Middle-Earth Football Tournament

[the phantom]

You seem to have forgotten, top two teams qualify.

I didn't forget- I never knew it to begin with.

I suppose that shows how careless I am when I speed-read threads.

he already has a yellow card. One more in the next match and he'll be out.

Sauron won't get himself disqualified. He's evil, not stupid. He wants to win much more than he wants to illegally tackle someone.

Originally Posted by me

Yesterday I said that The Barrow-Downs would win this group, and they haven't given me a reason to say otherwise.

Originally Posted by Sleepy Ranger

Not even almost losing?

The team they played, Valmar, is one of the top ten teams in the field. Also, Valmar threw everything they had at The Downs. I mean- Manwe scoring a goal? Since when has he been an offensive chap? Valmar tried every trick they could to cross up The BD team but The Downs withstood the assault and showed their skills at the end to win the game. Also, remember what the phantom said in his interview. It doesn't sound like The Downers were planning on playing their hardest in that match- and I don't think they did. They haven't hit their top gear yet. When they do, it just might carry The Downs into the tournament finals.

Now, since I have received multiple requests for it, I will publish power rankings of the top teams.

For all of you College Football (American) fans (Boro, TORE, Oro ), you are used to turning to the AP and BCS polls for rankings. Well, did you know they also rated Middle-Earth soccer?

Here are the rankings-

AP/BCS Poll (Ask Phantom/Bull Crap Slanted Poll)
1. Mordor
2. Angband
3. The Barrow-Downs
4. Tol-In-Gauroth
5. Valmar
6. Valimar
7. Rivendell
8. Gondolin
9. Doriath
10. Nargothrond
11. Moria

Explanations-

Mordor- Sauron and his minions have by far and away the best teamwork. They cover for each other extremely well and help each other on defense. On offense they always know where their teammates are and where they are headed. Their passing is astounding. They also have excellent speed across the board, making use of their winged steeds. In addition, they posses a quality goalkeeper.

Angband- Angband is well-above average all the way across the board. Their offense, led by Melkor and Ancalagon, is strong, but their defense is particularly good- the best of any team in the field. Gothmog and his six bruising Balrog buddies are nearly impenetrable, and if you make it past them you must contend with a fine goalkeeper, Glaurung. It is this defense that caused me to rank them ahead of The Downs.

The Barrow-Downs- The Downs has the most talented goal scorers in the tournament, and one of the best goalkeepers. They are solid in the other departments, such as defense and speed.

Tol-In-Gauroth- Sauron is always dangerous, and his wolves should not be underestimated. They run at a fast trot most of the time, but when the opportunity arises they suddenly disappear in a blur of speed. They are the only team with the across the board speed to match Mordor. A player with the ball shuffling along through a wide open space can find himself surrounded by three or four wolf defenders before he knows what's going on. They are a scary team.

Valmar & Valimar- These teams are nearly identical. They have fine offensive weapons like Tulkas, Orome, and Eonwe, but their timid midfielders barely ever get the ball ahead to their scorers. Their goalkeeping is good and their defense is decent, but the teams really depend on their front men to do everything. Last season, every goal they scored except one resulted from one of their offensive weapons stealing the ball and then taking it all the way himself. Maybe they will be able to for a while, but after three games Orome, Tulkas, and Eonwe will be awfully tired.

Rivendell- Rivendell is simply a solid team with no obvious weaknesses. They aren't as fast as Mordor, but they are fast. They don't play defense as well as Angband, but they play well. They can't score like The Downs, but they can score. And, to top it off, they have perhaps the best goalie in the tournament- Elrond.

Gondolin- Gondolin is very similar to Rivendell. They are one of the best scoring teams, but their goalkeeping is not as good as the teams above them.

Doriath- Doriath is another team in the same mold- solid with no glaring weaknesses. Their offense is particularly good, though in other categories they are just a shade behind Gondolin and Rivendell.

Nargothrond- This is the last of the "elvish quartet", as I call them. They are just a notch below Doriath in most categories.

Moria- This was just supposed to be a top ten list, but I included Moria at number eleven. Why? Because I believe that if their team unity gets better they will easily be able to compete with the four teams above them. Azog and Bill the Balrog are a fine scoring duo, and with improved team chemistry Moria could really make use of the wide variety of talents that different members of the team posses.

[Boromir88]

Well sir Phantom, I'd like to know the mathematical formula you used to come up with that poll? I'm rather stumped. See, just by polling the Referrees Union Poll(which goes by strength of schedule, quality wins (Outscore opponent by 3 goals or more), and record...

1) The Barrow-downs (2-0)- Strong team, schedule isn't as hard as some. Most likely to go all the way.

