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04-15-2012, 11:45 PM
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Scion of The Faithful
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: The brink, where hope and despair are akin. [The Philippines]
Posts: 5,312
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Tar-Eldar Network Television featured article
Quiet Argon uses Arda Cup debut to make a statement about his game
by Alice Holly For many who were not born with talent or fame, suiting up to be on the biggest stage would be enough. It is, after all, something far more than they would have expected or deserved. Having the spotlight on them for a few fleeting moments would be enough of an experience to last them for the rest of their lives. That clearly isn’t enough for Argon, son of Fingolfin, FC Valinor midfielder. ‘I came here to play winning football.’ And he certainly has. He has four friendly goals in four matches in a team laden with star power, a team on the path to winning it all. He had a double—the only goals his team had—in FC Valinor’s win against their toughest rival Real Valinor. Argon took his time in the limelight and used it to prove that he deserved to be among the elite. It had been an long and arduous road for Argon—getting the call in the first place required divine intervention. ‘I don’t know anyone from Middle-earth, so my only chance for a call-up to an Arda Cup roster is through Blessed Realm teams. I knew I didn’t have much of a chance because there were only thirty-three spots—actually less, because I can’t play goalie. This year Tulkas and Yavanna built their own squads, after being together in team Valinor last year, so I had a few more chances to be called up. About a week into the preseason, I finally got invited by Yavanna to join her FC Valinor team.’ Argon is not a total unknown in the footballing world. After all, he did come from one of the best footballing families in Eä, the House of Finwë. His father and sister have won the Cup. ‘It’s just that I never got the chance to be on the news like they do, be it about football or anything else. But I guess I like being quiet. I’ve never been fond of war or politics—football’s been enough to get me going.’ He’s also the captain of the Tirion Sporting Club, far and away the best player in a middling team in the Elvish Premier League. They accomplished their best league finish this year at sixth, fully thirty points behind leaders Eldamar. And they have never progressed past the quarterfinals of the Elf A Cup. ‘The people I’m playing with now, I used to meet them on the pitch only twice, maybe thrice a year.’ And those people have nothing but praise for the Arda Cup rookie. ‘He’s a hard worker,’ said his half-cousin Celegorm. His grandmother Indis concurs. ‘He’s usually the first on the pitch, working on his game—footwork, ball-control, his stamina, whatever he needs to improve on. He’s also usually the last to leave.’ ‘He desires to know more about the game,’ said Irmo. ‘He reads up on strategies and tactics. And he’s watching tapes of past Arda Cup games, especially ones of teams we’d be facing. He says he doesn’t want to feel out the opposition only when he’s on the pitch against them—he wants to be ready for what they can do.’ After years of waiting, he’s finally shown Arda that he can play in the greatest stage. Argon’s time in the spotlight is just a stepping stone to greater glory. ‘It’s my first time to be here, and I already want to win it all. Sounds ambitious, maybe, but I know we can do it.’ Alice Holly is a Tar-Eldar Network Television football correspondent.
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フェンリス鴨 (Fenrisu Kamo) The plot, cut, defeated. I intend to copy this sig forever - so far so good...
Last edited by Nilpaurion Felagund; 04-21-2012 at 09:46 PM. |
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04-22-2012, 07:09 AM
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Flame of the Ainulindalë
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Wearing rat's coat, crowskin, crossed staves in a field behaving as the wind behaves
Posts: 9,308
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The AKM's Ranking of the Arda Cup Teams 2012
So dear friends, it is getting about time to bring the final rankings to the fore before the tournament begins. The AKM is proud to bring it's readers the first one - and one that looks a little bit different than some of the earlier rankings whether by the AKM or the other networks.
The reason for that is simple. We have considered both the schedual of each team in the friendlies aka. how tough teams they have played, and more or less ignored those games where both teams have played for a draw. We'll bring you some more elaborate statitistics & speculation on them when our "group by group" -analysis is published in the next few days. In the following ranking-list you have all the teams ranked first of all into five different ranking-categories (which we have used to determine the toughness or easyness of their schedule - the end-result of course has been modified). Before a team name there is the ranking + the former ranking by the AKM in parentheses. After the team there is the letter for the group the team plays in. Rank 1 (The Favourites) 1. (1.) FC Valinor (D) 2. (2.) Real Valinor (D) 3. (5.) Valimar (E) 4. (3.) AC Beleriand (G) Rank 2 (The Contenders) 5. (10.) Angband (A) 6. (7.) Tirion (D) 7. (8.) The Sea (E) 8. (4.) Eriador (B) 9. (9.) Wilderland (C) 10. (6.) Armenelos (D) 11. (16.) Anduin (C) 12. (11.) Erebor (C) 13. (13.) Anfaughlith (G) Rank 3 (Can challenge a good team) 14. (14.) Imladris (F) 15. (15.) Nargothrond (G) 16. (12.) Rohan (F) 17. (17.) Doriath (G) 18. (17.) Hithlum (E) 19. (19) Gondolin (B) Rank 4 (Decent teams on a good day) 20. (21.) Misty Mts. (F) 21. (25.) The Havens (E) 22. (24.) Isengard (F) 23. (27.) Arnor (B) 24. (22.) Tol In Gaurhoth (A) 25. (23.) Shire-Bree Utd. (A) 26. (28.) Inter Beleriand (B) 27. (20.) Gondor (H) Rank 5 (The Left-overs) 28. (30.) Mordor (H) 29. (26.) Minas Tirith (H) 30. (31.) Barad Dûr (H) 31. (29.) Dwarves Utd. (C) 32. (32.) The Downer (A)
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Upon the hearth the fire is red Beneath the roof there is a bed; But not yet weary are our feet... |
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04-25-2012, 04:47 PM
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Werewolf Psychic
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: In fire, water, earth, and air. But mostly water.
Posts: 2,832
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Anduin took on Imladris in what was to be one of the final friendly matches before the tournament began in earnest. And, to be frank, the first half of this game was pretty boring. It appeared the time of year was making Grimbeorn sluggish – he barely moved during the first half of the game. On the other side, Elladan could be seen juggling the ball at nearly every opportunity simply for practice, judging this game to be not worthwhile.
In the second half, though, he did stir himself to put the ball into the net courtesy of a strong punt from Arwen (later, a reporter heard her say she aimed at Elladan’s head deliberately, to wake him up.) However, this roused the Anduin team to play full-bore, and eleven minutes later Boromir II juked away from his defenders and equalized the game. Now Grimbeorn had had time to fully shake off his grogginess and rejoin the game, and it was the mighty bear himself that scored Anduin’s second goal in order to secure his team the win. Anduin 2-1 Imladris tot shots 12-10 on target 4-4 GOALS: *49, 0-1 Elladan (Arwen) *60, 1-1 Boromir II (Fram) *81, 2-1 Grimbeorn (Haldir) YELLOW CARDS: *Anduin- Lenwe, Frumgar *Imladris- Aranarth Foul play abounded in the friendly between the physical teams of Erebor and Misty Mountains (who, in particular, has a history of using their brawn rather more than their brains.) Again, in what seems to have become a pattern, the objective of actually putting the ball into the net seemed to be sidelined for most of the game – shots were taken when possible, but it seemed both teams were more interested in getting a piece of their opponents. The crafty elf Rumil assisted both Misty Mountains goals, but was never carded for the sly fouls he committed against Dain. Enraged, Dain went straight after Rumil, but received his second yellow of the match and was sent off the field. Chief Wolf soon followed, thanks to a nasty bite he gave Gwaihir (who responded with a mighty wing buffet and received his own yellow for his trouble), and both teams finished out the game at a tie. Erebor 2-2 Misty Mts tot shots 15-15 on target 7-6 GOALS: *13, 1-0 Smaug (Bard) *30, 1-1 Durin’s Bane (Rumil) *44, 1-2 Narvi (Rumil) *57, 2-2 Thranduil (Dain) YELLOW CARDS: *Erebor- Nazgul #7, Gwaihir, Meneldor, Dain, Smaug *Misty- Azog, Chief Wolf, Bert, Orophin, William RED CARDS: Erebor- Dain (63, second yellow) Misty- Chief Wolf (66, second yellow) The most exciting thing about the Gondor/Rohan friendly was the explosive start, as both teams had apparently decided to treat this game just like a real, tournament-style play. Not very many shots were taken (8 for Gondor, 10 for Rohan), but the ball changed hands (or, rather, feet, or hooves, or what have you) like lightning, never remaining in possession of one team for very long. A little over half an hour in, Anarion fired off a shot at the Rohan goal, but Felarof intercepted it with a well-timed rear, coming down on top of the ball. The pressure Felarof’s hoof applied to the ball popped it into the sky and across the pitch, nearly going into the net of the Gondor goal. However, it bounced off the crossbar and back onto the field, where Eomer picked off the clean goal. Rohan pulled back their offense a bit after that, letting Gondor try to equalize. And equalize they did, in the second half, as Anarion tried again and Falastur caught the rebounding ball square with a high knee, firing it into the back of the net. After that, the game exploded into full-bore play again, but both teams’ defenses held firm and the game ended in a tie. Gondor 1-1 Rohan tot shots 8-10 on target 3-5 GOALS: *37, 0-1 Eomer (Felarof) *65, 1-1 Falastur (Anarion) YELLOW CARDS: *Gondor- Calimehtar *Rohan- Shadowfax, Eomer
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Shasta– ... However, if he's innocent his famous clairvoyant powers must be taking the week off. Meanwhile, the Night-kills have been awfully effective– almost like we're dealing with a psychic wolf... - Nerwen, WW LXXV |
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04-25-2012, 08:03 PM
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Scion of The Faithful
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: The brink, where hope and despair are akin. [The Philippines]
Posts: 5,312
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ArdaCup.com Stats Report #4: Before the Tournament Proper
For this edition of ArdaCup.com Stats Report, we go into an in-depth analysis of the status of the groups heading into the tournament proper.
