[Boromir88]

Group B at Gorgoroth

The host for Group B was a heated and close race. The finalists were The Barrow-Downs and Gorgoroth, both making huge bids to be chosen as a host. The 'Downs had support from Butterbur, who offered the Prancing Pony up, to house all the teams'. "I've enjoyed the company of these blokes [The Downers]" praised Butterbur "They're not trouble-makers, 'cept for that warg don't care for him much, and I like that about 'em. They're going to be good fun to play."

The Barrow-Downs had hosted a playoff game for the TIG team a few years back, and once Bombadil sang the fog away, it proved to be a nice venue. So, with Butterbur's praise, and the overall support from Bree the Barrow-Downs were sure their site would be chosen to host. That would not be the case. And it angered many of the BD players: "I can't believe the officials will go with Gorgoroth." said an annoyed Skip "We already have a stadium here, we've got plenty of room, thanks to Butterbur, to accomodate all the teams and security would be cheap since there aren't too many problems in these parts until the night. It was a bad choice."

The committee decided Gorgoroth had offered a stronger bid. It was actually quite a late push, as Sauron believed one of his sites in Mordor would have easily been chosen. Bree was immediately out of the running, since they were group hosts last year, leaving a 67% chance for one of the Mordor teams. However, it seemed like the Barrow-Downs was getting an upper-hand and Sauron had to step up his efforts to bring the games to Mordor.

There were obvious questions about security, but Sauron cunningly answered those concerns by pointing out he was in complete control over all of his servants in Mordor, where there were many unchecked dark, sketchy figures that haunt the Barrow-Downs and cause several security issues. I think the selling point came from Sauron's threat to erupt Mount Doom who maintained he was taken out of context and made no such threat. "When I said the Hellmouth would be unleashed, I was speaking metaphorically, of the reaction all across Mordor, should it not host. What can I say? I'm a huge fan of Buffy."

Whatever the cause, Gorgoroth was chosen to host the Group B games. There were still other questions besides security, especially about constructing a quality stadium in the middle of a flat dessert plain. However, Gorgoroth seemed to rise to the challenge, by diverting waters from Nurnen to plenish the field. It truly looks like an oasis in the dessert. The stadium itself, is not very large, only seating 42,000. The stands are constructed from the same black stones that were used to build Barad Dur, but Gorgoroth had a problem trying to build the stands very high, fearing the foundation would collapse. The open plains (and fence that was constructed around the entire field) however have added a couple thousand standing room tickets which can be purchased for a cheap price.

The biggest question I have is, what if neither of the Mordor teams advance beyond group play? That is surely a good possibility. Will Breeland and the Barrow-Downs be able to leave Mordor all in one piece!?

Group G at Doriath

Group G was also a difficult host for the committee to choose. Would it be the new Wold team, who proposed to build a stadium next to the ancient Fangorn forest? Gondolin? They have a spectacular venue and always are great hosts. Perhaps Doriath, who offered a larger stadium as well as the best security? Gondor had a whole range of of fantastic locations, in it's realm to chose from. There were early rumors that the beautiful Swan-City of Dol Amroth would be building a stadium, but neither Amroth nor Imrahil (who played for different teams) would authorize it. So, Gondor fell out of contention as it could not settle on a precise location.

It quickly became a 2-team race, between Doriath and Wold, as Gondolin conceeded and will likely offer their stadium for later play-off rounds, as usual for them. Treebeard didn't like the idea of using wood from Fangorn to build the grand stands, so it looked like it would be Doriath. Doriath hosted in 2008, and already had a large venue (85,000+) that was built by Dwarven craftsman from Nogrod. All they needed was a few tune-ups and repairs. Also, Melian has a girdle around the entire stadium which will prevent anyone of evil-heart from entering the stadium. Though there isn't much concern for issues arising between the teams in this group. However, we do wonder how the Uruks from the Wold will be able to enter the pitch if anyone of evil-heart will not be allowed in. Treebeard has said though, his team proves Orcs can truly be redeemed if out of the influence of a heinous dark-lord for a while.

Expect large crowds for Doriath and Gondolin, but also substantial numbers for Gondor and Wold, because their fans travel well. Doriath's GK Melian, said spectators will be treated to a lot of exciting, respectful football from all the teams. She also, believes behind a strong home crowd her team's performance will be much improved in the tournament.