2) Gondor (2-0)- Strong schedule, 1 quality win over Gondolin, they look good right now.

3) Doriath (2-0)- Pretty weak Division compared to others. Yet they've been tearing it up offensively.

4) Angband (0-1)- Despite 0-1 record they faced a tough Godnor team and should win their next two games.

5) Tol-in-Gauroth (1-0)- Hasn't played a strong opponent yet, but they should win their Group.

6) Shire (1-0-1)- Tying with Arnor and beating Rivendell, two good games played by the little halflings.

7) Rivendell (1-1)- The Shire surpasses them because of their loss to The Shire. Yet they will make it to the next round.

8) Mordor (1-0)- They will win their grouping.

9) Moria (2-0)- Reason Moria is below Mordor is because of the weak teams Moria has played. Plus Mordor is the better team and will beat them. If Moria wants to jump passed Mordor they got to beat them first.

10) Gondolin (1-1)- One good win, one big whipping.

[Sleepy Ranger]

Quickbeam Interview - Drawn and written by Valesse

Shire Press Confrence

After yesterdays game, The Shire held a press confrence in which we had a chance to ask questions from their coach, Bilbo Baggins and many of their players. Recent signing, Gandalf, was also available for questioning. Here is what we managed to pick up.

SR- This a question for you Bilbo. You took over after Gandalf left, you made some drastic changes and many new signings and the team has improved since. Could you tell us what you did?

BB- Why most certainly young lad. You see Gandalf had led the team under a stern and strict rule, they were too uptight to play any good. When I took over I cut down on training, held group relaxation therapies and had the team together for most meals so as to improve our relationship.

SR- It seems to have worked, your boys certainly seem to be enjoying themselves on the field and I also noted that you played many of the younger players and thus found an excellent striker in Pippin. What made you think he could do it?

BB- Pippin? Oh he was only put in because I had a bet with him. I had bet that I could out drink him and if I lost I'd have to play him. Now I don't think I shall make any more bets with him nor shall I remove him from the First 11 unless I have to.

SR- Er, Very interesting. Now Frodo, you're playing defense and your team doesn't really have the best of defenses in this tournament yet you're an excellent defender. How does it feel in the back?

FB- It really is infruriating sometimes. Its like I'm the only player back there... You could say I'm carrying a burden all the time. Our defenders may not be the best but I must say that they have heart and sometimes that is all it takes to get through and I know that they can't share my burden but I also know they will try their best to make it easier for me.

SR- Hmm, alright. Now Pippin, you're an excellent striker and also very young. You most certainly have a bright future ahead of you, I hear this is your first exposure in the international scene and before this you've only played in Club games. What are the differences you've noticed between the two forms of play?

PT- Well they're very different. Just like day and night. My club team are big rivals of Merry's and we're never afraid of roughing each other up and try to out-play the other yet here it doesn't matter who is playing better. We're all a big family, supporting each other at every step. There is a lot of pride at stake here and and we plan to give it our all. At the end of the day it doesn't matter who scored the most, in the end it all depends on the team effort and chemistry. And believe me, we make no mistakes in that.

SR- Indeed! And I have a question for you, Gandalf. How does it feel to be back on the field? Do you think you can help Shire win the Cup?

GG- It feels wonderful to be back in action. I feel re-born, if you will. And I believe Shire has a strong team and we will be able to go all the way to the finals and maybe even win it.

SR- Thank you for your time.

T-I-G vs. Isengard: Shoe-in?
-Firefoot

In the upcoming match between Tol-in-Gaurhoth (1-0-0) and Isengard (0-1-0), T-I-G is the heavy favorite to win. However, there are some who think that Isengard may have a chance, among them many of the Isengard players.

When questioned, Isengard’s captain Saruman responded, “The Tol-in-Gaurhoth team has been continually projected as the team to win this group, maybe go on further. I wouldn’t put it past Sauron to become cocky, underestimate us. They don’t know what we’re made of - I think we can win.” When further pressed for his opinion about the T-I-G team, he answered, “The only really good player on that team is Sauron. His werewolves are all fine and good, but none of them really stand out. Rabble like that just isn’t any match for us.” He refused comment about his team’s previous loss and his being carded – twice.

Isengard has another rising star in the making – Ugluk, named Most Promising Player after his performance in Isengard’s game against Doriath. Critics have commented on his leadership abilities in the team; when asked about this, he simply responded: “I am Ugluk. I command.” He was firm about his team’s chances of winning the upcoming game: “Saruman can’t do anything stupid; we need all of our strength. We are the fighting Uruk-hai. We do not admit defeat before we have lost. Tol-in-Gaurhoth can be beaten. Sauron will likely be carded, and that leaves them without their strongest player. We are the fighting Uruk-hai.”