Power Rank:  Greatest gain:
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 friendly matches. Ties are broken by a) greater number of shots made on target; and b) greater number of shots made. The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed throughout the friendly matches. Ties are broken by a) least number of shots allowed on target; and b) least amount of shots allowed. Please note that the above ranking is based on the four rounds of friendly matches played by the teams, and does not reflect actual tournament performance. Top individual performers: GOALS + ASSISTS 7+2 Finwë (Tirion) 5+3 Curufin (FC Valinor) Húrin (Hithlum) Gwindor (Nargothrond) 5+2 Bombadil (Shire-Bree United) 5+1 Túrin (Hithlum) Glaurung (Nargothrond) 5+0 Arien (Real Valinor) Sauron (Barad-dûr) 4+3 Míriel (Real Valinor) 4+2 Gothmog (Gondolin) 4+1 Aegnor (The Havens) 4+0 Maeglin (Gondolin) Eönwë (Tirion) Argon (FC Valinor) Durin's Bane (Misty Mts) 3+4 Aredhel (Tirion) 3+3 Oromë (Wilderland) 3+2 Strider (Shire-Bree United) Eärendil (The Havens) 3+1 Tar-Minastir (The Sea) Saruman (Isengard) 2+4 Elwë (Wilderland) 2+3 Galadriel (Wilderland) Tar-Ancalimon (Armenelos) Yavanna (FC Valinor) Nienor (Hithlum) Finrod (Nargothrond) 1+5 Barrow-Wight (Shire-Bree United) GOALKEEPING
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フェンリス鴨 (Fenrisu Kamo) The plot, cut, defeated. I intend to copy this sig forever - so far so good...
Last edited by Nilpaurion Felagund; 05-28-2012 at 11:01 PM. |
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04-25-2012, 08:09 PM
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Scion of The Faithful
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: The brink, where hope and despair are akin. [The Philippines]
Posts: 5,312
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Tar-Eldar Network Television and ArdaCup.com Group Analysis
A team of TENT and ArdaCup.com sports analysts will now bring you the most comprehensive and most accurate analysis of the Arda Cup groups.
After the team’s name is a list of the top three phantasy performers for the team (with their points per game and positions given). GROUP A Here we have two teams gutted after last year’s final four appearance, a team clearly improved in the offseason, and a bunch of jokers whose improvement or lack thereof cannot be quantified on the pitch.
Projected finish: 1. Angband 2. Tol-in-Gaurhoth 3. Shire-Bree United 4. The Downer GROUP H The token laughingstock group. None of the teams here will last long past the group stage, except perhaps Barad-dûr, but that’s only because of Sauron’s (distant) championship pedigree.
Projected finish: 1. Barad-dûr 2. Gondor 3. Mordor 4. Minas Tirith
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フェンリス鴨 (Fenrisu Kamo) The plot, cut, defeated. I intend to copy this sig forever - so far so good...
Last edited by Nilpaurion Felagund; 04-26-2012 at 03:35 PM. |
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04-25-2012, 08:30 PM
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Scion of The Faithful
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: The brink, where hope and despair are akin. [The Philippines]
Posts: 5,312
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Tar-Eldar Network Television and ArdaCup.com Group Analysis II
GROUP B
Here we have a defensive powerhouse with teeth, two teams who have spent too much on their teeth, and a balanced team whose either end clearly isn’t as good as that of their opponent’s best end.
Projected finish: 1. Eriador 2. Gondolin 3. Inter Beleriand 4. Arnor GROUP G Here we have almost an echo of Group B, whose winner and runner-up, coincidentally, they’ll face in the round of sixteen: One powerhouse offensive team with a surprisingly good defence and three teams with different team-building philosophies who have almost equal chances of grabbing second place.
Projected finish: 1. AC Beleriand 2. Nargothrond 3. Anfauglith 4. Doriath
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フェンリス鴨 (Fenrisu Kamo) The plot, cut, defeated. I intend to copy this sig forever - so far so good...
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04-25-2012, 08:33 PM
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Scion of The Faithful
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: The brink, where hope and despair are akin. [The Philippines]
Posts: 5,312
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Tar-Eldar Network Television and ArdaCup.com Group Analysis III
GROUP C
Here we have a team of flying offence and defence, a team with a First Age attacking line up, a team who had been denied last year by almost the same teams in their current group, and new team that many deem to be a bad idea.
Projected finish: 1. Wilderland 2. Erebor 3. Anduin 4. Dwarves United GROUP F The easiest group to predict: the gap between the top two and the bottom two teams of this group seems insurmountable.
Projected finish: 1. Rohan 2. Imladris 3. Misty Mts 4. Isengard
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フェンリス鴨 (Fenrisu Kamo) The plot, cut, defeated. I intend to copy this sig forever - so far so good...
Last edited by Nilpaurion Felagund; 05-12-2012 at 09:33 PM. |
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05-02-2012, 09:42 AM
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Laconic Loreman
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: USA
Posts: 7,521
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Groups
TWO TOWERS NETWORK
Boromir the 88th It's that time of season again. 2012 Arda Cup. Bigger. Better. And more unpredicatable then ever. We've thrown every advanced stat we could think of into the puzzle and there's still not a conclusive picture. The Favorite = the team TTN feels has the greater expectation to win the group. This does not always mean the team TTN predicts will win the group, just the team that should win based on payroll, players, and looking at the friendlies/stats. The Challenger = The team that we feel can challenge the favorite for 1st place in the group. But also have the great probability of advancing ahead of "The Upset." The Upset = The team that is not favored to advance to the playoffs, but might pull off a surprise in the group matches, and knock out "The Challenger" or "The Favorite." The Relegate = The team that will have an early exit from the tournament. *TTN Note: Since the groups are not equally balanced, some groups may have multiple "Favorites," "Challengers"...etc and some groups may have no "Challengers", "Upsets," or "Relegates." Though we tried our best to avoid this situation, and clearly distinguish teams within their respective groups - no matter how insanely tough most groups are to call* GROUP A The Favorite: Angband. (TTN - 11. OFF - 30. DEF - 3. GK - 6) We do think Morgoth held back the full offensive ability of Angband during the friendlies. They are certainly much better than the 30th rank indicates. It could be a clever scheme, as the tales of Elves and Men go...when Morgoth secretly holed up in his stronghold, away from the eyes of the Valar, and unleashed a fury of death and destruction upon Beleriand. So, we can't under-estimate what plots Morgoth has hatched while remaining reserved and defensive in the friendlies. Still if we're talking about a team that can win shooting matches, it won't be Angband. Sure they have some dangerous bite with the quick agility of Telvildo, and the intimidating power of a dragon (not to mention Morgoth), but there are some big weaknesses. Primarily, the rest of the team is not very threatening. The Challenger: Tol In Gaurhoth (TTN - 25. OFF - 20. DEF - 24. GK - 11) A really disappointing and disjointed friendly performance from TIG. Although, normally their key wolf players don't give an effort in friendly matches, trusting their natural talents are superior and they don't need "practice." The stats are a bit worse than they look. Scoring 5 goals, but giving up 7, and being outshot 44 to 56 is not a normal stat line for TIG-teams (even when they are giving a careless effort). However, most of that imbalance comes from the 3-1 loss to Real Valinor. TIG will lose to superior athletes, and their risky tactics makes them prone to losing games they should win. Looking at the Group A picture though, the wolves on the team can match Angband's talent, and also play a much better team game. The Upset: Shire-Bree Utd. (TTN - 22. OFF - 7. DEF - 27. GK - 30) This is an intriguing team, if one recalls Bywater from 2010. To the upset heard around Arda, when Bywater advanced, leaving Thangorodrim out of the playoffs. Granted, different year, different team make-ups, and Thangorodrim was without Morgoth. One might still wonder though, that if Angband comes in over-confident this pesky Shire team might surprise them again, especially since Bombadil has been a pain to Morgoth before (see 2009 Breeland v. Valimar). The 2010 Bywater team though, relied on some dirty back door trickery from the Valar to advance ahead of Thangorodrim and we can't see The Downer or Tol-in-Gaurhoth giving Shire-Bree the same kind treatment. Plus 2010 Bywater had a steady GK in Rosie Cotton, and GK will be Shire-Bree's undoing. The Relegate: The Downer (TTN - 32. OFF - 23. DEF - 31. GK - 31) Not much to add here. The Downer doesn't have the payroll, players, nor tactics to seriously contend at this level. We've seen some improvement in their actual focus to play the game, and thus a slight improvement in their overall performance, but not nearly enough. And still lack the discipline to beat anyone. Round 1: Angband 2 - 0 The Downer Shire Bree 2 - 3 Tol In Gaurhoth Group A Prediction: 1. Tol-in-Gaurhoth 2. Angband 3. Shire-Bree United 4. The Downer GROUP B The Favorite: Eriador. (TTM - 4. OFF - 19. DEF - 4. GK - 4) Folks are wondering if Elrond is nursing an injury, or if the Underground's accusations of an illegal miruvor-steroid last year were correct, becuase he was only the 4th best keeper in the friendlies. Others are saying those folk are neurotic, because Elrond still had an 86.7 sv%. If Elrond is Eriador's biggest worry, than the future must be looking bright for them. This reminds me of the 2010 Gondolin team, maybe not the absolute best names on the pitch, but solid talent at every position. Proven strikers (Witch-King and Glorfindel) a midfield that doesn't squander possession, a foreseeing with tireless-horse defense (Gil-Galad, Malbeth, and Asfaloth), all backed by the best GK to ever play the game. If this team doesn't take 1st, and doesn't at least advance to the semis, it will be a colossal failure of ill-spent money. The Upsets: 1. Gondolin. (TTN - 21. OFF - 9. DEF - 30. GK - 23) No one in this group seems seriously able to challenge Eriador for 1st, but there are two teams that might, just yet, surprise us. First is Gondolin, who has the best striking duo of Group B. But Duilin in the mid-field is an underrated player. Back in his natural position of feeding passes to the star-strikers, Gondolin's mid field will be the key to advancing in this group. 2. Inter Beleriand. (TTN - 28. OFF - 27. DEF - 20. GK - 19) Maedhros and Fingon have to be better than the 27th offense, then again, they might not be having the best chances because the mid-field is underperforming. (Haleth has to do better than 1 assist and 2 yellows). Still with a Balrog on the defense and Turgon manning the posts, they have good players in key positions and thus are an upset pick. The Relegate: Arnor (TTN - 24. OFF - 22. DEF - 21. GK - 16) Good competitors who are known for late game comebacks, but let's be honest, Isildur and Araphor are the weakest FWs in the group. Elendil has at best been inconsistant, and at worst, non-existant in Arda Cup play. Arvedui is capable of having great days in the GK, but also being extremely average, so arguably is the weakest GK in the group. Round 1: Inter Beleriand 2 - 2 Gondolin Arnor 0 - 1 Eriador Group B Predictions: 1. Eriador 2. Gondolin 3. Inter Beleriand 4. Arnor
