacity of around 75,000) their football fortunes improved, as could be predicted. After nearly 30 years in a row finishing in the bottom half of the Northwest League, they finished in fifth place last year—only one place out of qualifying for the Champion’s League.

With such a nice arena and the lovely setting and enthusiastic fans, it made complete sense for Arda Cup to return to Vinyamar. Eriador versus Hithlum would be played in the afternoon, while AC Beleriand versus Valimar would be played in the evening. The harbor was packed full of ships from the Blessed Realm, and thousands of visitors had flooded in from the south and west, as well as many more Elves and Men that had made their way through Nevrast out of Hithlum.

It remained to be seen which squads would get the greatest support, but the analysts felt they could guess fairly confidently. Beleriand was nearby obviously and the Noldor would be behind them in a very big way. Also any Orcs and such that showed up would likely support them due to the presence of the Balrog, not to mention their opponent was the hated Valimar. And of course they had Marach and Ulrad which would solidify their support with any attending mortals. Valimar would probably only get support from the folks that had sailed (or spirited) their way from far to the west.

The match between Eriador and Hithlum would be more even. Hithlum would obviously be getting all of the weight of the House of Hador, and added to that would be a contingent from Doriath (to support Beleg) and quite a few Noldor (supporting their financial investment), but Eraidor had brought quite the crowd from the east. The Elves of Lindon and Rivendell had come in large numbers, and a decent crowd of Dunedain had turned up to support the men of Arnor on the squad. But the real equalizer was Glorfindel—before Gondolin he had of course served Turgon right there in Vinyamar, thus the locals had overwhelmingly adopted him as their favorite. More than likely the crowd would be evenly split in that contest.

The weather forecasters were predicting a perfect day for Vinyamar, with minimal breeze and a high temperature around 75 (24 C), cool enough that players wouldn’t be too overheated and warm enough that the crowd wouldn’t get chilled. Everyone was happy to be in Vinyamar, and two teams and fan bases would soon be even a bit happier.

Nogrod

09-28-2013, 06:11 PM

Despite a few grumbles the footballing commitees of certain locations seemed not too shy to voice out, the Arda Cup had once again moved into the blessed isle of Númenórë. The Númenorians were quick to ignore any protests concerning their right to organize games once more and made it clear they felt it was a kind of a self-evident fact that the games are played at the old and venerable Armenelos Stadium.

But it was also clear that the islanders had started feeling the pressure of success: to justify being the “obvious” hosts of the Arda Cup more or less every year, both to themselves and to the wider World outside their self-serving realm, their team would have to show some quality. To advance, that is.

The Númenorians could claim the most glorious – and some claim even the longest – history of football by the Atani, but that wouldn’t exac tly imply any greatness today. With footballing-culture spreading all over Arda, staying on the top has proved all the harder – and the Númenorian’s know it full well.

But even if the Armenelos Stadium is one of the smallest arenas the games are played nowadays (with it’s capacity of 60 000 only) and there would be a thing or two with the general facilities that don’t quite fit the modern standards for a sports-venue, no one can deny the awesomeness of it. Like the AKM wrote about it in 2011: “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 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 athmosphere of the stadium is also quite unique, for instead of the practical and safe empty areas around the pitch the first rows of spectators begin more or less straight from the white lines marking the borders of the field – so that the first row seat-holders could touch the throwers on the back if they wished to only by streching their arm from their seat, and the corner-kick takers can only take a few steps backwards (and only diagonally so) to send the ball going. That means the players will really feel the audience and their reactions around them and the crowds become much more part of the game. But also the spectators really feel the game – and literally smell the sweat of the players.

The semifinals in Armenelos include two games then.

In the afternoon match up Real Valinor is set up against FC Valinor – a game no football fan would miss. It has been marked as “the clash of the titans” or “the game of the year”, or even as “the moral final” (by some).

A great host of the Eldar and Maiar had landed at the harbour of Andúnië and were there to cheer for either or both teams – and even some of the Valar and a band of the Great Eagles were present. So there was no fear a single seat would be not taken when the afternoon match would take off – and via the Palantir-Network it would be followed by millions all around Arda.

But the locals were even more interested in the evening-game where the hosts Armenelos will meet the bunch of Werewolves and Wights playing under the banner of Tol-in-Gaurhoth – and they have strong memories of the two sides colliding before…

There were rumours that Sauron himself would be attending the match, but those have not been verified by the AKM at this point. But what can be said, is that the much-feared hooliganism on part of the T-I-G fans have stayed relatively minor in scope and that the Armenelos King’s Men’s guard has been able to deal with any troubles coolly and efficiently.

So what an evening of football ahead!

Nilpaurion Felagund

10-01-2013, 03:52 AM

Vinyamar Stadium
Eriador vs Hithlum

All 75,000 tickets for Eriador-Hithlum have been sold a mere 24 hours after they had been made available, and, on the day of the game itself, Vinyamar Stadium was jam-packed a full two hours before the opening whistle, with one side a wall of black, the other a sea of crimson. The Eriador supporters’ group Northern Wall managed to occupy an entire stand for themselves, and their presentation, a tifo of a man’s hand reaching out for the Arda Cup, was well-received. Unwilling to be outstaged, the Hithlum supporters sung a moving rendition of their anthem, ‘We’re Hithlum ‘til we die.’

After the pre-arranged presentations have been exhausted, the two groups set out to outchant the other. A clear favourite of Hithlum fans was:

‘He scores when he wants.
‘He scores when he wants.
‘Túrin of Hithlum,
‘He scores when he wants.’

Whereas the Eriador fans chanted:

‘We’re black, we’re white.
‘Our midfielder’s a wight.
‘Eriador! Eriador!’

When the two teams walked into the pitch the stadium exploded into cheers; the ones for Elrond of Eriador and Túrin of Hithlum were especially enthusiastic. But the loudest cheer was for Glorfindel, a native son returning to play on his old home city.

There were a lot of handshakes and hugs exchanged on the pitch during the warm-ups, which was not surprising considering that the two teams were filled with Edain from different generations. Aragorn and Arwen struck up a deal with Húrin and Morwen to exchange shirts after the match, while Arador, Araphant, and Arveleg almost fought over who would get Túrin’s shirt at the end of the game. NogWight was generally left alone by the Hithlum players—even Balrog #5 had been approached by Glorfindel, asking him about Gothmog.

As game time drew near, the interaction between the two teams came to a halt. Elrond gathered his team in a huddle, while Hador and Húrin went around, clapping Hithlum players on the back, whispering instructions and encouragement. Túrin sat alone on the penalty spot, facing the goal, seemingly deep in contemplation of the task at hand.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/erdvhth_zpsd89e8a7e.jpg~original
[Hithlum in yellow and dark red; Eriador in white and black.]

The opening whistle was blown, and Hithlum were nearly caught unawares when Araphant immediately launched a long lofted pass to NogWight 15 metres from Hithlum’s penalty area. Aradan and Morwen did well to recover and cover the areas where he could knock it down to. But with a twist of his neck, NogWight flicked it to Arveleg, who drifted in from his starting position on the right wing. At the same time, Isildur dropped a little deeper, as if to receive a pass. Out on the left, Glorfindel sprinted past Arroch just as Arveleg chipped past the defence. With a side-footed volley, Glorfindel sent the ball past Huor and into the net, but the linesman had his flag raised. Glorfindel was offside—the goal was disallowed. Arroch had noticed that the rest of the Hithlum back line had unintentionally advanced a metre forward as they closed down their marks. He then stepped up to play the Gondolin Elf offside just moments before Arveleg’s pass.

The Hithlum faithful heaved a sigh of relief, having escaped going behind so early in the match. They applauded Arroch for his foresight—had he not noticed that detail, or seen it too late, Glorfindel would have been onside for his run.

Around five minutes after that opening spell, some semblance of structure has been imposed on the pitch. Aragorn tracked Húrin in all his runs, Gil-galad kept a body on Túrin, and Asfaloth got in front of Beleg. Arwen was the Eriador back line’s spare player, helping Gil-galad in marking Túrin while keeping an eye on his father’s runs.

On the other side of the pitch, Hithlum left-back Galdor kept an eye on Arveleg’s movements, but didn’t follow him all over the pitch—the Eriador midfielder played deeper, almost in line with the midfield, he and often drifted to central positions. Balrog #5 towered over Isildur, and Arroch kept up with Glorfindel reasonably well. When Glorfindel beat Arroch there was Gundor to stand between him and the goal.

In the midfield, Aradan screened for his back four, while NogWight did his best to connect Eriador’s midfield and the attackers. Their holding midfield duo Arador and Araphant had to deal with the energetic running of Morwen and Hador. With Arveleg moving inside, Eriador had a numbers advantage in the midfield, allowing them to dominate possession. But with Hithlum’s intense pressing on NogWight and Isildur, they couldn’t establish a foothold in Huor’s penalty area. An Eriador turnover often led to nervy moments for their defence, as Morwen and Hador made lung-busting runs to bring the ball up to their forwards.

With Eriador’s midfield playing a defensive game, and Hithlum concerned with the speed and passing of Eriador’s front four, the game played out slowly, with players passing to the safer option (sideways or even backwards) instead of the more speculative forward passes. But as the game wore on some players became more comfortable with trying to get the ball to their forwards.

In a sequence during the nineteenth minute, Morwen picked NogWight’s pockets as he tried to turn on Aradan. She immediately sent it to Hador, who skipped past Araphant and combined with Húrin down the right. Arwen and Aragorn did their best to keep up as they pedalled back, but with a neat step-over Hador found enough wiggle room to cross for Túrin, who headed towards Elrond’s top-left corner. But Elrond palmed it clear just before it crossed the goal line—there were some Hithlum fans who swore it had already crossed the line—and over the bar for a corner kick.

Beleg took the corner kick. While Túrin and Húrin caused havoc on the near- and far-post, respectively, the Doriath Elf sent an inch-perfect delivery for Balrog #5, who stood near the penalty spot. His header, aimed for the far post, had Elrond stranded in no-man’s land on his near post, but Glorfindel rushed in and headed the goalbound effort clear. As Arador booted the clearance downfield, Glorfindel smiled and shook his head at Balrog #5, who flashed a thumbs-up sign at the midfielder.

Eriador got their first serious chance of the game as the first half drew to a close. After intercepting a Morwen through pass, Arwen dribbled forward instead of passing to a midfielder. While the Hithlum midfield’s marking was confused by her appearance, nobody noticed NogWight peeling off to right. Suddenly there were three players down Hithlum’s left channel: Isildur, Arveleg, and NogWight, with only the Balrog and Galdor to contain them. Arwen launched the ball forward, and a sudden NogWight surge met it. As he got to the byline, Glorfindel and Arveleg cut infield, and suddenly Hithlum were outnumbered in their penalty area. The Wight crossed low towards the box, but Galdor slid in and got a toe on it, pushing it past the byline. Isildur screamed at NogWight to cross high, but NogWight pointed at the Balrog, who could have beat any of them in the air.

Huor easily claimed Arveleg’s ensuing cross, and the referee saw it fit to end the first half after that.

The second half began with the same slow tempo as the first one. Eriador were content with their first half and continued their defensive tactic of man-marking in the midfield, while Hithlum were shaken by the close call just before half time and pulled Morwen and Hador back a few metres.

Aside from their slight defensive shift, Hithlum also made one other change: Húrin made more runs infield, dragging Aragorn with him. This left Galdor with the left flank entirely to himself, as Arveleg was still playing more on the centre than on the right. With the midfield more congested, his forward runs became more valuable in driving Hithlum forward.

Shortly before the hour mark, Isildur lost the ball as he tried to run past Balrog #5. After a simple lateral pass to Galdor, the left-back ran from his position in front of the Hithlum penalty box uncontested up to the half way line. Arveleg slid right to stop his run, but he still had space for a cross from deep that Húrin knocked down just in front of the penalty arc. Túrin got to the ball before Arwen and fired a screamer from long range. Elrond got down to save it, but, screaming in pain, he was unable to hold on to the ball. The save spilled into Beleg’s path, who thrashed it in from five metres out. Elrond’s face was clearly in pain as he tried to dive after the rebound, but he got a hand to the ball after it had crossed the goal line. The goal stood, and Hithlum was in the lead!

There was a stoppage of play afterwards as Elrond walked to the touch line, holding his right hand awkwardly. Afterwards it was found out that he broke a finger saving Túrin’s long-range shot. Such was the power of the Hithlum forward’s boot.

The Hithlum fans were overjoyed. Clearly, Eriador now have to chase the game, and that would open up more space for Hador and Morwen in the midfield. But the Northerners still kept the game’s tempo slow, keeping possession in the midfield with Arveleg, and trying to pass their way forward. Hithlum were torn whether to press home the advantage or put a lid on it at the back. As a result, Eriador got a few chances once they got past Hithlum’s midfield.

In the sixty-seventh minute, Isildur headed an Arveleg cross straight at Huor.

In the seventy-third minute, Arador played NogWight in behind Hithlum's midfield, and his dipping drive from thirty metres didn’t dip enough, sailing inches over the crossbar.

By the eightieth minute, Hador decided to put more players behind the ball. Only Túrin and Beleg were left upfield to keep Eriador’s back line honest. But with Aragorn free from the responsibility of marking Húrin, he moved forward to combine with Arveleg down Eriador’s left. As the defence shifted to trap them, Arveleg slid a pass to NogWight outside the penalty area. He quickly sent it to Glorfindel running down the right with plenty of space. Aradan and Gundor moved up to stop him, but he did an impressive 180-degree turn that left them looking flat-footed. Unfortunately, his angle for the shot was too difficult, and he only managed to send into the side netting.

And that was the last serious chance either team had. A ninetieth-minute mazy dribble by Glorfindel through the Hithlum penalty box just ended with Balrog #5 calmly tackling him before he could get into a shooting position. Morwen got to the clearance first, and she booted it downfield. The referee then blew his whistle to end the game. The crimson side of the stadium became a sea of limbs and voices; they were happy, they were relieved, they were ecstatic to be back among the pinnacle of Arda football. On the other side, the fans in black looked glum, dropped out in the last eight after a finals appearance last year. The players on the pitch exchanged handshakes, the Hithlum players giving their opponents a pat on the back for their efforts. Finally, Hador gathered his players in front of the Hithlum fans. As one, they bowed before them, and the fans clapped in appreciation of their efforts. Hithlum, finalists in the first two Arda Cups, are only a game away from returning to those lofty heights.

Exit interviews shall be provided in The Matchday episode next week.

Eriador 0-1 Hithlum
GOALS:
59, 0-1 Beleg (Túrin)

Total Shots
11-12
Shots On Target
4-5

YELLOW CARDS:
1-2
ERD: Asfaloth
HTH: Gundor, Morwen

Nogrod

10-01-2013, 04:38 PM

Real Valinor vs. FC Valinor @ Armenelos

Already at noon the Armenelos downtown was buzzing. Tourists were taking their sightseeing tours following guides wawing the flags of the different travel agancies, and locals hung around in parks and cafes just enjoying the general mood the town filled with tourists created. Various marching bands and child-choirs from different schools performed on the Eärendil square playing classics like “Rule Armenelos, Armenelos Rule the Sea” and “Star Dotted Banner” with its famous lines “realm of the free and the isle of the brave”.

With the soft westerly wind the crispness and dim of the morning faded away and finally the sun came up from behind the curtain of clouds fast withering to the east. It was going to be a perfect day for football, a Valar-proof weather one could say.

Slowly but steadily the crowds started to wander towards certain focal points of the city. Those lucky ones who’d got tickets to the game were heading towards the Armenelos Stadium, while the rest took in their sights the Eärendil Square and the great Meneltarma Hall – where the games would be shown live from giant screens with the hugely popular Vëantur and Tar Minastir as commentators.

The Arda Cup holders from the last season Real Valimar were about to take off against their friends and toughest opponents FC Valimar who have so many times proved the better of the ruling champions. At the eve of this year’s tournament they played a draw though – so would Real’s somewhat upward trend continue or would FC prove the better of them yet again? These questions were filling the minds of millions of creatures all around Arda as they gathered around the giant screens of their home-town provided by the Palantir Networks.

~*~*~

As expected, both teams started the game avoiding unnecessary risks – and all the top-scorers soon found themselves wearing an overcoat or two.

When Real was having the ball, Thorondor was following Oromë where ever he tried to move while Miriel and Nerdanel were shadowed by Eönwë and Maglor – and Indis kept keeping up with anyone, mainly Nessa and Enerdhil, who tried to advance forwards from behind the actual strikers or offer her support to the others when needed. FC Valinor did a great job holding Real’s options in attack at minimum for it was clear Tilion or even Quennar were not willing to take the risk of advancing deep into FC-side that early in the game and risk a diminished defence in case of a turnover.

But Real Valinor was marking the FC players quite efficiently as well. Firstly they had realised it takes an Aratar to hold one and Yavanna was held tightly by Nienna leaving her in anguish indeed. The brothers in turn were marked by Ingwion (Celegorm) and Nahar (Curufin) whilst Tilion was always at hand doubling the marking in need – finally Quennar and Enerdhil had both dropped a bit lower when FC was having the ball to either help the others or to mark any attempts by Argon or Findis to break through from behind.

So the first twnety minutes went without any remarkable deeds even if the level of the game and the personal skill on the field were quite dashing indeed – it was just that for any brilliant attacking manouver there was at least as brilliant a defensive move to counter it.

At the 21st minute Tilion gave a bad tackle to Celegorm as he was wrestling himself free from Ingwion ending up in Celegorm falling down like a huge tree and Tilion getting carded. The ensuing free-kick was one of the most beautiful ones executed in this year’s tournament.

Eönwë came from defence to give it and the FC attackers spread themselves around the wall of defenders – except Yavanna and Findis who took positions at the edge of the wall; getting immediately accompanied by Quennar as trying to block them from getting away from the ball’s route if that was what they were up to. And Nienna stood right behind Yavanna breathing on her neck.

Eönwë blasted the ball from 25-meters and it seemed to head straight towards Yavanna and Findis who both reacted – Findis by crouching and Yavanna by leaping outwards away from the wall. Nienna and Quennar made instinctively the very same decision and leaned in to fill the gap that had opened into the wall – but the ball was doing something completely different. It went flying just past the wall (had Quennar not leaned towards the center it would have hit him) and suddenly started swerwing heavily towards the middle. Tulkas had realised the trajectory of the ball a wink of an eye too late and when he dashed for it the tips of his fingers did make a contact – but wth the power of the shot there was no way for him to stop it or even have an influence to its direction. FC Valinor had taken an early lead!

