Arda Cup Football 2013

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

AC Beleriand vs Inter Beleriand


[Projected formation. AC Beleriand in red and white; Inter Beleriand in blue and yellow.]

Formation:

A formation battle tends to be of greater importance if both sides wish to play proactive football—the spare man in the midfield is especially important when pressing to recover the ball, as well as when trying to get out of opposition pressing. Inter Beleriand’s preferred strategy is to sit back and attack on the break, so the midfield battle is less important than how effective both sides would carry out their strategies.

Tactics:

The more important tactical questions, then, are:

a) How would AC Beleriand break down Inter’s defence?

Inter have solid full-backs but defensively suspect centre-backs—Dwarves United forward Legolas managed to gain a few chances against them despite his lack of support. AC Bel would occupy Baragund and Lúthien with Angrod and Aegnor, leaving Eöl and Fëanor to play through Gorlim and Haldad. Ulrad’s forward runs and Denethor’s long passes from the midfield would help force Inter’s midfield to close them down, giving Fëanor additional space in the hole. Another attacking option AC Bel have is their full-backs, but they must be careful about the timing of their forward runs (Inter’s wing play on the counterattack is excellent). And advancing both of them at the same time looks out of the question—with Maedhros and Fingon occupying both centre-backs, AC Bel would have no spare man at the back.

b) How effective would Inter’s transition from defence to attack be?

Inter can sit back all they want, but their best way of getting a goal is to exploit AC Bel’s high defensive line with quick passes from the defence. Maedhros can exploit Rochallor in the air, and Fingon can attack Imlach with his pace. If Fingolfin and Balrog #4 are caught too high up the pitch when Inter gain possession, then Haleth and Beren would have space to run forward and outnumber AC Bel’s defence.

Prediction:

Inter are too good on the counter to be shut out. Imlach and Rochallor looked defensively solid last year because of their effective partnership, but they don’t have the individual talent to deny Maedhros and Fingon one-on-one. With that said, AC Bel would control the game—Denethor, especially, now looks comfortable in his deep-lying role, spraying forward passes to their wing players. Also, Eöl and Fëanor will run circles around Gorlim and Haldad, defenders who struggled against Legolas. Anything other than an AC Beleriand win seems unlikely.

AC Beleriand 2-1 Inter Beleriand
__________________

Dwarves United vs Gondolin


[Projected formation. Dwarves United in black and white; Gondolin in blue and white.]

Formation and Tactics:

Gondolin’s 4-4-1-1 would have a slight disadvantage in midfield against Dwarves United 4-5-1. Maeglin would have to drop a few metres deeper to help maintain possession. In Dwarf U’s last match, Inter flooded the midfield with Fingon dropping deep and Beren moving infield from the wing, giving them a comfortable 4 to 3 advantage in the centre of the pitch. Gondolin, however, couldn’t replicate this tactic—Idril, their more central-minded wide midfielder, is needed to defend against Dwarf U’s strong left wing (with Telchar and Celebrimbor on that side), whereas Elemmakil is a natural wide player and plays poorly when fielded in the centre.

Inter controlled the game vs Dwarf U because they used their spare player intelligently. Left-back Lúthien, with no one to mark, moved higher up the pitch and essentially replaced Beren as wide-left midfielder, giving them an additional attacking player to help break Aulë’s defence down. Gondolin, on the other hand, might regret their lack of attacking full-backs. Look at part of the pitch closest to Rog—Gondolin have four players in an area where Dwarf U only has one. While Egalmoth would be needed to help Idril defend Dwarf U’s strong side, Galdor is clearly a surplus. Would he then push forward when Gondolin is in possession? And if so, what could he contribute to Gondolin’s offence?

Prediction:

Gondolin look like they’ll have a harder time than Inter breaking Dwarf U’s defences down. They don’t have an attacking full-back to break them down the flanks, nor the midfield advantage to play them through the middle. With that said, their front five have enough individual talent to take Dwarf U on—if they commit a lot to their offence, a strategy that would then give space for Dwarf U to play their counterattacking game. With the home crowd spurring Gondolin on, this looks set to be a game of two halves—a passive first half and a crazy second half.

Dwarves United 1-1 Gondolin

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Minas Tirith vs Tirion


[Projected formation. Minas Tirith in silver and black; Tirion in teal and yellow.]

Formation:

A fierce midfield clash seems to be in the works for these two sides. Minas Tirith have a natural numbers advantage in the centre of the pitch (3 vs 2), and Mardil has a tendency of tucking in to allow Cirion space to move forward, giving them a fourth player in that area. On the other hand, Mahtan also prefers to play more centrally, and either of Tirion’s forwards is comfortable dropping deep to close down the opposition’s deepest midfielder (Eärnil II, in this case.)

Tactics:

Whoever wins the midfield battle—a battle for possession—has a leg up over the other team. If Minas Tirith wins the possession battle, they could deny the ball to Tirion’s impressive attack and allow Cirion to move forward more often (with a possession advantage, Cirion would have less fear of a Tirion attack through his vacated part of the pitch.) They could then patiently probe Tirion’s solid defence and wait for a crack to show up.

If Tirion wins the possession battle, then the game would resemble Minas Tirith vs Nargothrond from the last round. Tirion could pen Minas Tirith in their own half and then bring their full attacking power into breaking them down. Considering the talent gap between the two teams, the greater onus is on Minas Tirith to control the centre of the pitch.

Prediction:

Minas Tirith’s midfield advantage might be enough to balance Tirion’s talent advantage, but, whereas Minas Tirith would have a tougher time breaking Tirion’s defence down, Finwë and Aredhel would need only a few chances to score against Minas Tirith’s defence. This won’t be the hammering that Minas Tirith-Nargothrond was, but the result for Minas Tirith would be the same.

Tirion 3-1 Minas Tirith
__________________

Nargothrond vs The Sea


[Projected formation. The Sea in white and blue; Nargothrond in green and yellow.]

Formation:

Nargothrond’s midfield advantage means nothing to the Sea. Ulmo’s team would sit back, absorb the pressure, and then move the ball quickly up the pitch upon gaining possession. Nargothrond’s task would then be to turn possession dominance into tangible results against a team far more defensively solid than Minas Tirith.

Tactics:

Glaurung has shown ability to dominate games from his position in the hole, but in this game he would need more help. Gwindor would not run circles around Salmar the same way he did against Cirion, and Tar-Ciryatan and Voronwë would give the dragon a little more trouble than Eärnil II and Tarondor had; Finduilas and Nienor need to show more attacking intent than they did against Minas Tirith.

The tip of the Sea’s offence is Tar-Minastir, a forward far better than Boromir I of Minas Tirith. Orodreth should be quicker to claim passes played behind their defence—he would get worse than a ball in the face if ever Tar-Minastir gets a decent touch in. Also, Barahir should be more careful with his forward runs—Tar-Meneldur, along with his son Tar-Aldarion, is frighteningly quick on the counter, rushing forward to support the lone forward.

Prediction:

This game is one of the underrated gems of the round. The Sea has an Arda-class defence, as shown by their clean sheet against FC Valinor, but Tirion managed to breach it. Nargothrond’s attack is about a notch better than Tirion’s, but their defence is a lot worse. However, they managed to keep an impressive clean sheet against Minas Tirith through their high pressing and control of possession. If they hope to make serious noise in the cup after two years of disappointment, this is where they should start. On the other hand, a clean sheet against one of the premier offences of the tourney would be another feather on Ulmo’s cap. With that said, it is likely both teams will score, but not by much.

Nargothrond 1-1 The Sea

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Group A

The Havens 2-1 The Barrow-Downs

It must be terrifying for Olwë and company to be a good Bombadil game away from being eliminated. But they have to win, and they have to keep something in the tank for their game against Valimar.

Armenelos 1-1 Valimar

Unless Arien gets her chances and makes them, this game has the makings of a draw. Valimar’s defence could blunt Armenelos’s on-form offence, while the Westron defence would be enough to contain any Valimar attacker short of a dominant Arien.

Group C

Hithlum 3-1 SB United

While one could argue that SBU’s offence can give Hithlum’s defence problems, no one would argue that SBU’s defence would be in for a proper shellacking.

Doriath 0-3 Real Valinor

A game even more one-sided than the other fixture in this group.

Group D

Barad-dûr 2-0 Isengard

A Sauron-led team finally has a proper defence. This doesn’t bode well for Saruman’s squad.

Gondor 1-3 FC Valinor

Provided the Black Tower doesn’t spring an upset in the last round, the second spot of this group would go to whomever outscores Isengard—and whoever gets hammered by FC Valinor less.

Group E

Misty Mts 2-3 Wilderland

Misty Mts offence looks stronger than expected (with a goal against Elrond), while Wilderland’s defence looks as brittle as ever. This has the makings of another high-scoring affair.

Erebor 1-1 Eriador

Eriador’s defence won’t be as porous as Wilderland, but their offence doesn’t pack the same punch as Wilderland’s, either.

Group G

Imladris 0-3 Tol-in-Gaurhoth

Much has been made of Varda in Imladris’s back line. She is just one defender, whereas TiG has three quality attackers who can overpower or outmanoeuvre defences.

Angband 1-1 Anfauglith

A tough game to predict. One came off a bad loss, while one managed a narrow win. Still, it’s difficult to imagine Angband losing twice in a row. But it’s also difficult to see how they can score more than one against Anfauglith without opening themselves up to counterattacks.

Group H

Arnor 2-1 Mordor

Rohan was a favourable match-up for Mordor (Minas Morgul also beat Dunharrow in the 2011 Arda Cup), but the Men of the North won’t be similarly intimidated—especially since the Witch-king leads their line.

Anduin 2-0 Rohan

Anduin finally lives up to the quality shown by their price tag, defeating a decent Arnor squad featuring last year’s finalists Witch-king, Malbeth, and Arassuil. Surely they could also dominate against last year’s quarterfinalists who have lost much of their quality.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Elenrod: Today: Valinoreans arrive in Middle-earth and lay the smackdown on some petty tyrant. It’s not like they haven’t been doing it for ages. Meanwhile, in Doriath, scoring contest disappoints as Real Valinor and Hithlum put up only four goals, with Túrin getting none. Elsewhere: did anyone say goals? Dragon goals galore as Glaurung put two past the smouldering crater that was Minas Tirith, and Smaug and Scatha exchange blows in a draconic derby. And, finally, in Anfauglith, who’s afraid of the Big Bad… Dark Lord? PhantomWolf and company ask as Wolves maul Morgoth… and his little cats, too. All that, and more, in today’s Matchday. I’m your host, Elenrod, and with me today is someone who’s never won the in-house Phantasy Tournament, Maikalomion.

Maika: Yes, sadly. No luck for two years straight.

Elenrod: And joining us again, because we’ve been talking too much behind his back, not the economist, Adam Smith.

Adam: Oh, were you talking behind my back? I didn’t notice, because my head was enclosed in a block of wax.

Felagundion … That’s sarcasm, isn’t it?

Adam: So kind of you to notice.

Elenrod: And our captive guest for two centuries, Felagundion.

Felagundion: I’ve been betting on lotteries like mad. All I need to do is win one, then I’m free.

Adam: Good luck with that.

Elenrod: So, anyway, the games. Let’s start with Group A. How was it?

Adam: It was what I expected. The Havens put up a fight, but Armenelos win. Then the Barrow-Downs get hammered by Valimar.

Felagundion: Well, I was slightly surprised by the lack of fireworks from Arien or Bombadil—I mean, not even a goal between them—but other than that, I agree with Adam.

Maika: I was a bit surprised by Havens’ formation and tactics—Círdan was played out wide instead of just behind the main striker, and Olwë bombed forward a lot to help the attack. It almost paid off, too—they created a lot of chances.

Adam: Armenelos look pretty safe with a win then a game at hand against the Downs. But does anyone here think that the second seed of this group is safer because—

Felagundion: They’d avoid the AC Bel-Valinorean teams side of the bracket? Yeah, I thought that, too. Assuming those three finish first in their groups, any team winning Group A need a lot of miracles to get to the finals.

Elenrod: You think they’d drop the game against Valimar just for that, though? That’s a lot to ask, especially with the rivalry between Ar-Pharazôn and Manwë. But I guess that’s it for Group A. How about the games at the Stadium on the Rock?

Felagundion: Did anyone expect Inter to score twice against the Dwarves? I was thinking ahead of the game, this’ll go 1-0 either way, but kablam, Inter just dominated the game.

Adam: Dwarf U were a player short, though. But yeah, it would still have been 2-0 had Kíli not brought Beren down. He had a head of steam; I don’t think Galadriel could have done anything about him.

Maika: And Dwarf U’s attacking strategy was weird—Legolas just took the long balls and ran away with them without waiting for support. Had he a teammate during some of those chances, they could have passed their way past the centre-backs.

Adam: I guess that’s just due to his poor hold-up play. Gorlim and Haldad aren’t defensive studs, but they can outmuscle Legolas off the ball. So Legolas just exploited their clay feet instead of playing to their strengths.

Felagundion: And the three Dwarves behind him did try to catch up on the break—Dwarves are natural sprinters, after all. It’s just that Leggy’s so fast with the ball on his feet. Not particularly good control, though. Fluffed a lot of chances.

Elenrod: And AC Bel-Gondolin? Did anyone expect Gondolin to score a goal?

Maika: Gondolin do have a lot of pace in their squad. And AC Bel usually reserve their suffocating keep-ball play during the knockout rounds—remember, Doriath scored twice against them last year.

Felagundion: Also, Fëanor’s not that good at playing in the hole, is he? Glaurung’s this big beast who can overpower midfielders, but he can also supply other attackers.

Maika: Finwë also has the pitch awareness to play support striker/central attacking midfielder, despite being an out-and-out striker. His son, sadly, just doesn’t have the vision. When he gets the ball, he has this tunnel vision where it’s just him and the goal.

Elenrod: I guess we’ll see if they’ll keep their 4-2-2-2 permanently next game. How about the games in the Cave? Was anyone disappointed with Hithlum-Real?

Adam: Disappointed? It was a cracking match! They shot 36 times—more than once every three minutes of the game. It’s just that Hithlum’s defence improved, and Real’s defence remains Arda-class.

Felagundion: The game just showed where Hithlum are on the list of possible champions; they’re contenders, sure, with all that talent, but a notch below true favourites. Then again, Real last year were also taught a lesson by FC Val in their first game. Look what happened.

Maika: As for the other match, it was sad to see how far Doriath have fallen. They can’t even control possession against Shire-Bree, with the crowd behind them.

Elenrod: They did lose two Arda-class talents over the transfer window. Now, let’s move on to Group D.

Adam: Group of Desperately Scrambling for Second Spot, you mean. Well, what do you get when you put a full-grown tiger among kittens?

Felagundion: The other game was actually interesting. Surprising to see Barad-dûr just score one and concede one. Other than that, it was par for the course.

Maika: The highlight of the group was Curufin’s first goal—

Elenrod: We’ll leave discussion of that for later, Maika. On to the games at the Arkenstone Arena. The question: do dragons need wings? Scatha scoring two; Smaug had one and assisted one.

Adam: Now Group E had the first major shock result. I mean, did anyone expect Erebor’s defence to slip this badly? Last time I checked, Beorn’s still their goalie, and Wilderland’s offence is actually worse in terms of personnel, compared to last year. And their defence’s still rubbish.

Felagundion: Fun match, though. The fireworks.

Maika: A lot of people were surprised by Misty Mts goal vs Eriador. Elrond hasn’t exactly been as otherworldly as he had been two years ago, when he led in phantasy points for a long time. And Misty Mts’ offence is quite good. Rúmil, Azog, Narvi behind Durin’s Bane is a decent front four.

Felagundion: So long as he’s not conceding twice in a single game, I’m okay with it.

Elenrod: Okay, now, Group F, for Felagundion.

Felagundion: The hammer, baby!

Maika: The clean sheet was the most surprising result. Nargothrond’s pressing from the front was excellent, and adding Orodreth and Barahir to their back line worked wonders. You expected their scoring binge, though.

Felagundion: Glaurung is back in his favoured position, and he’s back on the score sheet!