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Fenris Penguin
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05-02-2012, 01:19 PM
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Laconic Loreman
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: USA
Posts: 7,521
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Groups
TWO TOWERS NETWORK
Boromir the 88th GROUP C The Favorite: Erebor (TTN - 8. OFF - 21. DEF - 7. GK - 7) Even if currently in TTN's power rankings Erebor is behind Wilderland, Erebor is coming in as our favorite to win Group C, just by looking at the match up. I mean, a Dragon against tree defenders...anyone see a problem with that match up? Add in Thranduil is superior to Oropher and the team-play of a Nazgul, there is no reason Erebor should be content finishing in 2nd. Plus Bard returns to command the position he has been most comfortable in, the mid-field. Erebor will have tougher challenges against Anduin (with an experienced monster-slayer on the defense) and Dwarves United (who are also very resilient to dragons) The Challenger: Wilderland (TTN - 7. OFF - 6. DEF - 22. GK - 13) There is something about this team that we just don't trust, right now. It's not the unpredictable tree-defenders (great when roused, but clumsy and careless in close quarters), but also Thingol and Galadriel. Sure both played vital roles in the attack during the friendlies, but they are notorious for being dreadfully conservative and too-defensive when the real matches begin. They must command the mid-field as they did in the friendlies, by pushing the ball up to their star-FWs, if they return to their usually negative tactics, Wilderland will not advance. The Upset: Anduin (TTN - 10. OFF - 13. DEF - 16. GK - 15) We don't trust Wilderland and there's something that intrigues us with this Anduin team (and no it's not some boyish fan crush TTN has with BoromirII). It's a sneaky quick attack that matches up well against the slow Dwarves and the wooden Wilderland defenders. Led by a man, who is one of the premier defenders sought out when a team wants to shut out the opponent's dragon. Plus, Celeborn and Galadriel are separated again, so we'll see if Celeborn's ingenuity will come out in Anduin's play, when in the past, it always appeared Galadriel jealously refused to listen to Celeborn's ideas. The Relegate: Dwarves United (TTN - 29. OFF - 31. DEF - 9. GK - 26) I really don't think there as bad as they performed in the friendlies. I mean how could they be with both Celebrimbor and Aule in the defense? The team though, is just not working as it currently sits. They tried to address the problems of fielding an entire dwarvish team, by attracting some Elves who were friends of dwarves, but really Legolas is no good as the lone offensive threat, and Celebrimbor can't hold the defense forever. Especially since Bombur is not that great of a GK. Round 1 Anduin 2 - 2 Wilderland Dwarves Utd. 1 - 2 Erebor Group C Prediction: 1. Erebor 2. Anduin 3. Wilderland 4. Dwarves United GROUP D The Favorites: 1. FC Valinor (TTN - 1. OFF - 4. DEF - 17. GK - 14) It is nearly impossible to distinguish between these two, but we're going to try to anyway. FC Valinor will have the confidence boost from beating Real in the friendly match, but there really is no significant statistical defense. Perhaps the fact that Huan performed better, and is the more proven GK, is the most important stat, but even he wasn't on top form during the friendlies. 2. Real Valinor (TTN - 2. OFF - 5. DEF - 15. GK - 17) Even if the friendlies showed an even performance, we would still take the Arien-Miriel-Nerdanel trio ahead of Curufin-Celegorm-Yavanna at this moment. And here is also something to consider, the x-factor on Real Valinor is Caranthir. He is prone to losing his temper, but he also knows how to neutralize his brothers. It will be interesting to see what secrets Caranthir gives to Tilion that could slow down Curufin and Celegorm. The Challenger: Armenolos (TTN - 9. OFF - 15. DEF - 8. GK - 10) It is very difficult for us to invision a playoff that did not have the royalty of Numenor as one of the final 16 teams. Plus, you woud think with all of Numenor behind them, that would give the Numenoreans the right spirit and motivation. Ar Pharazon desires nothing more than to send the Valar packing, in front of his home fans. But this isn't the same overly-complacent Valar-led teams. They have star-quality written up and down the rosters, and would also like to sink Armenolos' championship hopes, just as they sunk the island of Numenor many ages ago. The Upset: Tirion (TTN - 3. OFF - 1. DEF - 25. GK - 27) We almost listed Tirion as a relegate, which is a shame, because in any other group they would be a challenger or favorite. Their defense and goal tending is way too porous to pick them to advance from this group. With that said, their offense is so good Tirion can't be completely counted out of the playoff picture. Round 1 FC Valinor 1 - 2 Real Valinor Armenolos 2 - 2 Tirion Group D Prediction: 1. Real Valinor 2. FC Valinor 3. Armenolos 4. Tirion GROUP E The Favorite: Valimar (TTN - 6. OFF - 18. DEF - 1. GK - 2) One of the top defenses and goal keepers, plus one of the most expensive payrolls and the Valar have to be favorites to win Group E. However, TTN is predicting they're going to flop in 2012. Almost for the same reasons as Wilderland, since those leading the team have dreadfully conservative tactics, which just has never worked in the tournament. But unlike Wilderland (who can unleash some dangerous strikers with Scatha and Orome), Valimar has an untested offense. The key to beating offensive power-houses like Hithlum (and even The Havens) is pressuring their defense and having a killer instinct. A 1-goal lead is never safe when facing Turin. Unfortunately, this instinct does not reside in Manwe's team. The Challenger: The Sea (TTN - 12. OFF - 11. DEF - 11. GK - 12) A far more balanced Valar team, and thus very dangerous. Ulmo is the premier defender in Arda, especially when aided by his Maiar helpers. Now you add in a deadly finisher like Tar Minastir? And you have the makings of a team that can advance deep. Tar Minastir is a mighty threat, but that is their weakness, since he's pretty much their only threat, even though Ulmo likes to be adventurous and creative in the offense as well. The Upset: Hithlum (TTN - 20. OFF - 3. DEF - 28. GK - 32) It would be unheard of if Turin is left in the group stages, but there is a significant possibility of this happening. Even if TTN personally believes Valimar are too complacent to deliver a killing blow to Hithlum, that doesn't mean the Valar are pushovers...certainly not defensively. Hithlum's defense is bad, and Aradan absolutely has to do better than saving 53.1% in order to dethrone the stuffy Valar. The Relegate: The Havens (TTN - 27. OFF - 8. DEF - 29. GK - 28) Defensively they were slightly worse than Hithlum, and offensively they are significantly weaker. Earendil is a great talent and Aegnor seemed to have a hot boot in the friendlies, but they don't have the offensive fire-power to go up against the 2 Valar teams, and make up for their huge defeciency on defense, like Hithlum does. Round 1: Hithlum 2 - 3 The Sea The Havens 1 - 2 Valimar Group E Prediction: 1. The Sea 2. Hithlum 3. Valimar 4. The Havens
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Fenris Penguin
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05-05-2012, 08:47 PM
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Scion of The Faithful
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: The brink, where hope and despair are akin. [The Philippines]
Posts: 5,312
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The Felagundion’s sports blog.
Time for predictions on the first round of group matches! And since TTN is predicting the scores as well as the results, I thought that it's time for me to make other predictions as well.
GROUP A: Angband vs The Downer Shire-Bree United vs Tol-in-Gaurhoth The Downer will get more bookings than shots on goal. GROUP B: Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin Arnor vs Eriador Elrond will save more shots than the goalkeepers of the first match combined. GROUP C: Anduin vs Wilderland Dwarves United vs Erebor Wilderland will score more goals than the Dwarves will get shots on goal. GROUP D: FC Valinor vs Real Valinor Armenelos vs Tirion More people will watch the first game of this group than the number of people who'll watch all matches of Group H combined. GROUP E: Hithlum vs The Sea The Havens vs Valimar Eärendil will do again what he did late First Age--get to Valinor unmarked. GROUP F Imladris vs Rohan Isengard vs Misty Mts The number of shots saved in the first game will equal the number of goals scored in the second game. GROUP G AC Beleriand vs Doriath Anfauglith vs Nargothrond Ooh, Beren vs Lúthien . . . GROUP H: Barad-dûr vs Minas Tirith Gondor vs Mordor More exciting things will happen in the stands than in the pitch.
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フェンリス鴨 (Fenrisu Kamo) The plot, cut, defeated. I intend to copy this sig forever - so far so good...