Real Valinor kept their cool after the goal and didn’t went on a rampage to try and even the game out immediately but kept on playing their own game making sure the defence was always organized first. But there was a new intensity in the game. FC Valinor seemed somewhat more confident with their one goal lead daring to play a bit more intuitively and resulting in some oohs and well-earned cheers from the spectators. But Real Valinor had more spirit in their game as well and with determination they seemed to win more one-on-one’s in offence creating a few nice shots that sadly (from their POV) just went an inch wide or high from Huan’s goal.

So the teams went for a breather for the half-time in FC Valinor’s 1-0 lead.

-----

The second half started more or less from where the first had ended – but with fresh legs on both teams the speed of the game increased considerably. Even the most cynical know-all Armenelos fans who were so well learned in the art of the game and its history were gasping with the athletism, creativity and skill on display in front of their eyes.

Miriel did an astonishingly fast double-dribble leaving first Maglor and then Indis behind her but was forced then to shoot in a flash-of-an-eye moment while turning herself almost 180 degrees at the same time – and yet Huan managed to tip the ball off via the crossbar only just and just.

On the ensuing corner Oromë went for a bicycle kick avoiding the onleaping Thorondor - and hitting the post!

On the other end Celegorm released Curufin into an open shooting opportunity by leaving the ball to him with a heel-kick that distracted Ingwion just for the moment needed – but Tulkas saw it coming and saved the ball from the top corner with an amazing leap.

A little later Argon got the ball behind the frontline of the attack and had a second to really boot the ball from the bottom of his heart – and what a cannon-shot it was! Hitting the crossbar it felt like the goal-structure would break down into pieces – and the bars did tremble a long time after the hit. Even if it was shot from well over thirty meters there would have been no chance for Tulkas to stop it had it landed just that bit lower.

On the other end it was time for a classic Miriel – Nerdanel show. Nerdanel played wall-play to left with Miriel to get rid of Maglor and getting inside the box. Charged by Indis she faked a shot and let Indis slide pass her. Left with only Huan to beat Eönwë leaped to help. Nerdanel took a fast step forwards and away from onrushing Eönwe, looking like she was aiming for a shot with her better leg at the same time: both Huan and Eönwë were diving towards her… but she did not shoot! Instead she tossed the ball calmly forwards left where Miriel had dashed at the moment Eönwë had left her free for a second – and it was an easy task for Miriel to just set her foot on the path of the ball directing it into the back of the empty net in front of her.

Real Valinor had evened the game and the crowds were roaring with cheers. It was going to be a thriller as everyone had kind of anticipated. With 25 minutes on the clock everything was open once again.

For a short while the intensity of the game actually dropped a bit as both teams felt they needed to breathe in some air and neither team wished to be on the receiving end just after the equalizer. But with the clock ticking away the minutes the energy started coming back and the last ten minutes were just great football – even if both teams did tighten up their defences the closer the 90-minute whistle was coming. No team would wish to lose a play-off game at the last minute – and these two teams were professional enough to keep that in mind even in the midst of their best efforts to score a late one.

Neither succeeded in scoring in the last minutes and it was going to be an overtime – and if the overtime would not solve it, then a shoot-out. The crowds had been drawn into the game even if most of the spectators weren’t having strong preferences as to which team should win in the beginning (to Númenorians it was more or less the same in principle and many guests from the West were just feeling divided loyalties) but now they were getting really warmed up, and many had chosen their favourites according to the performances on the field.

-----

So the overtime started with the thunder and roar of the crowds as they lived the game now with their hearts – and in the close stadium the audiences really breathed the air the players did – and the players really felt the emotions of the crowds at their skin.

What was clear from the outset was that neither team seemed too happy to be forced into a penalty shoot-out. Paradoxically the game was at it’s most open at the beginning of the overtime when normally teams start playing a hedgehog-style defence just to avoid a goal scored on – but these teams wished to score themselves, in game, not from the penalty spot.

Real Valinor had the first real chance when four minutes into the overtime Oromë centered the ball from near the corner-flag and Nessa dived forwards from behind heading the ball from around the edge of the box dangerously close to the totally open lower-left corner of the goal – only to be slided off by Eönwë at the last moment.

FC Valinor had their chance a few minutes later when Celegorm made a diagonal pass into the box and Curufin slided into it only to miss the ball by inches.

Real Valinor took the possession of the ball and started rolling a passing-play at the FC-half forcing the whole FC Valinor to retreat into defence – except Curufin who wandered near the midfield guarded by Nahar, and Nienna and Tilion hanging around on the bottom of the attack ready to dash backwards if needs be, as usual. And they really pinned FC Valinor down – the passes went from left to right and to and fro, and Real was forcing FC Valinor to use their feet running after the ball while they themselves made the minimum physical effort trying to keep their feet fresh and letting the ball do the running for them.

Finally Miriel noticed a minute positioning-failure by Thorondor who had left just a little bit too big a gap between himself and Oromë when he glanced centerwards to check that others were well positioned – and that was enough. Miriel made a quick waist-high pass to Oromë who charged away from Thorondor the two steps he had time to and volleyed the ball while turning towards the goal at the same time. It was a perfect shot heading towards the upper left-corner of the goal and Huan was clearly late.

But Thorondor was quick enough to make good his error in judgement and leaped towards the ball bouncing it high in the air with his chest. The ball came down just behind the box and Nerdanel fought for the header together with her son Maglor – and neither won the possession. Indis managed to kick the ball and was only trying to clean it away from the FC-half of the field, but it took a new angle hitting Enerdhil just a few meters away and bounced higher up right and forward the field.

When Yavanna saw Thorondor bouncing the ball up in the air she started creeping forwards just in case and with Indis trying to clear the ball she saw her chance and dashed for it as it was coming to her reach. Nienna saw what was happening and reacted charging towards where the ball was going to land – and Curufin leapt leftwards trying to create distance between him and Nahar who had a second of problems choosing between following Curufin to the side or back slightly away from the oncharging Celegorm – as he couldn’t hold the two of them after the possible pass would be given and the off-side danger for the attackers be released. Tilion shouted at Nahar to take Curufin and closed himself on Celegorm.

Yavanna reached the ball first just in front of Nienna and sent it immediately fast forwards diagonally towards the Real goal – and suddenly everyone was running.

Celegorm tried to break through from the middle with Tilion following him a step or two behind – Nahar turned around and charged after Curufin who was running like mad on the left towards the trajectory of the ball…

Curufin got the ball with him about 35 meters and pushed it forwards while turning slightly towards the goal. Nahar was outpacing him though, and was fast approaching him from the right – Tulkas was coming forwards from his goal to diminish the angle Curufin would have to make his shot, if he could do that. Celegorm kept Tilion behind him making the run of his life in the middle almost reaching the level where Curufin was running. The whole stadium held their breath.

Just as Nahar was reaching Curufin, Fëanor’s son made a sudden stop and leaped towards the middle tossing the ball ahead of him. Being much slower to stop from a full gallop Nahar had problems following Curufin’s sudden move and lost a few seconds – and that was enough for Curufin to re-charge forwards and gain the hold of the ball once more. Curufin coming more and more towards the center as he advanced forced Celegorm to steer right while he was calling his brother to lend the ball – and Tilion made the decision to dash rather between the two to cut the passing-line than trying to outrun Celegorm. And Tulkas was almost on Curufin as he was approaching the edge of the box – and he was clearly coming for Curufin outside it.

Curufin faked a shot and Tulkas dived to beat it, but Curufin didn’t shoot. Instead he passed the ball forwards to himself to the left before the sliding-towards goalie could reach it – and jumped over Tulkas in full speed himself. There was a roar gathering in the crowds when Curufin landed and tried to reach the ball that was rolling steadily towards the empty goal – but just a tiny bit off the post!

And Curufin slided for it – just in time to change the direction of the ball – and it rolled into the back of the net! Curufin had scored! FC Valinor had beaten Real Valinor once again! It was over.

-----

While cheering and yelling their throats sore the crowds stood up in spontaneous admiration – not only of Curufin’s personal skill and determination, but for both teams and the battle they gave to each other. And many were moved by the scenes they saw after the referee had blown his whistle to mark the game over.

They saw Celegorm and Oromë changing shirts and patting each other to the shoulder while changing views of the game. They saw Yavanna coming to form a group-hug with Nessa and Nienna, and all three leaving the stadium with arms wrapped around each others’ shoulders. They saw Eönwë and Tulkas shake hands and joke about something – and then deciding to change shirts as well. Nahar and Thorondor were seen laughing about something and then being joined by Huan – and later Celegorm – and they all went off the stadium together.

But the most moving scene sure was when Maglor came to her mom and took her by the shoulder holding her close for a fleeting moment, and was rewarded by a kiss on the forehead. Even Miriel was seeing shaking hands with Curufin – the most like their father of the brothers – but few can figure what she thought about…

The late-game would be the one where the feelings would really get high as the homecrowds would be going nuts for their team, but seldom has there been a warm-up game like this!

FC Valinor 2-1 Real Valinor (OT)
on target 5-4
tot shots 14-11
GOALS:
*22, 1-0 Eönwë
*63, 1-1 Miriel (Nerdanel)
*11, 2-1 Curufin (Yavanna)
YELLOW CARDS:
*FCVal- Curufin, Findis
*RealV- Tilion, Nienna, Quennar

the phantom

10-03-2013, 09:08 AM

The disappointed Eriador folks and happy Hithlum fans were cleared out and the eager supporters of AC Beleriand and Valimar streamed in. The Valar and company were as confident as they’d been since Pelori’s run to the semis, but AC Bel was equally confident. Both felt they were good enough to be in the finals.

Listening to the various chants and taking in the colors before the kickoff it was quite obvious that AC owned the arena, which was no surprise seeing as they had such a diverse squad, and all of them based decently close to Vinyamar (certainly closer than Valimar anyway).

The crowd was forced into silence in the early going though, as Valimar came out full speed and focused. On the flip side, Denethor of Ossiriand looked confused and out of position, Imlach let himself drift out of position a couple times as well, Rochallor made a poor pass and mishandled another, and Angrod and Aegnor missed the deliveries on what should have been routine passes. The announcers supposed that their nerves had failed them. In the quarterfinals against the Valar, perhaps one could understand why they were nervous, particularly attempting to play alongside Feanor and Fingolfin, who were always so high level. The lesser players on the squad must have felt petrified of being the reason for a loss.

Valimar went to take advantage of the early minute lapses—Ingwe had a virtually unopposed header at minute 2, but Marach made a brilliant save. Arien was left a huge clearing to shoot through, but her drive was heroically deflected by Fingolfin, who had sprinted in to make up for the missing defenders. At minute 6 Arien rose up and sent a header just over the crossbar. Finally at minute 13 Irmo fed Vaire a perfect cross, but Feanor flashed in from out of nowhere to take it off her forehead.

Some of the Valimar fans applauded the fact that they’d forced even Feanor to play at the back, but others were uncomfortable. They had wasted golden opportunities, and now that Feanor had been forced to take such a direct role in protecting the goal, he was likely ready to explode and whip his squad into shape. And indeed they were right—Feanor’s voice could be heard clearly by most all of the stadium. “I don’t expect you to win or lose this game, just play! Just be the right place and do the obvious! Don’t even try to make great plays! Let us take care of that!”

Some scratched their heads a bit at the message, and wondered if it was really the right thing to tell the squad, but Feanor has a feel for persuasion, and suddenly it looked as if AC’s players were more loose. Their new goal wasn’t to do things themselves, but rather to get the ball to Feanor or Fingolfin and let them do things. Somehow the closer and more manageable goal settled them, and instantly they could hold the ball and no longer appeared vulnerable to attack.

Already in minute 16 Fingolfin led Feanor forward with a beautiful through ball and Feanor angled in from the right and with a hard cut back outside caused two defenders to entirely fall down, and last minute he skipped it across to Eol who easily deflected it into the open net. AC had weathered the early storm and now they had the lead!

If AC had looked better after Feanor’s speech they certainly looked better after having the lead in pocket, and the ball moved effortlessly and Arien was ball-starved at the front. At minutes 25 and 31 they nearly scored again, but after that Manwe finally got the troops rallied and Valimar raised their level back to the early game level. After Feanor’s rally call Valimar had fallen off their game—whether it was some magical effect of the speech or if it was merely the surprise of AC playing their real game for the first time it is not certain, but they looked ready to push back finally.

Ilmare and Namo pushed out wide to the margins as did Irmo, forcing AC to spread themselves out, which made their transition to offense less immediate and smooth, for AC liked to bunch themselves more tightly and move the ball with very quick and accurate passes, moving forward all the while. At first AC wasn’t willing to chase their marks all the way to the edge, but rather hovered in front and inside of them, keeping them from going anywhere yet allowing them all the time they could ask for to find an open teammate. At minute 37 Irmo was left too much room for too long and he bent in a perfect strike to Arien who managed to get over the Balrog and Imlach and headed the ball perfectly. But Marach was there again, tipping the ball just enough to send it off the post!

After that Fingolfin and Feanor went ahead and expanded their defense and got more aggressive with their on-the-ball play, encouraging all to pressure their mark if possible. Most of the Valimar squad held out okay, but at minute 40 Elenwe found herself harassed by Angrod, and he straight up stole it from her and sent it over to his brother who banged it forward and middle to Fingolfin who was making a deep run (he had been tailing Ingwe who had gone rather far back for a moment).

Feanor and Eol drifted to the wings and let Fingolfin take the center behind them, leaving the defenders to choose between evils. Namo peeled off with Feanor while Este drifted back and right to keep an eye on Eol while Vana and Amarie stayed put. Fingolfin immediately put on an astonishing turn of speed and came on Vana before Este could threaten to help to force a pass, and with one hard cut he rounded her and before Amarie could adjust her positioning he fired a rocket to Manwe’s left and he had no chance of stopping it. AC had a two-goal lead!

The stadium was truly crazy for the first time—the AC supporters were screaming words like “Insurmountable!” and “Clinched!” and the Orc drums were pounding at full speed. The noise continued all the way to the halftime whistle, and AC looked energetic jogging off while Valimar looked downright frustrated. The MESPN announcers took that as a positive, saying that at least they didn’t look beaten or passive. “They felt they should’ve grabbed the lead in the early going, and that would’ve changed the complexion of the contest. They don’t feel out of it—and frankly the hostile atmosphere combined with the Orc section and the Balrog on the field… they may just go full wrath-of-the-Valar mode in the second half.”

When the second half started the commentators were proved correct. Manwe and company were almost glowing with energy—was it fury, or pride, or destiny? But they looked grim to a man, and they seemed to kick and tackle harder and leap higher, and with their special glow some of the AC players definitely looked hesitant.

Already in the first minute Arien got a nearly point-blank shot, but the kick rebounded off Rochallor who managed to get in the way, and the rebound try from Ingwe was smothered nicely by Marach. The AC fans breathed a sigh of relief while Fingolfin received a knowing look from the Balrog next to him, and Feanor quickly trotted back and exchanged a word or two with them. Perhaps Fingolfin had been hesitant to believe that Valimar would bring the heat in this fashion, whereas Feanor and the Balrog had more or less considered it a given.

They were certainly on the same page now, though, and their strategy was set. The Balrog personally marked Arien—who better to stay close to fire than fire? Meanwhile Fingolfin stuck to the side of Irmo, and Angrod and Aegnor actually moved farther back than their midfield fellows and helped clean up anything that got missed. Eol stayed somewhat forward, but he never got far from Namo, assuming he might be used in the offense. Essentially Feanor was left on an island at the front and the rest of the squad committed to defense first, and when in possession they pretty well just held it and didn’t try too hard to get it to Feanor. But Manwe simply had to commit players to the defense anyway, because it was Feanor after all.

This unexpectedly conservative play from AC stymied Valimar, and as the minutes went by the started showing signs of frustration. AC wasn’t going to let Valimar get anything done, and didn’t seem to care if they scored again. Finally at minute 70 Manwe committed wholly to a goal-or-bust strategy, and AC fans began salivating. They were certain they could contain the Valimar attack, and Feanor was being left with too much room to run into.

And at minute 77—it happened. Aegnor dispossessed Ingwe and instantly AC was tearing upfield with it (there must have been some prearranged signal). Eol got it first and he sent it on to Angrod. Angrod and Ulrad were side by side on the left with Feanor to the right, and only Amarie and Vana were even with them. Angrod passed forward to Feanor as everyone expected, but no! It was a hard fake and both defenders pulled up to send Feanor offside and Angrod and Ulrad just continued right past them! The pair ran in unopposed on Manwe and he guessed wrong on the shot-pass option and Ulrad slotted it home off of Angrod’s feed. AC was up by three!

With less than 15 minutes remaining it was all over but the celebrating. AC fell back to defend once again, and while Valimar tried to score a face-saving goal the best they could manage was a weak header that Marach caught easily. Though they weren’t trying to score themselves AC actually managed better, as both Eol and Feanor tried long-range snipes for fun, and the powerful and unpredictably bending shots might’ve gotten past a lesser keeper. As it was the score remained at 3-0 and the stadium was partying in earnest.

The fans barely even noticed the Valimar fans and squad leave the arena. Ingwe wished Feanor and Fingolfin well and everyone except Arien gave a gracious nod or handshake to their foes. Arien just headed straight to the lockers, burning the turf as she went. Losing in the quarterfinals was a far cry from winning the title last year. Good feelings prevailed in the stands as Orcs and Men actually patted each other on the backs. A group of Orcs with signs supporting the Balrog received hugs from some of Marach’s household. “I’m glad we had that Balrog to help with Arien. I know Marach is glad of it!” And the Orcs reciprocated: “Marach probably could’ve stopped her anyway. He was fantastic!”

Football magic strikes again.

AC Beleriand 3-0 Valimar
on target 7-4
tot shots 14-14
GOALS:
*16, 1-0 Eol (Feanor)
*40, 2-0 Fingolfin (Aegnor)
*77, 3-0 Ulrad (Angrod)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ACBel- Feanor, Balrog#4
*Valimar- Vana, Amarie

MESPN Postgame Exit Interview

MESPN: I wouldn’t imagine you thought things would end like this.

Manwe: I think that’s only true of the scoreline. The score just looks bad.