Sauron, captain of the Tol-in-Gaurhoth team, has other ideas: “Isengard is little more than a fly to be crushed. Saruman is a cunning spider trapped in a web of his own devising. His Uruk-hai are no match for my Werewolves. We are the faster, stronger, better team. I have little doubt that we will win our group.” A group of werewolves were asked whether they thought Isengard had a chance; their answer was derisive laughter, though not, perhaps, without reason: in the past, their style has not been merely victory, but obliteration. They have historically left teams devastated in their wake – albeit teams of somewhat lesser quality than those in the cup.

As the previous opponents of these teams, the captains of Doriath and Goblin Town were also asked of their opinions of these teams. Thingol, Doriath’s captain, admitted “Isengard has some good players, but I don’t think they’ll get anywhere unless the Tol-in-Gaurhoth team makes some huge blunders. The team just isn’t developed enough.” The Goblin Town team had little to say in intelligent terms, but their frustration with the T-I-G team and scorn for Isengard were evident.

So while T-I-G remains the heavy favorite, Isengard is priming for an upset. And whatever the result, it will likely be a rough physical match – between T-I-G’s obliterating tendencies and the fighting Uruk-hai’s vicious nature, the game has the potential to quickly become violent. To say nothing of their captains.

A quick glimpse on group H- Was the burden of being favourites too heavy?
-Gothmog

Yes, that’s the question many creatures in Middle Earth and beyond is asking themselves. Before the Cup began, group H was considered one of the toughest. There were teams like 1st age winners Angband, the new upcomer Gondor with a strong season behind them and Gondolin, always disguising their true form.
Gondor has a young team and has developed into one of the world’s best in a quite short time. Their youth might be an advantage as they have quick and strong players, but do they have the experience it takes to go all the way? And in this group? Well, it actually looks like that after their first won game vs Angband and then the strong 6-1 win against Gondolin.

Gondolin on the other hand has experience and strong players that has been playing for a long time now. As printed in an excellent article by the phantom earlier, they’re offence is strong with Turgon in the centre and Glorfindel and Echtelion at the flanks. The new generation is present with the midfielder Tuor, an excellent player with offensive qualities. As always the team has been training in their home arena in Gondolin, closed to all visitors. They haven’t participated in any matches before the Cup, so it’s hard to tell how good they are. A comforting win against the weak Grey Havens in the first game gave the fans hope, but what happened against Gondor? A total collapse for sure.

But now to the greatest topic throughout Arda: what has happened to Angband, one of the favourites for the title? With Gondolin and Gondor playing as they do, it will be hard to come back and win this group. If they don’t win the next match against Grey Haven, one of the greatest flops of modern time is a fact. Now their captain and star of the team: Melkor is suspended so this will be though. But what is wrong? We asked the captain himself:

Gothmog the interviewing Balrog: So Melkor (or do you prefer Morgoth?) do you have any explanations to your first loss?

Melkor: I actually prefer Melkor, but thank you for asking! I really have no idea. We’ve done everything right before the Cup and the preparatins couldn’t been better. We’ve won every game before this, with the exception of a unsignificant game vs Valmar. So I don’t know!

G: Is it possible that the role of favourites didn't fit you?

M: No, I don't think that mattered when we played. It was one bad game, that's all. We're going to win this!

G: Self-confident I hear. That's good! So what are you going to do now?

M: I'll do as always. Give the boys a few lashes with the whip, torture the ones that played worst. Let them build some muscles in the mines, all the usual stuff... Threatening always works great.

G: Ohh.... You don’t think that’s a bit rough?

M: Are you questioning my technics?

G: Of course not! I just..oh forget it. So, who will take over after you as captain?

M: Probably Gothmog. He can handle pressure and can force the others to perform. Sauron starts whining when it gets tough and don’t have the others’ confidence.

G: OK. Thank you and good luck!

M: Thank you!

So Gothmog probably takes over as captain. But can he make the team work as...well, a team? There’s some strong individual players in team, like the defence of Balrogs, the quick right midfielder Ancalagon (look like he’s flying when he sprints) and the clever playmaker Glaurung in a central midfielder position. What seems a bit disturbing right now is the defensive Balrogs’ obvious problems with the Gondolin attackers Echtelion and Glorfindel, but that will be a later problem. Now thay have to deal with Grey havens...

Moria's Key to it's Early Success:
-Boromir88

Moria has been a surprising team so far, getting out to a quick 2-0 record. Sure, they have good talent but they can never seem to get along. There's been one major key in Moria's wins so far and may propell them to make a deep run in the MEFWC.