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05-11-2012, 05:15 PM
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Beloved Shadow
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: The Stadium
Posts: 5,971
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Investing Groups Comment
The Phantom, MESPN News Here in the break between friendlies and the opening games of Arda Cup 2012, we've managed to get a few quotes from various investment groups regarding the performance and outlook of their teams. Golden Wood Group- "We feel quite confident about our investments- Anduin and Wilderland. The Lord & Lady of Lothlorien have been good fits on their respective squads which is nice to see, but more importantly the squads as a whole have both won more than they've lost. Anduin's win over Imladris was an excellent way to finish up friendlies, and Wilderland's solid performance over group-foe Dwarves United was quite promising. I think it's entirely realistic to expect both of our squads to advance out of group play." Rohirrim Ltd. - "Anduin finished up nicely and looks to threaten the betting favorites Erebor and Wilderland, while Rohan is the current favorite to win Group F. This is precisely what we expected from our kinsmen, and we're looking forward to group play." Annuminas Ltd. - "We're not overly concerned about Arnor's close loss to Armenelos- they're a top-flight team after all, and in one game anything can happen. The early loss to Imladris wasn't pretty, but they rebounded well in the middle with a draw against Mordor and a finely fought win over Gondor- TTN's pick to win Group H." Belegost- "Well of course the friendly performance of Dwarves United left something to be desired, but Aule definitely had them holding back the full scope of their tough Dwarvish play. In a free-flowing dash of a friendly our opponents generally have the advantage, but they'll find things tougher going in group play. We remain in full support of our Dwarf-centric squad!" Erebor Craftsman Union- "We're fairly comfortable with the position Erebor is in. Most betting agencies have us going forward- they recognize our blend of talent is a difficult match-up for most. As far as our opening loss to Wilderland- we'll see how it goes once we're playing for real." Moneybags Monetary Management- "Well, we're not that pleased with where team Erebor's overall salary stands- we were all for fielding a more... budget-friendly team. But so long as Erebor keeps avoiding the losses we're hopeful that we'll turn a profit." Turgon- "Inter Beleriand did lose the battle to AC Beleriand to open friendlies, but we weren't dominated numbers-wise. Our final match against Angband was promising as far as numbers went as well, so that along with our game 2 victory leaves reason for optimism. Our performance in the Doriath match wasn't the best, but that's just one game out of four. With the talent we have there's no reason to think we won't advance if we only play one poor group game." Angmar Athletic- "I think we're more than comfortable with the position of team Eriador. They started off with two well-earned shut-outs, and finished up with a solid win over a talented Shire-Bree squad. The lone loss was to Erebor- we just didn't play our best that day- and we don't think that's anything to worry about. With Elrond at the back and our beloved Witch King at the front, I don't see how we won't make it out of group play and into the profit zone."
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05-18-2012, 04:41 PM
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#12 |
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Laconic Loreman
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: USA
Posts: 7,521
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Intro to Group H
Matchday 1 - @ Minas Morgul
The Stadium: Formerly called Moonlight Stadium in the days when Gondor owned the deeds to the stadium, it has since been renamed The Vale of Necromancy. It is the grandest stadium in the land of Mordor, seating 70,000 and VIP seats are in a tall tower, with a skull-turret, overlooking the pitch. Gondorians contest the lease should still belong to Gondor since it was illegally purchased, but Sauron has squashed those rumors and the Witch-King made it his personal abode ever since. Outside the walls circle dozens of Silent Watchers which are enough to keep even the most stout hearted Men from trying to thieve and vandalize Minas Morgul property. The biggest concern before the opening matches will be the security situation. We have two passionate fanbases, whom have often been bitter enemies. Sauron maintains it won't be his base that causes the problems, citing his experience in hosting games and how the minions will follow his lead. Therefor any fights will likely be brought in by the Gondorians. But everyone must wonder how will Mordor react if the Gondor teams actually do advance, and how will Gondor react if the Mordor teams go through to the playoffs? Game 1: Barad-dur v. Minas Tirith (2:30 start time) The young captain of Minas Tirith, Faramir, contends every player on his team has withstood Sauron before and they will do so again. However, Minas Tirith will have to rise to the challenge facing Sauron, Castamir, and Beruthiel (plus Sangahyando and Angamaite like being involved in the attack, and White City defenders may simply get overwhelmed). With that said the White City has some dangerous boots as well, with Boromir I, Mardil, and Earnur, plus Faramir to lead smart counters. Barad-dur's defense will have to always be on guard, and they performed quite poorly throughout the friendlies. Game 2: Gondor v. Mordor (8:00pm start time) This will likely be more of a defensive game than the first one, since both teams are extremely well organized. The squad of Nazgul are exemplary teammates in complete sync with each other, so besides the home-field advantage, Mordor gets an edge in organization. Although, Gondor has a bit more of an offensive bite, especially when Eldacar decides it's time to play for real. Grishnakh (who seemed to be the only player of Mordor capable of communicating in ways that weren't hisses, screeches, or black speech) said: "The Great Eye is upon Gondor. Shelob is too monstrous for these weak Men to contain, the Nazgul will dominate in the mid-field and no one has the strength to get the ball past our Silent Watcher's will."
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05-19-2012, 08:36 AM
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Blossom of Dwimordene
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: The realm of forgotten words
Posts: 10,541
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EAisticle: Itsy Bitsy Mighty Wighty
It has come as a shock to many football phans that in the very first part of the season the Barrow Wight of team SBU will be playing against none other than the Wights and Wolves of TIG themselves!
TIG considers this plain teason from the side of the Barrow Wight, and extreme unconsideration from the side of those who made the groups. Meanwhile, the Barrow Wight is happy that he is not on the TIG team, which he despises. "They can call themselves Wights," he said, "but it is known that they have drifted away from their kind years ago. They have been playing as wolves for the past...ever! They are Wights only by origin, blasphemous creatures as they now are. They defile the good of Wight, and they put shame on my name!" The spokesman for the TIG team, NogWolf, says that the Barrow Wight is too old-fashioned and just cannot keep up with the modern trends. "Aye, we started out just as he did - wights, scaring stray hobbits. And we were content. But then we grew more powerful than he, and learned how to adopt the shape of wolves. We are proud as ever of our accomplishment. Are we not still Wights, just Wights more skilled in the art of transformation?" LegateWight went farther. "This Barrow Wight was our superior for years, but now he's jealous. See, we've got more abilities than he does, and we are scarier. And better at football. He just cannot keep up with us. He holds only one evil in his form, but we hold two. And we are proud of it. Personally, I'd much rather be a wolf right now." The feelings of both sides are boiling over, and the result of the match between TIG and SBU will determine the outcome. One side will have its noses up as high as Taniquetil, and the other will hang their heads in shame. Both sides need to win this important match to prove the truth of their words. It will not only be a victory on the field, it will be the victory of an age-long debate.
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You passed from under darkened dome, you enter now the secret land. - Take me to Finrod's fabled home!... ~ Finrod: The Rock Opera |
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05-24-2012, 10:06 PM
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Laconic Loreman
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: USA
Posts: 7,521
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The Great Delving stadium was filling up quickly when the gates opened a few hours before the first kick. Most spectators were surprisingly hobbits and thus entered the grand stands as neutrals. Even if most hobbits were not enthusiastic about putting their support behind either of these teams, the Arda Cup was in town, it was just another reason to eat, drink, and have some good-simple entertainment. Who could pass up on this deal?
Of the hobbits who were not neutrals, most seemed to be for The Downer, particularly because Saucepan Man was their favorite player. The large Gamgee family was out in full force, bringing all sorts of pots and pans to bang on and cheer for the family favorite. However, it was Angband who had the most fans show up from the non-hobbit crowd: swarty easterlings and bands of orcs made the trip to root on Morgoth and Angband. The hobbits were noticeably nervous having their borders open to unsavory looking big folk and orcs, but with Morgoth working in tandem the Barrow-wights patrol's they felt the matches would be secure. Group A @ Michel Delving At the start of the match, it was clear to any one watching there were just 2 different classes of teams on the pitch. It was if Morgoth wrote the script of the game before even playing it. Angband's passing was quick and precise. Their strikers up front were just lacking the finishing touch, or else they would have likely scored within the first couple minutes. The Downer defenders were actually into the game, but defending doggedly trying to get in the way of Angband's shots. Since Ancalagon looked a bit slow and rusty, it worked at first, but being unable to take possession away, eventually the early game rust falls off. It wasn't even 15 minutes into the match, when Telvildo was already weaving in, out and around Downer defenders' legs After making mousemeat out of the defenders, Telvildo left the ball to Ancalagon to slam in from close range. That goal would surely give the oft-accused of being overly priced dragon some confidence! Angband seemed content to go pull back and defend, testing their defenders against The Downer attack. The Downer was able to build some pressure in the mid-field, but for the most part they could not beat the Angband back-line. None of their chances seriously trouble Caracharoth at goal. A mishap in the mid-field between Lalwende MP and John Fillis led to the next goal for Angband in the match. Gelmir stepped up to intercept a pass, and with Ancalagon and Telvildo already stationed up the field there were plenty of Angband players attracting attention. One who did not attract much attention though was Ulfast. Gelmir found the traitorous man at the top of the box. Ancalagon was doing a good job shielding the Bubble Buddha out of the play, and thus Ulfast was able to send a good drive to the back of the net. Play got a little chippy towards the end of the half, but both teams seemed to welcome the rougher play. The Downer upping the physicality wasn't bothering Morgoth in the least bit, but this team is completely mental. They were laughing, and begging Angband to hit them harder, yet were showing no signs of injury, or wearing down, they just kept...laughing. It was probably Angband's worst part of their game today, since all it did was get their players a couple of yellow cards before the half, which could see one of their player's sent off in the 2nd. Alas, there