MESPN: So you don’t think you earned a 3-0 ousting?

Manwe: No. We didn’t play poorly at all—we were solid. All credit to AC Beleriand, as they executed even better, but not 3 goals better I should think. We were even on shots, and they just had 3 more on target, and I suppose those just happened to be the three that went in, so to speak.

MESPN: AC had more possession, and they did seem to look more dangerous, especially after the opening minutes of the first half.

Manwe: Well, that was just the matchup. We didn’t come into this intending or expecting to own possession. We thought we’d try and hit them early, and then with timely attacks and perhaps a trick play and a good execution off some sort of free kick we could win the rest of the match. Frankly we did what we planned that first half. That header of Arien’s was perfect, but Marach just had a notion and cheated that direction, and it was similar with that one shot from Ingwe.

MESPN: Arien looked pretty upset after the game. How is she doing?

Manwe: She’s taking the loss hard. She sets her expectations high, and no doubt she’s beating herself up for not putting it in when she had chances. But she can’t do it all alone, so we need to share what blame there is. But for the most part just give credit to AC Beleriand.

MESPN: So the offense was what you wanted, you just caught some bad breaks and Marach had some intuitive magic. But what about the defense giving up 3 goals?

Manwe: That’s the larger concern, for me anyway. We did a reasonable job at bottling up the playmakers Feanor and Eol at times, but it was just too difficult to accomplish that and still lock out the rest of their offense. Those forwards just took too much of our concentration and effort.

MESPN: What can be done about that for next year?

Manwe: You’ve hit in on the head—something needs to change. I really think we need an additional elite athlete at the back. It will be tough to do that on a budget though and still maintain our offensive power.

MESPN: Any clues on how that will work, considering the team finished a few million underwater this season?

Manwe: We haven’t come to a decision yet, whether it’s time for belt tightening or time for an all-or-nothing gamble. Not that another such season would bankrupt us—we don’t exactly have shallow pockets here, and minus seven isn’t the end of the world.

MESPN: All right, thanks Manwe. Good luck on making the tough decisions.

Galadriel55

10-06-2013, 11:43 AM

As the TIG team got ready to play their game, they realized that all of them were missing their supplies of crocodilian stickers! First, they thought that they misplaced them in the cookie jar, but the cookie jar was empty. Then they thought they forgot them in the bathtub, but that was empty as well. All the wights, wolves, and other species came to the same conclusion simultaneously.

“Somebody stole our crocodilian stickers!” sallywight voiced the common thought.

“The rogue took my beautiful stickers!” Thuringwethil wailed. “What am I going to do without them?”

“I had a beautiful little alligator,” Inzilawolf confessed. “I named him Bob. And now my poor darling Bobby is gone!”

“I had all 23 species of crocodilians,” said Borowolf. “I will never have such a complete collection again!”

Nerwight and Phantomwolf were accusing each other, just like in good old Werewolf games. Draugluin howled and chased around a moth. Galadriwight was running around in circles, reciting the quadratic formula because that helped her pronounce the name of her Paleosuchus trigonatus. Legatewight was shouting very loudly at her to be quiet. Shastawolf was crying crocodile tears.

Then a brilliant idea hit Niplwolf on the head so hard that he said “ow!” and hit it back, but then realized what was happening and quickly pulled in back into his head. “I know who stole our crocodilian stickers!” he yelled across the room. “It was the garbage man! He wanted to ransom them for chocolate chips! Here is what we have to do.” And Nilpwolf carefully laid out his plan of getting back the beloved stickers.

That night, Nilp walked out of the TIG camp with a bag of small, round, brown chunks. He set the bag next to a tree that was exactly 37 and a half steps away from the nearest McDonald’s and pinned a piece of paper that said, “In return for our crocodilian stickers. –TIG.” He then strolled away lazily. As soon as he was out of sight, a stealthy figure of a garbage man appeared from behind the tree and stretched a hand towards the bag.

“Aha!” shouted Nilp as le leapt onto the garbage man from behind. “Tricked ya! Now give me back our stickers!” The garbage man was too scared to protest. Taking both the stickers and the bag, the victorious Nilp returned to his teammates. Once inside, he opened the bag and spilled out a ton of coffee grains. “Now we get to have the coffee, and the chocolate, and the stickers!”

And the TIG team was once again ready to play football.

Nilpaurion Felagund

10-14-2013, 02:31 AM

Armenelos Stadium was emptied of most of its First Age crowd after the conclusion of the match between the Valinors. In their place, it seemed that the whole of Elenna had made their way to the capital to watch their home team take on the on-form Tol-in-Gaurhoth side. There was much bad blood between the two teams; Armenelos have been cruelly defeated twice by the Wolves. It was expected that the stadium would be almost totally on the home team's side, since the Wolves and the Wights could muster only about two thousand supporters to make their way to the island.

Shortly before the opening whistle. Ar-Pharazôn and PhantomWolf shook hands in the centre circle, but immediately let go. The Wolves were just here to do a job; the Royals here to avenge a few slights.

It was clear a few minutes into the game that Armenelos were having the run of play, with their midfield of Ar-Gimilzôr, Tar-Telemmaitë, and Elros keeping possession against SallyWight and LegateWight. BoroWolf and NilpWolf couldn't help their midfield due to fear of leaving their defenders two-on-two against Ar-Adûnakhôr and Ar-Pharazôn. And when NerWight drifted in from the wing to help, Tar-Miríel simply followed her there. The Wolves were outnumbered in the midfield, and their pressing weren't too effective against the mobile and energetic Númenóreans.

Elros was superb in his role as link man, helping his holding midfielders bypass the Wolves' pressing, and then moving forward to feed the strikers with through passes down the middle and crosses from the flanks. In one sequence during the twentieth minute, he played a pass to Ar-Pharazôn's feet, who turned on GaladriWight and fire a powerful side-footed shot towards ShastaWolf's far post. Fortunately, the TiG shotstopper reacted with alacrity and pushed his goalbound effort wide.

It was not all one-way traffic, but play stayed longer in the Wolves' side of the pitch, with even the talismanic TiG playmaker PhantomWolf being forced to defend against Tar-Ancalimon's forward runs. Around the half-hour mark, the two Armenelos forwards played a one-two right through the heart of the Wolves' defence, and only Draugluin's timely intervention prevented Ar-Pharazôn from tapping in Ar-Adûnakhôr's low cross into the net.

Half-time soon came, a respite for Tol-in-Gaurhoth and a wasted chance for Armenelos. Everyone in the stadium expected the wily Wolves to devise a plan to wrest control of the game from the Royals; Armenelos' position would have been much safer had they taken a lead into the interval.

In the second half, PhantomWolf took up a higher position on the pitch, essentially becoming a third forward, and NerWight tucked in to become a third central midfielder. It was a 4-3-3 vs a 3-5-2, a tactical battle of interest because of the lack of spare players for either side: two Armenelos forwards vs two TiG central defenders, three TiG forwards vs three Armenelos defenders, Armenelos' wing-backs vs TiG's full-backs, and three central midfielders against each other.

During the break, PhantomWolf ordered BoroWolf to work his socks off, making forwards runs while not neglecting his defensive duties, to make up for missing three match reports. Armenelos perhaps expected the more attacking NilpWolf to make the runs, but he was tasked to be more disciplined and help out his defence.

With each player occupied with an immediate task in front of him, giving no one time to consider tactics, the teams' attitudes became an important factor. Armenelos were apprehensive and thrown off balance by the Wolves' change, while the ferocity of Tol-in-Gaurhoth came to the fore--they were ever chasing after loose balls and closing down their marks.

PhantomWolf opened the scoring in the sixty-sixth minute. BoroWolf crossed for Thuringwethil at the edge of the box, and the vampire managed to bring the ball down despite the challenge of Tar-Calmacil. She then timed her lay-off to meet PhantomWolf's run, and his impressive finish from fifteen yards was too powerful for Tar-Atanamir to keep out. PhantomWolf ran to the centre circle and lifted his shirt, revealing an undershirt with the words, 'They don't call me phantasista for nothing.' This was met with a cry of approval from the TiG supporters.

But the goal seem to have woken Armenelos up from dazed and confused slumber, and they made ShastaWolf pick up the ball in his net six minutes later. Elros combined with Tar-Ancalimon on the wings, passing their way past BoroWolf and LegateWight. Elros got to the byline and cut the ball back for Ar-Pharazôn to stab home.

There was less than twenty minutes to play in normal time, but instead of sitting back and waiting for extra time, Tol-in-Gaurhoth threw themselves forward in search of the winner, leaving them dangerously open to Armenelos counterattacks. It felt like, one way or another, the game would be decided in a few minutes, and it was as if the stadium held its breath waiting for the outcome.

In the eighty-third minute, SallyWight was caught dallying in possession, and Tar-Telemmaitë dispossessed her, getting the ball to Elros. The Armenelos number ten then began a four-on-four break, but BoroWolf slid in to intercept his pass to Tar-Ancalimon. He passed it to PhantomWolf, who had acres of space before him on the right wing. Tar-Telperiën was forced to bring him down at the edge of the area, earning a booking and conceding a free kick.

PhantomWolf himself took the free kick, and Tar-Atanamir was preparing for a goalbound effort, setting up the wall to that effect. But the TiG playmaker fired an outswinging cross that had the whole Armenelos defence fooled. BoroWolf met it inside the six-yard box, and his bullet header for the far post crashed into the net. It was two-one to the Wolves with five minutes left!

Armenelos desperately pushed forward for another equaliser, but Tol-in-Gaurhoth smartly reverted to their 4-4-2, arraying two banks of four as a wall between the Royals and ShastaWolf's goal. The Wolves were disciplined and well-positioned, and Armenelos were unable to find that spark of creativity that would unlock those defences. All dribbles were contained, shepherded harmlessly to the touchline, and all through balls were intercepted and returned to their sender. The final whistle signalled the end of Armenelos' Arda Cup campaign, and a small section of the stadium let out a blood-curdling roar. PhantomWolf ran to BoroWolf and lifted him off the ground, acknowledging the defender's vital contribution to all aspects of Tol-in-Gaurhoth's victory. The Armenelos players slinked quietly out of the pitch, and the home crowd poured out of the stadium, only a few of them applauding the victors' efforts. No matter. After last year's embarrassment, Tol-in-Gaurhoth were back in the semifinals!

Armenelos 1-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
on target 3-4
tot shots 11-14
GOALS:
*66, 0-1 PhantomWolf (Thuringwethil)
*72, 1-1 Ar-Pharazôn (Elros)
*85, 1-2 BoroWolf (PhantomWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ARM- Ar-Adûnakhôr, Tar-Telperiën
*TIG- InzilWolf

Nilpaurion Felagund

10-14-2013, 02:55 AM

Bracket:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/bracket-matchday-6_zps00d8b2ef.png~original

Power Rank:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/pr-matchday-5_zps19941cd4.png~original

(Teams in bold are semifinalists; teams in italics are eliminated.)

Greatest gain:
+2 Hithlum
Greatest loss:
-5 Valimar
-2 Eriador
-1 Armenelos

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking, combined with the adjusted goal difference rank of each team. The listed offensive and defensive rankings are from the actual numbers by the teams, and not adjusted. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss record; and b) goal difference.

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

The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed per game. Ties are broken by a) fewer number of shots allowed on target per game; and b) fewer number of shots allowed per game.

Top Individual Performers:
(Players in italics are from eliminated teams.)

GOALS + ASSISTS

5+2
Túrin (Hithlum)
Curufin (FC Valinor)

4+2
Eöl (AC Beleriand)

4+1
Arien (Valimar)
Ar-Pharazôn (Armenelos)

3+2
Hador (Hithlum)
Maeglin (Gondolin)
Fëanor (AC Beleriand)
Beleg (Hithlum)
PhantomWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

1+4
Yavanna (FC Valinor)

0+3
Angrod (AC Beleriand)

GOALKEEPING
84.62% – 11/13 – Huan (FC Valinor)
84.21% – 16/19 – Marach (AC Beleriand)
83.33% – 15/18 – Elrond (Eriador)
81.25% – 13/16 – Ungoliant (Anfauglith)
80.95% – 17/21 – Tulkas (Real Valinor)

the phantom

10-23-2013, 10:32 AM

MESPN Quarterfinal Round Table
Live from Angband

Philip McPhantom: It's semifinal time, and we’re here to discuss the quarters and predict who will play in the final. I’m Philip McPhantom, MESPN Lead Football Coordinator, and with me I have the dragon Ruharg the Red, the lead sports editor of Monster Magazine, and Ar-Tar-Aradil, sports writer for Westernesse Weekly and president of the Numenorean Association for the Advancement of Football.

Ruharg: Exciting times ahead!

Ar-Tar-Aradil: Let's get cracking!

Philip McP: First things first- Ar-Tar is no longer undefeated.

ATA: Sad to say. But still, 11 and 1 isn't too bad.

Ruharg: Perhaps I'll catch you yet.

ATA: I'd have to really nose-dive at the end, here.

PMcP: But before we go to those picks, let's look back at the last round.

ATA: We were unanimous selecting AC, but Ruharg was more correct about the margin.

R: You saw the game. I called it right.

PMcP: Indeed, AC was simply too much for Valimar to handle.

ATA: They had the better array of athletes, and they were battle-tested.

R: And they'll be facing another battle in the next round. Not the one I thought they'd face, though.

PMcP: Yes, FC had the edge on Real after all. It went to overtime and all, but I think the right team won.

ATA: No mistake- FC played a fantastic game and just executed an inch better when it counted.

R: And I think perhaps I underestimated their determination to undo last year's quarterfinal flame-out.

PMcP: And then there was the Hithlum-Eriador contest.

ATA: The one that broke the streak.

R: You had too much faith in Eriador's defense. It's rock-solid, no mistake, but defense doesn't trump offense in the playoffs.

PMcP: Indeed- Hithlum's offense proved equal to Eriador's defense, while Eriador couldn't score themselves. Elrond can't win a game by himself- not with Turin and friends on the field.

ATA: And both Ruhard and I had TIG advancing. Too bad- I was rooting for my home team, but Armenelos just didn't have it in them.

R: TIG just didn't have the weaknesses or lapses to take advantage of.

ATA: And PhantomWolf. Again.

R: Oh, that's right. He's the one that got Armenelos a couple years ago.

ATA: Don't remind me.

PMcP: And how about the next round- will PhantomWolf and TIG continue to impress?

ATA: Yes. They can handle Hithlum's offense as well as about anyone in the tournament. BoroWolf or NilpWolf will be tasked with shadowing Turin and denying him the ball and roughing him up if he gets it, and Drauglin's speed and agility will be used to take Beleg out of the game.

PMcP: So you don't think they go with a more team defense concept like Eriador?

ATA: No. They excel at winning straight up with athleticism.

R: Hithlum isn't a two-man team, though. Hurin and Hador are more than competent scorers.

ATA: TIG will have another Wolf defender to deal with one of them, essentially turning Hithlum into a single-threat squad supported by a midfield and defenders that frankly won't be able to support that well as they'll have their hands full with the TIG attack.

R: The Hithlum defense isn't without teeth. The size and speed of Arroch will be useful, and their Balrog won't be overpowered or made to look unathletic either.

ATA: I doubt Arroch will be at his best around monsters. They'll make him nervous. And Galdor and Gundor certainly can't be expected to outjump or outrun whoever is left.

R: I don't think anyone will be "left". Arroch and the Balrog will be free to roam a bit- they can close out in a hurry. That might not work against an attack like Miriel and Nerdanel, but the TIG attackers don't necessarily specialize in making a series of pinpoint passes in a crowded offensive zone.

PMcP: That's true. They generally favor making big plays off of free kicks and corners and big runs on counters.

R: Exactly. Hithlum will be able to limit their big play opportunities and hamstring their athletic advantage. And once the ball is theirs one of their big playmakers will have a mismatch and the rest of the team knows how to give him a shot.

ATA: And what if TIG calls in help from one of their attackers.

R: Then they'll be that much easier to defend against.

ATA: With their speed PhantomWolf and Thuringwethil can practically play on both sides of the field, though.

R: So can Arroch and the Balrog. They can help the offense more than you think they will, and it won't hurt them getting back.

PMcP: Okay okay guys, what I'm hearing is that both teams can somewhat counter the other. Do you agree with that?

R: To an extent, but Hithlum has the edge.

ATA: I think TIG does.

PMcP: But it's close?

R: Definitely. I'm picking Hithlum 2-1.

ATA: TIG 2-1.

PMcP: I really have no idea if this thing will be low or high scoring. You'd almost think they could shut each other out or score a handful, depending on the philosophy and flow of things.

R: That's why I picked a score in the middle. I could see 1-0 or 4-3 both happening.

ATA: Same here.

PMcP: Well, I'm going with Ruharg here. I think Turin will not be denied sitting so close to the finals. Plus Turin, Hurin, and Beleg all have recent experience getting the best of TIG in that final two years ago.

R: Yep, they'll know how to play TIG.

ATA: But this Hithlum team isn't 2011 Doriath. Melian, Thingol and Luthien aren't back there in front of Huan.

R: Yes, but-

PMcP: No no, we're running too long on this one. We need to keep moving. How about the other semifinal, AC Beleriand vs FC Valinor?

R: I did a column for Angband's paper right after the quarters and I wrote a piece for TIG just yesterday, and I flip-flopped.

ATA: Ha ha, I know how you feel. I was late with a couple of my submissions because I couldn't decide which team to go with.

PMcP: But you stuck with just one after you decided?

ATA: Yes, I figured I may as well just stay true.

PMcP: So, who did you go with?

ATA: *sigh* AC Beleriand.

R: That's who I landed on.

PMcP: Why?

R: Feanor. I think he's kind of due for a dominant game. And especially against three of his sons and his step-mother, I think his competitive juices will be off the charts.

PMcP: So you don't see that being a disadvantage?

R: No. Do you?

PMcP: AC has been exactly what they need to be all tournament, so if Feanor starts pressing I think it may undo the flow of the offense they've established. He might be a little quick to jump on Angrod and Aegnor for doing something he didn't want, or he may try to take it alone when he should give the ball up... I can see several ways that Feanor could undermine the effort.

R: I disagree. I think when he gets that intense will to win it sharpens and focuses him to the point where he'll simply do everything right. His temper won't get the best of him because that would run counter to his goal.

PMcP: Ar-Tar-Aradil?