Moria plays an agressive and even sometimes dirty game. They batter and bruise up their opponents with hard sliding tackles. This has an effect in the long run against opponents of Moria. As it gets late in the game Moria's "dirty tactics" pay off and their opponents are sore from the rough physical play of Moria. Especially against a team like Rohan who believes in honor and chivalry and that the game should be played like gentlemen.

The Moria/Mordor match to see who's the top dog in Group A should be a great one to see as both teams play hard physical games. Surely, it will come down to the more physical team in this one.

Today's Fixtures - The Odds And Evens

Game 1 - Mordor vs. Rohan
Mordor is definately the better team in this match up. Mordor will have the advantage on their side and will make use of it. Rohan, though a good team just don't have what it takes to compete against the likes of Mordor. I see this match ending in Mordor's favor.
Predicted Result - Win for Mordor

Game 2 - Arnor vs. Vinyamar
This will be a big battle for dominance. Arnor coming in from a 3-3 draw and Vinyamar hoping to come back from a bad start. Vinyamar may have the stronger team but Arnor are more unified. This will be a close match with Arnor staying close to a win but unfortunatel will not reach.
Predicted Result - Draw

Game 3 - Woodhall vs. Valimar
I can see Woodhall winning but not today. Valimar will easily best them. They shall be defeated, humiliated, crushed, have their baggage stolen and sent home. For their best intrests they should concede the match and not show up.
Predicted Result - Win for Valimar (By a big margin)

Game 4 - Ephel Brandir vs. Erebor
Ephel Brandir managed a draw against Nargothrond and Erebor are currently goalieless. I don't see Erebor posing much of a threat but they will put a fight early on before sucummbing to Ephel Brandir in the closing minutes.
Predicted Result - Win for Ephel Brandir

Game 5 - Belegost vs. Numenor
Numenor is a strong team but they are missing two of their top players. Belegost will have the advantage in this match but many times we've seen teams lose despite having a major advantage. Will Numenor manage to win? Or will Belegost play their advantage right? I honestly believe they will draw since all this group does is draw.
Predicted Result - Draw

Game 6 - Tol-In-Gauroth vs. Isengard
This will be one of the more exciting matches this evening. Both teams are more or less the same but Tol-In-Gauroth does have a slight edge over Isengard. This one will be a close match, in fact its too close to call but I think I'll go out on a limb here and say that Isengard will manage to defeat Tol-In-Gauroth.
Predicted Result - Win for Isengard

Game 7 - Crickhollow vs. Alqualondë
Alqualondë will win this match. Crickhollow don't stand a chance. However they did manage to beat Lothlorien while Alqualondë drew against Fangorn. It may start off as a close match but Alqualondë will begin to dominate before long.
Predicted Result - Win for Alqualondë

Special Preview - Angband vs. Grey Havens
Drawn into what is being called the 'Most Controversial Group' Angband started off as strong favorites. But they lost their first match to Gondor, many people now wonder wether they'll actually be able to come back now that they're missing their captain as well though many people believe that Angband have it in them to go through despite the loss.

Winning this match however will just be the first step, their next and final group match which is against Gondolin will decide which team goes and which team stays. Even if they draw here, or by a slip of fate lose, a win over Gondolin will see them through. However the chances of Angband losing today are non-existant. Angband has swapped its usual 4-4-2 for a more conservative 5-4-1 formation. Grey Havens however have decided to play a 3-6-1 formation in hopes of smothering Angband's mid-field. Wether this will be a succesful move or not is yet to be seen but many people believe it to be silly.

Angand's captain, Melkor was unavailable for comment. He has been replaced by Gothomg for the next two matches due to a red card. If Angband get eliminated it will be largely due to their loss of Melkor. Tonight however they will go out as winners and come back as winners.
Predicted Result - Win for Angband

Tournament Happenings

Injuries -
Smaug (Erebor) will miss the next match because of a belly injury.
Tar-Enclime (Numenor) will miss the next match due to a broken nose.
Barliman Butterbur (Bree) will be out indefinately due to a hamstring injury.

Cards -
Melkor (Angaband) recieved a red card and a 2 match suspension.
Dark Lord (Mordor) was given a yellow card.
Varda (Valimar) was given a yellow card.
Bill Ferny (Bree) recieved a red card and 1 match suspension.
Elros (Numenor) recieved a red card and 2 match suspension.

Most Promising Player - Both Aragorn and Beleg scored hat-tricks in their matches and though Aragorn's was far more spectacular and against a much better team both these players showed off a lot of skill. Both their teams look set to qualify and they definately promise us a lot more exciting football in the future.