Adam: Equally surprising: The Sea allowing a come-from-behind goal. Weren’t they supposed to be this suffocating defensive force that kept a clean sheet even against FC Val?

Maika: Tirion are about as talented as they are. Both these teams are in that contender tier Hithlum are in—I think they’d go far in the tourney. But not all the way, barring upsets.

Felagundion: Not if Nargothrond take one of the two spots.

Maika: We’ll just see how their defence holds up against the two.

Adam: By the way, did any of you catch Denethor’s post-match press conference?

Elenrod: The one where a reporter asked him if they need a miracle to qualify from this group?

Felagundion: ‘A miracle is just a trick played on your minds by conjurers and wizards,’ he said. Well, if he starts praying to Eru, the sea might just swallow the other three teams up. I don’t see any other way they’re staying up.

Elenrod: From Denethor, it’s on to the Den we go. Was anyone expecting TiG to do that to Angband?

Felagundion: Angband are in this funk ever since they lost Tilion. They’ve been struggling to replace his influence in the midfield since.

Maika: In one stroke, the Werewolves went from contenders to favourites. They look about as confident—and as talented—as their 2011 squad.

Adam: And Imladris look like sacrificial lambs. Anyone think they’ll score this year?

Felagundion: With Angband, a famous defensive squad, and TiG, the team who kept a clean sheet against said squad? I doubt it.

Elenrod: And last, Group H. Did anyone watch their games?

Maika: Anduin finally lived up to their billing, quite literally. They were the most expensive squad there, had the most talent, but they weren’t showing it during the friendlies. They showed it now.

Felagundion: And Mordor, wow! That’s the shock result of the matchday. I mean, Mordor are dirt cheap. Heck, even my outstanding debt to TENT is worth more than their entire wage bill.

Adam: Yeah. And Rohan were quarterfinalists last year. They were gutted of talent, true, but still. You didn’t expect Mordor to be anything more than a filler team.

Maika: They scored twice against last year’s top defence, and kept a clean sheet with their last year’s 27th ranked defence.

Felagundion: Maybe Sauron’s finally started training defenders and goalies.

Elenrod: Haha, maybe that’s it. Now, before we go, I’d like each of you to share your favourite goal of the week. I hope you’d all choose something different.

Maika: Like I said earlier, Curufin’s first goal. When I first saw it, I whistled and thought, ‘Are you sure you have enough defenders, Saruman?’

Adam: Hey, that’s a suggestion to Saruman: play a 9-0-1.

Felagundion: As much as I liked all of Nargothrond’s goals, my favourite was Eöl’s bicycle kick vs Gondolin. First, Denethor’s long diagonal pass was soo sexy, then he just receives with this Simon Cox touch, and finishes it like Philippe Mexes.

Adam: Eärendil’s solo run was the best for me. It had pace, technique, power. But, most importantly, it had plonk at the start.

Felagundion: ‘Plonk’? What’s that?

Adam: When he headed the ball towards space before he brought it down, the sound effect in my mind was ‘plonk’.

Felagundion: Um, okay.

Maika: Ar-Adûnakhôr’s turn on Imrazôr in the build-up to the winner was also brilliant.

Felagundion: Yeah! That one. I don’t really like him because he was the first of the Adûnaic kings, but his ball control—bloody hell.

Elenrod: I liked Thuringwethil’s knockdown for TiG’s opener. It was simple, but it was her telepathic connexion with SallyWight—she knew she was making a run, so she faked a goalbound header then placed it just right for SallyWight to one-time it in. But my real favourite was Shire-Bree’s set-piece routine.

Adam: Yeah, that was some tippy-tappy mind games from Gandalf.

Elenrod: Indeed. And with that, we’ve come to the end of our program. Our thanks to Adam, Maika, and Felagundion. Hope to see you again next time.

[Nogrod]

A few clips from the pre-game press conferences in Menegroth and Erebor, brought to you by the AKM.


Group C @ Menegroth

The AKM: How do you see your chances in challenging the Hador House and fighting for the qualification?

Gandalf: You know, small feet may move the wheels of the world when the eyes of the great are elsewhere.

Túrin: With due respect Mr. Olorin, we’re not intending to look “elsewhere” during the game.

Gandalf: I grant you a mutual respect – but not if you continue making puny jokes. You know, a wizard is never wrong.

Túrin: Uhh…

The AKM: Wait a minute. Wasn’t it that a…

Tilion: Should we continue the press conference? I’m in no doubt my fellow-Maia here says exactly what he means – and you should have nothing to correct there. Right?

The Menegrother: Have you been able to annul the first round catastrophy – or will it effect your game today?

Túrin: I suggest you media people try it out yourselves whether losing 1-3 to Real Valinor is a catastrophy – or shall we just wait until your hometeam meets them? And to your hidden agenda behind the question… no, your team Doriath has no chance of qualifying, for unlike your team we’re intending to bash the Shire-Bree team into oblivion – and we’re not in the mood to play it lopsidedly against your team either even if many of your players are good friends and former protectors of many of ours.

Melian: Now hear, hear. Sure this is football and not something that might danger friendships or question good-will… and we accept the challenge our friend Túrin here gives as far as the game goes. But we will be defending our goal with the same determination Menegroth was defended the days gone by - even against him. And weren’t I strongly against gambling of any sorts, I’d be giving him an open bet here that we will not allow three goals for Real Valinor like they did – and I will predict they will have a lot tougher time with my old friend Olorin and his team he thinks they will.

The AKM: Good, well… Tilion, how’s your form personally? Is it true what some people say that you perform well immeadiately when you don’t have Arien around aka. that her presence muddles up with your concentration on the game?

Tilion: Daring can be a good quality but it can lead to trouble as well young man. Let’s separate Eru’s orders and my private life, shall we?


Group E @ Erebor

The AKM: So some say it will be your game of life and death against Wilderland. How do you comment?

Narvi: You can say that. But with Erebor and Wilderland having a draw I’d say everything’s open. If they both lose to Eriador then it’s a three-way competition – and we’re not looking forwards to be left aside from the competition.

www,mirkwoodweb.com: A must win for Mirkwood then?

Thranduil: Well, as we clearly were not able to conquer Erebor in a straight fight we need to pick them the indirect way – and I think we have experience of that. So maybe doing some battle with the western neighbours could help us beat them?

The AKM: So you count now to beat Misty Mountains with as big a difference possible?

Thranduil: What else?

The AKM: And so the same applies to you Thorin?

Thorin: Lord Oakenshield to you boy… But yes. Of course.

Erebor Chronicler: Are going to challlenge Eriador for a win or are you just preparing for a hedgehog-defence?

Thorin: Do I look like a coward?

Goblintown Inquisitor: Well, your former track-record kind of suggests you hide your head when in trouble…

Thorin: Team Erebor is feared for it’s attacking frenzy and colossally firm defences all over Arda. I could take the lead in the offence if required but my post in the team is to defend and that is what I’m going to do. Standing firm and not allowing anyone to pass is not “hiding your head”.

The AKM: But it means allowing three goals for your opponent like against Wilderland?

Gil-Galad: I think this press conference has ended. It has been duly disrespectful and unless you can show some journalists with better manners I’m not sure there will be one for the last round.

Imladris Enquierer: Lord Gil-Galad, just one question, if you please. It seems many media-outlets don’t think you’re as good as you were last year even if your budget is higher. Anything to comment on that?

Gil-Galad: You fight only when you have to. Now we’re off to concentrate on the evening’s games, thank you.

[the phantom]

Group A at Valimar

The sun found its way over the top of the mighty Pelori and at last the second round of games was ready to begin in Valimar. The bells tolled once to announce the half-hour warning before kickoff—yes, the bells were ringing again. It didn’t take terribly long to get new ropes after they had been cut during the Valimar vs Barrow-Downs match, but the stadium caretakers were still mighty annoyed.

Everyone was quite certain that the culprits were Wights from The Barrow-Downs, but they didn’t leave any proof behind. “Today all maintenance areas, dressing areas, etc. will be under guard,” said one security official. “There will be no similar incident today.”

As Armenelos found in the first round, The Havens received solid support from the Valinoreans, and against The Barrow-Downs no doubt the crowd would be overwhelmingly against the Wights, particularly after their bit of vandalism. But the small section of Wights and their squad didn’t seem to mind, and looked eager to take the opportunity to annoy the stadium. During warm-ups whenever a Downs player spotted someone nearby in the crowd walking through an aisle with a full drink tray, they did their best to hit them with a ball. The first couple times were misses and people thought they were merely grossly inaccurate attempts at the goal, but then Saucepan Man kicked a beauty and struck an elf smack in the back of the head, causing him to spill his food and drinks all over the folks he was edging past in the row.

When SPM shouted in triumph and received enthusiastic high fives from teammates, the crowd realized what was going on and they were quite infuriated. A couple minutes later GwathWight saw a perfect opportunity and managed to knock a vendor down, causing quite a few bottles of wine to break. The near section of the stadium looked prepared to rush the field and take matters into their own hands, but it was game time and the refs asked for the players to take their positions.

As the match got underway it was clear to the spectators that the BDowns was doing a lot of talking, but they weren’t doing anything physical to get them in trouble with the refs. A couple of Havens players in particular seemed to be singled out for attention—Ar Zimrathan and Eriol couldn’t go anywhere without BDowns players getting right in their ear.

But The Havens were professionals and didn’t react, and began testing the defense of their opposition. Only a few minutes in Falastur found Earendil in the middle and he broke down the BDowns defense with a quick turn and pass to Cirdan who gave it right back, and only a correct guess by Alien in goal kept The Havens from taking the early lead. The Barrow-Wight and other defenders didn’t look concerned though—they knew coming in that they would have trouble containing Earendil and friends. And as the half rolled along it was clear that they planned for it, holding the ball for long periods of time and pulling back their forwards to help out with defense and possession. It was clear that they wouldn’t score playing like that, but neither would The Havens. BDowns was just trying to shorten the game.

Havens responded to BDown’s passivity by turning up their defensive pressure, and on offense they figured if things were going to be tough sledding they may as well go for some set pieces, hoping that the athleticism up front and their Numenorean height might yield a goal. And so they started purposefully earning corners—kicking it off of defenders and out of bounds instead of attempting to attack from the side. The tactic led to some wasted possession, but it also earned them a few opportunities, and sure enough it yielded results. On their second attempt Ar Zimrathan managed to get a clear header and forced a save, and then finally at minute 36 Cirdan put one nearly in and Earwen volleyed it back off the rebound. Havens had the lead!

As expected the bells rang in celebration, and the crowd felt much better indeed. It would satisfy them immensely to see these trouble-makers beaten.

When the second half started the crowd was expecting more of the same, but BDowns had a surprise in store, and on their first opportunity they played a long ball to SPM and dashed forward like maniacs in support. SPM brought it down brilliantly, stalled for just a second baiting his mark, then made the move past and sent one hanging up in the box. The mass rush had caught Havens off-guard and they were outnumbered in front of goal five to four, with WilWight and BarrowWight close behind. Mithrellas managed to get just the top of her head on the ball, but it went straight to Goldberry, and she immediately sent it at the left post. Amandil saved it brilliantly but couldn’t gather it in, and when Annael tried to clear it he was in too deep and surrounded, and the clearance was blocked across the goal face by Lalwende, and showing amazing reaction speed Bombadil stretched his big boot forward and redirected the ball into the net. It was tied!

The Havens supporters and Valinoreans groaned while the small Wight section cheered, and then to everyone’s surprise the bells started ringing! But it wasn’t the usual beautiful deep melodious booms, but rather more tinny and percussive, and no wonder—lone Wights around the top of the stadium were throwing rocks at the bells!

It took the security teams several minutes to round up and subdue the guilty, and while the crowd was paying attention to that the game on the field was going again. When the crowd finally paid attention again it looked like the game had reset back to the first half—apparently the Wights had forged their tie and were just going to keep it that way until near the end, back to the original plan. The Havens went back to work on offense, but they were trying a bit too hard it seemed, as they just didn’t look as clean and controlled as they were finishing the first half. And then to add to it all the talking (what on earth were they saying?) finally got to Ar Zimrathan and Imrazor, and just two minutes apart they both got carded for reacting aggressively, so now they couldn’t defend as aggressively.

Near the hour mark the BDowns changed their tactics back again. Earwen sent a long curving ball at the goal, but Lumpkin headed it away, and when it fell to Barrow-Wight he launched it high and across midfield. Olwe moved into position to receive it at his feet, but then realized that the entire Downs team was bearing down on him and may actually arrive before the ball, so he moved forward and headed it just before Goldberry could arrive. His header flew half the distance back to the goal, but unfortunately it was straight at GwathWight, and he boomed it forward again. Imrazor and Annael saw it too late and made a bad decision of moving the line up. If they had done so sooner they would’ve caught BDowns on the wrong side, but since they were late starting they released Bombadil, SPM, and Hookbill all behind them to face Amandil! The crowd hoped that the pass forward would be too tall or too hot to handle, but Bombadil caught it and slowed it with a deft touch, sent it over to Hookbill, and he made Amandil commit before sending it to SPM for the easy finish. The Barrow-Downs was up!

And again, the bells were being bombarded by naughty Wights, only there were more of them this time, and extra security had to be called upstairs to help apprehend the culprits, who led the guards on a merry chase. Meanwhile back on the field The Havens wasn’t looking as outraged as the crowd, but rather they seemed to appreciate the fight the opposition showed, and acknowledging that a worthy opponent was on the field seemed to steel their resolve and cause them to raise their game. The next ten minutes was just a clinic of spacing and ball movement and moving to open areas without the ball, and twice The Havens made BDowns sweat—once with a strong drive from Cirdan that went just wide, and again as Earendil found the seam only to be foiled last-second by Alien.

But The Havens could not be denied, and at last their star forward Earendil got the payoff he deserved off a nice cross from Falastur, and the game was level yet again. The crowd roared, happier than they had been since the first half. But the bells were silent. It turned out when extra security was called up to subdue the rock throwers, that left the bell ropes unguarded and yet again devious Wights had climbed up from below and cut them. (In fact that was probably the whole point of the rock-throwing in the first place—to give the bell-guards something else to worry about.)

The fans were annoyed again, and they grew only more annoyed as it was made obvious on the field that their team was at last slowing down, tired from the previous push, and somewhat unwilling to pressure the BDowns possession, perhaps concerned about another furious charge? At last the final whistle sounded and the fans half-heartedly applauded. They had gotten a point at least, but they had really hoped for more. Now Havens would have to defeat Valimar—the home team and true favorite for most of those in attendance.

Havens 2-2 Barrow-Downs
on target 7-5
tot shots 17-13
GOALS:
*36, 1-0 Earwen (Cirdan)
*48, 1-1 Bombadil (LalwendeMP)
*59, 1-2 SPM (Hookbill)
*71, 2-2 Earendil (Falastur)
YELLOW CARDS:
*BDowns- LalwendeMP, Hookbill
*Havens- Imrazor, Eriol, Falastur

The Havens fans and Wights streamed out and masses of Numenoreans replaced them, but the south side of the stadium stayed put—they had purchased double-session tickets. Most of the south-siders were Valinoreans that supported Valimar first then Havens, but here and there a Numenorean pocket could be found that simply wanted to see the first match as well. Once the stadium filled these Numenorean pockets gladly exchanged places with Valimar fans that found themselves in predominantly Numenorean sections, thus the stadium became nicely uniform, with Armenelos fans on the north and Valimar everywhere else.

Both sides were greeted enthusiastically—these were the clear group favorites after the first round, and particularly after the early game had resulted in a draw. If Armenelos or Valimar could claim a victory, they’d officially clinch a spot in the playoffs, and more than likely the right to host their first playoff match. There was definitely tension between the squads and fans, but things stayed respectful. They appreciated good play and sportsmanship enough to know that the respect was deserved.

As the match started it was soon clear that both sides were being careful. They trusted their discipline and intelligence, confident that they could keep the other side off the board so long as they didn’t make mistakes. And for the first half hour it seemed like they were correct, as neither side could make any headway. The best chance Valimar had was a long drive from Irmo that Tar Atanamir caught easily, and Armenelos only managed a couple headers that sprayed wide.