ATA: I'm not certain that Feanor will be out for blood or anything- I just think AC is the slightly better team.

R: I think if Feanor doesn't make the difference that FC might be slightly better.

PMcP: I think FC is better. Huan has been one of the best keepers in Arda Cup through the years, plus the defense in front of him is better.

ATA: No, I'd give AC the edge on defenders.

R: How? Eonwe and Fingolfin are a wash, and Indis and Imlach bring different skill sets to the table, but they're essentially a wash. Then Maglor and the Balrog- Roggie has the size and strength, but Maglor has the quickness and is better in possession. Then finally it's Thorondor vs Rochallor, and both have speed but Thorondor is faster and bigger. FC has the better defense.

ATA: Give the Balrog more credit- while Maglor might be equally useful in some situations the Balrog is generally the more useful situational defender.

R: Not against these fast-pace pass-happy offenses. Maglor does a better job staying in the hip pocket of an attacker and not getting carded for anything.

PMcP: Wow- you guys are even arguing when you agree on a result.

R: We wouldn't if Ar-Tar would just have better opinions.

ATA: Hey now, I'm the one with the good record this year.

R: Can we continue on to the midfield since we disagree at the rear?

ATA: Certainly- edge AC. Denethor and Ulrad have the slight edge over Elemmire and Findis, while Angrod and Aegnor are a wash with Argon and Yavanna.

R: No, no- Argon has proven himself the equal of the twins, and Yavanna is better. That's an edge to FC.

ATA: But it's undone by the edge held by the other two midfielders.

R: Which at best makes the whole thing a wash.

ATA: You can't deny the AC edge at the front though.

R: *grumble* No, probably not. Celegorm and Curufin are no slouches though.

ATA: I never said they were, but it doesn't get better than Feanor-Eol.

R: But AC's offensive edge is countered by FC's edges at defense and at keeper.

ATA: But I don't even agree that FC has the defensive edge.

PMcP: All right, all right- if we had more time we'd go into this more, but for right now, let's have the picks.

ATA: AC wins it 2-1.

R: AC wins in overtime or in a shootout.

PMcP: And I'm going with 2-1 to FC.

ATA: No matter what it's going to be amazing to watch.

R: No argument there.

PMcP: Okay guys, thanks for coming on. Enjoy watching, and I'll see you next week to rehash things.

ATA: Later.

R: Have a good one.

Nilpaurion Felagund

10-27-2013, 05:16 AM

Elenrod: Question: What’s black and white and red all over? Answer: Eriador battered by Hithlum, with Elrond more than black and blue from Túrin’s rocket. Meanwhile, Valimar huffed and puffed until they were blue, but AC Bel blew them down. Elsewhere, Valinor derby couldn’t be settled in ninety minutes, but Curufin’s goal proves golden as FC Val’s quest for gold continues. And speaking of gold: Ar-Pharazôn scores against TiG, but PhantomWolf and BoroWolf shine. All that, and more, in this colourful edition of The Matchday.With us today is red-faced Maikalomion, who got Eriador-Hithlum wrong.

Maika: Well, I did get half the scores right.

Elenrod: You and your excuses. And with us is pale-faced Adam, who was in awe of AC Bel’s performance.

Adam: I knew they’d win, but I did not see a hammering.

Elenrod: And also on this week’s panel is Felagundion, who’s green with envy at the teams still in tourney. Who did you watch?

Felagundion: Armenelos-TiG. Of course, they lost. Tar-Míriel is out.

Elenrod: Commiserations, Fel. Well, to start off, let’s discuss the game at Vinyamar, Eriador v Hithlum. According to the stats, Eriador had a slight advantage in possession, 53% to Hithlum’s 47%. But why weren’t they able to score.

Adam: They did put the ball in the back of the net, but it was ruled out for offside. They were probably hoping for an early goal so they could force Hithlum to open up and be vulnerable on the break. As it was, they were the ones more vulnerable on the counter due to Morwen and Hador’s runs.

Felagundion: Their legs probably haven’t recovered from that Barad-dûr game, and then they had to chase and battle a bunch of energetic players. You can see after the goal that they were just sitting on the ball, catching their breaths, because none of the midfielders or full-backs could make runs.

Maika: Eriador play a man-marking system, which is amazing, considering the amount of stamina needed to keep up with the athleticism and movement of modern footballers. Usually, you apply man-marking only at limited times or on limited areas of the pitch, like AC Bel’s standard high pressing game or what Valimar did in the opener of their quarterfinals match—more on that later, of course. But it’s tiring to man-mark for ninety minutes, let alone for a hundred and twenty, or, worse, for two straight matches. You can see it on the defenders’ faces when Túrin made that run that led to the goal. Arwen was too gassed to get in front of him, and none of them had the alertness to clear the rebound that Beleg slotted home.

Adam: Isildur just doesn’t have the work rate of Wiki. He and Glorfie were instrumental last year in disrupting opposition build-up plays, easing the defensive burden on everyone behind them.

Elenrod: Well, Glorfindel now plays on the line of attacking midfielders, although he still plays like a wide forward.

Felagundion: Also, may I just say, through gritted teeth I must add, that this was exactly the type of game you wanted Hithlum to win if you wanted them to win the cup; a close, cagey game where chances are hard to come by and the other team have a combative midfield and forwards who can do heinous things on the break. They weren’t dominated in the middle of the park, and they weren’t caught out by any dangerous counterattack.

Elenrod: Adam, you were on the post-game press conference. How did Eriador feel after the game?

Adam: I can show you a clip of my exclusive interview with Elrond.

Elenrod: That would be great.

_____

Adam: Elrond, if I may ask, why do you think you lost this game?

Elrond: We didn’t create enough chances to score. I know you’d be pointing at how we just came from a very exhausting victory over Barad-dûr, but I think we had enough time to recover. Maybe I was too conservative with my setup—I should have given my full-backs greater license to advance, for example. Hithlum were going to get shots no matter how we set our defences up, so a more adventurous approach on our part would have given us the win.

Adam: But you had one less shot than Hithlum had. Don’t you think it has more to do with the lack of composure of your finishers?

Elrond: No, I don’t think so. Isildur and Glorfindel are talented forwards, and, even though we’ve played NogWight in midfield, he used to be a striker for Tol-in-Gaurhoth.

Adam: But Isildur has never been a prolific scorer, and this is statistically Glorfindel’s worst season playing for you.

Elrond: Next question, please.

Adam: What changes will you make to this team to give you a chance to go back to the finals?

Elrond: Not much. Glorfindel and Gil-galad told me they’d be here again next year. In fact, Gil-galad told me that he’s been making some good progress with a relation of his that seems to be leaning towards a return to this region.

Adam: What does that mean?

Elrond: He hasn’t told me yet, either.

Adam: And your attackers? Will you make changes there?

Elrond: Hmm… Given our need to change things up front, there would be some… You know that I also have an eye on Arnor and Imladris, so our team and their teams often exchange talent, depending on our respective needs. But I hope that this squad remains intact coming into 2014.

Adam: Even NogWight?

Elrond: That’s a tough question. We still haven’t got a reply from AFA if he can stay or if he has to return to TiG or the Barrow-Downs due to residence restrictions.

Adam: Thank you for your time, Elrond. Good luck for next year.

_____

Felagundion: Wow, you got through five minutes without being declared persona non grata.

Adam: I have experience interviewing stars, you know. There was that preseason interview with Fëanor last year, for example.

Elenrod: All right, moving along, let’s discuss their semifinal opponent—Tol-in-Gaurhoth, coming off that narrow 2-1 victory over Armenelos in their own stadium.

Adam: I bet Maika was salivating over that. 4-4-2 vs 3-5-2, then a 4-3-3 vs 3-5-2.

Maika: Well, yeah, the tactical adjustments played a part in the result, but it was a game of fine margins, that the turning point was PhantomWolf’s brilliance and BoroWolf’s stamina. In fact, here’s an interesting stat: Armenelos ran 106.3 kilometres in that game, and TiG 117.9. BoroWolf ran 11.5 kilometres—in essence, his effort was the difference between the two teams.

Felagundion: You can see that: by the eightieth minute, Tar-Ancalimon had enough of running after BoroWolf. He owned that right flank. His cross to Thuringwethil led to the opener; his tackle on Tar-Ancalimon led to PhantomWolf’s run that won the free kick; and, of course, he scored the winner.

Maika: PhantomWolf was also instrumental in BoroWolf’s dominion of the right flank—his runs dragged Tar-Calmacil further infield so he couldn’t help on their left, meaning that it was purely a battle between Tar-Ancalimon and BoroWolf for that side of the pitch, which the TiG right-back won.

Adam: Since we’re praising them for the win, of course it’s also essential that we criticise them for getting their first-half formation wrong. Perhaps they thought they could overwhelm Armenelos on the wings, but they didn’t count on the Royals being so good at keeping possession. If they stuck to their usual 4-4-2 diamond, with LegateWight as holder, NerWight and SallyWight as shuttlers, and PhantomWolf as number ten, and getting width from NilpWolf and BoroWolf’s runs, they could have dominated even that opening stage.

Maika: Well, that formation might have left them either lacking in width or very vulnerable at the back. It was slim, but Ar-Pharazôn and Ar-Adûnakhôr had the better of GaladriWight and Draugluin. One of NilpWolf and BoroWolf would have been forced to stay behind just so they could have spare bodies at the back.

Elenrod: Now that we’ve discussed both of their quarterfinal games, how do you think a semifinal tie between Hithlum and TiG would go?

Felagundion: That Hithlum front three looks super-scary. I don’t think we’ll see BoroWolf or NilpWolf going past the halfway line in this game.

Adam: And they have a midfield conundrum—do they change back to the diamond, meaning that Hithlum’s full-backs would be unmarked and free to double up on TiG’s full-backs, or do they stick to 4-4-2 and get outnumbered in the middle of the park? Letting Hithlum have a lot of the ball is, quite frankly, asking for trouble.

Maika: They could ask Thuringwethil to help the midfield; she’s played there before, after all. I don’t know why they didn’t think of doing that in the first half of the Armenelos game, but I guess it’s difficult to change things halfway through a half.

Elenrod: A result, anyone?

Felagundion: …

Adam: …

Maika: … I’m thinking a one-goal Wolves win, just because they’re slightly better across the board. Maybe 3-2 TiG.

Elenrod: Well, then. Let’s move on to the other side of the bracket. First off, there’s AC Bel’s 3-0 destruction of Valimar. How could Manwë ever concede three?

Felagundion: Well, first of all, he’s up against Fëanor. More importantly, though, they gambled in the first fifteen minutes of the game, they failed, and they paid for it.

Maika: Yes, it was that early spell that decided the game. Valimar unnerved AC Bel’s midfield in that fifteen-minute spell—they were unable to get the ball forward and looked under pressure. I think the intention behind that was correct—get the early goal so that AC Bel would be forced to chase the game. But they didn’t get that early goal, and Fëanor and Fingolfin exploited their high defensive line. Then by the second half, after another brief spell of pressure, the fatigue hit their legs and AC Bel scored a third that killed the game.

Adam: That strategy is probably the best way of beating a team as good at keeping possession as AC Bel, but it’s basically a coin-toss. Last year, Real scored after their early pressure and ripped AC Bel apart on the break for the rest of the game. This year, Valimar didn’t score, and they get picked open on the break.

Elenrod: That was rather unanimous. Well, then. The final quarterfinal game was the Valinor derby. FC Val gets the better of Real, again, with Curufin nicking an extra-time goal in their 2-1 victory. And to tell us about this one, calling all the way from Rómenna, Iorithil of QN Sport. Hello, Iorithil.

Iorithil: Good morning, Elenrod.

Elenrod: Let’s get down to it, then. The Valinor derby: some people thought that the game was too open. A few even called it sloppy from both sides, relying too much on their talents and athleticism instead of a shared tactical philosophy and structure.

Iorithil: Well, yes, it was basically an end-to-end game, far too open for a normal knockout tie, but you know how these derby games take a life of their own. For one thing, the form book’s often thrown out the window. Well, both teams were in sparkling form coming into the game, but many believed that Real would be sharper, having beaten two genuinely good teams to get there, whereas FC Val strolled through their games. And another thing is, both teams want not only to win, but to win while imposing their style on the game.

Elenrod: So what styles do these two teams have? And did FC Val impose theirs on the game?

Iorithil: Well, the funny thing is, they basically both have broadly the same style. Everything starts from their Valarin defensive solidity and verticality. Remember that First Age clásico when it took Valinor ages to attack Angband, and people had to wait for the last minute for a goal, but it took only one Manwë long ball to release Eönwë and score the only goal of the game? Now Valimar—Manwë teams in general—are the ones most faithful to this philosophy, but the Valinor teams adhere to it to some extent. It’s just that they married it to the Noldorin concept of possessiveness and creativity. This is why the attacking force of both teams has been built around a pair of Noldorin strikers. That Curufin goal was basically the combination of verticality—FC Val took just two touches from Thorondor’s clearance to the net—and creativity that epitomised both team’s philosophy—well, there was also the belief in individual talent that FC Val had.

Elenrod: Did the Valinor press think it was a fair result?

Iorithil: Well, for one thing, they’re glad it didn’t end in a penalty shoot-out, which is generally a disappointment for the Valinor crowd. And FC Val were slightly better in that game, so yeah, they thought it was fair.

Elenrod: Any prediction for their semifinal match with AC Bel?

Iorithil: I think AC Bel wouldn’t be drawn to FC Val’s franticness—they’d control the game with possession before slicing the defence open—so FC Val’s best chance is to do what Valimar did—high-intensity pressure to get the early goal, forcing AC Bel to play instead of keeping the ball. The early fifteen to twenty minutes is important—if FC Val get that early goal, I think they’ll win. If not, it’ll be difficult. I think they’ll do better than Valimar. 2-1 FC Val

Elenrod: Thanks for your thoughts, Iorithil.

Iorithil: My pleasure. Speak to you soon.

Elenrod: All right, then. Anything to add?

Adam: Nope.

Elenrod: I see. Well, before we go, what’s your favourite goal of the week?

Adam: Curufin’s winner. The way he rounded Tulkas, an Arda Cup-winning goalie, was just oozing with confidence. Stating the obvious here, but I think he’s the key to beating AC Bel.

Maika: Speaking of AC Bel, Fingolfin’s goal was a classic example of how their high pressing combines both defence and offence in one smooth play. Angrod nicks the ball from Elenwë in Valimar’s half and then start a four-on-four break that left Manwë helpless.

Felagundion: PhantomWolf’s opener was almost a perfect thunderbuster. Too bad it wasn’t from outside the area, but from the way he hit, I was certain that, had someone tried to block it, he would have died.

Maika: Speaking of that, an interesting stat: Túrin’s shot that broke Elrond’s finger and led to their opener was clocked at around 144 kph (90 mph). PhantomWolf’s shot? 186 kph (116 mph). So maybe you’re right.

Felagundion: Ouch.

Elenrod: You covered most of the good goals, so I’ll take something totally different. In fact, it wasn’t a goal. Did you see that Glorfindel 180 turn (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/iniesta-180_zps953f86dd.gif~original) on Aradan and Gundor.

Maika: Glorfindel’s close control is still something special, even if his stats this year are down.

Elenrod: I agree. And with that we’ve come to the end of yet another edition of The Matchday. Many thanks to all of you, and we’ll be back after the semifinals. Speak to you then.

Nogrod

10-29-2013, 04:21 PM

There are only really good teams left so no game will be inevitable or easy to any one team. There are no clear winners or even favourites at this point – only some different grades of differences which will play out this or that way. And with the debatable exception of a few teams it is easy to see we have the top four teams of the tournament left at this point.

Many say that with different groupings etc. we could have had Real Valinor, or Nargothrond, or Angband, or Armenelos, or… in this final four. But the AKM actually thinks that only Real Valinor would have seriously challenged the four top teams in a simple series of games where everyone played each other.

So more or less, we have the best left.

AC Beleriand vs. FC Valinor

It is a game of two quite equal keepers. Marach of AC Beleriand with 84,2% (3/19) and Huan of FC Valinor with 84,6% (2/13). But looking at the number of shots saved the AKM thinks Marach is actually the hotter goalie at the moment – but it is very close anyway.

It is a game of two tough defences. AC Beleriand defences have allowed more shots against them (19/54 vs. FC’s 13/44) but they have also been more dangerous in the attack. That said, the AKM thinks the FC Valinor defence is slightly better in what it is there to do in the first place aka. Defending – so a slight edge there for FC Valinor.

It is a game of two midfields where the balance is as even as it can be. With the defencive midfielders AC Beleriand has the edge and with the offencive ones FC Valinor has it. But in sum, the AKM thinks that the dangerousness of Argon and Yavanna over Angrod and Aegnor is more relevant to the final score than the slightly better numbers of Denethor and Ulrad over Elemmirë and Findis in the more defencive end. So the midfield goes ever so slightly to FC Valinor.

But it is is also – and most formidably – a game of two attacks both trying to outshine and -perform each other. And even if the brothers Celegorm and Curufin are known through the footballing Arda as the wonderboys or the killer-duet, it must be said that this year Fëanor and Eöl have formed an even more dangerous pair and the scales fall toward them being the favourites…

So basically it is even, two strongpoints against two: goaltending and attack for Ac Beleriand, defence and midfield for FC Valinor.

But because of some of the discrepancies there the AKM concludes that AC Beleriand (mostly because of their defences ability to score and the importance of a great finishers – two of them, not just one as Celegorm hasn’t quite shown his qualities this year) is the slight favourites to win the game and proceed to the final.

Hithlum vs. Tol-in-Gaurhoth

Unlike the other semifinal, this one is played between two very different teams by their profiles. Even if the T-i-G –team became famous in their first games as a team that shoots a lot they are now meeting a team that is sovereign in that area: if Hithlum is dangerous in one field of the game, that is shooting. Hithlum shoots a lot and they shoot efficiently – 14 goals in five games gives you the rough idea, it’s almost three goal per game. Meanwhile T-i-G has only made two goals per game.

But on the other side of the coin is the defence. Hithlum has given in seven goals in five matches aka. about 1½ per game – while T-i-G has given in only three goals (a little bit over ½ goal per game).

The question then becomes whether the T-i-G can take the bombardment of Hithlum without allowing too many goals while being able to score enough to win themselves.