Most Impressive Team - Barrow-Downs was the most impressive team though people may argue that Gondor did a better job. Barrow-Downs managed to come back when all host had been lost, if they can keep pulling out mirculous wins nothing will be able to hold them back.
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Thanks to Firefoot, Gothmog and Boromir88 for their articles and Valesse for her zany comic. Hiriel said he would send in something but I haven't recieved anything from him yet. I will add it in when I recieve it. The results will be up later tonight, feel free to discuss your predictions and argue mine until then.

[The Saucepan Man]

Originally Posted by the phantom

Gothmog and his six bruising Balrog buddies are nearly impenetrable, and if you make it past them you must contend with a fine goalkeeper, Glaurung.

I think you'll find that Angband play their Balrogs as wingers - for obvious reasons ...

[Sleepy Ranger]

Originally Posted by The Saucepan Man

I think you'll find that Angband play their Balrogs as wingers - for obvious reasons ...

Yup, they do! Results will be up within the hour. New pic by Valesse is up as well.

[Anguirel]

Good one, Saucie...

The Grey Havens can't be expected to keep up morale with such an utter deprivation of coverage! We don't even know any of their player's names, though I expect Galdor's Captain and Cirdan's coach...I must remedy this situation. The voice of the Grey Havens will be heard!

Galdor has been located at his reclusive seaside training stadium. He agreed to speak to freelance, or technically freesword, interviewer Anguirel for what he described as "an ineffably precious and yet melancholy half-hour."

ANGUIREL: Many commentators have been quick to disparage your team's chances, and the bookmaker's up at the Pony are offering 3000-1 odds on your victory. How do you and you teammates react to that?

GALDOR: Well, to be frank, old chap, personally I think those odds are pretty accurate.

ANGUIREL: Are you disappointed in your team's conspicuous lack of distinction so far?

GALDOR: Not really. Here at Mithlond we think winning matches rather vulgar. Our attitude is one of self-preservation.

ANGUIREL: You mean, you play a defensive game, denying as many goals to your opponents as possible?

GALDOR: Dear me, no! Didn't you see our match against Gondolin? On the contrary, what I mean is that we concentrate on self-preservation by transferring all our best players by sea to Alqualonde, where they have a chance of a vibrant and dynamic career, and putting up a squad systematically recruited from the worst players currently resident at the Havens.

ANGUIREL: Ah. An...interesting tactic.

GALDOR: But you know, I'm actually quite worried we might win our next match, thereby ruining our carefully cultivated aura of glamorous, Romantic, but ultimately doomed resistance.

ANGUIREL: (trying not to laugh) You think you're going to beat Angband?

GALDOR: Certainly, it looks disturbingly likely. Their Captain's stuck in the Void, poor chap, and several of the players from the Barrow-Downs told me in confidence that their wingers do not in fact have wings.

ANGUIREL: Well, that's a bit controversial actually. And if you do defeat Gothmog's hardened players, where will you go from there?

GALDOR: Oh, darling, the shame will be unbearable. Personally I'll be hard put to stop myself hurling myself into the sea.

ANGUIREL: Any parting words?

GALDOR: Right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.

ANGUIREL: Yeah, right. Anyway, Galdor, thankyou for your time.

GALDOR: The pleasure was all mine.

[Sleepy Ranger]

Live from Old Forest (10 Points if you guess its real life counterpart.) First match starts at 6:30pm EST.

Mordor 2-0 Rohan

Though Rohan put a valiant effort they weren't able to withstand the might of Mordor. The first half was rather bland without many incidents. Though it seemed that Mordor would be the team to get carded it was in fact Theoden of Rohan who went beserk in the early stages of the second half and took down Dark Lord in a dangerous tackle in the box to earn himself a red card and give away a penalty. The Rohan team could only watch helplessly as their keeper dove the opposite direction from which Dark Lord kicked the ball. The second goal was an excellent solo effort from Nazgul#7, he charged down the flank and lobbed the ball high and then rushed in to finish of the job himself.
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Arnor 1-0 Vinyamar

Vinyamar had this match under their control but a corner given away in the 50th minute was converted to a goal by Arvedui. After that the match was reduced to a mid-field battle with a few breakaways now and then put nothing resulted in another goal. Vinyamar were infuriated at the loss while Arnor were in high spirits knowing that they were a step closer to qualifying.
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Woodhall 0-3 Valimar

*No Comment*
12th- Varda (FK)
43rd- Varda (High powered into top right corner)
57th- Yavanna (Header of a corner)
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Ephel Brandir 0-1 Erebor