But knowledgeable Valimar fans were a bit worried, as those headers were won a little too easily, and too close to Manwe. The back line was getting out-jumped and muscled and couldn’t do enough to push Ar Pharazon and Ar Adunkhor away from where they intended to be. At the 40 minute mark it really got the attention of Manwe, as Tar Miriel curled in a beauty and Ar Adunakhor headed it perfectly, and only a finger-tip stretch from Manwe sent it off the post and away.

After that Namo retreated for the rest of the half and did his best to take on the forwards for Armenelos, and co-directing the defense with Manwe. During halftime Armenelos didn’t make any adjustments as really there hadn’t been time to see if the new defense was working better, but quickly into the second half it was obvious that Valimar was gaining ground. At 52 minutes Arien gained her first threatening look, as she took Vaire’s pass with a nice sideways first touch to get around Tar Calmacil and then held off Tar Telperien as she gave it a boot, but Tar Atanamir blocked it straight down and gathered it in.

The crowd was all a bundle of nerves, constantly rising out of their seats with a cheer only to have it die in their throats as they sat back down, and other times groaning and then sighing in relief as the other side had their turn. Both sides were playing skillfully, and the commentators were no doubt handing out compliments left and right.

Finally at the hour mark the scoreboard saw its first action—Tar Telemmaite appeared to look for the forwards and sent in a cross, but instead it bent farther out and to the opposite side for Elros, and the defense had sagged off of him towards the forwards leaving him clear. He sent a pinpoint header high and to the near post, and Manwe barely batted it away, but it ricocheted off Este and to Ar Pharazon, and he nudged it down and forward with his chest and kneed it between Namo and the diving Manwe to send Armenelos into the lead!

The Numenoreans began singing their ancient fight songs and the Valinoreans shook their heads. Armenelos already had the win over the Havens and was up a goal with 30 left against Valimar, and their remaining game was against the team picked to finish last. They were certainly in the best position, and if both of the home favorites were to advance Valimar would need to come back and do it fast.

And they certainly tried, opting for a more aggressive positioning and devoting Namo to supporting the attack again, but Elros ordered Armenelos to go on full defense and time-wasting mode, and it was tough sledding for the Ainur and their friends. The Numenoreans in the crowd debated the strategy, wondering if they could now catch Valimar with a counter if they were more aggressive, but most agreed that it was the right percentage play. Even if Valimar did manage to score once, surely they wouldn’t score twice, and a draw would be plenty good for Armenelos with only Barrow-Downs remaining on their schedule.

But the strategy was second-guessed quite a bit after the 70-minute mark when Namo nearly put one past Tar Atanamir, who was fortunately on top of his game. And then a bit later Ingwe managed to wrong-foot two defenders and took advantage by splitting them with a shot that skimmed just over the crossbar. While the Numenoreans were sweating, Valimar was more so, as close calls don’t equal goals, and time was ticking away.

At minute 85, just as Armenelos fans were starting to feel good, Valimar’s big off-season addition finally earned her paycheck. Arien received it from Ingwe a good 40 yards out, and she made to send it back, but instead turned suddenly and was past two defenders before they could register what she was up to. Tar Palantir was there to meet her but she angled right and rounded him with precision just as Telperien closed from the side. She then faked the shot to freeze the remaining defender and keeper then snapped her left foot and squeezed it between the post and Atanamir’s outstretched arms. Valimar had drawn level! And the bells were working again.

Arien wanted to push for the lead after that, but the rest of the team (and the stadium) thought it smart to just take the result as it was, and Armenelos seemed to agree. Both teams would leave with 4 points in group, sitting atop the standings and controlling their own destiny.

Armenelos 1-1 Valimar
on target 4-5
tot shots 12-14
GOALS:
*60, 1-0 ArPharazon (Elros)
*85, 1-1 Arien (Ingwe)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Armenelos- ArPharazon, ArGimilzor
*Valimar- Namo, Amarie

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

GROUP A STANDINGS

---------  W-D-L   Pts  Score
Valimar    1-1-0   4    3-1
Armenelos  1-1-0   4    3-2
Havens     0-1-1   1    3-4
BDowns     0-1-1   1    2-4

LAST GAMES
Armenelos vs Barrow-Downs
Havens vs Valimar

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Stadium on the Rock
AC Beleriand vs Inter Beleriand

From the atmosphere and the energy in the stadium you would have thought that this was a home game. The Stadium on the Rock was packed and evenly split between the supporters of AC and Inter Beleriand—one side was a sea of white and red, the other a wall of yellow and blue. Chants and insults were traded back and forth between the two parties.

Where’s your Beren gone? Inter fans would ask.

You’ve got Gorlim in defence, AC Bel fans would answer.

What does third place feel like?

At least we’re not third and out.

Good-natured barbs were thrown hither and thither across the divide, sign of two parties very familiar with each other, like brothers teasing each other. The closest Middle-earth derby to match this friendly rivalry was the North-South derby between Arnor and Gondor—although a closer equivalent would be the Westernesse derbies between Armenelos and the two Númenórean kingdoms in Middle-earth, a younger ‘brother’ with something to prove against the elder. This was not the heated rivalry of Gondor vs Mordor, nor did it possess the historic enmity of the Arda Classic between Angband and Valimar. This was the Beleriand derby.

Various historians tried to explain how the rivalry developed. Marnen of Arda thought that it was born from the rivalry between the sons of Míriel and the sons of Indis, even though Fëanor, Fingolfin, and the sons of Finarfin were teammates in AC Bel, as well as Maedhros, Fingon, and Turgon for Inter. Iorithil of QN Sport wrote in his book Battles of Beleriand: Football in the First Age:

‘Basically, Maedhros and Fingon were tired of the first generation’s feud. Even on the eve of the Noldor’s game vs Angband, Fëanor still managed to turn against Fingolfin and form his own Eldar United squad. After his father went out injured during the Noldor’s victory over Angband, Maedhros conceded captainship of the squad to Fingolfin. Whereas Fëanor and Fingolfin were never united even against a common enemy, Fingon and Maedhros were always in each other’s counsel.’

This explanation made more sense, even though Fingolfin was AC Bel’s vice captain (with a say in defensive organisation and tactics); not to mention that Angrod and Aegnor, AC Bel’s new acquisitions belonged to the second generation.

But back to the stadium: Both teams walked into the pitch met with cheers and boos in equal measure. Fingon, Maedhros, and Turgon shared a hug with their father and half-uncle, and then shook hands with their cousins from the House of Finarfin. The Edain of the First Age also exchanged handshakes. They were all rivals on the pitch, but they were also family off it.

But there was still a match to be played between them. The opening whistle was soon blown, and AC Bel dominated possession from the start like it was their birthright, with Ulrad, Fëanor, and Eöl easily passing their way through the middle of Inter’s defence. In one such sequence during the eighth minute, Baragund moved from his position on the right to deny the Dark Elf a clear run at goal, but Baragund’s original mark Angrod darted behind him as Eöl played a through ball. The events that followed afterward were unclear, but AC Bel players were appealing to the referee for a penalty, while Gorlim and his teammates pleaded his innocence. When the referee shook his head and pointed to the corner instead, the AC Bel fans whistled in disapproval. In the slow-motion replay, Gorlim seemed to have brought Angrod down with a late challenge, but the son of Finarfin appeared to go down a little too easily considering the lack of strength behind Gorlim’s tackle. It was just one of those difficult decisions in football that would prove to be debate fodder for the next few days.

AC Bel mixed their intricate passing game with some accurate long balls from deep in the midfield, keeping the entire Inter back line and midfield on their toes. Maedhros told Fingon to close down Denethor and prevent him from playing his long diagonals towards the sons of Finarfin, leaving him all alone to deal with AC Bel’s centre-backs. But Imlach and Rochallor spread to the flanks during AC Bel’s build-up play, allowing the full-backs to go forward and forcing Maedhros to commit himself to marking only one of them. He chose Imlach; Rochallor then had freedom to advance to the midfield and play a long pass forward. Eöl easily got to the ball and chipped Turgon, who had left his goal to try to claim it, for the lead.

Inter sent players forward as they tried to gain an equaliser as quickly as possible. Some of the Inter fans on the stands debated the wisdom of this strategy; wouldn’t it be better to keep the game 1-0 as long as possible before trying to score a late equaliser? But others pointed out that once AC Bel applied their vice grip on possession, there was no way they’d concede a late goal. So they realised that Maedhros and company had to score before AC Bel switched to keep-ball mode.

Unfortunately, Inter’s strategy proved disastrous from the onset. Their full-backs advanced to support the attack, but Lúthien was caught too far forward when, on the twenty-sixth minute, Fëanor intercepted Haldad’s pass to Forweg. The Fiery Boot played a simple ball to the area Lúthien usually occupied on defence, and Aegnor ran in to side-foot a low shot past Turgon to increase AC Bel’s lead.

Amidst the AC Bel fans’ chant of ‘Two-nil, two-nil, what a hell of a way to win,’ Fëanor told the sons of Finarfin to play more centrally and control possession. Inter full-backs Baragund and Lúthien were now totally unmarked, and when they moved forward during the few times Inter got the ball, no one made a run in behind them. This encouraged them to be more adventurous when Inter was in possession. About a minute before half-time, Beren robbed the ball from Denethor, and Lúthien was off like a shot. The two passed their way past Balrog #4, and Tinúviel crossed for Maedhros, who knocked it down for Fingon. Fingon shot from eight metres out, but Marach managed to palm it away—towards Maedhros, who tapped in the rebound to reduce Inter’s deficit heading into the break.

At the start of the second half, Inter made a statement of their intent, sending long passes forward from the word ‘go’, hoping to break the composure of AC Bel’s defence. But the square of Imlach, Rochallor, Ulrad, and Denethor held firm, preventing Inter from playing through the middle. None of them could challenge Maedhros reliably in the air, but they closed down spaces where he could knock the ball down to and didn’t give him easy lanes to run into when he brought the ball down to his feet. Fingon also had a mark on him at all times, pressuring him when he latched on to knockdowns and flick-ons from his strike partner. Beren and Haleth were closed down by full-backs Fingolfin and Balrog #4, and none of Inter’s central midfielders or full-backs displayed any attacking initiative, so concerned were they with AC Bel’s fearsome front four, who advanced menacingly whenever their side recovered possession.

Inter’s attacking fury was waning after half an hour; the closest they got was a Maedhros header from a corner that sailed wide. In the seventy-seventh minute, Denethor intercepted a Beren through ball for Fingon and sent a long diagonal to the left. Aegnor took the pass, and he and Eöl played one-two past Lúthien and Haldad to restore a two-goal lead.

Inter were clearly deflated by Aegnor’s second goal. They became less combative in midfield, and soon AC Bel put the corkscrew on possession, passing to each other until the final whistle. One of the tournament favourites all but secured advancement with a game at hand, while Inter still had all to play for in their game against the home side on the last matchday.

AC Beleriand 3-1 InterBeleriand
GOALS:
12, 1-0 Eöl (Rochallor)
26, 2-0 Aegnor (Fëanor)
44, 2-1 Maedhros (Fingon)
77, 3-1 Aegnor (Eöl)

Total Shots:
13-10
Shots On Target:
6-3

YELLOW CARDS:
1-3
ACB: Balrog #4
INB: Lúthien, Haldad, Beren

Dwarves United vs Gondolin

Despite having lost their first game, Gondolin fans were still confident of their team advancing. Inter lost their game against AC Bel, after all, and Gondolin were taking on the putatively weakest team in the group. Win this game, and their destiny would be in their hands as they meet Inter in a virtual play-off for second seed on the next matchday.

The home fans outnumbered the Dwarves United supporters almost two-to-one, even with Inter supporters showing in force to root for the Dwarves. The Inter fans were hoping for a draw, since that would leave them in solo second, but they were not averse to a Dwarf U victory, since the Dwarves were playing AC Bel in the last matchday, after all, a game they were expected to lose. A draw against Gondolin would then be enough for Inter to advance.

From the opening whistle, Gondolin attacked in force, relying on their pace to gain temporary numbers advantage in certain parts of the pitch. In the eighth minute Duilin and Idril wove passing patterns that crossed up the sons of Dís; Duilin got a metre of space to shoot the ball from thirty-five yards, forcing a save from Galadriel. Five minutes later, Elemmakil got past Durin and sent a cross for Tuor, who headed wide from almost point-blank range.

But Gondolin took a gut punch when Dwarves United scored in controversial fashion on their very first attempt at goal. In the twenty-first minute, Gamil Zirak slid between another one-two between Idril and Duilin, and he sent a long ball behind Penlod and Aranwë. Gondolin fans were screaming, ‘Offside!’ when Legolas received the pass. He outsprinted the defenders and chipped Rog for the lead.

The instant replay showed that Legolas was indeed offside (his head was in advance of Gondolin’s back line when Gamil Zirak played the pass), but the linesmen didn’t call it, so the goal stood. The home fans whistled for a full five minutes after the incident, showing their displeasure at the call. On the pitch, Maeglin and company attacked with fury, but perhaps their anger caused them to misplace their passes or miss their shots, as Galadriel had to make only one save before the halftime whistle.

The second half started with the Dwarven supporters chanting in a deep voice, ‘We thought you were rivals, Tuor and Maeglin, we thought you were rivals.’ The ‘rivals’ were now both fielded as centre forwards—Maeglin occupied Aulë in hopes of matching Tuor up against the clearly aerially inferior Azaghâl. But after Tuor almost converted an Idril cross with a bullet header (requiring a Galadriel reflex save), Celebrimbor slid in from his left-back position to become a third centre-back so as not to give Tuor any significant height mismatch that he could exploit. The Lord of Belegost now played as a sweeper behind the two, and Telchar moved deeper to become the ersatz left-back. Dwarves United can afford to play this negative tactic because they were a goal ahead—with Legolas waiting to receive long balls, they can commit nine outfield players to defence.

But there was still forty minutes to play, and Gondolin fed off their supporters’ energy. Maeglin embarked on a solo run through the middle that left a trail of Dwarves behind him—the crowd gasped at how easily he wove through the packed centre, as if the ball were attached to his foot with a string. Aulë was forced to step forward from the defence to stop him, but this only opened up space for Duilin to run into. The Sharp Boot chipped past the Vala but Azaghâl was at hand to dispossess Duilin before he could control the pass.

So Gondolin tried again. At the hour mark Elemmakil easily outpaced Gamil Zirak and Durin to get to the byline, and then sent a low cross for Maeglin. Maeglin faked a tap-in, forcing Galadriel to dive left, but it was actually a short past to Tuor who stretched his foot past Celebrimbor to tap it home.

The home crowd roared in delight; the Inter fans watching were also jubilant (this was their desired result, after all.) But the Dwarven supporters and the Dwarf U players were unperturbed. Gondolin were throwing everything but the kitchen sink at them, and were sure to continue to do so to grab a winner, leaving them extremely vulnerable to counterattack. They just needed one good pass to Legolas to reclaim the lead.

As they predicted, Gondolin did press hard for a winner. Idril, Duilin, and Elemmakil were prowling around Dwarf U’s penalty box, looking for a lane to run into, a patch of space to play a ball to. Tuor and Maeglin were in a battle with Celebrimbor and Aulë for crosses and passes. Seven minutes before full time, Maeglin managed to beat Aulë on a short sprint and took a through ball from Duilin, but Azaghâl was there to make the angle of his shot trickier. Maeglin scuffed his curler, and Galadriel easily snuffed it before throwing a pass to Celebrimbor. The Elf-smith hoofed a long ball to Legolas, who was onside this time when he began his dash past the defenders. He trapped the ball with his first touch, and with his second he rifled a thirty-yard drive into the net before Galdor could close in. Dwarf U fans uttered a guttural roar (and Leggy fangirls squealed) as the Silvan Elf ran around the pitch before being mobbed by his teammates. On the other side, the Gondolin players were in shock. They had given all they had, but all their efforts were undone just like that. It seemed as if all the air had been taken out of them, and their attacks during the last seven minutes were just rote movements, with nary a hint of intelligence or passion. Soon, the referee blew the whistle for full time, and Dwarves United carried Legolas off the pitch in honour. Meanwhile, Tuor tried to console his teammates by saying that they still had a chance; the Dwarves would lose to AC Bel, and they could beat Inter. They could still advance if they get a good enough goal difference.