One clue to that question lies, naturally, on the goalkeepers. Huor’s percentage of 77,4% is slightly worse than ShastaWolf’s 80%, but when you see that Húor has faced 31 shots while ShastaWolf has only faced 15 the difference kind of melts away – with almost the same percentage Húor has caught 24 shots while ShastaWolf has only caught 12. So a slight edge here woud go to Hithlum.

On the other hand, the difference between goals scored (advantage to Hithlum 14-10 aka less than one third) and goals allowed (advantage to T-i-G 3-7 aka. over half) would bring the advantage back to the T-i-G.

In a sense this is the harder game to predict than the other one, due to the different approaches of the teams to the game.

The AKM is drawn to predict Hithlum to win because of their record in earlier games: unlike T-i-G, Hithlum has played against wildly charging teams and fex. won Nargothrond 5-2 and managed to squeeze a win from the defending champs Eriador – meanwhile T-i-G has shown they have what it takes to beat strong defences but not how to handle a wildly overwhelming attack Hithlum will serve them.

the phantom

11-03-2013, 01:54 PM

Angband Attempts to Outshine Valinor
The Phantom, MESPN News

Gracious as he is, Eru decided to give Valinor every opportunity to prove themselves after the lifting of the ban on hosting games. Their opportunities will culminate next week as they host the finals of Arda Cup. But knowing that such a move would be unpopular with some, Eru awarded the semifinals to the polar opposite- Angband.

Many of Melkor's friends and associates had been blasting Valinor for years before the ban, and now they were given the perfect opportunity to make good on their words. Hosting back to back in this fashion, all of Arda would be allowed the opportunity to compare the two and see which one truly knew how to host football properly.

Some, like Monster Magazine sports editor Ruharg, believe that Eru's decision was very wise indeed. "Angband has been calling out Valinor for years as hypocrites, and making a big show of the discrimination and violence of the Valar. With Valinor set to host immediately after them, how could Angband not put their best foot forward and try to prove that they can do things right? And then in the finals, how could Valinor not try and outperform Angband? Eru set this up so that the conditions will be as perfect as anyone could hope for. I think things will be as peaceful and organized and controlled in these semis and finals as ever they were."

One step Melkor has made to ensure a smooth pair of games is he has elected to prepare and use both arenas- the ancient underground arena modeled after Utumno Underground, and the somewhat larger and more famous outdoor arena burrowed between the triple-peaked Thangorodrim.

One of the hallmarks of the outdoor arena was the constant canopy of roiling smoke that blotted out light and gave an atmosphere of a burning battlefield, especially when combined with the occasional rumblings of the ground that made it feel as if catapults were bombarding the stadium. But Melkor was doing away with this trademark. "Most of the players on AC Beleriand and FC Valinor, and most of their fans, wish to play the game in a less hostile and foreign atmosphere. Rest assured the air will be clear when the squads take the field for the afternoon match."

By no means was Melkor expected to make such a concession- it was rather expected that the stadium would be take as-is. This gesture of welcoming and accommodation has to make those in Valinor sit up and take notice. Melkor has raised the bar on what a host site can do.

The late match between Hithlum and Tol-In-Gaurhoth would be played in the loud and formidable underground arena, lit by the light of many fires, and at times stiflingly hot. Many have wondered if Angband was attempting to show favoritism for Tol-In-Gaurhoth, but there is no clear consensus. Some have even posited that the Werewolves would prefer the cold, what with their thick fur and all, whereas Hithlum has playing for them a Balrog who will feel right at home.

When asked about the use of both stadiums, Melkor said that the primary concern was the flow of fans. "I don't want fans of the first game to be chased out like thieves. Let them stay and celebrate a while, or drown their sorrows, depending on which side they supported. Meanwhile the Hithlum and TIG fans can get in their rows nice and early and get in the spirit of things." Melkor also acknowledged that other sites had had problems with TIG fans in the past, and said that hosting them underground would make things easier. "They have to pass by checkpoints to get in or out, so rest assured they can't bring anything in that we won't know about, and they won't be able to escape out easily if they've misbehaved."

All in all it looks like Arda Cup is set to have a fine semifinal where the main thing to talk about will be the matches on the field.

Nogrod

11-06-2013, 01:49 PM

AC Beleriand vs. Real Valinor
By the AKM

Many eybrows were raised when it was told by Melkor’s press-secretary that the game between AC Beleriand and FC Valinor would be the afternoon-match and thus, in a way, the game between Hithulm and T-i-G had been promoted to a kind of the “main game on the day” –status. So while making concessions with the clearance of the ever-present smoke and darkness, and forcing off the trembling of the earth, Melkor was still able to humiliate the greatest heroes of the High-elves and the Ainur.

Even with the smoke and darkness gone the stadium under the pillars of Thangorodrim was imposing enough to make weaker mortals and even elves shudder with unnameable anquish. But despite that the stadium was filled to the brim for the first game – and with the rays of the afternoon sun finally reaching the plains and greeting the spectators to mark the beginning of the game the overall mood was actually lifted. And people were actually praising Morgoth for his benevolence – which was a real annoyance to some of the Valar present. “He just lifts a burden for a moment he has himself imposed in the first place” they complained, but enjoying the rays of the sun was enough to most lesser souls – and the feeling was high when the game began.

~*~

The name of the game was soon revealed to everyone. To counter – or to actually prevent AC Beleriand’s possession-play – FC Valinor was pressing heavily the AC Beleriand midfield and defenders forcing them into errors and creating nice opportunities from stealing the ball – but when AC Beleriand managed to get past the pressure and get the ball up to their famous “diamond” of brothers Angrond and Aegnor, Eöl and Fëanor, the FC Valinor defences were having hard times to keep their own goal safe. The result was a nightmare to any coach but extremely spectator-friendly play with great chances of scoring at both ends from the get-go.

Some analysts at Tar-Eldar Network had pointed out that it would be very important for FC Valinor to get the first goal, hopefully early on to the game, so that they could force AC Beleriand to play more openly. But that was exactly what did not happen.

On the contrary AC Beleriand scored the first goal of the game at the 22nd minute after a beautiful cross-passing by the “diamond” which totally ripped the FC Valinor defences apart and left Fëanor no problems finishing it off from close quarters.

After the goal it seemed for a while FC Valinor was too dumbfounded to actually do anything as their scenario had failed totally – and AC Beleriand took advantage of that by taking the possession of the ball and building up their attacks slowly but dangerously. But FC Valinor was not going to leave it at that, and little by little they started to get the hang of the game once more and started coming more aggressively towards the AC Beleriand players – it cost them a few yellow cards but it did change the spirit of the game and AC Beleriand was once again forced to fight an uphill struggle to bring the ball upwards and basically rendered them unable to make long possessions.

All that was cut off by the half-time whistle.

It was clear both teams hade been thinking about their best strategies during the half-time and came to the field both with some brand new ideas. FC Valinor had clearly decided to fall back with their pressure to both avoid more cards but also to contain AC Beleriand’s attacking quartet. The idea was simply to let the AC Beleriand to possess the ball and bring most of their team up to the attack and then by a quick steal let their strong forwards Celegorm and Curufin make their way through the field from the center of the fied where they would be waiting for the occasion – the speed of Yavanna and sharpeness of Argon’s long passes would be instrumental in that, of course. And they could deliver the ball up fast.

Sadly from FC Valinor’s point of view AC Beleriand had dropped the idea of possessing the ball away and was going for very straight and fast offence with a lots of players left downstairs to keep the lead secure instead.

Suddenly there was a total misbalance on the field. FC Valinor’s fastbreaks were futile as Celegorm and Curufin faced four to six defenders in front of them. And FC Valinor’s attempts at “containing of the diamond” were more or less pathetic compared to the speed especially Fëanor and Eöl went left and right and to and fro searching for room to be passed the ball to – totally breaking the diamond-formation the defneces were trying to defend against.

And so it was that Fëanor striked again before FC Valinor had had time enough to correct their tactics enough. It was a nice centering from close to the corner-flag Eöl gave and Fëanor just plain outmanouvered his son Maglor (whom he had always considered a kind of a sissy coming too much to his mom) and booted the ball in behind Huan with fierce force.

On top of other problems FC Valinor had it seemed not to be Huan’s day – it was two goals from four shots towards the goal. 50% is not exactly what one is used to from Huan.

Even if their father was celebrating his second goal, it was not in the spirit of Fëanor’s sons to give up – even to their dad. To the amazement of all the spectators and even AC Beleriand players it seemed that Thorondor, Eönwe and Yavanna seemed to suddenly to grow in stature while all the three sons of Fëanor began to radiate some holy (or unholy) glow – and Huan was roaring wildly like giving a battle cry. Even many dark creatures on the stands were frightened by the show-off.

It was a kind of “put away tactical finesse, we come now for real” –moment. And FC Valinor really started to play like there was a fire in their back. They were on the skin of everyone trying to possess the ball and getting it themselves they came forwards like a hurricane aiming just towards one place, AC Beleriand goal.

Suddenly the cards were turned upside down and AC Beleriand which had more or less commanded the pace of the game thus far were forced to draw back towards their own goal under the pressure of the whirlwind called FC Valinor. Even Fëanor seemed helpless to turn the tide – and Fingolfin and the Balrog were having their hands and feet full, unable to strech everywhere when other defenders seemed to fall.

Eönwe led many of the attacks like a herald of Mänwe should in a time of trouble, and so awesome he was the orcs and goblins in the stands had to shut their eyes – only the Balrog in the defence could face him and keep him from scoring with ease. Yavanna had grown and turned into a fearsome white-green light swirling around the field making the rest of the Melkor’s minions at the stands to cry in pain – and only Rochallor and his master Fingolfin were steady enough to contain her – but sometimes it took both of them to do that.

Which left Fëanor to deal with his two mighty sons who were pressing towards the goal relentlessly.

And so it was in the end that Curufin, the son who it was said was most like his father, forced his way away from his dad while Celegorm held him at bay – and with the accurate pass from Argon received the ball around the penalty spot. Shooting from the bottom of his heart Curufin left Marach no chance whatsoever to pick the shot.

It was a one goal game again and there was about twenty minutes left. It was building up to be a great finale for the game. The spectators were all standing now.

FC Valinor didn’t ease up their game a bit and AC Beleriand was in great trouble.

On 73rd minute Eönwe broke free from the Balrog’s guard and fired a booming shot to the crossbar from the edge of the box making the crowds to let out a loud “Oooh!”.

Two minutes later Yavanna got Fingolfin and Rochallor to stumble on each other and got free only to be denied the ball by a last-second slide by Aegnor. From the ensuing corner Findis headed the ball just inches away from the post.

On 78th minute it was Curufin and Celegorm –show once again. Fooling their father they passed the ball between themselves and were getting open to shoot when Rochallor galloped to the scene at the last moment and kicked the ball off the field and high up to the stands.

Fëanor was yelling at his team – and so was Fingolfin, and the Balrog… They were gathering strength for the last ten minutes. And it seemed to ease their plight for a moment. For a long time AC Beleriand was able to go for an attack – and it was actually only a cool save by Huan that prevented AC Beleriand from taking the quite unassailable – and against-the-odds – lead 3-1 when Eöl was set free to run one-on-one with Huan.

With “all or nothing” game at hand FC Valinor was not taken back by AC Beleriand’s newly found spirits but pressed on with all they had to throw on attack.

On 83rd minute Thorondor winged the ball towards the upper-right corner of the goal from a great center by Yavanna but Marach tipped it away. Yea. Even Thorondor had come up at the last minutes and FC Valinor was leaving their defences to chance now. It was a goal or nothing.

On 86th minute Argon managed to dribble Denethor and was left open to give a perfect pass towards the middle from between Rochallor’s hooves – and Yavanna dashed to it leaving Fingolfin behind. Sliding to the ball she tipped it forwards… and Marach dived for the save… just missing the ball by an inch… and the ball rolled… to the post!

There was a great sigh from the audience. And then Imlach booted the ball far to the other side of the field forcing a host of FC Valinor players to run for their money to catch the ball before the AC Beleriand players could break through – which was in the end shot back to the AC Beleriand side of the field by Huan coming off from his goal to meet the ball.

There was only two minutes left of the game and FC Valinor was having the game stick on the AC Beleriand half of the pitch. With the exception of Huan who was impatiently strolling around the center-circle of the field all the players were deep in the AC Beleriand half.

The clock was ticking away the precious seconds.

FC Valinor defenders were passing the ball around 40 meters away trying to find any free spaces to pass the ball forwards while being harrassed by AC Beleriand’s few forward disturbers (Angrod, Aegnor and Eöl who were really giving them a rough time). Itseemed totally deadlocked – until Angrod charged Maglor to the ankles and the referee called a free kick from 35 meters. There was one minute on the clock.

After a short discussion Thorondor and Eönwe stood behind the ball and all the others took their places around the edge of the box held closely by AC Beleriand players.

Thorondor took off towards the ball with one great swing of his wings but just as he was reaching the ball he actualy dived forwards and Eönwe dashed into a run. It took the defenders a moment to realise what was going on – and then it seemed late to move…

When Thorondor was just about to pass the defending line Eönwe’s hammer of a kick was flying forwards – and Thorondor turned a bit sideways mid-fly in the air to accommodate the onrushing ball and to… yes, wing it in!
Among the astonished players the Balrog was awake though and not only saw what was going on but was also able to act. With a flash of an eye he produced something totally controversial: his wings!

In a flash and clash of wings Thorondor tried to steer the ball into the net… and was denied by the Balrog’s wing sending the ball high up into the air and flying off the stadium’s walls.

After a short discussion between the referees it was judged as a throw-in for FC Valinor. The clock was already ticking overtime…

It was going to be the last chance.

Yavanna went to give in the throw. Curufin demanded the ball and so did Celegorm – while Eönwe was calling for the ball at the other side and Thorondor at third. Even Huan had come forwards and showed his eagerness to give the last shot.

Willing to try the last card Yavanna threw the ball to Huan who ran for it and gave it a shot of a lifetime – from the power of the shot the ball sped through the air with incredible speed and past the defenders… only to miss the post by half a meter.

With Marach getting the ball back from the stands and readying to kick the opening shot the referee finally blew his whistle. It was game over.

AC Beleriand had advanced to the final. But surely, not without a fight.

AC Beleriand 2-1 FC Valinor
on target 5-7
tot shots 14-17
GOALS:
*22, 1-0 Fëanor (Angrod)
*55, 2-0 Fëanor (Eöl)
*68, 2-1 Celegorm (Argon)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ACBel- Angrod
*FCVal- Celegorm, Thorondor

Nilpaurion Felagund

11-09-2013, 12:27 AM

Utumno Arena
Hithlum vs Tol-in-Gaurhoth

The second semifinal of the 2013 Arda Cup was to be held in the underground arena in Utumno, also known as ‘Hell’s Pit’ to the locals. The name came easily to those who saw the thousand torches and bonfires that illuminated the stadium. Smoke had started gathering in some stands, and had begun rolling towards the pitch itself; Hithlum fans suspected that this was no accident, that Morgoth and Angband, who had strong sympathy with the Wolves (two of their players had once played for Angband), were trying to recreate conditions similar to those in ‘the Den’, the Wolves’ home arena in Tol-in-Gaurhoth. Hithlum captain Hador had already approached the Avari referee, asking him to stop the game in case the smoke interfered with visibility on the pitch.

Three thousand denizens of the Barrow-Downs forums assembled to cheer for their team. While they were outnumbered by forty thousand Hithlum supporters who made their way into enemy territory, they were reinforced by the home crowd, who cheered for the lycan team as if they were their own.

However, it was no ordinary team they were up against, and no amount of intimidation would work on them. Many of the Hithlum players had died (or, in Húrin’s case, lived) within sight of Angband, and they knew well the terror of Morgoth’s stronghold. These players had nerves of mithril and could not be psyched out—they had to be outplayed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/tigvhth_zps82e2a43e.jpg~original
[Hithlum in yellow and dark red; Tol-in-Gaurhoth in green and black.]

One of the biggest questions coming into the game was TiG’s formation—more specifically the number of central midfielders they would field. It turned out that they stuck to the 4-3-3 they beat Armenelos with, making everyone think that they would battle Hithlum for possession without conceding the flank. But NerWight, SallyWight, and LegateWight sat in their own half instead of pressing Hithlum’s midfielders, springing only into action when Aradan crossed the halfway line. Every recovered ball was sent quickly to the wings, where PhantomWolf or Thuringwethil stormed forward and combined with InzilWolf.

NilpWolf moved to central defence to provide strength against the on-form Túrin, while BoroWolf matched endurance with Húrin. GaladriWight tracked Beleg’s forward runs, but refrained from following the winger whenever he dropped deep. Draugluin was the spare defender and swept up behind them, occasionally barking orders about retaining shape.

Hithlum had lion’s share of possession in the opening spell of the game, but Hador and Morwen were repeatedly rebuffed when they attempted playing the ball to the final third. NerWight and SallyWight kept goalward of them, while LegateWight was quietly efficient in cutting off passing lanes to the Hithlum forwards. In the first fifteen minutes of the game, Hithlum may have had 57% of the ball, but the Wolves had already mustered three shots to Hithlum’s none—and, more importantly, they were a goal ahead.

LegateWight intercepted a Hador through ball for Húrin and sent the ball quickly to PhantomWolf on the right. The TiG number 10 ran at Galdor, and InzilWolf brilliantly faked a far post run, as if to meet a cross, before quickly changing direction and taking PhantomWolf’s lay off. He fired a snapshot that Huor did well to bat away. The lycan forward was also involved in the ensuing play. Thuringwethil met NerWight’s corner kick at the near post, but instead of trying for goal himself, she set InzilWolf up wonderfully for an unstoppable close-range volley that beat Huor.

Hithlum committed more players forward in search of an equaliser, leaving themselves vulnerable to the Wolves’ counterattacking strategy. Shortly past the half-hour mark, Draugluin cleared a Beleg cross, and SallyWight sent it long to PhantomWolf, who stormed forward with acres of space before him. Aradan was forced to bring him down at the edge of the area, conceding a free kick and receiving a yellow card in the process. PhantomWolf himself took the free kick. Again, InzilWolf was prominently involved in the subsequent play—displaying his brilliant change-of-direction play once more, he made a nuisance of himself at the far post, before spinning and dashing for the near post just as PhantomWolf took the kick. His booming header forced an outstanding reflex save from the Hithlum shotstopper, but the rebound spilled into SallyWight’s path, and she stabbed it home into an empty net.

