Arda Cup Football 2011

[Boromir88]

Friendlies - Round 2 Results

Angband vs. Minas Tirith

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

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

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

Dunharrow vs. Eregion

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

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

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

Esgaroth vs. Lothlorien

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

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

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

Gondor vs. Westernesse

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

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

[Nogrod]

Angfauglith - Gondolin

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

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

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

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

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


Doriath - Hithlum

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

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

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

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

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


Minas Morgul - Mordor

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

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

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

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


Mithrim - Tirion

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

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

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


Numenor - Valinor

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

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

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

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


Shire-Bree Utd. - The Forest

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

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

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

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

Both teams seemed happy with the draw.

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

[the phantom]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Nogrod]

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

GROUP A
Doriath
Himring H
Shire-Bree United
Tirion

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

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

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

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

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

GROUP B
Anduin
Esgaroth
Misty Mts
Wilderland H

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

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

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

GROUP C
Angband
Angfauglith H
Hithlum
The Downer

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

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

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

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

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

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

GROUP D
Barad-Dur
Eregion H
Eriador
Gondor

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

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

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

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



Part two to follow tomorrow...

[Nogrod]

GROUP E
Mordor
Nargothrond
The Forest H
Tol In Gaurhoth

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

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

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

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

GROUP F
Mithrim
Numenor H
Tol Eressea
Westernesse

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

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

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

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

GROUP G
Beleriand
Gondolin
Pelori
Valinor H

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

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

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

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

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

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

GROUP H
Dunharrow H
Lothlorien
Minas Morgul
Minas Tirith

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

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

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

[Kuruharan]

By: Ugluk, Underground

Lugburz-

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

Thought not.

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

Ugluk: Thank you for doing this interview.

Grishnakh: You're welcome, ape!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*abrupt end of interview*

[Boromir88]

FRIENDLIES - ROUND 3 PREDICTIONS
BoroLXXXVIII, Two Towers Network

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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