was no sign of strategy or life to The Downer's play. 12 minutes into the 2nd period, Ancalagon got his 2nd goal of the match off a free kick. It began with the crowd hearing a pained screech and seeing a feline sent flying some 40 yards through the air. Morsul avoided a straight red card by saying he sincerely tried to clear the ball, but it's not his fault he whiffed at the last moment and cleared Telvildo instead! It was straight from goal, but quite a ways away, still when Ancalagon takes the free kick, everyone knows what's coming, a shot on goal. Ancalagon lined up his shot, and with his trademark tail whip, struck the ball so hard it cleaved a path through everything. Things began getting really ridiculous after Angband went up 3-0, and most neutrals wound up exiting the stadium. They liked the play they saw from Angband, but were not at all interested in watching The Downer players getting out of control, just as Morgoth was not interested in putting a stop to the sideshow that was The Downer. Angband was confident of the shut out, but in this way they allowed overconfidence to let them get lazy. The ball somehow freakishly ended up in Hookbill's possession, but he just kicked it towards the sideline (being more fascinated by Alien trying to catch Lalwende MP's cloak on fire). However, Saucepan Man got to it before going out of bounds and then out ran the Angband defenders. Morgoth was the only one left to beat, but Morgoth didn't step up to challenge at all, he appeared to just let Sauce have an open crack at goal, and Saucepan easily beat Carcharoth with a solid strike. The few Pan Fans left in the stands, clattered. Afterwards, reporters asked about Morgoth's late game decision "Of course I could have stopped him if I wanted to, but we had scored 3 goals and Carcharoth had yet to save a difficult shot. I knew Saucepan would not disappoint in challenging our keeper. I wish Carcharoth had been able to come up with the save, but I purposefully put our keeper in a difficult situation to see how the werewolf would handle it." Angband 3-1 The Downer on target 7-3 tot shots 16-12 GOALS: *14, 1-0 Ancalagon (Telvildo) *31, 2-0 Ulfast (Gelmir) *57, 3-0 Ancalagon *82, 3-1 Saucepan Man (Hookbill) YELLOW CARDS: *Angband- Ulfast, Lorgan, Telvildo, Ulfang *Downer- Hookbill, Evil Mayo, Morsul It was the greatest buzz happening in The Shire since the hobbit folk could remember. The weather had been bright and clear all day (which obviously was putting the TIG team in a crummy mood before kick off). Adding to weather conditions, the entire atmosphered seemed to be set against the wolves. Their fanbase is normally quite small, but raucous and travels well, but there was barely 2,000 TIG colors spotted in a small corner of Michel Delving stadium. Why such a low turnout? Was the TIG base that despiritted by the Arda Cup's biased rules limitting the number of werewolves on their team? And obviously, all the unsold TIG ticket allotment just went to Shirelings, and those sold out quickly. Even the standard baddie creatures, like other wights and civilised orcs were joining chants towards Shire-Bree's victory...no doubt thanks to Khamul and the Barrow-wight now playing for them. "Traitors. Both of them" grumbled Gwathwight. Whatever the reasons were (and we would contribute the combination of negative factors piled up) TIG were a complete mess to start the match. It was none other than Bombadil playfully skipping circles around the TIG defense. Not even the Phantomwolf, who had a much publicized rivalry with the foolish man, could seem to slow him down effecitively. And in the 8th minute, Bombadil added another score off his famous yellow boots. After the early goal, TIG's defense regathered themselves and actually showed they could at least hault Shire-Bree from building up prolonged attacks, but they were unable to keep possession for long. The mid-field was being masterfully commanded by Khamul and the B-W. The wolves plan seemed to be make Bombadil ineffective by rattling him. Yet, they were playing quite timid, trying not to attract the attention of the ref and pick up cards, but Bombadil was the type of player no one (including the refs!) could take their eyes off. And whenever there was the window where the ref wasn't watching, the B-W's presense could be felt lurking nearby. It would put chills in any physical being! So, it was in the 30th minute with TIGs defense completely worn down, from being unable to keep the ball off their side of the field, when Aragorn made it 2-0 Shire. Bombadil after causing a BoroWight and GaladriWight to run into eachother, flicked a pass forward to Aragorn who slid it past the wolf-keeper. The crowd went wild in rioutous applause, chants, and songs. TIG was fortunate to find themselves only down 2 going the half, thanks to some nice stops by Shastawolf. The halflings couldn't believe it, they knew their team was talented, but did not know they would be this dominating! They spent the half-time glued to their seats, with their cakes and ales, unwilling to leave out of fear they would miss the beginning of the second. And they were doing it against the nasty wolves of TIG! However, often as the case can be, never assume you have a sure 3 points until the ref blows the final whistle. Especially, since there was still a lot of pride in the TIG players, and they are no strangers to making comebacks. They simply refused to let this pathetic people called hobbits embarrass them in this fashion. They would not allow such nonsense! Tol-in-Gaurhoth came out of the lockers in a roaring fury. It was one attack after the next, and except for the delusional fanatics in the crowd, people could see what was happening and thus were getting nervous. Shire-Bree's defense was not capable of stopping the monstrous wolves when pressured. Nogwolf pulled the wolves within 1 after re-directing on of sally's strikes back on goal, in the 54th minute. There were several more minutes of pressure, Halbarad had to tip one of Phantomwolf's strikes out of bounds for the corner. Phantomwolf took the corner and expertely curved one right to the waiting forehead of NerWight who made no mistake with that golden chance. They were tied! And 15 minutes still remained! The Shire fans deflated a bit after the equalizer, but it was only temporary. With TIG now tying things up, in only made the pro-Shire crowd more determined to get behind their team. "Come on Shirelings! Get behind our valiant heroes!" Try as they might to be spiritted by the crowd, for whatever reason, Bombadil was not nearly as effective in this half. And TIG began to really rain down the shots on Shire-Bree's goal, devastating their defense. If not for some heroic saves by Halbarad, the wolves could have completely flipped this game on it's head in the 2nd. Thus when the final whistle blew, the SB fans breathed relief to hold on to the point, but were baffled to how their team could look unstoppable in the 1st, but come out completely flat in the 2nd. TIG, likewise, relieved to get the point, were clearly more angry with their sloppy performance. Shire-Bree United 2-2 Tol In Gaurhoth on target 6-7 tot shots 12-19 GOALS: *8, 1-0 Bombadil (Khamul) *30, 2-0 Strider (Bombadil) *54, 2-1 NogWolf (SallyWight) *75, 2-2 NerWight (PhantomWolf) YELLOW CARDS: *SBUnt- Ferny *TIG- GaladriWight, AganWight
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Fenris Penguin
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05-26-2012, 01:23 AM
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Beloved Shadow
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: The Stadium
Posts: 5,971
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Group C at Moria
The match between Anduin and Wilderland kicked off the moment the sun peeked over the high wall of Dimrill Dale. The Elves of Mirkwood and Lothlorien were revved up and ready for the game, but some of the men of the Anduin vales were a bit groggy, and the Dwarves that spilled out from Moria made it just in time for the late morning start. Both teams were wide awake, however, and playing their games. Wilderland got it to their front four as quickly as possible and let them go to work, while Anduin defended stiffly and built up team attacks. In the early going the defenders were fresh and the passes a bit nervous on the big stage, so no attempts of note were gained. Finally after 35 minutes had passed Wilderland's big guns truly found their stride. Orome held a defender on his back and with a quick and powerful stride left him in the dust. After a quick move past another defender he forced the keeper to commit and served it across to Galadriel for the easy chip-in. Minutes later before the half ended it was Scatha and Elwe scoring in similar team-up fashion, leaving Fram quite upset- as he had been determined to keep the dragon off the scorecard. Wilderland fans were feeling comfortable indeed during the break. Knowing they had to take some risks to get back in it, Anduin started the second half more aggressively, and despite the change in play style they took to it well and put some nice pressure on Wilderland's back line, particularly since Wilderland's front was unwilling to help much, always looking to be sprung on a counter. In minute 63 Anduin finally changed their side of the scoreboard, as Fram sent a surprise boomer from near the sideline at midfield and found Haldir in stride, and the Elf headed it deftly over the onrushing keeper. Encouraged by their success Anduin continued the pressure, but the Great Warg between the posts held them at bay with a couple of miracle saves. As desperation grew Anduin began to grow weary, and finally Wilderland sprung the deadly counter they had been attempting to gain all through the half. With Fram helping with the attack, it was the mighty tail of Scatha freed up to put it in and place the game out of reach, and the Wilderland fans began the celebration, knowing the game was out of reach. They were out to the early group lead! Anduin 1-3 Wilderland on target 6-6 tot shots 13-16 GOALS: *36, 0-1 Galadriel (Orome) *44, 0-2 Elwe (Scatha) *63, 1-2 Haldir (Fram) *78, 1-3 Scatha (Galadriel) YELLOW CARDS: *Anduin- Fram, Leod, Lenwe *Wilder- Fimbrethil, Scatha After the impressive performance by Wilderland in the first game, Dwarves United and Erebor were quite keen to gain a full three points from their night match. The Dwarves of Moria were out in force, and their chanting, stamping, and drumming made the underground arena shake. But the Erebor players were not easily shaken- the likes of Smaug, Gwaihir, and Beorn aren't particularly easy to rattle. Dwarves United found this out immediately as Erebor opened at a breakneck pace and with high physicality, and the refs were letting them play. Bombur was forced to use his considerable bulk twice in the opening five minutes already, and Aule's side looked nervous. But Aule and Celebrimbor were able to do just enough to keep the sheet clean, and after a furious 20 minutes Erebor's attack began to lose its flow, and the crowd picked up their support. By the very end of the half it was Dwarves United controlling things. The craftsman in the midfield were moving things beautifully, however they could not crack the back of Erebor. Their primary scoring threat, Legolas, was hounded by the eagles, giving him no room to operate. As the second half kicked off it looked like more of the same, and the fans grew restless. But it turned out Erebor was resting up for a big mid-half push, which they unleashed after the opening 20 minutes, and the Dwarves didn't know what hit them. Aule and Celebrimbor kept Smaug and Thranduil locked up tight, but the mid-attackers of Erebor were lethal and effective. First it was Bard finding the back of the net, and then it was Bolg surprising the defense with a deep run, and just like that Erebor had a two-goal lead! Dwarves United tried to fight back with the stadium behind them, but quick scores against the speedy eagles and Beorn just wasn't going to happen for them, and Aule and company soon found themselves standing around on the field watching the Erebor players hug and high-fiving their fans. The second of the two Group C favorites had joined Wilderland at the top of the standings! Dwarves United 0-2 Erebor on target 3-7 tot shots 9-16 GOALS: *70, 0-1 Bard (Nazgul #7) *77, 0-2 Bolg (Landroval) YELLOW CARDS: *DwUnt- Thorin, Thror *Erebor- Meneldor
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the phantom has posted.