‘Two-nil, and it’s not even half-time,’ the Wights and Wolves chanted, soon taken up by orcs, trolls, and other nameless creatures of the home crowd. Meanwhile, shortly before play restarted, Túrin conferred briefly with his captain Hador. ‘Keep the midfield back and just send the ball to me. I’ll win every header.’ It might have seemed a boast coming from any other player, but the Hithlum talisman’s eyes glinted with determination. He would turn this game around, or die trying.

After this change in tactic, Hithlum mustered two good chances before the half time whistle. Túrin did seem to win every header, although he often got too rough with NilpWolf in their duels—at one point, he got booked for elbowing the Wolves defender hard in the face. The lycan rolled on the ground and cried in pain, screaming, ‘The pain, the pain! Lynch me! For Eru’s sake, lynch me now!’ His performance might have influenced the referee into reaching for his card, because no one else was convinced the Werewolf was really hurt. But in other instances, the Hithlum forward headed the ball past the Tol-in-Gaurhoth defensive line for his father to run into; unfortunately, Húrin got the ball too close to the byline, and his shot from a very acute angle sailed wide of ShastaWolf’s left-hand post.

Shortly before half time, he chip-headed an effort at goal past ShastaWolf, only for his attempt to land on the roof of the net.

The Hithlum faithful were on tenterhooks during the break; they had once overturned a tactical difficulty against Nargothrond with an inspired formation change, but they feared that the Wolves were too cunning to be outthought like that. The second half soon began with no changes in either team’s strategy: Hithlum kept seven players behind the ball, sending long passes for Túrin, while Tol-in-Gaurhoth kept their shape, snapping into tackles only when Morwen or Hador tried to bring the ball into their half. Túrin kept winning an absurdly high number of aerial duels, but he found his space easily smothered by the two centre-backs, sometimes aided by LegateWight. His knockdown targets Húrin and Beleg were ably corralled by the TiG full-backs. If they were to break through the Wolves defence, they really needed the help of their midfield.

The Hithlum front line did induce a moment of panic among the Wolves back four. An hour into the game, Balrog #5 sent a long ball, but this time not for Túrin but for his father. Húrin won the header, brought it down, and turned on Boro before the rest of the defence could reorient themselves. NilpWolf shifted right to contain him, and Draugluin switched on Túrin. Húrin sent a short cross to his son, who easily outleapt his marker and sent a goalbound effort from the penalty spot. Fortunately, Shasta was at hand to keep him out, and his clearance fell to GaladriWight, who sent it forward to Thuringwethil. The vampire tried to dribble infield, but Arroch shepherded him to the touchline, rebuffing all her attempts to link up with InzilWolf. The TiG centre forward jogged closer to Thuringwethil, dragging Balrog #5 with him. He had noticed PhantomWolf’s infield run from the opposite wing, and his movement left Gundor all alone to contain the Wolves playmaker. Thuringwethil sent a low cross, and Balrog #5 slid in to clear it, but the ball bounced awkwardly off his knee and into his arms. The referee whistled and pointed to the penalty spot, then brought out a yellow card for the Hithlum defender.

The Hithlum fans were outraged. Balrog #5 pleaded with the ref, telling him that the ball hit his arm, not the other way around. But the referee shook his head; the ball bounced into the byline instead of continuing on its path, meaning that he had controlled the ball with his arm. Balrog #5 spun away with a huff; Hador had to grab his shoulder to tell him to calm down, lest he get sent off.

And so it was a penalty to Tol-in-Gaurhoth. PhantomWolf stepped up to take it, lashing it into the top-left corner before Huor could react. The stadium exploded as the Angband crowd howled in delight. ‘Three-nil to the empty seats,’ they chanted, gleeful that the shoulders of the Hithlum supporters have dropped.

Hithlum players gritted their teeth. They were so close, throwing the Wolves off-guard when they sent the ball to Húrin instead of to Túrin, but their goalkeeper made an excellent save, and they immediately started a counter just as Hador and Morwen advanced to reinforce their attackers. The players of Hithlum were not ones to admit defeat easily, but most of them could see that overhauling a three-goal deficit in less than half an hour against an excellently defending side required nothing short of a miracle. Only Túrin and his father had any fight left in them, and Tol-in-Gaurhoth smartly shifted to 4-4-2, the same formation they used to shut Armenelos out in the closing stages of their quarterfinal tie.

Hithlum now had an extra player in the centre of the pitch, and they managed to pass their way past the Wolves’ midfield barrier. But with the front band of four just a few metres ahead of the back four, there was no space for the advancing midfielders to manoeuvre in, and they repeatedly lost the ball, prompting even more bare-bones counterattacking (‘Route One plays’) from Tol-in-Gaurhoth—a downfield hoof from a clearance to their two centre forwards who were fifty metres ahead of the midfield. Hithlum’s defenders were able to contain Inzilwolf and Thuringwethil, but with their movement they managed to occupy all four defenders, giving them second thoughts about advancing to help on the offensive.

There were ten minutes left in the game when PhantomWolf conceded a free kick to the left of the box after a clumsy challenge on Beleg. The Doriath march-warden took the free kick, and Húrin’s dummy header fooled half the TiG defenders in the box, leaving Túrin relatively free to take a shot. ‘Relatively free’ in his case meant that the head and feet of NilpWolf and Draugluin came at him from many directions, but, without jumping, he fired an overhead back-heel over NilpWolf’s shoulder with such ferocity that ShastaWolf was unable to contest the shot.

But that was the last time Hithlum would ever seriously threaten Tol-in-Gaurhoth. In the last nine minutes, the Wolves defended with ferocity, closing down anyone who came within five metres of their penalty area and rushing to intercept every through ball. Hithlum, like Armenelos before them, looked bereft of ideas how to break through that wall. Soon, the final whistle was blown, and one of the tournament’s best players was relegated to playing the consolation game. As for the Wolves, they were playing their second final in three years. Last time it took Melian’s super team to deny them the cup. This year, maybe they could finally get their paws on it.

Hithlum 1-3 Tol In Gaurhoth
GOALS:
15, 0-1 InzilWolf (Thuringwethil)
32, 0-2 SallyWight (InzilWolf)
66, 0-3 PhantomWolf
81, 1-3 Túrin (Beleg)

Total Shots
16-14

Shots On Target
4-7

YELLOW CARDS:
3-2
HTH: Túrin, Aradan, Balrog#5
TIG: Draugluin, PhantomWolf

Nilpaurion Felagund

11-09-2013, 01:07 AM

Bracket:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/bracket-matchday-7_zps107987e4.png~original

Top Individual Performers:
(Players in italics are from eliminated teams.)

GOALS + ASSISTS
6+2
Túrin (Hithlum)

5+2
Curufin (FC Valinor)
Fëanor (AC Beleriand)

4+3
Eöl (AC Beleriand)

4+2
PhantomWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)

3+3
Beleg (Hithlum)

1+4
Yavanna (FC Valinor)

0+4
Angrod (AC Beleriand)

GOALKEEPING
84.62% – 22/26 – Marach (AC Beleriand)
83.33% – 15/18 – Elrond (Eriador)
81.25% – 13/16 – Ungoliant (Anfauglith)
80.95% – 17/21 – Tulkas (Real Valinor)
80.77% – 21/26 – Arvedui (Arnor)

Nogrod

11-26-2013, 07:59 PM

So it's the time of the finals again.

The T-I-G -team has shown to the doubters (including the AKM) they're in it for real this year after a few year's flying low. Whether their possible success will generate renewed calls for disarming their Werewolf-capabilities once again will remain to be seen. But it is clear what the purists will say...

But AC Beleriand has been in top form this year and many fans would love to see them making good their stumbling at the last hurdle the previous year. That hope is not at all overstreched. AC Beleriand really looks like the toughest Arda -team this year.

Here are the numbers:

AC Beleriand 15-4 (6-0-0)
Shots made: 40/89
Shots allowed: 26/71
Attack: 15/89 (16,9%)
Marach: 4/26 (84,6%)

Tol-In-Gaurhoth 13-4 (5-1-0)
Shots made: 36/91
Shots allowed: 19/69
Attack: 13/91 (14,3%)
ShastaWolf: 4/19 (78,9%)

As the numbers show, T-I-G has allowed considerably less shots towards their goal, but AC Beleriand is both the more active shooter and has a better goalie.

So it will be a very hard game to predict, but the AKM thinks AC Beleriand will prevail - at least it would be Righteous if that happened.

On the Bronze-Game the situation is as hairy - adding to it the fact that different players and teams take playing for the third place with varying interest. So who'll have more pure will to win a game after a big disappointment?

So who will arise from the ashes, Fëanor's sons or Húrin's children?

FC Valinor 13-4 (5-0-1)
Shots made: 38/88
Shots allowed: 18/58
Attack: 13/88 (16,9%)
Huan: 4/18 (77,8%)

Hithlum 15-10 (4-0-2)
Shots made: 43/101
Shots allowed: 38/91
Attack: 15/101 (14,9%)
Húor: 10/38 (73,7%)

Both teams have done some real feats this year but the numbers would suggest there is but one favourite for the game: Hithlum does shoot more, considerably so if you count all the shots they make - but looking at the shots actually towards the goal the difference isn't that drastic. And on all other fronts FC Valinor is clearly having the upper hand: they let the opponents to shoot towards their goal about half the shots Hithlum does, they are more efficient in scoring, they have a better goal keeper...

The only thing is, football is not only statistics. And there lies the chance of Hithlum.

That said, the AKM predicts FC Valinor to take the Bronze medals - unless Curufin and Celegorm are too frustrated to play the game with a full effort...

Nilpaurion Felagund

12-03-2013, 02:36 AM

Elenrod: Dagor Bragollach. Nirnaeth Arnoediad. The plague that killed Lalaith. Mr Hador, your boys took a hell of a beating. Today: Won’t someone lynch them? Tol-in-Gaurhoth literally maul Hithlum and put, not one, not two, but three crosses on their title challenge. Meanwhile: Dagor Bragollach. Nirnaeth Arnoediad. Getting expelled from Nargothrond. Mr Curufin, your boys took a hell of a beating. Fëanor ordered his sons to go to their rooms—or, rather, the third-place match. This is the Matchday, coming to you very late because we’ve run out of things to say in the intro. But our panellists would never run out of words. Isn’t that right, tactics guru Maikalomion?

Maika: I always have plenty to say.

Elenrod: And someone who is equally not lacking in quantity of utterances, Adam Smith of ArdaCup.com.

Adam: Is that another way of saying, ‘Someone who doesn’t shut up’?

Elenrod: Could be, could be. And I don’t know what he’ll contribute to the conversation, but he’s here, anyway: blogger Felagundion.

Felagundion: Of course I’m here. You’re practically slave-driving me to be on this show.

Elenrod: But that’s another day closer to freedom, isn’t it? And finally—we’ve dragged him back from Angband—Iorithil of Quenta Noldorin Sport.

Iorithil: Hello.

Elenrod: Well, then, we have two very thrilling matches to discuss. Which one shall we start with?

Adam: FC Val were once again statistically the best team in the tournament, but they fail to reach the finals.

Felagundion: Of course, the best teams don’t always win these tournaments. Having to win four one-off matches in a row also requires a bit of luck.

Elenrod: So, were AC Bel lucky?

Maika: I once said that AC Bel’s playing style makes them immune to upsets, that you have to outplay them in all three areas of the pitch—especially in the midfield—to beat them. But that same style makes them a tough out for stronger teams. Well, ‘stronger’ is a relative term; both teams are separated only by inches in talent.

Iorithil: It was indeed a game of fine margins. You’d expect FC Val’s front line to be so good at pressing defenders into mistakes, especially with Celegorm and Curufin up front, and Yavanna and Argon behind them, but they seemed to lack the energy to do so—maybe their game with Real tired them. There was that tackle that got Celegorm booked; basically, he was late to the challenge and just lashed a boot out at Rochallor.

Maika: Also, in one sequence late in the first half, Curufin nicked the ball from Denethor, but he looked too winded to get past him. He still managed to thread a pass that put Celegorm one-on-one with Rochallor. But, instead of taking him on and rounding Marach, Celegorm just shot from range. He didn’t trust himself to have that extra burst of pace to beat both of them. The team on a whole were a bit leggy.

Adam: Well, they caught their breaths late in the second half, but by then AC Bel put a lot of players behind the ball. It’s hard to break the teeth of a determined defence, even if you’re FC Val.

Elenrod: On the other end, Huan had a right proper ‘mare, didn’t he?

Felagundion: I suppose it was more due to the quality of Fëanor’s finishes; giving him all that space really is just asking to lose. I mean, on the second goal, Maglor, the right-back, was marking his father near the penalty spot—both centre-backs have been dragged wide by Eöl and Aegnor’s movement. But, yeah, on another day, Huan could’ve saved one or even both of them.

Maika: I want to focus on the movement of AC Bel’s front four. The AKM commentator called their formation a diamond, even though the traditional team notation was 4-2-3-1: Eöl ahead of an attacking trio of Angrod, Fëanor, and Aegnor. But, boy, did he call it right—the AC Bel front four were very fluid, interchanging positions so that FC Val’s defence had no reference point and were dragged all over the pitch. They were all dangerous finishers and clever playmakers, and they all created chaos for the opposition so that Fëanor could romp through the middle and beat people one-on-one.

Elenrod: Well, then, let’s focus on the other game featuring a double-star striker who didn’t get to romp through the middle and beat people one-on-one. Were any of you surprised by the result of Hithlum-TiG?

Iorithil: I was certainly surprised at the margin of victory afterwards, but, seeing everything that happened in the pitch, it wasn’t that surprising. Basically, Tol-in-Gaurhoth were just better, both physically and tactically.

Felagundion: A few bloggers were critical of their deep defensive line and putting eight players behind the ball most of the time, but their midfield pressed intelligently, and the defence contained Hithlum’s multifaceted threats completely. GaladriWight kept Beleg in her pocket, and, except for a few scares, BoroWolf handled Húrin’s run quite well. The centre-backs kept Túrin almost scoreless, which is the best praise there is. His goal, though, was just—I can’t describe it ( http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/zlatan-taekwondo_zpsee4792c0.gif~original).

Adam: I heard a MESPN pundit say that TiG beat teams with their athleticism, and that Galdor and Gundor can’t be expected to keep up with the Wolves. He pretty much called it right. InzilWolf was brilliant, disguising his intentions quite well before pouncing on the lapses of overcommitted defenders. I’ve never seen anyone change direction that quickly.

Felagundion: And I think there aren’t enough superlatives to describe how PhantomWolf is playing right now. His speed on the ball, his decision-making, his set pieces—he was at the heart of everything TiG did well on the offensive end for two games now.

Maika: Well, since I’ve praised AC Bel’s front four earlier, I’ll complete the praise of TiG’s front three as well. Thuringwethil played well as Anfauglith’s lone forward last year—strong, quick, and dominant in the air; she could win headers to score from crosses or feed attacking midfielders. But with a strike partner, especially one with movement as excellent as InzilWolf’s, she is a lethal weapon on crosses and set pieces.

Elenrod: Let’s get down to it, then. AC Bel vs the Werewolves: who would win?

Iorithil: Remember: two years ago, Tol-in-Gaurhoth had the same run of form going into the finals, when they swatted good teams aside left, right, and centre. They lost only to Doriath’s galacticos, arguably the best Arda Cup team ever. So unless AC Beleriand approach that level of untouchability, I predict TiG to be the winners.

Adam: Also, it looks like TiG played the way they did with an eye on the finals. How would you beat a team with a combative midfield and a dangerous attack? Answer: You let the team build up from the back, press their midfield when they cross the halfway line, and break forward behind their defence.

Felagundion: Don’t forget cashing in on set pieces. TiG’s goals in the semis came from a corner, a free kick, and a penalty.

Maika: But remember: teams are forced to play in those unconventional ways against AC Bel because of the way they control the game. Teams need a good defence to keep their front four at bay. They need a good midfield so that Denethor won’t have time to ping those dangerous long diagonals behind the defence, and so that Ulrad won’t have time to make those forward runs that break a distracted defence. And they need a decent threat up front, especially from the wings, so that AC Bel’s defenders won’t have time to go forward and help on the attack. Even then, they’re still playing on the back foot because they won’t see much of the ball. The composure of AC Bel in possession, how resistant they are to all but the most determined pressing, is unprecedented. Even Rochallor can take on a marker to play a long diagonal.

Iorithil: But that’s it. TiG have a team capable of determined pressing. You praised BoroWolf’s stamina in the quarterfinals; the entire team is roughly on that level. They will run and press, get legs and bodies in the way of passes, then run some more once they have the ball.

Elenrod: I’m just finding this fun. We know roughly how both teams will play, but you’re just going back and forth on the result. It all depends on what happens on the pitch, then?

Maika: Yes, I guess. But I’m thinking it’ll be 2-1 to AC Bel

Iorithil: TiG will beat AC Bel by the same score line as Hithlum: 3-1 TiG

Elenrod: And the third place match? Anyone hazard a prediction?

Adam: 2-1 or 3-1 FC Val, easy. Hithlum’s defence just isn’t good enough against world-class strikers, and if they sit the midfield deeper to screen for the back four, they’ll just invite pressure from Argon, Yavanna, and Maglor attacking them from all sorts of uncomfortable angles.

Elenrod: That looks painful. Speaking of uncomfortable angles… Someone already mentioned his unbelievable goal earlier, but Túrin almost managed to score from an uncomfortable angle when he chip-headed the ball past Draugluin. He scored similar goal ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGkxWSV60Eo) vs Nargothrond way back in the round of sixteen. And with that we come to the end of the penultimate episode of the Matchday. We’ll be back to discuss the finals. Hope to see you then.

Nilpaurion Felagund

12-03-2013, 11:27 PM

Valimar Stadium
FC Valinor vs Hithlum

For the first time in the Arda Cup’s five-year history, the same arena would both open and close the tournament. The inaugural game of the 2013 Arda Cup, the Group A match between Armenelos and the Havens, was contested in the Valimar Grand Stadium, and the finals would similarly take place there. But before the eagerly-awaited tie between AC Beleriand and Tol-in-Gaurhoth, the teams they defeated in the semifinals would first fight to be the best of the rest.

Reaching the semifinals was a financial success for both teams—even the outlay for the fourth-placed team would be sufficient to cover their nine-digit wage bills. There is the matter of a $5-million difference in the amount received by the third- and fourth-placed team, but at this level of football, such a trifle does not matter. Or so the teams say.