It remained to be seen if they could recover the confidence to do exactly that.

Dwarves United 2-1 Gondolin
GOALS:
21, 1-0 Legolas (Gamil Zirak)
60, 1-1 Tuor (Maeglin)
83, 2-1 Legolas (Celebrimbor)

Total Shots:
13-16
Shots On Target:
4-6

YELLOW CARDS:
2-2
DWU: Gimli, Azaghâl
GDN: Tuor, Galdor

--------------- W-D-L Pts GD
AC Beleriand    2-0-0  6  +3
Inter Beleriand 1-0-1  3  0
Dwarves United  1-0-1  3  -1
Gondolin        0-0-2  0  -2

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference

LAST GAMES:
@Tumladen Park: AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United
@Stadium on the Rock: Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin

[Nogrod]

Group C @ Menegroth

If the relations between the players and the media were not the warmest possible the crowds just adored the players and the players enjoyed the cheers to the fullest. The Cave was full already for the afternoon game and the visiting crowds were yelling madly for their favourites – mainly to Hithlum, even if there was a small and loud fan-compartment for Shire-Bree supporters.

The locals were biting their nails to see how Hithlum would play after the embarrasing 1-3 defeat to Real Valinor – for it was this team they realized their own team should beat if they were to entertain any hopes of qualifying. And thusly many Menegrothians cheered for the Shire-Bree – just hoping that the team their own draw with would be good enough to challenge also the mighty heroes of Hithlum.

But as the game started everyone could see Shire-Bree was in no way able to challenge their opponents. Hithlum brought their attacks from left, right and center – they also took comfortable mastery of the midfield and contained any efforts Shire-Bree had towards their goal with some confidence – especially the Balrog took the Nazgûls away so neatly even the Shire-Bree supporters had to acknowledge his virtuosity.

Meanwhile the whole Hithlum attack was in flames.

It took Túrin only seven minutes to break free from his guards at the edge of the box and break in to score 1-0 from a neat cross by Morwen. A fair ten minutes later it was time for Beleg to score from a corner sent millimeter sharp into his head by Húrin. Ten minutes before the half-time Aradan made it 3-0 with a beautiful far-shot volley (from a full run!) fed by Balrog #5’s long-range forward-pass.

At the half-time it seemed the game was over. Hithlum was just that impressive and there was nothing Shire-Bree had done to give anyone an idea they’d bounce back. Hador’s sons Galdor and Gundor had made Gandalf mostly invisible at the first half following him like shadows and the Balrog had took care of the Nazgûls more or less single-handedly. Meanwhile Hithlum attack was making results on a wide front – for the three goals five different players were credited either scoring or assisting.

And when Hador then made the score 4-0 when only four minutes of the second half was played it was the end of the game.

After the fourth goal Hithlum clearly loosened it’s game and that in turn gave Shire-Bree some chances of counterplay – but it was clear the Shire-Bree understood well enough the hopelessness of their situation and didn’t go for any extravagant effort, just not to tire themselves.

Gandalf did flash his skills at 73rd minute leaving the brothers to bite the dust while ducking between them and heading Nazgûl #6’s neat pass in to the back of the net past Húor who had no chance to even react to the wizard’s sudden move.

But there was no serious come-back after the goal as Hithlum just pushed a bit stronger denying Shire-Bree of any opportunities for the last fifteen minutes.

A confident victory for Hithlum then – and a show of how dangerous team they can be when their game really rolls forwards.


Hithlum 4-1 ShireBree United
on target 8-4
tot shots 18-10
GOALS:
*7, 1-0 Túrin (Morwen)
*19, 2-0 Beleg (Hurin)
*34, 3-0 Aradan (Balrog#5)
*49, 4-0 Hador (Túrin)
*73, 4-1 Gandalf (Nazgul#6)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Hithlum-
*SBUnt- Bandobras, Fellbeast#5


The first game of the day was a sad reminder for the Doriath fans of the toughness of the team Hithlum they’d need to beat if they’d wish to qualify. But maybe they could stand against Real Valinor? Winning that game would make such a difference in the group. Elwë and Melian, supported by Mablung and Dior and all the other heroes – why couldn’t they do that?

Well because of the quartet of the Valar: Tulkas, Nessa and her brother Oromë, and Nienna.The two iron-firm “Fëanorians” (like Miriel and Nerdanel were called by some) and well the whole team of pure magnificence…

But the home team did put up a fight indeed! And many sighed on just why they didn’t seem to get this effort on when playing against Shire-Bree the first round – a team they had just witnessed drawn to pieces by Hithlum just a moment ago.

To be honest it must be said that even if they were defending bravely – and even smartly closing any routes from Oromë, Miriel and Nerdanel to break through – they were not especially dangerous in their own attacks and the few shots they had went mostly over or wide from the posts. Meanwhile Real Valinor had a half a dozen chances to score, but they were most of the times denied by skill – at others with luck and chance.

The teams withdrew to their lockers for the half-time with 0-0 on the scoreboard and the home-fans cheered wildly for the great achievment. Now they’d have to stand only another 45 minutes and a valuable draw could be theirs – or who knew if they could actually score and win?

Real Valinor came to the second period with a twist. They started mixing their formation a little every now and then – with fex. Miriel falling down to the defence while Ingwion would leap to spearhead an attack – or Oromë switching to the bottom of the midfield letting Quennar leap forwards. Adding to that the always unpredictable Tilion with his free role the Doriath defences were soon totally lost.

And it took Real Valinor ten minutes to score. Elwing was in charge of keeping Miriel off the ball and followed her a bit too far away from the box when the noble Ingwion leaped forwards to fill her in. Enerdhil the smith had just changed places with Nerdanel and while receiving the ball from Oromë from the midfield Nimloth was just that second late that Enerdhil had time to pass the ball diagonally forwards – meeting the onrushing Ingwion – and it was such a boot from roughly ten meters that Dior stood no chance.

With one goal behind Doriath needed to risk some more openly forwards game and Real pulled back to their normal positions playing a hugely effective counter-play. And it did bring results as well.

While Doriath was pushing their heads against the wall of defence led sovereignly by Tilion this time, Real actually carried out the more dangerous attacks – and in the end the familiar names stood on the scoreboard.

Tilion nicked the ball from Daeron’s sloppy pass and sent it fast to Quennar who in turn passed it forwards with one touch to Miriel in full speed on the right – outrunning Elwing she crossed it from ten meters from the corner, and Nerdanel had known exactly where to run (after passing Nimloth) and volleyed the ball in from close quarters from in front of Dior.

Hugging each other after the goal both Miriel and Nerdanel bowed towards the lighting-tunnel up on the roof from where the sunlight was shining in. The gesture didn’t pass unheeded. The media was of course all buzz around it but one can only figure what Arien felt seeing that…

The second goal basically killed the game and the last fifteen minutes were more like academic tossing the ball around – even if during that time Mablung manged to make Doriath’s second shot on goal over the whole game – while Tulkas had no problems picking it. That kind of is the image of the whole game: the home team had a valiant effort but they were just given no chance by their superiors.

Doriath 0-2 Real Valinor
on target 2-7
tot shots 8-15
GOALS:
*55, 0-1 Ingwion (Enerdhil)
*74, 0-2 Nerdanel (Miriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Daeron
*RealV- Oromë

Team		W-D-L	pts.	score
Real Valinor	2-0-0	6	5-1	
Hithlum		1-0-1	3	5-4
Doriath		0-1-1	1	1-3
Shire-Bree Utd.	0-1-1	1	2-5

Last games:
Real Valinor vs. Shire-Bree United
Doriath vs. Hithlum

[Boromir88]

GROUP D @ Dol Amroth

The group outlook before round 2 looked like FC Valinor had already taken firm control on towards sweeping the Middle-earth squads, while neither Gondor nor Barad-Dur were able to impress in their 1-1 draw. It was even bleaker for Isengard who got blown off the pitch by Curufin & co., but Saruman still kept up the morale of his team and supporters. Many were rightfully questioning though whether the fallen Maia had lost his powerful Voice.

Isengard maintained stronger sympathies from the crowd, not only because Barad-Dur was still a black name in Gondor, but Gondorians rationalized if Isengard could possibly steal a point, or beat Barad-Dur in this match, than that would basically eliminate Barad-Dur already (having to play FC Valinor in the final round). Then Gondor would have their fate in their own hands against Isengard in the final round.

The ref blew his whistle to start the match and it certainly appeared Isengard had not yet lost hope. Anxious to show they were better than the 0-4 debacle and that FC Valinor had just been a bad match up for them. In the 17th minute Saruman made complete fools of Alatar and Pallando, dribbling them out of the game and passing the ball to Quickbeam. The ent was just outside the box and wasted no time in shooting. The speed Quickbeam was able to pull his leg back and snap forward, like a rubberband, was remarkable and Grishnakh had no chance of stopping it.

Sauron could not have been happy about that goal, but you would not have been able to tell by his subdued and calm expression. Saruman was looking to take advantage and go up 2 goals, but Barad-Dur's defense fed off Sauron and quelled Isengard's attack. As the half minutes ticked away Isengard's forwards had ran themselves tired and Barad-Dur had an easier time controlling possession. Still Isengard's defenders were well prepared and held their lead.

It appeared they were going to hold it until half-time, if it was not for a Barad-Dur free kick. Sauron is absolutely deadly with free kick opportunities from dangerous positions. In the 39th minute he brought up practically his entire team, leaving only the two fellbeasts and Sangahyando behind Sauron when he took the kick. By bringing forward so many players, Sauron found the opportunity he hoped to create, a match-up problem as Wulf was marking Castamir and the Numenorean had no trouble beating the weaker dunlending defender for a close-range header.

Isengard began the 2nd period with renewed vigor to grab another early lead. Even if they weren't losing, it was generally the accepted belief Isengard needed another goal because Barad-Dur was too good (especially from set pieces, which they would surely get more chances in the 2nd half) for Isengard to hope for a 1-1 draw. So, Isengard came out as the aggressors but this time Barad-Dur's defense was able to handle Saruman's tricks and it wasn't long until Barad-Dur pressed for the lead.

This time it wasn't a set piece though, as Beruthiel simply weaved her way between and around the ent defenders, releasing Sauron, who broke on goal a few steps ahead of Mauhur. Ugluk laid out to try to cut off Sauron's angle, but Sauron didn't go for the quick shot, he got around Ugluk and passed the ball into the empty net.

Barad-Dur fans finally looked relieved after the shaky start to the game, and began working up to a cheer after seeing their team wasn't just sinking back to defend the lead. Sauron perceiving this group would be determined by goal differential was pressing for more goals. Isengard continued to defend bravely though and managed a few counter attacks that made Barad-Dur's fans nervous. But Isengard was lacking quality upfront to cash in on their chances and Grishnakh and the defense handled the counters securely.

Barad-Dur left Seaside Financial Field with the points lead (with FC Valinor still needing to play though) and Isengard was elminated.

Barad-Dur 2-1 Isengard
on target 5-5
tot shots 13-11
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Quickbeam (Saruman)
*39, 1-1 Castamir (Sauron)
*70, 2-1 Sauron (Beruthiel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*BDur- Fellbeast#2, Sangahyando, Castamir
*Isengard- Lugdush, Lurtz, Mauhur

Gondorians were rightfully nervous before the start of their evening match against FC Valinor. Barad-Dur had won their game a few hours before, which meant Gondor could not get shelled by FC Valinor if they wanted to advance.

But Anarion, being a wise-king and knowing the hearts of his people, gave a stirring pre-game press conference that lifted fans' spirits: "All we've heard leading up to this game is how does your team have any hope of stopping Curufin? Have you seen Curufin play? He can't be stopped. Curufin is a superb player, no doubt, and we have no one who can match up against him one-on-one. But the trap too many teams fall into is panicking and abandoning their strengths to focus on stopping one person. Gondor is team-centric and we'll continue to play the tactics the team knows best. Whether it's against Curufin, or Turin, Sauron, or whoever, we'll play organized and united around a team effort."

Anarion's words might have frustrated some Gondorians "team-play-shmeem-play, give me Curufin's talents anyday and it'll show you team-play is worth nothing." But most were standing behind their King. They were going to the stadium and were going to give their whole hearts to support Gondor. And it was Curufin and FC Valinor that were getting even more frustrated by Gondor's team-centric obsession.

They were having no success getting through Gondor's packed and over-whelming midfield. And the defenders instead of mindlessly trying to chase around Curufin, always remained in proper positioning, cutting off passes, and timing perfect offside traps. It must be said Gondor's offense was having just as much success against FC Valinor's organized defense. So, no success at all, but the Gondor crowd was enthralled and ecstatic over just how committed to "team effort" Gondor was, and how successful those tactics were in stifling FC Valinor's attack.

Curufin ever hungry for goals was getting evermore desperate, but his selfish play was playing right into the hands of the type of game Gondor likes to play. After another bad turnover by Curufin, in the 42nd minute, Gondor sprung a sudden counter attack. Anarion fired a quick shot between Maglor and Indis but Huan barely pawed the attempt away. Eldacar sprinted in to punch in a rebound, but it just went wide! The Gondorians had stood up to burst in song and cheers but had to swallow their jubilations, knowing you needed to convert on those opportunities when playing FC Valinor. But it would go into the half 0-0.

If the first half proved excellent team commitment can stop selfish (however great a talent) individual play. Then the 2nd proved that no matter how strong the the commitment to team-effort is, eventually superior skill and athleticism will win out. Whatever was said to Curufin during the break sunk in to the son of Feanor and he started getting teammates more involved.

It didn't take long, once other players were consistently involved, for FC Valinor to break the deadlock. 15 minutes after the break, Yavanna found Argon, and he hit a drive that snuck between the left post and the outstretched arms of Imrahil. Then in the 81st minute Argon turned provider, feeding Celegorm who scored his first goal of the tournament.

Gondor took a heroic and honourable fight to FC Valinor, but in the end it was still a 2-goal defeat. And deserved too because FC Valinor's defense had been dominant, once their offense worked out some kinks it was fortunate Gondor didn't lose by more.

So now, FC Valinor was already qualified (and with a win or draw against Barad-dur will take 1st place) and Isengard already eliminated. 2nd place was up for grabs between Barad-dur and Gondor.

Gondor 0-2 FC Valinor
on target 2-6
tot shots 8-14
GOALS:
*65, 0-1 Argon (Yavanna)
*81, 0-2 Celegorm (Argon)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Earnil I, Meneldil, Calimehtar
*FCVal- Indis, Findis

Standings after 2 Rounds:

Group D     W-D-L  Pts.  GD
FC Valinor  2-0-0    6   +6
Barad-Dur   1-1-0    4   +1
Gondor      0-1-1    1   -2
Isengard    0-0-2    0   -5

Round 3 Matches: (games played concurrently)
Barad-Dur vs. FC Valinor @ Pelargir Park
Gondor vs. Isengard @ Seaside Financial Field

[Nogrod]

Group E @ Erebor

The day was full of anticipation. With the homeside drawing with Wilderland on the first round everything was open – and a lot would depend on this day’s games. And the draw had also rekindled the hopes of those who supported the Misty Mountains. So even if Eriador was like it would qualify, with the draw of Erebor and Wilderland there were now three contenders for the second place. And sure the homeside fans and many others wished Eriador could be beaten and thrown off – the posh Westerners… And yes, if they only managed to win Misty Mts. 2-1 – would they be vulnerable indeed, or was it because Misty Mts. is indeed a good team?

Loads of orcs and trolls and Lothlórien elves had rushed to Erebor after the first round to support Misty Mts. and so in the end the fans of both Wilderland and Misty Mts. were quite even in attendance while many of the local dwarves tended to support Misty Mts. just hoping their support to the opponent of their own perceived rival number one would somehow help things out for their own team.
It is funny how things go. Before the tournament no none would have thought Misty Mts. but a walk-through for Wilderland – but suddenly with a draw in Wilderland’s back and Misty Mts., making a decent effort against the favourites Eriador – everything seemed like open in a totally new way – even if neither result was like some real news to anyone…

So when the referee whistled the game started there was a huge roar of the crowds. The winner of this first game would be soo close qualifying – and Misty Mts. was taken seriously by every Wilderland supporter – this was going to be a killer!