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05-26-2012, 06:12 PM
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#16 |
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Scion of The Faithful
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: The brink, where hope and despair are akin. [The Philippines]
Posts: 5,312
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Tar-Eldar Network Television group stage coverage
Group G at Nargothrond
It was a beautiful summer afternoon in Talath Dirnen, the Guarded Plain of the realm of Nargothrond. But even if it had been raining cats and wolves it would hardly have mattered to the promise of quality football in the indoor stadium beside the Narog River, the High Faroth Arena. According to the allotment scheme presented by Nargothrond to the Arda Cup Hosting Committee, twenty-thousand tickets would be allotted to the fans of the teams playing a game, with the rest up for grabs on site. AC Beleriand’s extensive fan base snapped up almost half of these free-for-all tickets, ensuring that Fëanor’s squad would enjoy the semblance of a home crowd for their afternoon game. The remaining seats were taken by Nargothrond neutrals, interested mainly in a good game of football. When the two teams walked into the field these ten thousand cheered along with the more partisan crowd, happy to be finally witnessing a home game for the first time since 2009, a round of sixteen tie that ended in victory for the visitors, Tol-in-Gaurhoth. And unlike that game, this time there was the promise of five more afterwards, including three from the home team. Beren and Lúthien were seen hugging each other by the touchline during the warm-ups. Beren then ruffled the hair of Dior, who was saying something to his father. The three shared a laugh afterwards. Melian, Beleg, Mablung, and Eöl were wistful in conversation in the centre circle, doubtless recalling last year’s championship squad. Soon the opening whistle was blown. One of the biggest surprises in the game had already been sprung even before then. Melian, Doriath’s best defender and the indefatigable left back who contributed to all aspects of their game, was playing central defender with Galathil, up against AC Beleriand’s main scoring threat, Fëanor. Nimloth and Saeros took turns marking the opposition’s other forward, Eöl, committing only when the Dark Elf was in their side of the pitch. Doriath’s plan to play a possession game was soon in tatters due to the pressure of the AC Beleriand midfield. The Fenced Land’s deep playmaker Daeron was harried by Ulrad, Galadhon was tailed closely by Denethor, and Nellas was guarded by Bregolas. When Lúthien moved in to help, Ecthelion simply followed her there, allowing AC Beleriand to retain their man advantage. And when that man was Beren… Beren, Fëanor, and Eöl formed passing triangles in front of the Doriath penalty area, occasionally making forays to test the Girdle of Melian. In the fourteenth minute, Eöl found space to chip the ball over the Doriath back four for Beren, and only the linesman’s raised flag, signalling an offside offence, prevented the One-Handed from getting the opener. Five minutes later, almost the exact same play happened, this time with Beren timing his run perfectly. It took a Melian sliding tackle to deny him a goal-bound shot. With Doriath still starved of the ball, the forward from Nan Elmoth found a third opportunity for the same play in the twenty-seventh minute. This time Fëanor made a move to distract Melian, and Beren thundered in the ball past his son for the one-nil lead. It seemed that there was no adjustment Doriath could make to shift the tide in the favour. True, they gained a few counterattacking chances, but they were profligate with it. During the half-hour mark Galathil sent a long ball to Mablung, but the Heavy Boot lost possession when he attempted to dribble past Imlach. Ten minutes after Saeros headed away Eöl’s cross in Beleg’s direction, and the march-warden dashed downfield, sending a hurried cross a moment before Fingolfin could challenge him. Lúthien connected with it, but her header fizzed wide. Two minutes before the end of the first half AC Beleriand doubled their lead. Saeros’s cynical tackle on Beren earned Fëanor’s squad a penalty kick. The Nandorin courtier muttered ‘Baseborn mortal’ as he looked down at the fallen midfielder, and Beren jumped up, pushing Saeros as he shouted, ‘Say that again and I’ll leave you as one-handed as I am!’ Melian pushed Saeros away from Beren, not before casting an apologising glance at her former teammate. The referee had already given the Doriath defender a yellow card, and he was forced to deal Beren a similar punishment for his threat. Afterwards, Fëanor calmly converted his spot kick, giving his side a two-nil score line to take into the break. After the half time the Doriath squad walked in with a determined glint in their eyes. When the game resumed their adjustments were made apparent. Saeros was tasked to mark Eöl, and Nimloth stuck with Beren whenever he approached the penalty area. And it was paying off. Eöl no longer had time to send weighted forward passes, Beren found his dwindling number of shots blocked by Nimloth. Even Fëanor couldn’t dribble his way in; Galathil and Melian did not allow the Fiery Boot to get past them. The shifting tide was soon felt even in the scoresheet. In the seventy-second minute Saeros made a successful tackle of Eöl and sent a long ball towards Beleg, who dashed forward before being checked by Fingolfin. The Strong Boot found time to send a pinpoint pass between him and Imlach, and there was Lúthien to take it. With one touch she froze Rochallor, and then her left foot rifled the ball past a startled Marach into the net. Incensed by the goal, Fëanor took it upon himself to put Doriath away for good. He displayed a dazzling display of ball control, dribbling past defensive midfielder Galadhon before turning central defenders Galathil and Melian inside out. But his shot was barely tipped away by Dior, and Nimloth’s clearance landed near Daeron. The minstrel, seeing Beleg making a run, threaded a pass between the AC Beleriand midfielders that found the march-warden in stride. Imlach had to stop him against the rules, earning a booking and giving Doriath a dangerous free kick twenty metres from the goal. Beleg took the kick, and his shot rose above the wall before dipping down just beyond Marach’s outstretched hand. Doriath had their equaliser! Melian put all ten outfielders behind the ball to defend the draw, and for fourteen tense minutes they held on, aided by erratic finishing from Fëanor and Beren. When the referee signalled the end of the match most of the team were hugging and jumping for joy. Melian tried to remind them that they still had two games to play, but for now, it didn’t matter. They have stolen a point from one of the tournament favourites! AC Beleriand 2-2 Doriath GOALS: 27, 1-0 Beren (Eöl) 43, 2-0 Fëanor 72, 2-1 Lúthien (Beleg) 76, 2-2 Beleg Total Shots 18-12 Shots On Target 7-5 YELLOW CARDS: 2-1 AC Bel: Beren, Imlach Doriath: Saeros The afternoon result left the home supporters smelling blood. A win would put their team on top of the table, giving them a good chance to advance (despite still having a game at hand against the still much-feared AC Beleriand, as well as the Doriath squad who pulled even with them.) A loss, on the other hand, would all but consign them to elimination. The first game’s crowd exited, and a great mass of Nargothrondrim and Anfauglith fans flowed into the stadium. With Morgoth playing in Michel Delving, and Gothmog in Weathertop, the baddie team playing closest to Angband and Utumno was Anfauglith. Thus it was not uncommon to see large bands of Orcs and Trolls among the Elves and Men in the underground streets of Nargothrond. The wardens kept a close eye on them, stopping those who bore signs of carrying a weapon, but for most part the fans from the north kept the peace, respectful of the home team with their talismanic centre forward Glaurung. Still, this mob was raucous, their war drums almost drowning out their chanting. The Nargothrond faithful singing ‘Nargothrond will endure’ raised their voices as one in an effort to keep up. Soon the music turned into a roar, as the two teams walked into the pitch. Finrod shook hands with Thuringwethil, and Glaurung shared a fiery laugh with the three Balrogs. Soon it was time for kick-off, and the home crowd was given a reason to cheer when, a mere minute after the opening whistle, Gwindor stole a pass from Gundor and rushed like the wind downfield, as he did in millennia past during the fifth battle of Beleriand. He cut inside, leaving Balrog #4 behind, and, at the edge of the penalty area, shot the ball narrowly over the crossbar. Gwindor continued to give his marker fits as the pacey winger’s play contributed to the opener six minutes later. Wary of him cutting inside, the Balrog showed him to the byline. Gwindor centred the ball for a cutting Orodreth, whose header was blocked by Ungoliant. But then Finrod darted in with a diving header towards far post, and the High Faroth Arena exploded in a wall of sound. Anfauglith made swift adjustments against the left-wing incursion. Defensive midfielder Gorgol moved from his holding role in the centre of the line of defenders to the left, his role to stay goalside of Gwindor. The effect was noticeable; Gwindor was frustrated with Gorgol denying him a byline run, and Balrog #4 denying him a path inside. In half-hour mark the Gasping Dust squad displayed its own version of wing play, initiated by Balrog #3, who blocked a Finrod through ball to Glaurung. He passed the ball to Gundor, who hugged the touchline, brushed past Mîm, and crossed for Thuringwethil. The vampire muscled past her markers to guide the ball just under the crossbar. When the second half began, it was soon apparent that a draw was not good enough for Anfauglith. They pressed and disrupted the Nargothrond passing game, hoofing the ball in Thuringwethil’s direction as soon as they have gained possession. Towering Arminas helped contest her in the air, and doughty Baran did his best to keep pace with the vampire. Bëor pulled off a few saves, but the woodwork did more to save them from being a goal down. Although credit to Guilin’s positioning should be given, denying Thuringwethil the easier shots. But they cannot deny her forever. Taking a long pass from Balrog #3, he split Baran and Arminas and dribbled past Guilin before shooting over Mîm’s head and into the top-right corner of the goal. Anfauglith has taken the lead, and the Nargothrond faithful groaned in despair. Meanwhile the creatures of Angband banged their drums louder. They just have to use their suffocating defence to hold on to the lead. Just when they thought that the dream of qualifying was dying before their eyes, the Nargothrond crowd was given a sign of life just before the hour. Glaurung and Gwindor pushed even harder against the Balrog line (once earning the dragon a booking for being too rough), and Finrod looked for space between the Anfauglith defence and midfield, daring anyone to mark him. Galdor and Haldir took the challenge, leaving Finduilas free to do a forward run. She took a pass from Felagund, and, finding her path blocked by a Balrog, back-heeled the ball to Barahir, who had managed to drift unseen towards the edge of the 18-yard box. His shot bounced in off the crossbar, catching Ungoliant unprepared, and Nargothrond has drawn level. The squads were not content with a draw, and they began looking for a winner. Momentum was with Finrod’s side, but the captain urged caution, as Thuringwethil had been single-handedly giving their defence too much trouble. Laborious in their build-up, but dogged in their defending, Nargothrond were unable to get a third goal in the last half-hour, but didn’t concede one either. When the final whistle was blown, a few questions were asked of Glaurung’s motivation this game, but most of the home crowd were relieved to escape with a draw. Just as Barahir had saved Finrod in ages past, he has saved him again. The host's dream of advancing was still alive. Anfauglith 2-2 Nargothrond
GOALS: 7, 0-1 Finrod (Orodreth) 30, 1-1 Thuringwethil (Gundor) 53, 2-1 Thuringwethil (Balrog #3) 59, 2-2 Barahir (Finduilas) Total Shots 14-15 Shots On Target 6-6 YELLOW CARDS: 1-3 Anfauglith: Balrog #3 Nargorthrond: Arminas, Barahir, Glaurung
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フェンリス鴨 (Fenrisu Kamo) The plot, cut, defeated. I intend to copy this sig forever - so far so good...