This was a heated battle for supremacy, one that Erebor won but just barely. It seemed they would be struggling without Smaug and at many a time they were and the defense had to work over time. Ephel Brandir sunk in a goal in the 47th minute which was dis-allowed by Boromir88 because the ball touched their forward's hand. After this Erebor did the most shocking thing ever, they subbed out their goalie and put in an injured Smaug. It didn't really matter much because Ephel Brandir didn't get many chances after that and a deflection into the goal by Thorin won the match for Erebor.
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Belegost 0-2 Numenor

Despite the absence of both their forwards, Numenor were carried to a two goal win by Tar-Meneldur. Belegost was out-classed in every possible way and had no hopes of even getting into Numenor's half. It was as Phantom said, Belegost is ages better than Dale and Bree put together and Numenor is as better than Belegost as Belegost is than Bree and Dale.
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Crickhollow 0-1 Alqualondë

Fatty came close to scoring in the opening few minutes but he shot wide of the goal. Alqualonde immediatly followed that up with a long free kick and direct cross into the box which was knocked in for the winner by Olwe. This match was rather disappointing because after the first goal it slowed to a crawl, all Alqualonde did was waste time.
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Tol-In-Gauroth 3-1 Isengard

The match started of with Sauron getting close to goal and passing to a wolf instead of shooting. The wolf shot and missed, killing the chance Sauron had so easily created. It didn't matter though as Sauron managed to sneak in a shot just before the end of the half to take the score to 1-0. Immediatly after the whistle, Saruman and Ugluk played a passing game to the box where Saruman gave the ball to Ugluk who netted in an equalizer. It was then a frantic and rather rough battle which saw several players go down and several substitutions but (luckily) no injuries or cardings. It was an unlucky moment for Isengard when Grima accidently kicked the ball into his own goal in an attempt to clear. Only moments later Sauron scored the third after recieving a through the legs pass from the edge of the box.
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Angband 4-0 Grey Havens

In this match Angband showed us why they were the favorites. Even without their captain and star striker they demolished Grey Havens 4-0 and made them the first confirmed departure from the World Cup. The first goal was a safely hit low shot at an open goal by Ancalagon which was followed up by a powerful strike that knocked the keeper in as well by Gothmog. Back in the dressing room with a two goal lead at half-time it seemed as if Angband had the match in their pocket. Two strikes in rapid succession after the interval put them up 4-0 after which the fell back to defending. The Angband players seemed to be confident that they were going to go all the way now.
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Hope you enjoyed today's matches. I'm sorry for not writing the Valimar vs. Woodhall match but nothing important happened in it. As usual if anyone has an articles, interviews or such send them to me. Feel free to contact me any way you want to.

[The Saucepan Man]

Beleg (Doriath): 6
Pippin (The Shire): 4
Aragorn (Gondor): 3
Azog (Moria): 3
Legolas (Mirkwood): 3
Sauron (Tol-In-Gauroth): 3
Turgon (Gondolin): 3
Ugluk (Isengard): 3
Ancalagon the Black (Angband): 2
Arvedui (Arnor): 2
Dark Lord (Mordor): 2
Faramir (Gondor): 2
Gothmog (Angband): 2
Tar-Meneldur (Numenor): 2
Turin (Nargothrond): 2
Varda (Valimar): 2

*To save space, only those who have scored more than 1 goal are included on the leaderboard.*

Beleg's lead has not really been threatened by the scorers in the latest matches, although if the trophy rules didn't specify that players be recorded by team Sauron/Dark Lord would be chasing him with 5 goals.

Ancalagon, Gothmog, Tar-Meneldur and Varda all appear on the table for the first time.

Ugluk's impressive goalscoring form continues, although his team look unlikely to progress, so the Yellow Boots are probably out of his reach.

[Sleepy Ranger]

DOZEN BALLS MISSING!
-Feanor of the Peredhil

A break-in was reported today by the Elves of Rivendell, those keepers of the MEFWC official artifacts. It appears that twelve regulation game balls have been stolen from the keepers. Top suspects in the robbery are as follows:

the phantom: already convicted with the criming of stealing ladies' hearts, he seems to be more interested in these games than strictly necessary. A confidential source has told us under threat of torture that she witnessed the phantom slinking through the halls of Elrond's home. Some time later, he was seen leaving the premesis looking suspiciously lumpy.

The Saucepan Man (charged with protection of the Golden Boots Award): armed with knowledge and a large amount of kitchenware, citizens are advised to avoid this man unless prepared to duck the large cans of worms that he has been witnessed throwing around. It is unknown if he cooks with these worms or not, but they are dangerous to preconceived notions and should be avoided at all costs should you desire to remain a cognitive miser. Responsible for the prestigious Golden Boots Award, it is speculated that The Saucepan Man intends to usurp the award and add to it the soon-to-be collectors items and auction them off on ME-bay.