Both teams started the game in careful fashion which earned them some booing from the stands as everyone were looking for daringly attacking football – and slowly things started happening and Wilderland started controlling the game. But with no results.

Indeed Misty Mts. defences proved especially hard for Wilderland attack to get rid of: Caradhras was immobile maybe but hard to get around while the witless troll William had pure physical power and stamina to hold lesser attackers in check quite easily; The Watcher’s eerie and timeless presence was enough to make even stronger souls to hesitate – and Gwaihir had speed, power and presence to challenge even Scatha.

But just before the half-time it happened! Thranduil wrestled himself free from William’s embrace and went for a header to the ball centered by Radagast – and heading it with a curve from behind Caradhras left the Chief Wolf no chance of seeing it coming until it was too late.

Wilderland was thus leading 1-0 when the teams retreated from the field for the half-time – the Wilderland –fans were singing loudly whilst the supporters of Misty Mountains team were too nervous to stay at the stands and were queuing for sausages and beer at the interval.

Misty Mts. came to the second half with some real decision forcing Wilderland intob defencive mode. Durin’s Bane was especially on fire forcing his way through the ent-defences despite their supposed eqaulity of physical power.

And to the great delight of the Misty Mts. fans and the mixed joy of Erebor supporters Durin’s Bane actually set the scores even with a scaringly powerful curveball from the edge of the box.

Wilderland answered the equalizer with putting in a new gear and went on their normal frenzied-attcking –style – which gave their fans a real boost – and with that to them as well. And suddenly Misty Mts’s decisiveness and self-confidence was washed away.

Six minutes from the earlier goal Scatha then scored Wilderland into the lead again with his typical tail-shot from inside the box totally dieregarding the attempts of William to stop him. Well what was a troll to move a dragon?

But from somewhere the Misty Mts. still found a new pace to fight for the evener – and the game was back on the Wilderland half of the pitch – even if especially Thranduil proved dangerous with his fast runs forwards when Misty Mts. concentrated all their effort in the offence.

It paid off though for Misty Mts. Pressing on resulted in a number of corners and from one given by Rumil the ball went to the edge of the box from where Durin’s Bane chested it towards the goal but just as Skinbark was “boughing” it away Azog dived in between and headed the ball from the reach of Skinbark and into the net behind the totally astonished Great Warg.

Wilderland tried to force the game back to the Misrty Mts. side for the last ten minutes and partly succeeded – but only partly for the whole Misty Mts. team had dropped back to defend their goal – except Durin’s Bane and Azog whose presence at the midfield forced Wilderland to keep a few players back there to guard them as well.

And so the game ended in a draw. A great result for the Misty Mts. fans but nightmare to the Wilderlanders.

Misty Mts 2-2 Wilderland
on target 5-7
tot shots 13-18
GOALS:
*43, 0-1 Thranduil (Radagast)
*60, 1-1 DBane (Narvi)
*66, 1-2 Scatha (Fimbrethil)
*78, 2-2 Azog (DBane)
YELLOW CARDS:
*MMts- Gwaihir, Orophin
*Wilder- Oropher, Fimbrethil


With Wilderland struggling against Misty Mts. and forced to a draw the home crowds were torn with different interpretations they should make out of it… but winning Eriador would just change everything – or even drawing the game – and was this Eriador team really the last year’s finalists, winning Misty Mts. only 2-1? If the Misty Mts. managed such a result why shouldn’t Erebor make it better?

With an insecure confidence the home crowds welcomed the hometeam into the field – while most of the visitors to the mountain gave their loudest cheers to the Erebor team as well – oh how they loved to hate the Western elves and men with their self-imposed “nobility” – although some elves from Lórien did support the Eriador team.

The name of the game became quite clear early on. Eriador was shutting the wild offence of Erebor out quite confidently not letting them shoot but from very bad angles or under pressure. But Eriador was neither the attacking team number one as everyone knew: yes they made decent attacks and in the end seemed even a bit more dangerous on offence than the home team, but there was not the flair or sparkle of going forwards you could see with Wilderland or Erebor at their best. Sadly for the fans Eriador seemed more than cabable of shutting up any flaring attacks from the home team this day.

And just before the break Eriador hit it in. NogWight gave a neat backwards heel-pass on ground to Isildur inside the box his back against the defence exploiting the weakness of the eagles in the defence – and Isildur manged to get rid of Thorin with the ball and to shoot it from near enough giving Beorn no chance to catch it.

It was 0-1 on the break and the homeside fans were gnawing their nails. It was not that uneven a game but somehow Eriador just seemed to produce the results unlike their own team. It was so annoying and yet Eriador played just that inch sharper and cooler – and there was nothing the fans could do about it.

And that was true of the second period as well – even if Erebor rushed into it with some real energy getting the crowds high with their effort – only to be shut off by the Eriador defences and their organized midfield.

Erebor was soon exhausted with the effort they made early on the second period and the game gradually turned towards the Erebor side in the end but even with the decent tries by Glorfindel, Isildur, Arveleg and NogWight there was not to be a second goal on their favour either – and so Eriador won 1-0 securing their qualification in no uncertain terms.

Like Gil-Galad had said in the press conference in the morning: “You fight only when you have to”. That is not probably entertaining for the crowds but it seems to be effective as far as the results go – and securing number one seat from this group was vital for them anyway as the second of the group will most probably meet FC Valinor the next round...


Erebor 0-1 Eriador
on target 3-5
tot shots 12-12
GOALS:
*40, 0-1 Isildur (NogWight)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Erebor- Smaug, Dain, Nazgul#7
*Eriador- Isildur

Team	                W-D-L	Pts.	Score
Eriador		        2-0-0 	        6	3-1	
Wilderland		0-2-0	        2	5-5
Erebor		        0-1-1	        1	3-4
Misty Mts.		0-1-1	        1	3-4

Last games:
Eriador vs. Wilderland
Erebor vs. Misty Mountains

[the phantom]

Group H at Amon Hen

Many of the host sites had experienced some amount of tension between fan-bases, but such activity had been kept to a bare minimum on the shores of Nen Hithoel. Part of the credit had to go to placing Mordor and their supporters across on Amon Lhaw in such comfortable fashion. Were the Orcs mixed in with the horse-lords, Arnorians, and various Anduin groups (Beornings, Lothlorienites, etc.) no doubt there would be trouble here and there, and if the Orcs were shoved aside or banned from lodgings then that would be asking for trouble as well. But the way the Coliseum Construction Committee had done things ruled out such things, as reasonable Mordorians had no reason to complain about getting their own new well-built area at the foot of Amon Lhaw.

Everyone knows all Mordorians aren’t reasonable however, so something was keeping even the worst Orcs in line as well. Some theorized it was the Coliseum itself, and the way they had purposefully incorporated designs of all sorts and grouped them sensibly. The Utumno, Angband, Mordor, Moria, and Gundabad sections are all close, and Mordor fans were given seats in those sections, which combined with their private living area made them all feel as if they were at home.

But some commentators have insisted there is something else at work. “The Mordor folk have just been too well behaved,” said Haldan, MESPN correspondent for Gondor League football. “The incidents aren’t low or minimal—they’re non-existent. I’ve checked, and there have been zero arrests for vandalism, fighting, etc. I mean, there’s always at least one, even among friendly sides.” When asked what could account for this, Haldan said it had to be Sauron. “It seems to me he’s keen to keep in good graces with Arda Cup, so I can only suppose he’s trying to win some hosting rights or trade allowance or something.”

Whatever the reason, the folks at Amon Hen Coliseum certainly were enjoying the calm. The Arnorians drank with the men of Rohan in the pubs, and promised to avenge their defeat when they played Mordor, and the folks from Rohan promised they’d slow Anduin’s roll for Arnor. But if people from Arnor and Rohan were found drinking with Anduin supporters, they were congratulating them for their fine play. It was just a pure atmosphere of enjoyment.

The stadium was still filling when the first game of the day kicked off—Arnor versus Mordor. The Mordorians had their loud section of support, but Arnor had the backing of scattered Rohan fans as well as the Elves and Gondorians there in support of Anduin. And Mordor didn’t own a monopoly on Orcs either, as the Witch King, forward for Arnor, caused quite a few to splinter off.

Those fans didn’t have much to cheer about though—Mordor looked impressive from the start. The men of Arnor frankly looked nervous around the Nazgul. Some wondered before the game if practicing with the Witch King would cure them of the Black Breath, but it seems it’s different when they are playing in opposition. And Shelob was being a bit terrifying as well. The Arnorian defenders weren’t running scared the way the horses of Rohan did, but they still didn’t feel good about her presence.

Only four minutes in Shelob managed to clear herself some space and one of the Nazgul found her perfectly with a cross, and only great anticipation and reaction from Arvedui kept it scoreless. A few minutes later Mouth put one on the mark, and again Arvedui staved off disaster, stopping both Mouth’s tricky curve but also stuffing Shagrat’s put-back attempt.

After that Arnor changed things up. Elendil was the tallest and boldest, and he volunteered to give up his role in the possession and attack in order to shadow Shelob, and Malbeth took it upon himself to foil the pair of Nazgul, using his powers of foresight to ascertain their likely plan of attack and position himself to upset it. The change-up worked like a charm, and Mordor was stifled, and they reacted by trying to win past defenders on the dribble, but Arnor was having none of it. Instead of attacking the ball they just maintained some space and forced the ball wide around them over to another defender’s area, essentially making them run for nothing. And when they approached the offensive area, there were simply too many defenders around to have any hope of taking them on—not without an Arda-class skill player.

As the halftime break approached Mordor looked more and more ragged and Arnor began to press the advantage, pushing farther upfield as a team and threatening to open the scoring themselves. At 38 minutes the Arnor supporters gave their first true shout of excitement as Witch King beat everyone in the air and forced Silent Watcher to exert his maximum evil will to turn the shot aside. Just a few minutes later off a corner it was the same exact recipe, only this time the shot found the crossbar. A great many bodies hit the ground as everyone went for the loose ball, and as it came down Arantar and Gothmog II got tangled up and fell leaving the approaching Gorbag free to bicycle it the other way.

By Mordor’s good fortune Gorbag’s blind kick flew between where Malbeth or Malvegil could reach it and the Mouth took it in stride, putting just enough of a touch on it to keep it from drifting farther towards the side. When he reached the ball to put his second touch on it, he faked a pass to the Nazgul in the middle, which Valandur had been expecting, thus he bit the fake to attempt the steal and Mouth dashed on. Upon reaching the edge of the penalty area Mouth gave another fake then sent it sideways to Nazgul#2, who sent it directly back and completely sending Earendur in a hopeless circle. The Mouth would surely attempt the close range shot, but instead he skidded it towards the far post, just barely beyond the sliding Elendil, but not beyond Nazgul#1 who practically slid into the net himself taking the ball with him.

The Mordor supporters waved their red and black banners and blew their war-horns and beat upon their drums! This was the Arda Cup they dreamed of—taking the field and defeating their foes from Rohan, and then the kingdom of Arnor of the north! The teams exited the field for halftime and Mordor just continued their party throughout the break. And why not? They were sitting at +3 in goal differential and controlled their own fate for first place.

As the second half started it looked like the victory was indeed as good as claimed, as Mordor looked more likely to increase their lead than Arnor looked to draw level. Already at minute 49 Shelob had a free chance of a corner, and only a good guess by Arvedui spoiled it. Then ten minutes later Mouth released both Nazgul behind the back line, and only a rather suspect tackle by Valandur saved the day, as the wall turned aside the resulting free kick.

At minute 68 another corner forced a save to be made, and Arnor fans were half out of their chairs ready to leave, but Arvedui was to the rescue again. And then suddenly, the game changed.

No doubt there will be many reviews of the game tape during the next week or so, and many different theories will be spun, but there can be no denying that the entire field was turned on its head at minute 70. Most spectators agreed that the men of Arnor suddenly looked hopeful, and that the two Nazgul for Mordor appeared wary and lost their aura, and with that gone their Orc-support and Fellbeasts looked a little disorganized. It is this writer’s opinion that Arnor had the Witch King to thank for the sudden turn—perhaps he had some mystical way to make this come about? But then why not do it earlier? Then perhaps it was but a temporary measure that couldn’t be counted on to last long…

But only 20 minutes remained in the contest, so if that was the case, it was now or never. Suddenly Mordor gave way and grew over-careful and timid, and Arnor pressed relentlessly and forced mistakes, and defenders got in one another’s way, and after but five minutes it was the Witch King himself evening the score with a point blank chip in.

The Mordor players shook themselves, as if attempting to recover from a blow to the head, and they looked a little less panicked, but still Arnor had the mastery. At minute 83 Witch King earned another chance to slot it home, but a Fellbeast tail managed to get in the way. Two minutes later Argeleb nearly broke the tie with a 30-yard strike, but Silent Watcher managed to put it aside off the side post. But the resulting corner—Arnor would not be denied. They knew they wouldn’t get it free in the air with the Fellbeasts and Shelob packed in close, so they passed to the far side, then one-timed it to the middle, then back to the original side, and Arassuil found a small alley to send it through the box and that late-game specialist Araphor somehow found it flying through the traffic and redirected it down under Shelob’s legs and it bounced in to hand Arnor the lead!

What did it matter that Arnor only had the lead for 4 minutes? It’s the score at the finish that counts, and the Northern Dunedain had secured it. They were right back in the thick of the playoff hunt! The Mordorians on the other hand filed out in bitter disappointment. Some felt that the Witch King was a traitor, while others seemed grateful that they at least lost to one of their favorites. But on the bright side, they still had the edge in differential, and thus still controlled their own destiny—provided the contest in the evening went the right way for them.

Arnor 2-1 Mordor
on target 6-6
tot shots 13-15
GOALS:
*43, 0-1 Nazgul#1 (Mouth)
*75, 1-1 WitchKing (Arantar)
*86, 2-1 Araphor (Arassuil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Arnor- Arassuil, Valandur
*Mordor- Gothmog II, Gorbag, Fellbeast#3

The Rohan supporters awaiting kickoff were discussing the previous result with mixed feelings. While they generally liked Arnor and disliked Mordor, seeing Arnor win just made them that more disappointed by their own loss. Many still blamed the King of the Dead and his untimely red card, while a few gave him credit for being the most active Rohan player on the field while many of his fellows had seemingly frozen around him.

At the least the Arnor victory meant that a win tonight by Rohan would catapult them into a four-way points tie, so they had to feel good about that. But it also meant that Arnor in their final game would have something to play for, which could make that game harder than it perhaps might have been.

But the homeside Anduin had no thoughts of a four-way tie. They were keen to take a death-grip on the group by scoring a win over Rohan. In their first match they had looked quite impressive, the power of Grimbeorn and the Gondorians and the skill of the Elves and the athleticism of Eorl and Fram all working together seamlessly.

Tonight the stadium was nearly filled to capacity, as even more Gondorians had come up-river to enjoy the atmosphere for the remainder of group-play. There weren’t any Mordorian hold-overs from the first contest, as they were far too disappointed to stick around, but many Arnor fans were still around basking in the joy of their triumph. The Arnor supporters largely didn’t care who won the evening match so long as they got to see some good football. After all, if Rohan won then everyone would be tied, but Arnor could clinch first. If Anduin won though first place would be less likely but qualifying in general might be easier.

And so it was the the crowd was rooting 25% for Rohan, 50% for Anduin, and 25% for just plain good play. And quite soon 75% of the audience was pleased, as Anduin looked impressive indeed and threatened, threatened, then scored just under 20 minutes in thanks to a resounding boom from Grimbeorn. For a while Anduin relaxed and preserved their lead and their energy, but Rohan was late in trying to take advantage, only looking a serious threat just before the break.

Right from the start of the second half Anduin was in full attack mode, wanting to take the game out of the hands of Rohan, and the horse-lords were surprised and unprepared for the sudden show of skill and power. Only three minutes in Grimbeorn forced a fanastic save from Theoden, and Eorl nodded the rebound over to Boromir who volleyed it straight into the back of the net. The home team was up two-nil!