‘We’re just here to win, to end the tournament in a high note,’ said FC Valinor’s captain Yavanna. ‘We’re still smarting from the loss to Fëanor’s AC Beleriand—on a different day, I believe we could have snatched a result—, but here is another game for us to play. We’ll do our best to win it, and then plan our campaign to win the cup next year.’

‘This is not exactly the game I wanted to play in,’ said Hithlum’s star forward Túrin, ‘but like Yavanna said, it’s a game to be played. Those familiar with my history, especially my old Mithrim teammates Curufin and Celegorm, know that I play to win every game.’

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/fcvvhth_zps77bf77f5.jpg~original

When the consolation match between the FC Valinor and Hithlum began, Túrin and the rest of Hithlum’s attackers made their presence felt. With the need to relieve pressure on their overmatched defence, Hithlum pressed high up the pitch and took the game to the Valineoreans, who defended resolutely and denied Hithlum easy chances, but were unable to make much headway up the pitch themselves. Húrin spurned a fine chance to put Hithlum in the lead six minutes into the game when, after being played through on goal by his son’s knockdown of a Beleg cross, shot straight at Huan instead of going for a curler.

After a rocky start, FC Valinor recovered their composure and began to play around Hithlum’s aggressive pressing. With two ball-playing centre-backs being marked by a lone centre forward (even one with Túrin’s boundless energy), they managed to find an outlet to play the ball forward to their midfield, who quickly got the ball to the wings. Once FC Valinor’s front four had possession, Hithlum immediately felt their bite.

In one sequence shortly after the half-hour mark, Eönwë played a long diagonal straight to Yavanna, who cut inside Galdor and dribbled past Aradan. After playing wall with Celegorm (while Curufin and Argon distracted the rest of the defence), she was one-on-one with Huor at the edge of the six-yard box. With the Hithlum goalkeeper closing in, the FC Valinor midfielder slid the ball between his legs and into the net to open the scoring.

One chance, one goal. Such was the difference between FC Valinor’s attack and Hithlum’s defence (which isn’t bad, but is clearly not good enough for the highest echelon of the game). After the goal, FC Valinor’s back six sat deeper and absorbed Hithlum’s attack, cutting off through passes to Túrin in the penalty area and turning Morwen and Hador’s dribbles aside. With the centre of the pitch clearly denied them, Hithlum played from the wings instead. Húrin was unable to get the better of Maglor whenever he tried to cut infield from the flank, but Beleg on the other side got more joy, beating Thorondor to the byline and swinging in crosses for the father-son forward duo. Shortly before the half ended, Hador made a late run into the box as Túrin and Húrin pushed the defenders back. Beleg’s cross fell to him, unmarked near the penalty spot, but he shot narrowly over the crossbar and the chance went begging.

When second half began, FC Valinor might have realised the danger of allowing Hithlum to attack with abandon, and pushed their back line higher up the pitch, moving Túrin further away from the penalty area but leaving space behind for pacy players to exploit. But with midfielders Elemmírë and Findis able to close down Morwen and Hador more easily, Hithlum were forced to initiate plays from much deeper in the pitch, which played into FC Valinor’s hands. They put on a clinic on high pressing; with Celegorm and Curufin closing down Hithlum’s centre-backs and Yavanna as well as Argon occupying the full-backs. Hithlum were unable to get the ball into the midfield, and the Valinoreans easily won the ball back, putting Huor under pressure.

There was one player who escaped the attention of FC Valinor’s pressing. Aradan, between the lines of the Hithlum defence and the midfield, was unmarked by any of the yellow-shirted players, and he had a lot of time on the ball to ponder his options. But the Hithlum holding midfielder wasn’t the best at creating chances; his diagonal passes to Beleg or Húrin were often wayward, conceding possession cheaply to FC Valinor.

At the hour mark Aradan overhit a long diagonal behind Maglor, and Huan easily claimed the ball, playing a short pass to his right-back. Maglor then skipped past Húrin, stormed forward, cut inside Arroch (just as Argon drifted to the touchline) then played a short low cross that Curufin easily stabbed home.

After the second goal, FC Valinor eased off the pressure, which proved to be a mistake with half an hour left for Hithlum to make a comeback. They would pay for this lapse after sixteen minutes. Beleg dropped deeper to allow Aradan to play a shorter pass to him, after which the Hithlum winger charged down the touchline and steamed past Indis. Hador, at the same time, made a run into the penalty area that distracted the defenders in the box. It was the reverse of Hithlum’s chance late in the first half, with Hador the decoy this time, and Húrin outmuscled Maglor and bundled Beleg’s cross into the net.

Hithlum’s goal angered FC Valinor, who attacked with renewed ferocity to grab a third goal that would kill the game once and for all. Their passing and movement were a little less fluid, and the chances they created weren’t clear-cut, but they pegged Hithlum back and denied them the chance to grab the equaliser. Curufin had a glorious chance eight minutes from full time, when a short Argon low cross found him with his back to the goal and he went for an audacious back-heel. Huor parried out the slow shot and sent it long behind Indis for Beleg to run on to, but Huan went off his line to clear the danger. The last eight minutes was spent with FC Valinor passing around Hithlum’s penalty box, with Hador pushing his midfield back to screen his defenders. Hithlum never really got into the game from that point on, and FC Valinor saw out their win comfortably. They have improved from their showing last year, but they hope to make that next step to become a true power of the game. As for Hithlum, it remains to be seen if they could keep their team together next year and improve upon it, or if the financial pressure would see them letting key pieces go.

But all those thoughts were set aside for later, for there was still one more game to see.

Hithlum 1-2 FC Valinor
GOALS:
34, 0-1 Yavanna (Celegorm)
60, 0-2 Curufin (Maglor)
76, 1-2 Húrin (Beleg)

Total Shots
14-15

Shots On Target
5-7

YELLOW CARDS:
2-1
HTH: Gundor, Galdor
FCV: Elemmírë

the phantom

12-07-2013, 07:05 PM

The championship match between AC Beleriand and Tol-In-Gaurhoth was set to begin at 6:30- later than usual for a match in Valimar, but then this was not a normal game. It wasn't even a normal championship match, for it pitted two fantastic squads that were due for a title.

The Wights and Wolves of TIG had taken home the third place trophy before, and fell just one game short against Doriath two seasons ago. This year they've looked as good as ever, opening with a 2-0 win over Morgoth's Angband squad, then holding Imladris to 1 on-target shot in another 2-0 win, and finishing off the group in first with a 1-1 draw against Angfauglith. In the playoffs they've been solid, taking down Gondolin 3-1, Armenelos 2-1, and finally Hithlum 3-1.

AC has had a similarly stellar run. In group play they got past Gondolin 2-1, then beat Inter Beleriand 3-1 and thumped Dwarves United 3-0 to finish with the full nine points. They opened the playoffs with a hard-fought overtime victory against Angband 2-1, then blitzed Valimar 3-0, and lastly gutted out a win against the streaking FC Valinor.

In the lead up to the championship analysts have been split in their match forecast. Ar-Tar-Aradil of Westernesse Weekly picked AC last night on MESPN's round table, saying: "Besides the two finalists FC was the toughest out in the tournament, and AC took them down. They also took down Melkor when it really counted in the playoffs, and their win against Valimar was the most impressive thing I've seen from either side. Plus, how do you bet against Feanor and Fingolfin?" Meanwhile, Ruharg the Red has been TIG's biggest supporter. "There's one obvious thing to look at here- common foes. They've both played Gondolin and Angband and while AC just scraped by them both by one goal, TIG got them each by two goals."

Which analyst would earn bragging rights during the off-season? That would be up to the squads taking the pitch as the sun lowered to the western horizon. A very partisan crowd greeted them. A section of Wights and assorted beasts made a nice bit of noise, but the stadium was overwhelmingly behind AC Beleriand.

Thousands of Noldor from nearby Tirion were there to support Feanor and Fingolfin, and Angrod and Aegnor were cheered by the Noldor and a large section from Alqualonde. The Ainur were behind AC as well, partly in opposition to the presence of Thuringwethil and Draugluin on the TIG squad, and because AC had earned their admiration by dismantling their own beloved Valimar squad. But officially neither squad was the "home" squad, and the huge stadium bells would be used to celebrate the goals from both teams.

In warm-ups the arena was unusually quiet- both fan bases obviously wanted this title very badly. The Noldor felt the title was theirs by right- after all, in recent years Noldorin talent had gotten it done for Foremenos, Gondolin, and Real Valinor, but they were definitely wary of the Wolves of Tol In Gaurhoth who had come so very close in the past. TIG felt they were due for a breakthrough, but they were quite nervous about facing the attack of AC, spear-headed by the matchless touch and creativity of Feanor.

When the action finally started both squads were tentative and cautious. The midfielders and defenders from AC only just stopped themselves from making long passes forward- they wanted to be aggressive, but they had done their homework and recognized BoroWolf and NilpWolf were attempting to bait them into passes. While normal defenders wouldn't be able to play so far off their marks, the Werewolves could move with fearsome speed and turn a pass forward into an interception and an immediate counter back the other direction.

AC didn't take the bait, but tried to move the ball more methodically. They had some success given the skill of their players, but TIG was equal to them and AC could not gain any decent looks when their attacks reached the tipping point. Seeing that AC wasn't taking the bait and was playing smart, TIG decided to try and work a bit of offense themselves. GaladriWight moved forward to join the other Wight midfielders to gain numbers in the field's center, and they effectively held it, but Fingolfin and the Balrog were marking InzilWolf and PhantomWolf, while Rochallor galloped in pursuit of Thuringwethil, and Imlach moved smartly to any threat that he saw.

Seeing that AC seemed content to allow the TIG midfield to hold the ball, NerWight and SallyWight pushed forward to receive it, and when the ball was passed back to NilpWolf he started working upfield as far as AC would let him go before passing off to one of the Wights. Drauglin and BoroWolf were left back to handle any sudden attack by the AC quad, which they had to be nervous about, but they trusted their teammates not to allow an easy flip of the field.

At minute 25 AC was given a scare as LegateWight read NilpWolf's mind and received it from him and sent it on forward back to NilpWolf who didn't stop his run after passing it off, and NilpWolf received it in open space sprinting down the right side. Meanwhile PhantomWolf and Thuringwethil had pulled the defense a bit left and as NilpWolf sprinted past Denethor the defenders weren't sure how much to challenge the run, knowing he could hang it up to the other side, and the last thing they wanted was a ball in the air with only a couple defenders to challenge both PhantomWolf and Thuringwethil.

In the end NilpWolf took the shot himself as the defense continued to sag off of him, but Imlach and Ulrad smartly took up the lanes enough to push NilpWolf right and leave his only option to be the near post, and despite the wicked power Marach had his head on straight and recognized it in time to deflect the shot into the turf, and Imlach turned and volleyed it high back to the center.

After that AC pulled Angrod back to be a bit more active in defending against the Wight midfield, and TIG appeared stumped as GaladriWight and BoroWolf continually passed it back and forth. PhantomWight trotted back towards the ball shouting something at NilpWolf, and he shouted back, and so on a couple more times- it sounded as if they were deciding on a new course of things. But in the midst of the exchange BoroWolf swung his leg back and rocketed the ball straight down the center.

The instant he kicked NerWight broke for the ball and she reached the exact spot where the ball came low enough to touch and she leaped to head it- but instead of passing it to SallyWight or InzilWolf on her flanks (and calling for the ball) she just bounced it on forward right over the top of two defenders. It looked like it was straight to Imlach, but Thuringwethil's shocking speed got her there first- she had been running for that spot ever since BoroWolf first sent his kick. She received it perfectly in stride, just barely ahead of Rochallor. With her first touch she sent it over Imlach who was frozen in his tracks, and on his backside she caught it on her foot again, nudging it left and over the top of Denethor who was rushing in to help. And before the ball came down to the grass and just before Rochallor ran into her from behind and just before Fingolfin came sprinting in from the opposite side she flung herself into the air in a whirling side-kick and sent the ball rocketing into the top left corner from about 20 yards out! TIG had the lead!

The TIG section of the stadium did their best to fill the arena with their noise as the rest of the crowd stared in disbelief. TIG had employed a perfect blend of strategy, touch, and athleticism- the ball never once touched the ground between BoroWolf's foot and the back of the net. It was truly a play to be admired, and the Elves and Ainur started to think that perhaps their squad was the underdog here.

For the 10 minutes that followed AC dedicated themselves wholly to possession and defense, determined to blunt the emotional flow from carrying the game away, and not willing to allow TIG to grab a two-goal lead by virtue of another fantastic effort. As the half approached AC finally turned their offense loose, trying to launch a flurry at the end to get a cheap equalizer. TIG seemed to know it was coming, however, and they went into full prevent and time-waste mode, meaning that whenever any TIG player managed to get a toe on the ball, instead of trying for the steal they simply tried to send the ball as far and deep as possible.

During intermission the TIG section of the crowd was loud and boisterous, and ordering far more food than was good for them. The rest of the arena didn't have much of an appetite, as things weren't going their way. They had faith that AC could score on anyone, but TIG had a superb defense, especially if they were to commit 100% to it. Scoring 2 would be difficult indeed. Some analysts calling the game in various booths were saying that AC now had the measure of TIG and would soon equalize things and have the advantage the rest of the way, but others were already calling for a second half shutout.

Both squads started the second half carefully, seemingly trying to draw out the other squad’s plans. But a few minutes in AC suddenly switched gears, and their passive possession transitioned into an attack from the rear. Fingolfin and Balrog#4 came straight through the middle playing a one-two and each time they were forced to pass TIG obviously expected them to send it off to the midfielders and break off the run, but the two of them advanced it from near their own goal all the way past midfield while the rest of AC hung back.

Finally TIG committed to halting them, but it required leaving Aegnor some room and Fingolfin slid it to him precisely, and as Aegnor charged in TIG turned to meet the new threat and watched as Aegnor passed it to the now free Eol who one-touched it back to Fingolfin who sent it right back to Aegnor. The path of the ball on AC’s foot was a whirling tornado, but continually churning forward. The numbers were even, but with the skill of teamwork of AC it was really like having the advantage, even as the spacing tightened on the approach to ShastaWolf’s goal.

Finally off a flip from Angrod it was the Balrog with a golden look at the goal, but as he shot it Thuringwethil came in as a near blur and got just the tiniest bit of her foot on the shot, which slowed the shot a surprising amount, for her talons were not retracted as usual and they grabbed at the ball as it passed. ShastaWolf leaped on the ball as it bounced awkwardly towards the left post, and the TIG section breathed a sigh of relief.

A couple AC players appealed to the ref regarding the legality of stopping the ball in such a way that would cause permanent damage to the ball, but the most the refs did was issue Thuringwethil a warning. Meanwhile BoroWolf was barking at the TIG attackers, feeling that the defense was left out to dry against the AC charge. Most of the TIG section agreed—if Fingolfin and the Balrog made a run from the back at least one of the athletes on the TIG attack had to come with them to help. Thuringwethil had seen the danger only just in time, and only her winged speed covered the necessary ground before it was too late.

As the game got under way again, AC’s players did not look too let down—they obviously hadn’t pinned all their hopes on one play. On the contrary, they were energized by the nearness of the goal and felt they could shake the Wolves and company with continued pressure. After another five minutes of testing and prodding and quality ball movement AC earned another chance—this time a header from Denethor after a sharp one-touch pass from Feanor. ShastaWolf shot like a ball from a cannon up to the top-right corner to bat the effort away. What other keepers were capable of such a quick and powerful spring? Perhaps Carcharoth and Huan could have saved the shot, but no others.

The stadium collectively groaned again when the shot was denied, and a few fans shook their heads slowly and lowered their gaze, hope seemingly leaving them. But once again the players from AC weren’t the least bit discouraged. The Balrog could be heard shouting to Fingolfin, “It’s only a matter of time!” TIG tried to wrest control of the contest their way again with a couple surprise long-balls to their forwards, but the Balrog got in the way of both of them and Imlach cleaned up beautifully and AC was right back into their offense.

Finally TIG opted for a bit of possession instead, but AC now had their players pressuring possession, even at the rear as TIG soon discovered. Angrod and Aegnor converged on NilpWolf from two sides, and the surprised defender sent it over to Draugluin without getting the time to check things carefully. As fast and athletic as wolves like Draugluin are they don’t have the soft touch of their Noldorin foes, and Draugluin failed to control the hot pass on the first touch, and as he tried to scoot the ball away from him on the second touch it was too late—Feanor was upon him. Feanor dashed madly by pursued by BoroWolf, and they bore down on ShastaWolf slightly from the left as Eol sprinted in from the right followed by GaladriWight. Feanor faked the shot then sent it forward to Eol, who instead of taking the shot as everyone expected sent it back off his heel to Feanor, who had frozen in place after sending his pass.

As the ball bounced to Feanor it was clear NilpWolf and Draugluin wouldn’t arrive in time to stop his shot, and BoroWolf and GaladriWight’s momentum following Eol had taken them in closer to goal than to Feanor. The TIG fans held their breath waiting to see what would happen, but the rest of the stadium was already rising into a roar. Feanor was approaching the ball with a clear view of everything and no one close enough to bother him. It was as good as in the net. BoroWolf and GaladriWight tried to block off the left side only leaving ShastaWolf to cover the right, but Feanor tipped the ball up with his right foot and snapped off a high left-footed shot from near his shoulder that went well over the leaping BoroWolf but with so much topspin that it dove down beneath the crossbar to sneak into the corner of the goal! The score was level with 20 minutes remaining!

ShastaWolf threw up his hands and hollered something at his defense, but it couldn’t be heard amidst the roar of the arena—all the fans coming fully to life at last! TIG had managed to suck the air out of the game for over an hour, but now it was an even contest with little time left, and every ball now had a chance to give AC the title. TIG had their own plans, however, and went into full-bore attack mode. Evidently it had been decided that AC had found their stride and was playing their best, thus they simply could not be allowed to control the outcome. Not only that, but most agreed that TIG had decided playing for a shootout was a bad idea against AC. They wanted the game to be over as soon as possible.