Firefoot: suspected with the destruction of multiple footballs already, due to flaming feet, rumours abound that Firefoot has the balls in her possession and intends to play a good tough game of football with them, thereby burning them to cinder as she dribbles, should her demands not be met. Word has not yet reached us as to the nature of these demands, but given the credibility of our anonoymous tip, we cannot yet be certain that the lass even has anything to do with the game. However the public should keep in mind that if she is guilty, we should be very worried and perhaps lynch her, but if innocent, her cool logic will help us to track down the criminals.

Could Arwen be another suspect? - Drawn and written by Valesse

Stakes High for Erebor and Nargothrond
-Firefoot

If either of these teams wants to be guaranteed to continue in the cup, they must win in this match - unless Ephel Brandir pulls an upset in their upcoming game with Mirkwood, Mirkwood will be one of the teams advancing from this group, leaving Nargothrond and Erebor to fight for the qualifying spot.

Both Nargothrond (0-0-2) and Erebor (1-1-0) are confident, though not cocky. Nargothrond’s captain, Turin, said, “This is a quality group – arguably, the most evenly-matched. We haven’t won any games yet, but we have tied both and I think that proves that we’re up to the competition. Where we have tied, Erebor has won one but also lost one. We just have to put it all together, and I think we can beat the Erebor team. It will be a hard game, yes, but we’re up to it.”

Finrod Felagund, Nargothrond’s offensive midfielder, was also questioned. “I’d hesitate to make a prediction. Do I think we could win? Certainly. Could they? Of course. The teams are pretty evenly skilled; I think it will come down to teamwork and desire. The team that wants it more will win. And I’d say that we certainly want to win – the whole team has put a lot of work into this.”

Erebor’s captain, Thorin, showed just as much and more confidence in his team: “We’ve been playing together for a long time; even when I was a young lad – when Thror was King under the Mountain, that is – we used to take the ball out and kick it around. I think it’s time for that hard work to start paying off. We had a couple of bad breaks in our game against Mirkwood, but I think we really are the best team in our group. We should be able to win, now that Smaug is back in action. And, quite honestly, we don’t even have to win this game to advance – a tie would also do the trick.”

Smaug, the goalie injured in the team’s first game, was also interviewed. “It feels good to be back in action. The game won’t be easy, but I think we will win. We have a lot of talented players, and we’ve been playing well together.” When asked how it felt to be the only dragon on an otherwise all-Dwarf team, he simply responded, “I think it’s a mark of our quality that we haven’t had the same problems as, say, the Moria team.”

No Longer Rioting
-Arcticstorm87

After their humiliating loss to Gondor on day one, many people thought that Angband was going to go down with little resistance. When the moral of the team is down, usually they will keep on losing. But even without their star player/coach, Angband showed the entire middle earthen community that they are still a force to be reckoned with. With their impressive 4-0 win over Cirdan and the havens yesterday, they are now second in their group and able to quite possibly move on. I talked to Gothmog yesterday after the game and he seemed to still view them as having a chance to get into the finals, even without their star player. But one thing that he was not too sure about was when I asked him whether or not the shadow extending from him was in actuality a pair of wings. It will be interesting to see how this squad does in the days ahead.

The H-group supervision continued
-Gothmog

Called the “Most Controversial Group” group H demands a bit of extra attention, and we’re going to give it to you!

Finally Angband is back in old shape, as we’re used to see them. A comfortable win against a Grey Havens with enormous problem. It really do look like they brought together the worst players they could get, as stated by Galdor in an interview earlier this week.

Angbands two scorers, Gothmog and Ancalagon, is now featured in the Yellow Boot list, a great honour according to Ancalagon (see interview below). The absence of their captain, Melkor, didn’t stop their team from performing, as was expected. Instead, a lot of players seemed to feel much more responsibility towards the team and they all did their share of work, and more than that. They played like a team. And if this play will continue and they make it to the quarter finals, they’re going to be awfully strong with their captain back on the pitch.

After the game was finished we found a breathless Ancalagon and changed a few words with him:

Gothmog the interviewing Balrog: Congratulations, and welcome back to the tournament if I may say so!

Ancalagon: Thank you. That was an easy win, but I’m not in the shape I once was...

G: No, you were one of the first players in the Angband team, right? I mean, the first of your kind?

A: That’s right. I was the first in a new generation focusing on the air-play and swift, sweeping attacks. But even if one is getting to old for this, it’s just too fun to quit.

G: I understand. The performance today was something totally different from your last game. How come?