Though there was still ample time for more goals, most of Anduin seemed to agree to pull up, and those keen to push things quickly went along with the majority to better accomplish the chosen strategy. Rohan recognized the opportunity presented and started looking more impressive, not having to worry about their own defensive efforts as much, but with Celeborn, Fram, Felarof, and Minalcar receiving the full help of the Anduin midfield Rohan couldn’t get much of anything developed.

The closest Rohan came was at 58 minutes when Amroth was forced to catch a swerving effort from King Dead, and at 67 minutes when a lucky deflection fell to Faramir and he sent it perfect to the far post, but Minalcar was positioned smartly and he got up and headed it away. Once the game passed 80 minutes the Anduin fans began opening the celebrations. Rohan couldn’t manage two goals in ten minutes. Rohan fans sat back and shook their heads. What had happened? Weren’t they a dangerous playoff team last year? Now they were sitting in last, with little hope of qualifying. If only they had Eorl and his steed playing for them instead of Anduin—perhaps then things would look more as they should.

Anduin 2-1 Rohan
on target 4-5
tot shots 12-14
GOALS:
*19, 1-0 Grimbeorn (Eorl)
*48, 2-0 Boromir II (Eorl)
*72, 2-1 Eowyn (Faramir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Leod, Minalcar
*Rohan- Wildfola, Helm

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

GROUP H STANDINGS

--------  W-D-L   Pts  Score
Anduin    2-0-0   6    4-1
Mordor    1-0-1   3    3-2
Arnor     1-0-1   3    2-3
Rohan     0-0-2   0    1-4

LAST GAMES @ AMON HEN COLISEUM
Arnor vs Rohan
Anduin vs Mordor

[needfran]

Real Madrid have warned United off Cristiano Ronaldo, with president Florentino Perez insisting the 28-year-old forward will sign a new deal to end his career at the Bernabeu.



Franchise in India
Franchise opportunities in India

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

On the morning after the first round of games in Group F, Tol Eressëa Mobile raised anchor and sailed down the Anduin, before turning west. Thousands of Gondorians cheered along the shore as the island made its way through the heart of southern Gondor. The four teams, as well as some of their supporters, were now aboard the floating isle as it made its way to the next stop for the second round: a reunion with the Isle of Balar, south of Beleriand.

The BalarDome, with a capacity of 40 000, was to be the secondary site for the next round of group F games. It played host to team Balar of the Beleriand League during the apertura (summer/autumn) regional league of Beleriand. The Nargothrond city council had requested for Tol Eressëa to make its way up the Narog, so that Nargothrond fans would have less distance to cover as they watched their team’s game. Unfortunately, the mobile island’s draught was too deep for the river—only truly mighty rivers like Anduin and Sirion were wide and deep enough for it to pass through safely. Nargothrond fans were not dismayed, however, and travelled in droves south to Balar. They reasoned that Minas Tirith supporters also had to travel far to support their team during the first matchday; would they do any less?

Tol Eressëa Mobile was by now a little more crowded than when it had left the shores of Aman. The fans of FC Valinor that they have ferried to Gondor have left the island, but they have been more than amply replaced by the Nargothrond fans who travelled by land for the first round (the whole Bëorian contingent, and even some of the Orcish horde) and a group of Gondorians supporting Minas Tirith. Unfortunately, none of them could see their teams in training—all four teams have asked that the public stay away from their training grounds in order to protect their strategies from leaking to their opponents. Many opined (including some realistic, if disheartened, Minas Tirith fans) that no strategy could save the White Tower from elimination, but for the other three teams, all of whom seem evenly matched, knowledge of another team’s tactics and formation could be the difference between victory and defeat.

BalarDome
Minas Tirith vs Tirion

Despite that gap in talent between the two teams, tactics still played a role in the game between the Tirion and Minas Tirith. A few pundits believed that, with their athleticism, stamina, and organisation, the Stewards could contest the midfield from Tirion and win the possession battle. If they could keep the number of chances for the Tirion attackers low, while giving themselves more chances to score, they could conceivably win the tie.

So it was surprising that, during the opening stages of the game, Minas Tirith retreated into their own half with two banks of four, leaving Éomer as the only attacking support behind Boromir I (even though the Rohirric midfielder was anonymous in the first game.) Some Minas Tirith supporters argued that, since Tirion had better defenders than Nargothrond, letting the Eldar attack and hitting them on the break was a better strategy than attacking an organised Tirion defence. But even they thought that the move was a bad one; Tirion, like Nargothrond, prefer to apply attacking pressure, but were less comfortable when the opposition attacked back.

Minas Tirith did well to hold on for half an hour. In the eleventh minute, Aredhel hit the post when put through on goal by Mahtan. Thirteen minutes later, Finwë’s header from a Rúmil cross was saved by Denethor II; Firefoot cleared the rebound moments before Mahtan got a boot in. But Finwë opened the scoring in the thirty-fifth minute by converting a Caranthir corner; Denethor did well to get a palm in the shot, but was unable to redirect the bullet header from its trajectory. After the goal, Tirion eased the pressure on Minas Tirith’s backline, but Minas Tirith were slow to change gears from defending to attacking. They were thankful to go into the break only a goal behind.

The second half began with Minas Tirith’s first significant foray forward. Mardil got past Rúmil with a neat dribbling trick and took on right-back Irimë. Suddenly, Cirion flew in from all the way in the backline and took a short lateral Mardil pass. He then beat the surprised Irimë to the byline and crossed for Boromir I in Tirion’s penalty box. The Minas Tirith forward won the header against Amrod and knocked the ball down on to Éomer’s path, but Anairë slid in to clear the ball moments before the Rohan lord got to it.

Minas Tirith became more adventurous as the half wore on, sending as many as six players forward as Tirion conceded ground to them. But the Eldar of the First Age reminded the Men of the Third Age of their counterattacking threat when, in the fifty-second minute, Aredhel took an Amras long ball behind Minas Tirith’s defence; she ballooned her chip well over the Stewards’ goal. But with Minas Tirith chasing the game, the warning fell on deaf ears. In the sixty-sixth minute, Finarfin had to stretch to keep out a stinging drive from Mardil. The rebound was cleared only as far as Telumehtar on the edge of the Tirion box, but when he attempted to take on Mahtan, the Noldorin smith dispossessed him easily and found Aredhel ready to sprint past Ecthelion II. Mahtan sent a slide-rule through pass for the White Lady of the Noldor, who made sure this time that her chip past the Minas Tirith stopper was on target.

Now Tirion’s threat on the break was well and truly heeded, but it was closing the stable door after the horse has bolted. Minas Tirith were already two goals down, and now they were scared of attacking en masse. Had they been more combative before Tirion opened the scoring, had they been more careful when they were a goal down, they probably wouldn’t have been in this hole. Tirion easily handled Minas Tirith’s tame attacks and saw the game through without further trouble.

With Tirion already on four points, and since either the Sea or Nargothrond were sure to be at or over four points after the next game, the Stewards, with zero points from two games, were already eliminated.

Minas Tirith 0-2 Tirion
GOALS:
35, 0-1 Finwë (Caranthir)
67, 0-2 Aredhel (Mahtan)

Total Shots:
9-16
Shots On Target:
3-8

YELLOW CARDS:
2-1
MTI: Eärnur, Cirion
TIR: Eldalótë

Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium
Nargothrond vs The Sea

With Tirion taking temporary first place in the group, the game between Nargothrond and the hosts took on an even greater significance. They were determined not to fall behind in what has become a three-horse race. Even the number of goals scored and conceded might be important when it came to deciding who advanced. This was a group of fine margins.

Even from last year, the Sea have not been a high-scoring team. Because of that, they elected to keep the game’s tempo slow at the start. Instead of pressing the defenders, their front four prevented easy passes from being played to Finduilas and Nienor, the engine room of Nargothrond’s attacks. And when the Sea were in possession, they simply held onto the ball instead of passing it forward quickly. But that played right into Nargothrond’s hands—Finrod advocated pressing from the front, acting as their first line of defence and forcing turnovers in dangerous areas of the pitch. In the sixth minute, Gwindor intercepted a weak Salmar back pass and sprinted past the rest of the Sea’s defence. He would have scored the opener had Hyarmendacil not guessed correctly and dove for the far post at full stretch.

Finduilas took the resulting corner kick; Finrod had ordered all but Baran and Arminas in and around the penalty box, leaving them vulnerable to a quick counter if the Sea managed to survive the pressure. But his gamble paid off when, after a mighty goalmouth scramble involving three attempted clearances that was booted right back into the mixer, Nienor tapped in a shot that trickled past Hyarmendacil to give Nargothrond the lead.

Surprisingly, the game got more open after the goal. Nargothrond had scored too early; they couldn’t possibly keep the Sea scoreless by sitting in front of their penalty box for the next eighty-two minutes. So they continued to attack, advancing as many as five players into the Sea’s half. With the Sea chasing the game, the tie began to resemble more a basketball game than a football match with its quick exchange of possession.

It was one of those transitions that led to the Sea’s equaliser. With ten minutes left in the first half, Barahir was caught well past the halfway line when Voronwë intercepted an attempted Finduilas through ball. He quickly got the ball to Tar-Meneldur, who was occupying the space Barahir had left unmarked. Tar-Minastir drifted to the right to support him, and the two passed their way to Nargothrond’s penalty area. With Baran, Arminas, and Guilin totally focused on the pair of Númenórean kings, they didn’t notice Aldarion’s run from the opposite wing until Tar-Minastir fired a backheel pass to him. The Nargothrond defence was too slow to reorient itself, and Tar-Aldarion’s strike found the net to tie the game.

The game calmed down a bit after the Sea’s equaliser—no team created chances between then and the halftime whistle. But after the break, Nargothrond attacked with renewed aggression, which the Sea met with equal defensive determination. Tar-Ciryatan did well to deny Glaurung touches; when the dragon did get the ball, he did not try to contest him on the turn, leaving him instead to Ossë. The Sea Maia was strong enough to prevent Glaurung from getting past him, and he even doused his fires with well-timed jets of seawater.

Gwindor on the right was faster than his marker Salmar, but the Maia was big and tall enough to block his crosses even if he were half a step behind him. Five minutes after the hour mark, Gwindor cut inside instead of making for the byline, but when he shot from twenty metres the recovering Salmar managed to get a boot in the way. The ball fell to Ulmo, who whacked it to Tar-Minastir up front. The Númenórean king held off the challenge of Baran and laid the ball off to a charging Vëantur, whose shot drew a save from Orodreth.

Tar-Aldarion took the resulting corner. Ulmo leapt highest to head the ball in, but he didn’t connect well with the ball, giving Orodreth enough time to palm the weak header clear. Tar-Ciryatan got a boot in the rebound, but his shot bounced off Guilin’s leg and fell to Uinen on the edge of the box. Her aim was true this time, and Orodreth dove after her shot too late. His head was buried on the ground in despair as he realised that he might have cost his team advancement to the knockout stage.

But there was still twenty-three minutes left to play, and the squad from the Caves of Narog drew strength from their captain. Finrod was all over the pitch, orchestrating the movement of his forwards and midfielders. The Nargothrond players passed the ball to each other at an increasingly high tempo, and the ball moved from flank to flank, confusing the Sea’s backline, who were constantly forced to alter their position and their line of sight; inevitably this created blind sides that the pacy players of Nargothrond were able to exploit. In the eightieth minute, Glaurung was on the left with Nienor, weaving their way through the Sea’s right wing; a moment later Nienor launched a quick pass to Finrod a few yards from the arc; without looking, he fired a pass to his right where Gwindor ran in and belted in a fierce drive. The ball crossed the width of the pitch in about a second, and by the time Ulmo and his players had realised Gwindor had got it the ball had already hit the net.

There was little celebration of the goal; Gwindor rushed to get the ball and handed it to the referee. In the meantime the two captains conferred with their players. Press for a winner? Shut it down? Tar-Minastir convinced Ulmo to try to go for the win; Finrod and Barahir decided to live with the draw. Both sides reasoned that Nargothrond’s front line were exhausted and could not press as effectively as they usually did, leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks; therefore the Sea could attack almost with impunity. But with Nargothrond outnumbering the Sea in midfield, they were able to enforce their decision, keeping possession until the full-time whistle was blown.

With four points secured, and a greater goal difference than second-place Tirion, Nargothrond were in a pretty good spot. The Sea, with only two points from two games, need to win their last game against Minas Tirith to have a chance to advance.

Nargothrond 2-2 The Sea
GOALS:
8, 1-0 Nienor (Bëor)
35, 1-1 Tar-Aldarion (Tar-Minastir)
67, 1-2 Uinen (Tar-Cirytan)
80, 2-2 Gwindor (Finrod)

Total Shots:
13-15
Shots On Target:
6-7

YELLOW CARDS:
2-2
NGR: Gwindor, Arminas
SEA: Salmar, Ossë

------------ W-D-L Pts GD
Nargothrond  1-1-0  4  +3
Tirion       1-1-0  4  +2
The Sea      0-2-0  2  0
Minas Tirith 0-0-2  0  -5

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference

LAST GAMES:
@Alqualondë Seaside Stadium: Tirion vs Nargothrond
@Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium: Minas Tirith vs The Sea

[Boromir88]

GROUP G @ Anfauglith

The late match would be played in Anfauglith as the home team will battle Angband in hopes of securing a playoff spot (while also sending Morgoth's side away with no points in 2 games). But the earlier game was taking place in Tol-in-Gaurhoth, this time underneath the ghoulish dome of Tol-in-Gaurhoth.

The wolf supporters of TIG were loud and raucous leading up to the game, still ecstatic over their convincing 2-0 win against Angband. Now they were licking their chops at the prospect of playing Imladris, "We'll slaughter them like the lambs they are!" laughed AganWolf. "We already beat two elven sides in the friendlies, and they were both better than Imladris. We'll make it three out of three for sure!" said LomWight.

As for the events of the match, there isn't much to tell other than only one team appeared to be playing on the field: Tol-in-Gaurhoth. The elven side, like Doriath were playing frightened out of their wits in the face of the TIG defensewolves. But they weren't only relying on strong scare tactics, they were playing an organized team game as well. Moving the ball smoothly from defense, to their mid-fielders and peppering Imladris' goal with shots.

Imladris' defense was playing well, but again without any ability by Imladris' offense to build up attacks it was only a matter of time before their defense broke to the relentless TIG attack. In the 33rd minute Thuringwethil simply stole the ball from Galdor and scored a cheap unassisted goal, as Valandil wasn't prepared when his defense turned the ball over.

The 2nd half was like a replay of the first, which didn't bother the wolves and wights packing the stadium at all. They could watch performances like this one all day long. After working the ball all around Imladris' box, with crisp passes and searching for an opening, NerWight spotted the opening, finding InzilWolf who put TIG up 2-0.

Imladris played the remainder of the game frustrated and angry, trying to play more physical against the wolves. But it wasn't successful in creating any offense to the biteless Imladris attack. All it did was make the ref hand out several yellow cards and leave the wolves laughing at Elladan's and Elrohir's feeble attempts to rough them up.

The party continued inside the stadium, and outside, well after the final whistle. TIG was 1st in their group and had yet to surrender a goal in group play. In fact, including the friendlies, TIG has only allowed 1 goal in 4 matches.

Imladris 0-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
on target 1-6
tot shots 8-14
GOALS:
*33, 0-1 Thuringwethil
*68, 0-2 InzilWolf (NerWight)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Imladris- Celebrian, Elladan, Elrohir
*TIG- LegateWight

Under the night skies in Anfauglith, the ancient coliseum was packed but split fairly even in terms of fan support. Angfauglith was the home team, but Morgoth still had a considerable influence in the area to beat his own fans into attending. Even if Angband was feeling rather disheartened by their first round loss to TIG. They had allowed themselves to be outplayed by the wolves, and that was unacceptable. Morgoth was going to have none of that against Angfauglith, or so he cursed.

Yet Angfauglith was feeling confident. Already with a win under their belt and behind Ungoliant, the only evil creature who had ever given trouble to Morgoth, they believed they could win again. There were hostilities in the stands, as well as on the field of play. One wouldn't be able to tell by the cards given, but the referee was probably intimidated by being in this atmosphere. I mean the orcs and evil men, breaking out into brawls could be scary enough to anyone, then having to call a game involving balrogs, Ungoliant, and Morgoth one can not blame the ref for swallowing the whistle. If the players wanted to bruise eachother up, let them have at it.