Last edited by Nilpaurion Felagund; 06-21-2012 at 06:43 PM. |
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05-27-2012, 02:40 PM
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#17 |
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Werewolf Psychic
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: In fire, water, earth, and air. But mostly water.
Posts: 2,832
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Group F Round 1 - Imladris vs. Rohan
There was not a cloud in the sky as the sun hung overhead, slightly to the west; neither team would be too hindered by sun in their eyes (Rohan might have been slightly worse off, as the halftime switch would have them facing a slightly lower sun than Imladris did in the first.) Regardless, the game started off slow. Radagast and the horses refused to let the ball remain in their half very long, aggressively charging any Imladris player unfortunate enough to have the ball. Perhaps taking Elrohir's pre-game comments to heart, Snowmane was a bit overenthusastic about running down Elrohir near the end of the first quarter and was awarded a yellow card. Imladris was given a free kick, but Elladan's right cross was caught by a freak gust of wind and passed just over the top of the goal. Gandalf was, of course, suspected of chicanery, but as he'd been sportingly checking to see if Elrohir was okay at the time, nothing came of the suspicion. The first and only goal came during the fifty-ninth minute, as another of Elrohir's shots was foiled, this time by Felarof rearing to his full height in front of the hapless forward. Intimidated, the elf didn't put as much spin on the ball as it needed, and it glanced off Felarof's right front hoof and bounced down the field. Eorl skillfully scooped it up, dodging past two midfielders and sending it toward Eomer, who met it with his knee and sent it spinning crazily into the goal, its path so unpredictable that the Imladris keeper picked wrongly and dove to the side, missing the ball entirely. Rohan locked down their defense after that, only allowing two more shots on goal (and one aborted shot, as Figwit booted Radagast in the shin rather than the ball, and earned a yellow for his trouble.) And there you have it. So far Rohan's innovative defensive tactics have protected their goal from intrusion, but how long can that last? Imladris 0-1 Rohan on target 2-4 tot shots 9-13 GOALS: *59, 0-1 Eomer (Eorl) YELLOW CARDS: *Imlad- Figwit *Rohan- Snowmane Round 2 - Isengard vs. Misty Mountains The evening game promised to be a violent one. Misty Mountains had something to prove - not only were they anxious to prove that they didn't need Saruman's help to win, they were also quite displeased that the defector had stolen their previous year's goalie as he left, and were ready to make their displeasure known. And so the game began. Almost immediately both Chief Wolf and Azog rushed for Saruman, heedless of where the ball actually was. Mauhur and Lugdush leapt to the defense of their captain, and chaos ensued. All action on the field stopped as the referees rushed in to separate the players. Both teams were penalized - however, the referees made a wise decision; knowing how likely it was that the game would get even more violent as it progressed, they handed out yellow cards instead of the usual red. There was no sense in removing four players from the field when there would just be more fighting later. By now, the moon (about three-quarters full) had risen above the pitch, and it was getting slightly easier to see. Thanks to the increased visibility, Misty Mountains made the first goal of the match, as Azog successfully distracted Lugdush and Lurtz with insults while Narvi made a wild dash through them with the ball and slide-kicked the ball past a burst of hail from Caradhras and a dive from the keeper, Ugluk. The increased light made it easier for Misty Mountains to score, but it also made the onlookers realize something strange was happening to the field; the grass was growing in certain places. This favored Isengard, as many of their players were taller and the shorter Misty Mountains players would have a hard time seeing over the growing grass. Misty Mountains didn't realize this at first, gamely playing as they could against a furious Isengard offensive led by Saruman and Wormtongue. However, the dense foliage slowed Bert and the Watcher so much that Saruman basically had a free kick against the Great Goblin, who wasn't able to block the shot fired off by the canny wizard. The goal was allowed, but after Misty Mountains realized what was going on, Rumil went after Lurtz (who didn't fight back, but received a yellow card for his role in planting the swiftly-growing grass anyway.) The game basically ended after that; a halt was called to cut the grass on the pitch down to size, and neither team returned to the pitch after that. The referees were forced to call the game a tie, 1-1. Isengard 1-1 Misty Mts on target 5-6 tot shots 13-15 GOALS: *62, 0-1 Narvi (Azog) *74, 1-1 Saruman (Wormtongue) YELLOW CARDS: *Isen- Lugdush, Lurtz, Mauhur *MMts- Chief Wolf, Azog, Rumil
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Shasta– ... However, if he's innocent his famous clairvoyant powers must be taking the week off. Meanwhile, the Night-kills have been awfully effective– almost like we're dealing with a psychic wolf... - Nerwen, WW LXXV |
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05-30-2012, 08:48 AM
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#18 |
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Laconic Loreman
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: USA
Posts: 7,521
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Power Rankings
TWO TOWERS NETWORK
Boromir the 88th POWER RANKINGS 01. FC Valinor - 74.7 (Previous: #1. Result: W 3-0, Real Valinor) -Real Valinor may have been overrated at #2, but there is no doubt after FC's 3-0 thrashing they are currently #1 02. Wilderland - 52.5 (Previous: #7. Result: W 3-1 Anduin) -Anduin did not look like a Top 10 team, Wilderland on the other hand does, especially if the Great Warg is saving 5/6 and Galadriel continues being the maestro leading the mid-field 03. Armenolos - 48.9 (Previous: #9 Result: W 3-2 Tirion) -Armenolos knocks out the previous #3 to claim the rank as their own. A good result for a team had seemed to lose some of its championship pedigree. 04. Eriador - 36.1 (Previous: #4 Result: W 2-1 Arnor) -Maintains it's 4th rank. Solid win, but not nearly as impressive (and against weaker competition) as Armenolos and Wilderland. 05. Rohan - 34.6 (Previous: #13 Result: W 1-0 Imladris) -Rohan is playing like the best defense of the tournament, or it could just be up against some very inept offenses. Still, it will be tough to score on this team. 06. Erebor - 32.1 (Previous: #8 Result: W 2-0 Dwarves Utd) -Did what they had to, and it's a positive mark when your defense is good enough to shut out Dwarves Utd. True test will come next round against #2 Wilderland. Should be a great battle. 07. Real Valinor - 29.4 (Previous: #2 Result: L 0-3 FC Valinor) -Their only 2 losses of the campaign have come against FC Valinor. Yet, losing 0-3 like that could kill the morale on this team. They must bounce back against Tirion to salvage playoff chances. 08. AC Beleriand - 28.8 (Previous: #5 Result: D 2-2 Doriath) -Looked like the much better team against Doriath, but the result doesn't show it. Still likely favorites in their group, but they fall back a few places. 09. Angband - 27.2 (Previous: #11 Result: W 3-1 The Downer) -Solid win, but against the worst team we've ever seen. Unfortunately, I don't think Angband will be serious tested in Group A, even if the motley Shire-Bree crew could cause them problems. 10. Tirion - 26.2 (Previous: #3 Result: L 2-3 Armenolos) -Tirion's playoff chances seem to be going out the window, they really needed to beat Armenolos. But defensively they're bad, and appear to have lost some efficiency in offense too. 11. Valimar - 25.8 (Previous: #6 Result: D 1-1 Havens) -Disappointing draw. If Valimar wanted to cement their standing in Group E they really needed to beat the worst team in the group. But, yet again, complacency and pleasantries will drag Valimar down. 12. Nargothrond - 23.7 (Previous: #15 Result: D 2-2 Angfauglith) -Despite only drawing against Angfauglith, they were able to leap them in the standings with the friendly win against Hithlum. All Anfauglith has been able to do is draw, Nargothrond has the offense to grab late winners. 13. Doriath - 23.5 (Previous: #17 Result: D 2-2 AC Beleriand) -Surprising draw with #5 AC Beleriand, but they really were outshot in that match. Still, no telling who will emerge out of this group with all teams completely tied. 14. Angfauglith - 23.3 (Previous: #14 Result: D 2-2 Nargothrond) -We don't trust their offense to advance. But it's amusing to TTN 3 of Group G teams are bunched together at #12, #13, and #14. 15. The Sea - 23.0 (Previous: #12 Result: D 2-2 Hithlum) -Not a terrible result to draw with the offensive powerhouse of Hithlum. But there's a lot this team hasn't shown to convince us they're better than Valimar, or even The Havens. 16. Anduin - 21.1 (Previous: #10 Result: L 1-3 Wilderland) -Clearly we've overrated Anduin based on their friendly performance. Losing 1-3 like that is not a good sign. 17. Misty Mountains - 20.1 (Previous: #18 Result: D 1-1 Isengard) -Not bad to draw with Isengard, but their next one against Imladris is really a MUST win match. Should be exciting. 18. Isengard - 19.6 (Previous: #19 Result: D 1-1 Misty Mts) -Pretty much the same as Misty Mountains, the key game will be against Imladris, but they can't look ahead to round 3, because they can't get blown out by Rohan. 19. Hithlum - 19.0 (Previous: #20 Result: D 2-2 The Sea) -Good to draw with The Sea, can't draw their way to the playoffs though. 