A: Well, we got a massive dressing-down by our captain/coach efter the last game and that made us realize that we must work harder. I was also nice too see more players stepping forward and filling the empty space behind a dominating player like Melkor. I must say that Gothmog did an excellent work out there today.

G: Yes, it looked like you played like a team all the way. A last question before you go to the changing room: you scored two goals today. The leader of the Yellow Boot trophy list (Beleg) only has 6. Is that something you think about, the possibility to win the title?

A: No, not at all. I play for the team and it doesn’t really matter who scores. Of course it’s good for the self-esteem, but it’s not like I’m going for the trophy.

G: Thank you and good luck!

Next game for Angband will be against Gondolin, not the easiest of opponents. They played really good in their opening game, but collapsed in their game versus Gondor. As Gondor will be playing Grey Havens, a secure victory if nothing extreme happens, they’ll probably win this group. The final game between Gondolin and Angband will decide who ends up second and makes it to the quarters. Expect an exciting game with two hungry teams with their aim at the title as Middle Earth Champions.

Today's Fixtures - The Odds And Evens

Game 1 - Old Forest vs. Rohan
Rohan though an excellent team have been struggling for form in this tournament while Old Forest haven't been much better, in fact I daresay they were worse. Either way I just don't see Rohan winning and I definately don't see Old Forest winning. This one will be a draw. But whatever happens neither of these teams are going to qualify.
Predicted Result - Draw

Game 2 - Shire vs. Vinyamar
If this was the start of the tournament I wouldn't have given Shire any hope but seeing how well they've been playing I think they'll win this as well. With a young star in Pippin and a veteran in Gandalf, this team is solid. Young, experienced and just fantastic. I don't see Vinyamar coming close to winning this game. Shire will only need a draw here to ensure their qualification.
Predicted Result - Shire

Game 3 - Barrow-Downs vs. Valimar
The Barrow-Downs has won all their games so far and has already qualified even if Valimar beat them here they won't be in any danger. I believe the Barrow-Downs will rest some of their players and take this match easy and perhaps settle for just a draw.
Preditced Result - Draw

Game 4 - Nargothrond vs. Erebor
This will be a very hard match with both teams looking for a win, anything else could be bad. If they draw, Nargothrond will go through on goal difference so Erebor has the harder task in this game. Despite the odds I believe Turin will make all the difference and win this match for Nargothrond.
Predicted Result - Win for Nargothrond

Game 5 - Dale vs. Numenor
This group has made no sense yet but I believe Numenor will win this match, even if they draw they're through. If they lose however, things could get a bit... 'sticky'. Anyway if Numenor don't win this match I don't believe them worthy to lift the cup.
Predicted Result - Win for Numenor

Game 6 - Goblin-Town vs. Isengard
This will be the match for third place and I believe it will be Isengard's only win of the season. No matter what happens in Tol-In-Gauroth vs. Doriath, neither of these two will qualify.
Predicted Result - Win for Isengard

Game 7 - Lothlorien vs. Alqualondë
If Alqualondë win this match they will have a chance to go through however if they lose or even draw then they will not make it through. So for their sake they better hope they win, however I see Lorien hanging on for a draw game.
Predicted Result - Draw

game 8 - Gondor vs. Grey Havens
This match has been cancelled due to Grey Havens admitting that they fixed the results. Gondor will be given 3 points which ensures them a berth in the Quarter-Finals.

Tournament Happenings

Injuries -
Barliman Butterbur (Bree) will be out indefinately due to a hamstring injury.

Cards -
Melkor (Angaband) recieved a red card and a 1 match suspension.
Bill Ferny (Bree) recieved a red card and 1 match suspension.
Elros (Numenor) recieved a red card and 1 match suspension.

Most Promising Player - Gothmog (Angband) impressed us all with his firey performance. He burned up the field and lit up the crowd, and when he blazed towards the goal it sure did get hot. Other than being a good person to make pun of Gothmog is also an excellent player. He played a crucial role in Angand's 4-0 win but that match was fixed but still its nice to see them back in form.

Most Impressive Team - Angband, after a humiliating 1 goal loss to Gondor they came back, knocked on our door, ran it down when we didn't answer and showed us why they're still favorites. Even without their captain they managed to destroy Grey Havens and pull off an amazing win. I believe they will go all the way, hats off to them.
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Thank you Firefoot, Gothmog, Fea, Valesse and Arctic. Special thanks to Fea and Arctic for coming up with something on such short notice. Rimbaud and Boro said they'd get me something as well but I haven't recieved anything as of yet, if I do it will be edited in with the rest of the article. The results will be up late today, mayhap later than yesterday because I'm going out for dinner. If I can't get them up before that then after it. Sorry.