Morgoth was seemed relieved and happy the ref held a permissive line to not be the decider and it allowed both defenses to test the strength of the other. The first half ended without any goals, mostly because Morgoth was committed to playing lockdown defense after his team gave up 2 goals in the first game. But Angfauglith was also a mighty defensive team, although Ungoliant had to come up with a couple good saves, denying Ancalagon and keeping her goal clean.

The 2nd half started much the same with both defenses playing ridiculously rough and tempers in the stands ready to boil over. But both teams just kept battling and it was looking like a warzone upon the dry plains of Anfauglith. After 15 minutes passed, finally the game was broken open. Ulfang lobbed a high ball into the box, Ungoliant was anticipating the Angband dragon to try the on-goal header, but at the final second, Ancalagon saw that Oikeroi manuevered around his Balrog-marker and was open on the right post. Ancalagon hit it back on the ground and Oikeroi bumped the ball over the goal-line. And after over 150 minutes of actual game time, the Angband fans had something to truly cheer about.

Morgoth now renewed his efforts to play lockdown defense and protect the lead. This was allowing Angfauglith's offense to start getting a grip on the match as Gothmog and Ecthelion were starting to get some chances. There chances weren't particularly great, but they would have brought the game even if it wasn't for a couple fabulous saves by Carcharoth. Just when an Angfauglith goal seemed to be coming though, Gorgol made a terrible decision. Ulfast had intercepted a pass from the Angfauglith mid-fielder and Gorgol wickedly tripped Ulfast in an attempt to get the ball back. With Gorgol's 2nd yellow, he was sent to the showers early.

Now with the 1-player advantage, it was no surprise Morgoth was able to take advantage of the chaos and confusion. He thrives in chaos and Angfauglith was just desperately trying to hold onto the 1-goal defecit now. It didn't hold. In the 81st minute Telvildo weaved into Angfauglith's box, and drew the defense on him. He then skidded a pass out to Ancalagon who hit a rising thunderbolt off his tail that zoomed past Ungoliant.

Morgoth's team had recovered after the first game, and they now leap-frogged Angfauglith in the standings, based on a better goal differential. With Angband having Imladris in the final round, and Angfauglith against group leaders Tol-in-Gaurhoth, Angfauglith's prospect of advancing looked bleak indeed.

Angband 2-0 Angfauglith
on target 8-3
tot shots 19-10
GOALS:
*55, 1-0 Oikeroi (Ancalagon)
*81, 2-0 Ancalagon (Telvildo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Oikeroi, Ulwarth
*Angfaug- Borlach, Gorgol
RED CARDS:
*Angfaug- Gorgol (75, second yellow)

Group G     W-D-L  Pts.  GD
T-I-G       2-0-0    6   +4
Angband     1-0-1    3    0
Angfauglith 1-0-1    3   -1
Imladris    0-0-2    0   -3

[Nogrod]

The AKM will provide the advanced Phantasy Players some statistical material to take better hold of what is going on between the teams – which are their specific strengths and weaknesses.

So here are the stats from the two first rounds of the tournament thus far...

After the group definer (A, B, C…) and the venue(s) there are all the results of the games played on the first two rounds in that group – in the end there are the group-standings (inside the coded brackets... showing the points and the goal-difference respectively) and the last games to be played.


In the middle there are some stats – and here is the guide on how to read them.

Let’s take the alphabetically first team of Group A as an example: it goes as follows:

Armenelos		3-2	1-1-0
10/26 – 11/28
Offence		3/26	11,5%
Tar Atanamir		2/11	81,8%%

Row 1: Team name, goals made – goals allowed, wins – draws –losses
So:
Armenelos has made 3 goals and allowed 2, they have won 1, drawn 1 and lost no games.

Row 2: Shots aka. shots on goal / overall shots made, shots on goal allowed / overall shots allowed
So:
Armenelos has shot 10 shots on goal while shooting 26 shots overall, on their own side they have allowed the opponents to shoot 11 shots towards goal from 28 opposing teams shots overall.

Row 3: Offence aka. number of goals / shots overall, scoring percentage from all shots made (not from shots on goal *).
So:
Armenelos has scored 3 goals from 26 shots overall – which means they have a scoring percentage of 11,5% from overall shots.

Row 4: Goalkeeper aka. number of goals allowed / shots on goal allowed, keepers saving percentage from shots on goal.
So: Armenelos goal-keeper Tar Atanamir has allowed 2 goals from 11 shots towards the goal (so he has saved 9 shots from 11) and thus his saving percentage is 81,8%.


* We could have chosen also counting the shooting-percentage from only their shots towards goal, but as that number would have only mirrored the stats of the goalkeepers they have faced we thought counting it from all the shots would be more informative, giving a slightly different perspective to the stats.

~*~

So here are the stats. The AKM will refer to them with it’s further analyses for the last round of the group-phase, but will not make a detailed and separate analysis on the basis of it – but what little follows this article.


ADD ON: Hah, only group H looks like I would have liked the stats to look like but there are too many tables to be corrected. WIth the above instructions they should be clear enough even if the lines aren't aligned properly in every case...


Group A
GROUP A at Valimar & Taniquetil

Armenelos 2-1 Havens
Barrow-Downs 0-2 Valimar
Havens 2-2 Barrow-Downs
Armenelos 1-1 Valimar

Armenelos		3-2	1-1-0
10/26 – 11/28
Offence		3/26	11,5%
Tar Atanamir		2/11	81,8%%

Barrow-Downs	2-4	0-1-1
8/23 – 11/27	
Offence		2/23	8,7%	
Alien	 	4/11 	63,6%%

The Havens		3-4	0-1-1
13/27 – 11/27	
Offence		3/27	11,1% 
Amandil		4/11	63,6%%

Valimar		3-1	1-1-0
9/24 – 7/22		
Offence		3/24	12,5%
Manwë		1/7	85,7%

Valimar		4	3-1
Armenelos		4	3-2
The Havens		1	3-4
Barrow-Downs	1	2-4

Last games:
Armenelos vs. Barrow-Downs
Valimar vs. The Havens


Group B
GROUP B at Gondolin & Tumladen

InterBeleriand 2-0 Dwarves United
AC Beleriand 2-1 Gondolin
AC Beleriand 3-1 InterBeleriand
Dwarves United 2-1 Gondolin

AC Beleriand	5-2	2-0-0
13/29 – 9/22	
Offence		5/29	17,2%
Marach		2/9	77,8%

Inter Beleriand	3-3	1-0-1
8/21 – 11/27	
Offence		3/21	14,3%
Turgon		3/11	72,7%

Dwarves United	2-3	1-0-1
9/27 – 11/27		
Offence		2/27	7,4%
Galadriel		3/11	72,7%

Gondolin		2-4	0-0-2
12/28 – 11/29	
Offence		2/28	7,1%
Rôg		4/11	63,6%

AC Beleriand	6	5-2
Inter Beleriand	3	3-3
Dwarves Utd.	3	2-3
Gondolin		0	2-4

Last games:
AC Beleriand vs. The Dwarves United
Inter Beleriand vs. Gondolin



Group C
GROUP C at Menegroth & Neldoreth

Hithlum 1-3 Real Valinor
Doriath 1-1 ShireBree United
Hithlum 4-1 ShireBree United
Doriath 0-2 Real Valinor

Doriath		1-3	0-1-1
5/17 – 12/27	
Offence		1/17	5,9%
Dior		3/12	75%

Hithlum		5-4	1-0-1
13/32 – 13/32	
Offence		5/32	15,6%
Húor		4/13	69,2%

Shire-Bree United	2-5	0-1-1
9/22 – 11/27	
Offence		2/22	9,1%
Halbarad		5/11	54,5%

Real Valinor		5-1	2-0-0
16/37 – 7/22	
Offence		5/37	13,5%
Tulkas		1/7	85,7%

Real Valinor		6	5-1
Hithlum		3	5-4
Doriath		1	1-3
Shire-Bree Utd.	1	2-5

Last games:
Real Valinor vs. Shire-Bree United
Doriath vs. Hithlum



Group D
GROUP D at Dol Amroth & Pelargir

Isengard 0-4 FC Valinor
Barad-Dur 1-1 Gondor
Barad-Dur 2-1 Isengard
Gondor 0-2 FC Valinor

Barad Dûr		3-2	1-1-0
11/27 – 9/24	
Offence		3/27	11,1%
Grishnakh		3/9	66,7%

Gondor		1-3	0-1-1
6/21 – 12/28	
Offence		1/21	4,8%
Imrahil		3/12	75%

Isengard		1-6	0-0-2
6/18 – 12/27	
Offence		1/18	5,6%
Ugkluk		6/12	50%

FC Valinor		6-0	2-0-0
13/28 – 3/15	
Offence		6/28	21,4%
Huan		0/3	100%

FC Valinor		6	6-0
Barad Dûr		4 	3-2
Gondor		1	1-3
Isengard		0	1-6

Last games:
FC Valinor vs. Barad-Dûr
Gondor vs. Isengard



Group E
GROUP E at Erebor & Mirkwood

Eriador 2-1 Misty Mts
Erebor 3-3 Wilderland
Misty Mts 2-2 Wilderland
Erebor 0-1 Eriador

Erebor		3-4	0-1-1
12/34 – 12/30	
Offence		3/34	8,9%
Beorn		4/12 	66,7%

Eriador		3-1	2-0-0
11/24 – 7/24	
Offence		3/24	12,5%
Elrond		1/7	85,7%

Misty Mountains	3-4	0-1-1
9/25 – 13/30	
Offence		3/25	12%
Chief Wolf		4/13	69,2%

Wilderland		5-5	0-2-0
14/36 – 14/35	
Offence		5/36	13,9%
Great Warg		5/14	64,3%

Eriador		6	3-1
Wilderland		2	5-5
Erebor		1	3-4
Misty Mts.		1	3-4

Last games:
Eriador vs. Wilderland
Erebor vs. Misty Mountains



Group F
GROUP F at Tol Eressea Mobile & Pelargir/Balar/Alqualonde

Minas Tirith 0-3 Nargothrond
The Sea 1-1 Tirion
Minas Tirith 0-2 Tirion
Nargothrond 2-2 The Sea

Minas Tirith		0-5	0-0-2
7/21 – 18/41	
Offence		0/21	0%
Denethor		5/18	72,2%

Nargothrond		5-2	1-1-0
16/38 – 11/27	
Offence		5/38	13,2%
Orodreth		 2/11	81,8%

The Sea		3-3	0-2-0
11/27 – 10/26	
Offence		3/27	11,1% 
Hyermendacil	3/10	70%

Tirion		3-1 	1-1-0
12/29 – 7/21	
Offence		3/29	10,3%
Finarfin		1/7	85,7%

Nargothrond		4	5-2
Tirion		4	3-1
The Sea		2	3-3
Minas Tirith		0	0-5

Last games:
The Sea vs. Minas Tirith
Tirion vs. Nargothrond


Group G
GROUP G at Anfauglith & Tol-In-Gaurhoth

Anfauglith 1-0 Imladris
Angband 0-2 Tol-In-Gaurhoth
Imladris 0-2 Tol In Gaurhoth
Angband 2-0 Angfauglith

Angband		2-2	1-0-1
12/33 – 9/25	
Offence		2/33	6,1%
Carcaroth		2/9	77,8%

Anfaughlith		1-2	1-0-1
6/19 – 11/27	
Offence		1/19	5,3%
Ungoliant		2/11	81,8%

Imladris		0-3	0-0-2
4/16 – 9/23		
Offence		0/16	0%
Valandil		3/9	66,7%

Tol-In-Gaurhoth	4-0	2-0-0
12/29 – 5/22	
Offence		4/29	13,8%
ShastaWolf		0/5	100%

Tol-In-Gaurhoth	6	4-0
Angband		3	2-2
Anfaughlith		3	1-2
Imladris		0	0-3

Last games:
Angband vs. Imladris
Anfaughlith vs. Tol-In-Gaurhoth



Group H
GROUP H at Rauros

Mordor 2-0 Rohan
Anduin 2-0 Arnor
Arnor 2-1 Mordor
Anduin 2-1 Rohan

Anduin		4-1	2-0-0
11/28 – 9/27	
Offence		4/28	14,3%
Amroth		1/9	88,9%

Arnor		2-3	1-0-1
10/26 – 13/31	
Offence		2/26	7,7%
Arvedui		3/13	76,9%

Mordor		3-2	1-0-1
12/30 – 10/25	
Offence		3/30	10%
Watcher		2/10	80%

Rohan		1-4	0-0-2
9/26 – 10/27	
Offence		1/26	3,8%
Theoden		4/10	60%

Anduin		6	4-1
Mordor		3	3-2
Arnor		3	2-3
Rohan		0	1-4

Last games:
Arnor vs. Rohan
Anduin vs. Mordor



Some comments.

Reading the stats FC Valinor seems like on a league of it’s own. Their scoring percent from shots on goal is far better than any other team’s aka. 21,4%, while the next best AC Beleriand has 17,2% - Hithlum has 15,6% and then the next effective teams’ percentages hang around 13-14%. Also the number of shots they have allowed the opponent to make (3/15) and Huan’s saving percentage (100%) are also remarkable. T-I-G has allowed the opponents to shoot only 5/22 and the next most effective defences reach 7/21 (Tirion) and 7/22 (Real Valinor and Valimar). Shastawolf shares the 100% keeper-record thus far while a few reach 85% and 80% results.


But – and here’s the but – FC Valinor has played clearly lesser opponents many of the other top-teams have so their stats should look that good. If they were as good as with other serious contenders to win the Cup FC Valinor would look pretty weak indeed. In the same vein T-I-G’s remarkable defencive stats are partly explained by the quality of the offences of the teams they have played: Angband and Anfaughlith are tough teams but hardly offencive powerhouses – and Imladris plays in a group far exceeding their skills (zero goals made thus far).

So one should look for teams that perform very well in tough groups and have already played some tough opposition… The list looks hardly surprising: Armenelos, Valimar, AC Beleriand, Real Valinor, Nargothrond, Tirion – added with Hithlum (not impressive in defence – mostly due to meeting Real Valinor) and Eriador (not impressive in offence partly due to their philosophy of “just winning is enough”).


Does anyone think Minas Tirith, Imladris, Rohan or Isengard are in deep trouble? Just take a glance at their stats and you see why… also teams like Shire-Bree and Gondolin just allow too many goals while Doriath and Anfaughlith have too big problems in making them.

But also bad stats can mislead. “Case Gondor” is a nice example. Looking at their stats it would look like they are one of the teams dropping off from this tournament after the group phase – but alas, there’s more!

Let’s look at it. Isengard is out from group D, disqualified for sure as there is no way they can make it four points from one game (and the second, aka. Barad-Dûr has that many points already). So it will be between Barad-Dûr and Gondor which one will qualify as FC Valinor has also a safe qualification now as two teams can’t overcome it’s six points.

So let’s compare the stats of Barad-Dûr and Gondor. Barad-Dûr shoots about 25% more (27 vs. 21 shots) and their efficiency in scoring is nicely over double the numbers of Gondor (11,1% vs. 4,8%!). Now Imrahil of Gondor has a 10% percent lead in goalkeeping comparing to Grishnâkh (3/9 vs. 3/12 – resulting in 66,7% vs. 75%) but Barad-Dûr actually lets the opponent shoot 25% less – so that is kind of dealt with, right? And Barad-Dûr will qualify?

Well, there is one “but”. First of all Gondor and Barad-Dûr played a game already and it ended up in a draw 1-1. But while Gondor’s last game will be against already disqualified Isengard, Barad-Dûr will meet FC Valinor… so it is clear, whatever the outcomes of the last matches, that the stats will be much more closer after the last round – when they are strictly speaking comparable.