AC was almost overwhelmed initially, with PhantomWolf putting a perfect cross onto the snout of NilpWolf, whose effort was only just turned away by Marach. AC settled in after that, however, and they pulled back nearly all their help, except they kept Feanor and Eol at the top, threatening the counter. TIG gained a couple snipes from far out—their Wolves had the legs to make the attempt, but the shots sprayed off course. As time ticked past 80 minutes it appeared TIG was losing steam from their constant running and aggression, and AC started to gain ground, and finally TIG collectively retreated to receive AC’s last attempt to win it in regulation.

AC accepted the turn of fortunes and Fingolfin and Feanor signaled back and forth what strategy to employ, but as AC stalled passing the ball around at the rear, something happened. Imlach received it from the Balrog again, and as he had several times he turned to his right and sent it over to Rochallor, but just as he swung his leg back PhantomWolf, who no one had noticed creeping closer, made a furious beeline directly at Rochallor. Meanwhile, InzilWolf broke from midfield straight toward the AC goal.

Just as Thuringwethil’s beastly speed had shocked the AC crowd in stopping the scoring opportunity earlier, PhantomWolf’s speed dropped jaws through the arena. There was simply no real way to prepare for such athleticism in practice, and though AC had faced speedy individuals along the way, no squad could compare to TIG for speed up and down the roster.

The ball arrived at Rochallor’s hooves just before PhantomWolf, but deftness was not the valiant warhorse’s forte, not to mention he was probably ever so slightly spooked by the Werewolf bearing down on him. After all, PhantomWolf had his claws out and was snarling as he came, and was looking directly at Rochallor rather than the ball, and some predatory-danger instinct within Rochallor was undoubtedly sounding an alarm. TIG had selected the perfect player to attack at the perfect time and in the perfect manner. The ball trickled away to Rochallor’s right, and before he could stretch to collect it PhantomWolf veered and swept it away first, booting it ahead of him and then catching up to it in full stride.

The TIG section leaped to their feet and started shouting! There would be no question of off sides, as PhantomWolf was farther upfield than anyone else! As PhantomWolf angled in at the left post InzilWolf approached from the right, Imlach sprinting straight down the middle to beat them to the box with Fingolfin a few yards behind. Finally the moment of truth arrived as they converged, and Imlach made his decision and veered straight for PhantomWolf. PhantomWolf made sure Imlach was committed then snapped his vision to the near post, approached the ball with purpose, and lobbed it up over Imlach to the far post. The keeper Marach had been momentarily frozen thinking PhantomWolf might shoot it, and so he could not beat InzilWolf to the point of attack. InzilWolf rose up uncontested and nodded the ball just inside the right post in front of the diving keeper! TIG had the lead with only minutes left!

As their supporters let out primal screams and embraced in the stands team TIG showed almost no emotion but grim determination, as if to say: “We’ve been waiting for this for a long time and we’ve done everything we need to do. Just a few more minutes of good play and all the work will pay off.” Now desperately needing a quick score AC threw everyone forward, and Fingolfin and the Balrog pushed up behind Angrod and Aegnor to help with the attack. If they conceded a counter then they did—losing by two goals wasn’t any worse than losing by one. They simply needed to score and that was that.

AC excelled in quick ball movement and precision passes through small openings, so even with everyone pulled back to defend TIG knew the game wasn’t in the bag if they allowed AC to come at them, so TIG played it smart, clearing the ball past their own end line whenever they were in doubt. Though it would be foolish for most teams to grant a ton of corner kicks, TIG felt that AC could not hurt them with a cross from the corner, as TIG had five Wolves and Thuringwethil that could own the air just as much as AC’s biggest mark, the Balrog.

The game and AC’s offense had to be continually reset for corners, and precious seconds ticked away. AC was aware of their aerial disadvantage and simply sent it short each time and attempted a flurry of passes to gain an open shot, but each time a TIG paw or foot got in the way and the ball ended up dribbling out towards midfield or shot out over the end line. Finally GaladriWight got in the way of an Angrod header and LegateWight booted the bouncing ball high to the opposite end of the field, and as AC began to give chase the ref sounded his whistle. TIG had withstood the final blows with authority, and at last the coveted Arda Cup was theirs!

The sagging and defeated members of AC Beleriand gave quick polite pats and handshakes to the TIG players and jogged off the field, leaving TIG free to bask in the glory of the title. The stadium bells and all the bells of the city sounded in unison, huge lamps sitting on the tops of every tall building in Valimar were reflected to shine at the stadium to give the arena a sort of halo of light, flags bearing the colors and devices of Tol In Gaurhoth were raised at points all over the stadium, and confetti rained down from the sky as huge eagles swept over carrying bags of the stuff! Valimar was doing this hosting thing right.

The TIG players motioned for their fans to join them on the field and the Wights, Wolves and assorted characters with them needed to second invitation, and soon they had surrounded the TIG players and had them lifted into the air, passing them about the throng so that everyone would get a chance to slap every player on the back. Every player on the field had done what was asked of them and had even gone beyond what could be expected. Discipline, intelligence, strength, speed, accuracy, strategy and selflessness had been on display in perfect blends. TIG had faced the best that Arda had to offer and emerged victorious!

AC Beleriand 1-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
on target 5-5
tot shots 14-13
GOALS:
*33, 0-1 Thuringwethil (NerWight)
*71, 1-1 Feanor (Eol)
*84, 1-2 InzilWolf (PhantomWolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ACBel- Rochallor, Aegnor
*TIG- NilpWolf, SallyWight

Nilpaurion Felagund

12-08-2013, 10:03 AM

Final Standings:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/standings-final_zps53f254d5.png~original

(1) - champion
(2) - runner-up
(3) - third place
(4) - fourth place
(q) - quarterfinalist
(o) - reached knockout stage
(x) - failed to reach knockout stage

Bracket:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/bracket-final_zps1627324a.png~original

Power Rank:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/pr-final_zpsd8a33110.png~original

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking, combined with the adjusted goal difference rank of each team. The listed offensive and defensive rankings are from the actual numbers by the teams, and not adjusted. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss record; and b) goal difference.

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

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

Top Individual Performers:

GOALS

6
Fëanor (AC Beleriand)
Curufin (FC Valinor)
Túrin (Hithlum)

4
Eöl (AC Beleriand)
PhantomWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
InzilWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Arien (Valimar)
Ar-Pharazôn (Armenelos)
Scatha (Wilderland)
Glaurung (Nargothrond)

3
Beleg (Hithlum)
Thuringwethil (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Hador (Hithlum)
Maeglin (Gondolin)
Argon (FC Valinor)
Húrin (Hithlum)
Celegorm (FC Valinor)
Maedhros (Inter Beleriand)
Ancalagon (Angband)
Sauron (Barad-dûr)
Tuor (Gondolin)
Eärendil(The Havens)
Oromë (Real Valinor)

ASSISTS

4
Eöl (AC Beleriand)
Beleg (Doriath)
Yavanna (FC Valinor)
Angrod (AC Beleriand)

3
PhantomWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Thuringwethil (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Finrod (Nargothrond)
Aredhel (Tirion)
Míriel (Real Valinor)
Elros (Armenelos)

GOALKEEPING

Elrond (Eriador) - 15/18 (83.33%)
Ungoliant (Anfauglith) - 13/16 (81.25%)
Tulkas (Real Valinor) – 17/21 (80.95%)
Arvedui (Arnor) - 21/26 (80.77%)
Marach (AC Beleriand) - 25/31 (80.65%)

Nilpaurion Felagund

12-09-2013, 12:36 AM

The lads of The Matchday decided to take an early (?) holiday and left us with this list. No limits on players per team. This is their list of the twenty-two best players of the 2013 Arda Cup

The First Team (4-2-3-1):

Marach (AC Beleriand)
He was already a good goalkeeper last year, but this year he made the leap to become one of the best, anchoring one of the tightest defences in Arda. His save rate of 80.65% was the highest among the four semifinalist goalkeepers, and fifth best overall.

Fingolfin (AC Beleriand)
The leader of AC Beleriand's back line. He has contributed less to their offence (mostly because they now have width in their front four), but could be called upon to go forward and attack when needed.

NilpWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Scoring an all-important goal in TiG's opening win vs Angband, he is as good playing in the centre as he is in his primary role as an attacking left-back. Túrin might have embarrassed him in their aerial duels during the semifinals, but he kept him scoreless when it mattered.

Balrog #5 (Hithlum)
Hithlum also acquired Galdor and Gundor to improve their defence (as well as Arda Cup winner Huor in goal), but Balrog #5 was the rock of their back line. Along with his strengths in traditional centre-back skills (strong and powerful in the air), he is also as good with the ball on his feet as midfielders. He was the outlet that allowed Hithlum to bypass Nargothrond's aggressive high pressing during their last sixteen thrashing of the Cave Elves.

BoroWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
His domination of the right flank in TiG's game vs Armenelos cemented his status as the lungs of the Wolves' team; his defensive performance against Hithlum's Húrin was equally impressive. A good crosser as well as a positionally solid defender, he is a quality two-way full-back who stands out because of his sheer energy.

LegateWight (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
One of the best pure defensive midfielders in the tournament. LegateWight didn't show up in the score sheet at all, but his ability to protect the back four, cutting off through passes, marking midfield runners, and denying space to opposing playmakers, ensured that TiG's defenders had an easier time dealing with Ancalagon, Gothmog, Tuor, Ar-Pharazôn, Túrin, and Fëanor.

Hador (Hithlum)
AC Beleriand, Eriador, and FC Valinor aside, the idea of a passing midfield has not yet made much inroads into Arda Cup squad-building considerations. Energy and stamina remain the greater consideration when choosing midfielders: Hador in that sense was the ideal top-flight midfielder--excellent on the tackle and in the penalty area (with three goals and two assists) who ran for the whole ninety minutes. He also played left wing-back against Nargothrond without a hitch.

Curufin (FC Valinor)
The FC Valinor striker is clearly of the same class as the two-star max contract forwards Fëanor and Túrin, matching their production with six goals and two assists in seven games. His team has fallen short of their goal once again, but their failure to beat AC Beleriand was more a team issue than a personal one for Curufin.

Fëanor (AC Beleriand)
Playing behind Eöl for most of this year, the Fiery Boot still managed to be joint top scorer of the tournament. A devastating finisher with tricky dribbling, clever movement, and uncanny positional instinct, he managed to gel immediately with new wing recruits Angrod and Aegnor and continue his partnership with Eöl to give AC Bel one of the most potent offences in the tournament.

PhantomWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
A versatile player, having played as number ten, right-sided midfielder, and right winger, the Phantasista has clearly been the best player of TiG's dangerous attacking trio. His right-sided partnership with BoroWolf was the best wing partnership in the tournament (rivalled only perhaps by Inter's Beren and Lúthien).

Túrin (Hithlum)
He returns to prominence after a disappointing 2012 campaign. Renewing his partnership with Beleg, Túrin had been the recipient of eight crosses from the winger, scoring thrice from them. He remains a dangerous penalty box presence, with his strength, speed, and nose for goal, able to score as adeptly with his head as with either foot.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/2013bestxi_zpsc5cd85d4.jpg~original

The Second Team (4-4-2):

Elrond (Eriador)
His ridiculous one or less goals conceded streak extends to 18 games, despite playing against Hithlum.

Alatar (Barad-dûr)
The Black Tower's defence improved drastically from last year's shambles, conceding around 12 shots per game despite having only 47% possession on average--if only their offence were clicking. The addition of the Blue Wizards, as well as the growth of goalkeeper Grishnákh, was the reason for it. Alatar almost contributed to a goal against Eriador, and he converted his penalty in the shootout, so he gets the nod ahead of Pallando.

Eönwë (FC Valinor)
Replaced Penlod as the rock of FC Val's defence without a hitch. Also scored a crucial goal against city rivals Real Valinor in the quarterfinals.

Gil-galad (Eriador)
Eriador conceded less than 11 shots per game, despite having less of the ball compared to last year. The Elven king often marked the opposition's most dangerous threat; his slip-up against Túrin in the quarterfinals was his only big mistake, but it proved costly.

Maglor (FC Valinor)
Although not as aggressive as he had been last year, he remains a solid full-back in the Fingolfin mould--a defensively solid player with attacking nous.

Yavanna (FC Valinor)
Started slowly but ended up being joint leader in assists. Nominally placed on the right of FC Val's midfield, she often moved centrally to help control possession and link up midfield and attack.

SallyWight (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Another energetic box-to-box midfielder makes the list. She helped press and disrupt the build-up plays of Armenelos, Hithlum, and AC Bel; with her forward runs she scored two goals and created one more for the Wolves.

Elros (Armenelos)
With Armenelos' wing-backs disappointing, a tremendous creative burden was often placed on Elros' shoulders. His hand in five of the Royals' eight tournament goals meant that he had done well bearing that burden.

Beleg (Hithlum)
One of the best wingers in the game with his speed, dribbling, and crossing ability, he was the most consistent outlet and creator in a Hithlum front line full of finishers.

InzilWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
Athletic, hardworking, intelligent, InzilWolf's movement had opposing defences bending in uncomfortable ways, creating space for PhantomWolf to get his wonderstrikes in or to wreak havoc on a disorganised back line. He is also a decent finisher with his four goals.

Eöl (AC Beleriand)
The Dark Boot perfectly understands his role at the tip of AC Beleriand's attacking lance--drag opposing defenders out of position and create space for Fëanor to run into. He has not lost the knack of going to the wings to combine with his new teammates Angrod and Aegnor, and his four goals + assists is the best production among the non-Túrin/Fëanor/Curufin crowd.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Elenrod/2013secondxi_zps13186f50.jpg~original

Just Missed the Cut

GK ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
DF Tilion (Real Valinor)
DF Ingwion (Real Valinor)
MF Argon (FC Valinor)
MF Denethor (AC Beleriand)
FW Thuringwethil (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
FW Húrin (Hithlum)

the phantom

12-09-2013, 04:41 PM

Looking Back: Commenting on Arda Cup 2013
by Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

Another Arda Cup come and gone. There were teams and players that excelled and some that let their supporters down. Here are a few brief notes on what made up Arda Cup 2013 and in some cases what it means in the future.

1) The Blessed Realm did a fine job of hosting overall. They were given a tough task when the miscreants from The Barrow-Downs arrived, but they did as well as could be expected. They did particularly well with the post-game celebration in the finals, and the cup ceremony was seamless.

2) Amon Hen Coliseum continues to get better every year, both the stadium itself and the surrounding accommodations. Arda Cup cannot have a tournament without sending at least a game or two there. And as a nice bonus this year, the home team Anduin got to win the group in their own arena.

3) Morgoth and Angband aren't dead, they just got a bad draw. They couldn't win their group because the champs were there, and TIG is frankly a matchup problem for Angband. So, since Angband finished second they had to travel for their first playoff match, and who should be waiting but Feanor and 2nd place AC Beleriand. So Angband was knocked out of the tournament by the top two squads, and remember that ACBel needed overtime to pull out the win. If things had gone the other way who knows?

4) Angfauglith is very unhappy with the way Morgoth has been running the operation, and shortly after being eliminated some of the other investors managed to force Morgoth into shrinking his percentage holding down below 50%. As a first symbolic order of business they changed their name from the Morgoth-given "Angfauglith" to the proper "Anfauglith". No one knows what their roster strategy will be for next season, but rest assured that Morgoth won't be making all the decisions.

5) Ar-Pharazon continues to score goals when no one is looking. The golden-boy put up four more this year, and with Elros organizing things from the midfield Ar Phar will likely continue to add to his totals.

6) Sauron is making cash, but not a lot of fans these days. He's been aggressively focused on gaining and maintaining ownership of various squads and keeping a healthy profit margin, but his teams have not been the most competitive. This year Barad-Dur seemed to take a little step forward, but it remains to be seen if that will turn into a trend.

7) Inter Beleriand continues to play second fiddle to AC Beleriand. While both FC and Real Valinor have made names for themselves Inter just hasn't stepped out of the shadow of AC. They have a few Arda-class talents, but somehow they can't break out.

8) Several high-price squads are going to have trouble keeping their rosters intact. Teams like AC and FC have no room to grow before hitting the luxury tax, and some of their players have probably earned pay bumps. There might be other organizations out there more willing to offer them the pay they want, or the player may simply want a change of scene or a more favorable position and their current squad would have to offer greater incentive to keep them. And after a season like this one, you can't expect Feanor to give up any pay.

9) Eriador is still really tough to score on, but their scorers didn't hold up their end of the bargain. Doubtless Elrond will be shopping around for a way to return to last year's success, but will he have to sacrifice some defense?

10) Gondolin continues to hover in the middle of Arda squads, despite strong financial backing. They have solid role players and Maeglin continues to earn his pay as a creator and a scorer, but they need another elite player, preferably at the rear, to rise up and challenge the heavy-weights.

11) The southern kingdoms definitely took a step back this year. Gondor, Minas Tirith and Rohan all made the playoffs last year, with MT and Rohan advancing to the quarters, but all three teams were left in groups this season. They cannot afford to lose some of their best talent to other squads- there is a lot of talent out there that could play for them but didn't (Gandalf & Shadowfax, Eorl & Felarof, Elendil, Isildur, Aragorn, Arwen, etc.).

12) The Misty Mts is probably the most interesting and diverse team out there, with Elves, Dwarves, Orcs, Trolls, Eagles, Wolves, Balrogs, and even mountains represented. It was nice to see them make the playoffs this year, and with a large group of backers it will be interesting to see if they can continue getting better.

13) Nargothrond's defense needs fixing. While they managed to restrain solid attacks from Tirion and The Sea this year to an extent, they were reminded yet again that possession alone isn't a defense. Two years in a row they've had a squad dump 5 goals on them. Admittedly the scoring binges were by Feanor-led and Turin-led offenses, but still- that isn't the way for a strong squad to exit a tournament.

14) The Sea lacks a killer instinct. Despite solid players at every position and a very enviable defense they were left in the group stage. Draws aren't good enough sometimes and The Sea could really use a clutch scorer to turn some draws into wins.

15) FC Valinor was the complete package this year, but got edged out by AC Beleriand in the semis. FC doesn't need to gain any pieces, but the question is can they keep their team intact? Their payroll can't really go any higher, while Curufin, Yavanna, Eonwe, Argon, and Maglor could all justifiably ask for more money. Will other squads try to poach them?

16) The Barrow-Downs is headed in the right direction, adding some respectable Middle-Earth talent and still staying cheap. They're no longer the doormat they once were and they still have ample room to grow. The Barrow-Downs management group obviously knows how to do it. (Their other squad, TIG, took the title after all!)