20. Gondor - 17.6 (Previous: #23 Result: W 2-1 Mordor) -Gondor has clearly become the frontrunners of Group H, so why do we have this nagging feeling that they will lose to Barad-dur? 21. The Havens - 16.1 (Previous: #27 Result: D 1-1 Valimar) -A draw with #6 Valimar gives The Havens a rather significant jump up in our power rankings. But still behind Hithlum and The Sea, who are TTN's picks to advance. 22. Gondolin - 15.6 (Previous: #21 Result: D 2-2 Inter Beleriand) -Quite disappointing from Gondolin. Granted they ran into a hot Turgon looking to prove himself against his former club, but they needed to win that match. 23. Shire Bree Utd - 14.4 (Previous: #22 Result: D 2-2 Tol-in-Gaurhoth) -Really fortunate to hold onto the draw, and that time ran out on TIG's furious comeback. Still a dangerous team, Angband can't under-estimate. 24. Tol In Gaurhoth - 13.7 (Previous: #25 Result: D 2-2 Shire Bree Utd) -Good comeback by the wolves and wights, but they can't keep getting down multiple goals before deciding it's time to play. Not when the competition gets tougher. 25. Imladris - 13.7 (Previous: #16 Result: L 0-1 Rohan) -Experienced the furthest drop in rankings this week. Yes, they played the toughest opponent of the group, but they have serious goal scoring issues. 26. Minas Tirith - 11.1 (Previous: #26 Result: D 2-2 Barad Dur) -They were quite fortunate to get the draw with Barad-dur. As it is though, they're in the hunt for a playoff spot in Group H 27. Arnor - 11.1 (Previous: #24 Result: L 1-2 Eriador) -Don't count the resilient Arnorians out yet. They've played the toughest team of their group and played them close. Inter Beleriand and Gondolin will not be able to walk over this scrappy team. 28. Inter Beleriand - 10.9 (Previous: #28 Result: D 2-2 #21 Gondor) -A good draw for Inter, as it puts them in a fight for Group B's playoff spots. But the statistics show they were dominated by Gondolin and it was Turgon who saved the draw. 29. Barad-Dur - 8.9 (Previous: #31 Result: D 2-2 #26 Minas Tirith) -A bit disappointing it ended in a draw. But BD statistically dominated the match and got an unlucky result. For the first time, this actually looked like a team that had one of the top tourney players on it. 30. Mordor - 6.4 (Previous: #30 Result: L 1-2 #23 Gondor) -Their chance was against Gondor and they just didn't bring it. Mordor will have difficulties advancing unless they pull out a surprise against Minas Tirith. 31. Dwarves United - 6.3 (Previous: #29 Result: L 0-2 #8 Erebor) -Bad to worse for Aule's team. They can't defend any better upping the effort and they could never score. 32. The Downer -3.1 (Previous: #32 Result: L 1-3 #11 Angband) -How did they qualify for the most prestigious World Cup tournament again? And why do they exist?
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Fenris Penguin
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05-30-2012, 12:39 PM
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#19 |
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Laconic Loreman
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: USA
Posts: 7,521
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Predictions
TWO TOWERS NETWORK
Boromir the 88th Predictions - Round 2 Well, that was probably the worst week (in the prediction department) I've ever had. It goes to show this year's Cup will be the most difficult ever to predict. Not an excuse, just a statement of fact. To only go 7/16, and even do worse then TENT! wow, our standards and methods are much better. In the long run, that will win out. This round, for TTN's own curiousity, we will report the results of what our "computer" (ACS2012 Edition) says after plugging in all the numbers. Followed by our expert's pick and analysis. For posterity purposes, my prediction will be the one I stand behind/the one that counts. The essential weakness of the computer's predictions is it's designed to predict the results of 2 teams playing 10 matches against eachother. However, in the tournament, it comes down to a single match between Team A and Team B. TTN is just interested to see if all the stats they compile is worthwhile in accurately predicting results, and now we can get some true empirical data, by publishing both the computer's picks and the expert's. GROUP A 1. The Downer (#32) vs Tol In Gaurhoth (#24) ACS2012: 2 goal win for Tol-in-Gaurhoth Boro's pick: Agrees with the computer on this one, a convincing win for TIG. TIG has more goals and conceded less, and all lazy sloppiness should have been left behind after the first game. A 3-1 win for the Werewolf Isles. 2. Angband (#9) vs Shire-Bree United (#23) ACS2012: 1 goal win for Angband Boro's Pick: The numbers say in a 10 game series, Angband would win 6, Shire Bree 3, and 1 game a draw. So, it's a more competitive match then at first glance. Bombadil has wrecked havoc against Morgoth's teams before, but we'll again side with the computer's pick. Shire-Bree's defense nearly lost it for them against TIG, and now it will lose it against Angband. Angband wins 3-2. GROUP B 1. Arnor (#27) vs Inter Beleriand (#28) ACS2012: Draw. Boro's pick: Turgon won't be as inspired against Arnor as he was saving 7/9 against Gondolin. While Arnor plays everyone straight up. No matter who the opponent is, they will play the same and give the same effort. Arnor wins 2-1. 2. Eriador (#4) vs Gondolin (#22) ACS2012: 1 goal win for Eriador Boro's pick: Sometimes winning by only 1 goal is nerve wracking and a tightly contested match. This however, will be the most comfortable looking single goal win possible. Eriador is just top glass professionals who know how to win close games. 2-1 Eriador. GROUP C 1. Erebor (#6) vs Wilderland (#2) ACS2012: 1 goal win for Wilderland Boro's pick: Wilderland won Erebor in the friendlies, and just came off a convincing 3-1 win against Anduin. However, Erebor has clearly upped their effort since the 1st round friendly. The computer says a Wilderland win, I say 2-2 Draw. 2. Anduin (#16) vs Dwarves United (#31) ACS2012: 2 goal win for Anduin Boro's pick: Part of the convincing win thrown out by the ACS2012 is likely from Anduin's strong friendlies. Anduin is not as good as we originally believed, by Dwarves United are even worse then we thought possible. Anduin wins 2-1. GROUP D 1. Tirion (#10) vs Real Valinor (#7) ACS2012: Draw Boro's pick: Something is really concerning about Real Valinor getting thumped by FC. Although, the recipe for going goalless in the first match would be to face Tirion next. Then again, Tirion can also score a plethora of goals. Tough one to call, so we'll go with the computer here. 3-3 Draw. 2. Armenelos (#3) vs FC Valinor (#1) ACS2012: 1 goal win for FC Valinor Boro's pick: Armenolos showed why no one should view them as slouches in this group of death. With that said, FC Valinor has just been playing at a level beyond everyone else up to this point and until they show otherwise, we're going to stick with FC Valinor wins 2-1 GROUP E 1. The Sea (#15) vs Valimar (#11) ACS2012: Draw Boro's pick: Everything about these two points to a 0-0 draw. The defenses are just that much better than the offenses (conceding 2-goals to Hithlum is not up to Ulmo's standard, but still nothing to be embarrassed about). Ulmo can shut down Valimar's complacent offense, and The Sea is a little more pro-active in the attack. The Sea wins 1-0. 2. Hithlum (#19) vs The Havens (#21) ACS2012: Draw Boro's pick: Perhaps the biggest offensive explosion of the group friendlies in this one. Hithlum's defense won't stop The Havens, but Turin and co will cause even more chaos against The Havens. Hithlum wins 4-3. GROUP F 1. Imladris (#25) vs Misty Mts (#17) ACS2012: 1 goal win for Misty Mountains Boro's pick: This is an interesting match, with a lot riding on it for both teams. Imladris can't afford to lose, and Misty Mountains really needs the win since they close out the group stage against the best, Rohan. Unfortunately for the Mountain fortress...Draw 1-1. 2. Isengard (#18) vs Rohan (#5) ACS2012: 1 goal win for Rohan Boro's pick: Isengard might pull off the shock and snatch away a draw (a win is extremely unlikely). Really what Isengard needs to do to be in decent position is at least get 1 goal, but even that is easier said then done. Rohan wins 2-0. GROUP G 1. Angfauglith (#14) vs Doriath (#13) ACS2012: Draw Boro's pick: Nargothrond's offense appears unstoppable, so I wouldn't think there's something wrong with Angfauglith surrendering 2-goals. Doriath won't nearly be that aggressive, but can still likely get 1. Draw 1-1. 2. AC Beleriand (#8) vs Nargothrond (#12) ACS2012: Draw Boro's pick: AC Beleriand has had some very...uninspiring results, but even so they still haven't been beaten. Nargothrond's playing much better, but the defense will be under a lot more pressure then it was against Angfauglith (and it still gave up 2 goals). So. AC Beleriand wins 3-2. GROUP H 1. Barad-Dur (#29) vs Gondor (#20) ACS2012: 1 goal win for Gondor Boro's pick: Everything now and before has been pointing towards a Gondorian win...but there is such a thing as "stats do lie." Purely based on gut-feeling, that Sauron really couldn't care less about friendlies and was saving everything for the real tournament. Barad-dur wins 2-1 2. Minas Tirith (#26) vs Mordor (#30) ACS2012: 1 goal win for Minas Tirith Boro's pick: Minas Tirith appears to primarily want to counterattack, and they are definitely quite good at it. But is Mordor's formationally sound Nazgul a team that you can counter attack on? Barad-dur can definitely be stretched because of their aggression, I'm not so sure the same would work against Mordor. Draw 1-1.
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Fenris Penguin
Last edited by Boromir88; 05-30-2012 at 08:37 PM. |
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