So the stats can be an aide for sure – letting one notice patters or tendencies, or sudden or unanticipated strengths or weaknesses of the teams – but one can’t apply them just like that. One needs to consider both the games against who they have been gathered and what kind of team is the next opponent.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Group Tables:

(1) secured first seed
(q) qualified for the knockout stage; seeding undetermined
(x) eliminated

Power Rank:



Greatest gain:

• +20 Anduin, Mordor
• +19 Valimar
• +12 FC Valinor

Greatest loss:

• -22 Gondor
• -20 Shire-Bree United
• -12 Erebor, Imladris

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking, combined with the adjusted goal difference rank of each team. The listed offensive and defensive rankings are from the actual numbers by the teams, and not adjusted. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss record; and b) goal difference.

The offensive ranking is based on the goals scored throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) greater number of shots made on target; and b) greater number of shots made.

The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) least number of shots allowed on target; and b) least number of shots allowed.

Top Individual Performers:

GOALS + ASSISTS

3+0
Scatha (Wilderland)

2+1
Curufin (FC Valinor)
Eöl (AC Beleriand)
Sauron (Barad-dûr)
Argon (FC Valinor)
Durin’s Bane (Misty Mts)

2+0
Glaurung (Nargothrond)
Ar-Pharazôn (Armenelos)
Eärendil (The Havens)
Aegnor (AC Beleriand)
Maedhros (Inter Beleriand)
Legolas (Dwarves United)
Gandalf (Shire-Bree United)
Aredhel (Tirion)
Grimbeorn (Anduin)

GOALKEEPING

• 100.0% – 5/5 – ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
• 100.0% – 3/3 – Huan (FC Valinor)
• 88.89% – 8/9 – Amroth (Anduin)
• 85.71% – 6/7 – Elrond (Eriador)
• 85.71% – 6/7 – Manwë (Valimar)
• 85.71% – 6/7 – Tulkas (Real Valinor)

[the phantom]

A Look at Group Scenarios
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

In case you are wondering which teams look likely to advance, or to take first place, or have already done so etc. this is a handy little guide for where the teams stand with one game remaining.

GROUP A

Armenelos vs Barrow-Downs
Havens vs Valimar

No team here has clinched, and no one has been eliminated. Valimar and Armenelos are in the lead though, as both can clinch a spot with a win or a draw and can even survive a narrow loss, whereas Havens and Barrow-Downs need to win their games by two goals to take a spot. If Havens and BDowns both win 1-0, Valimar would advance in first and Havens in second.

GROUP B

AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United
Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin

AC Beleriand hasn’t technically clinched, but to be left out they’d need to lose by three goals to Dwarves United combined with Inter Beleriand beating Gondolin. If they lose to DwUnt let’s say 2-1 they’d still finish in first unless Inter beats Gondolin by two goals. If Inter and DwUnt both draw then Inter finishes ahead for the second spot. If DwUnt wins or draws and Inter loses then DwUnt qualifies. If AC beats DwUnt then Gondolin could qualify by beating Inter.

GROUP C

Shire-Bree United vs Real Valinor
Doriath vs Hithlum

Real has clinched a spot, and will finish first unless they lose to Shire-Bree United and Hithlum beats Doriath and the margins add up to 3 or more. Hithlum clinches the second spot with a draw unless SBUnt beats Real by at least four goals. Doriath can take the second spot with a win over Hithlum combined with a SBUnt loss, draw, or narrow win.

GROUP D

Barad-Dur vs FC Valinor
Gondor vs Isengard

FCVal has clinched a spot, but Barad-Dur can still finish first with a win over FCV. BDur clinches second with a draw, or with a Gondor loss or draw. Gondor can take second with a win combined with a BDur loss so long as the margin adds up to three. Isengard is eliminated.

GROUP E

Erebor vs Misty Mts
Eriador vs Wilderland

Eriador has clinched first place, and second place is up for grabs. If Erebor and Misty Mts draw then Wilderland clinches second with a win or draw. They can also clinch with a one goal loss and an Erebor-Misty draw so long as Erebor-Misty don’t outscore them by more than one goal (Wilderland is up two in goals scored). If Wilderland loses or draws then Erebor or Misty can claim second with a win.

GROUP F

Nargothrond vs Tirion
Minas Tirith vs The Sea

Minas Tirith is out, but that’s all that is known. If Nargothrond or Tirion pick up a win against the other then they will clinch first. The loser can still advance if Sea loses or draws against MTirith, but if Sea wins then they will take the second spot. If Nargothrond and Tirion draw then Sea can take the second slot from TIrion by beating MTirith by three goals, or only by two so long as they score more total goals than Tirion.

GROUP G

Angband vs Imladris
Angfauglith vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth

Technically no one is eliminated here, and first hasn’t been clinched. If TIG beats Angfauglith and Imladris beats Angband by two goals, Imladris can take second. If Angband draws they take second with a TIG win or draw. If Angband wins by only one goal TIG would still finish ahead with a one or two goal loss, and a two-goal loss would cause Angfauglith to tie with Angband on differential. A two-goal win by Angband safely clinches a spot. If Angband loses then Angfauglith takes a spot with a win or draw, and if Angband draws then Angfauglith needs to win to pass them.

GROUP H

Arnor vs Rohan
Anduin vs Mordor

Technically no one is eliminated here either. Anduin clinches first with a win or draw, while Mordor can clinch first by beating Anduin so long as Arnor doesn’t defeat Rohan by three or more goals. If Arnor loses or draws then Mordor can take second with a draw. If Mordor loses then Arnor can take second with a win or draw. Rohan can grab the second spot with a two goal win combined with Anduin beating Mordor by two goals.

What This Means for Phantasy Owners

Remember, most leagues limit trades once the final round of group play begins, so you don’t want too many players that are at risk of elimination. We’ve tried to look at the likelihood of various scenarios and narrow the teams into categories of how much of a risk it is to own players from those squads.

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS WILL BE GONE
Isengard
Minas Tirith

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE AT HIGH RISK
Imladris
Shire-Bree United
Rohan
The Barrow-Downs

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE AT RISK
Angfauglith
Arnor
Doriath
Dwarves United
Erebor
Gondolin
Gondor
Misty Mts
Mordor
The Havens
The Sea
Wilderland

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE AT SLIGHT RISK
Angband
Armenelos
Barad-Dur
Inter Beleriand
Hithlum
Nargothrond
Tirion
Valimar

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE RATHER SAFE
Anduin
AC Beleriand
Tol-In-Gaurhoth

PLAYERS FROM THESE TEAMS ARE ENTIRELY SAFE
Eriador
FC Valinor
Real Valinor

[Boromir88]

TTN's Stars (Round 2)
-Boro88

ONE STAR

Goalies
Denethor II (Minas Tirith)
Elrond (Eriador)
Carcharoth (Angband)
Finarfin (Tirion)
Grishnakh (Barad-Dur)

After agreeing Elrond, Carcharoth, and Finarfin's shutout efforts should be rewarded with at least one star, and Grishnakh saving 4/5 in a close 2-1 victory for Barad-dur, the last goalie slot was a battle between Tar Atanamir, Beorn, and Denethor II. Tar Atanamir and Beorn, both like Grishnakh saved 4/5...Beorn's side however had fallen in a 0-1 defeat to Eriador. It's not a shame to lose a close game to Eriador, but this was a big game for Erebor and they came up short. Tar-Atanamir's efforts were good enough for a solid draw against the strong Valimar side, but based on both teams winning in round 1, and the Havens-BDowns game ending a draw the hype for the game was larger than the true impact the results had on the group.

But why give the last spot to Denethor II, Minas Tirith was eliminated by an 0-2 defeat to Tirion? I'm sure many will say it is TTN showing home team favoritism, but Denethor is the only one who has apparently decided to show up for Minas Tirith. In two games he's saved 12/17 as his defense is leaking big time, his offense is doing nothing, Denethor is the only one who kept Minas Tirith from another humiliating loss against Tirion.

Defenders
NilpWolf (TIG)
Eonwe (FC Valinor)
Gil-Galad (Eriador)
Morgoth (Angband)
Uinen (The Sea)

This week we thought the defensive leaders, who had commanded their teams to shutout wins had a stronger case than the defenders who gave up at least one goal but aided the offense with an assist (Celebrimbor, Rochallor, Radagast). NilpWof, Eonwe, Gil Galad, and Morgoth all had a dominating presense that just shutdown the opposing offenses. The Sea surrendered two goals, but Uinen's goal was instrumental in The Sea's tie with Nargothrond, and to keep The Sea's playoff chances beating.

Mid-fielders
Nazgul #1 (Mordor)
Nienor (Nargothrond)
Beleg (Hithlum)
Hador (Hithlum)
Earwen (The Havens)

This was one of the tougher positions to deal out stars, since there were really only two great performances from midfielders (Aegnor and Argon) this round, the rest were just ok. Hithlum's mid-field dominated the game against Shire-Bree and also showed up on the scoreboard, so Beleg and Hador were both givens one star each. Nazgul #1 had kept Mordor ahead for most of their game, and only a late surge the Witch-King saved Arnor's playoff chances. Earwen and Nienor both scored in their matches that ended in 2-2 draws and kept their team's playoff hopes alive.

Forwards
Turin (Hithlum)
Eol (AC Beleriand)
Ancalagon (Angband)
Eorl (Anduin)
Witch-King (Arnor)

The forwards were pretty straightforward this week, several FWs contributed with 1 goal and 1 assist in their games. The final slot came down to arguments made for the Witch-King, Araphor, and Arien. Araphor and Arien both had late game heroics. Araphor's goal was a game-winner, Arien's just a game-tier. Also, Arnor winning Mordor was more crucial, picking up 3 points and their playoff chances alive, over Valimar. Even if Valimar lost 0-1, they could still make the playoffs by simply beating Havens in Round 3.

We went with the Witch-King over Araphor though, because it was evident the Witch-King inspired the late offensive surge and deflated the Mordor team which looked strong and commanding the previous 70 minutes.

TWO STAR

Goalies
Arvedui (Arnor)
Galadriel (Dwarves Utd)

If The Witch-King led Arnor's offense to a late victory, it was Arvedui who kept the game close enough making the late heroics possible. His 5/6 saves kept victory within reach. Galadriel also saved 5/6 and we judged this was a better performance over any of the goalies who commanded shutouts. Galadriel was against a deadly Gondolin offense, and Dwarves United shocked the Arda world again when everyone had written the team off.

Defenders
Ingwion (Real Valinor)
Caranthir (Tirion)

The two defenders who did more than contribute to their teams shutouts, by also scoring a goal (Ingwion) or an assist (Caranthir)

Mid-fielders
Aegnor (AC Beleriand)
Argon (FC Valinor)

This was a no-brainer, Aegnor and Argon were clearly the two top mid-field performers this round.

Forwards
Sauron (Barad-Dur)
Durin's Bane (Misty Mts)

The Forwards were a little harder because there were several 1goal + 1 assist FWs this round. Ultimately Sauron contributed to both of Barad-durs goals in a 2-1 victory. While Durin's Bane contributed to both of Misty Mts goals in a 2-2 draw. Both results were important to their respective teams.

THREE STAR

Legolas, FW for Dwarves United.

There was considerable debate for the three-star performer too, would it be Ingwion's shutout and goal against Doriath? Well, that result was even more expected than the case we had for NilpWolf's shutout and goal against Angband in Round 1. What about Aegnor's 2 goals...were they better than Legolas' two goals? Again it wasn't shocking anyone AC Beleriand would beat Inter Beleriand, so that 3-1 victory was anticipated.

What no one anticipated was a team that had serious goal scoring problems, would get 2 goals from their elven forward and beat Gondolin 2-1, in Gondolin's own stadium. This put a dagger in the heart of the Gondolin fans. Their team is still not eliminated, but have a tough climb, as they fall victim to the resilient dwarven side.

Stars after 2 Rounds

THREE STARS
DF NilpWolf (TIG)
FW Curufin (FC Valinor)
FW Legolas (Dwarves Utd)

TWO STARS
GK Turgon (Inter Beleriand)
GK Tar Atanamir (Armenelos)
GK Arvedui (Arnor)
GK Galadriel (Dwarves Utd)
DF Fram (Anduin)
DF Ingwion (Real Valinor)
DF Caranthir (Tirion)
MF Irmo (Valimar)
MF Haldir (Anduin)
MF Aegnor (AC Beleriand)
MF Argon (FC Valinor)
FW Scatha (Wilderland)
FW Glaurung (Nargothrond)
FW Sauron (Barad-Dur)
FW Durin's Bane (Misty Mts)

[Nogrod]

Group A

Valimar		4	3-1
Armenelos		4	3-2
The Havens		1	3-4
Barrow-Downs	1	2-4

Valimar and Armenelos seem to dominate the group and the most likely outcome would be that they will qualify leaving The Havens and The Barrow-Downs to the group-phase. But it is also possible all teams end up with four points each and it will be up to comparing the goal differences. But that would require a sort of a double-surprise as both Armenelos and Valimar can secure their qualification with a draw.

The numbers would also side with Valimar and Armenelos qualifying. Their goal keepers Manwë and Tar-Atanamir are way on another level than Amandil and Alien. Also Valimar is the superbly defending team and Armenelos attacks the best (at the moment the stats say The Havens attacks slightly more and with similar percentages than Armenelos but they haven’t played against the defencive powerhouse of Valimar unlike Armenelos – so that stat will change after the last games).

Armenelos vs. Barrow-Downs
Armenelos should win the Barrow-Downs quite confidently were it not for Bombadil who can change games almost single-handedly - well depending on the opponent. Facing a strong Valar-defence even Bombadil was made look more like a mortal – and Eriador beat then 3-0 in the friendlies (whether Bombadil was playing for real in that game remains in obscurity though).

It is very improbable Armenelos loses the game but a draw is a possibility – even if the AKM actually thinks the wise way to put one’s money is betting on an Armenelos win.

The AKM predicts: Armenelos wins 2-1 (or 3-1).

Valimar vs. The Havens
Arien is far from her glorious radiance with the new team but everyone is looking at her to start to deliver and she did score a goal on the last round. Meanwhile Lórien has risen up to answer the fans’ call with Ingwë, the High King of all Elves also finding his pace. So even if Arien still finds herself unsecure with her new team, it seems Valimar can score also without her – even if her awakening would finally make the team really dangerous also offensively.

Whatever, Valimar’s defences are just, well one of the best in the tournament – if not the best. And even if Eärendil would be “just the guy” to score against them – and a great striker in his own right – it just doesn’t seem like enough. and it is just because of Eärendil that the AKM will predict The Havens will score one.

The AKM predicts: Valimar wins 2-1.

An added factor: Now it wouldn’t be Arda Cup if there weren’t these hidden agendas… so whether Manwê’s dislike of Ar-Pharazôn and his likes crowding the Armenelos-team is enough for them to purposefully lose to their friends with the Havens allowing them a chance to qualify instead of Armenelos is a question worth asking oneself. Do they have any influence on Bombadil is another matter – for the Barrow-Downs would also need to win to make that possible… and that sounds unlikely without some divine intervention – which again, as the question begs, isn’t out of the question.


Group B

AC Beleriand	6	5-2	
Inter Beleriand	3	3-3
Dwarves Utd.	3	2-3
Gondolin		0	2-4

AC Beleriand has practically secured their qulification already while the hosts Gondolin is almost certainly out – and thus it would seem to be a fight for the second qualification between Inter Belelriand and Dwarves United – with Inter the heavy favourites to qualify as they play Gondolin when Dwarves need to meet AC Beleriand. And that’s what the AKM will predict - but not without some reservations.

If Dwarves Utd. loses to AC Beleriand (which is more likely than not) and Gondolin wins Inter with one goal all three teams end up with the same points having cross-won each other – but Inter and Gondolin have similar and better goal-differentials than Dwarves Utd. dropping them off. And then we’d be seeing some penalty shoot-outs. If Gondolin wins with two goals or more they will qualify.

Dwarves Utd. has a chance of qualifying if they win. They can also qualify with a draw if Gondolin beats Inter Beleriand. Then again Inter Beleriand willl strongly disagree with both these scenariois – and the AKM believes their will shall actually prevail.

AC Beleriand vs. The Dwarves United
Now AC Beleriand is both the most active attacker and the most dangerous one in this group – actually one of the best in the whole tournament. At the same time Marach has turned out the coolest goalie of the group and AC Beleriand’s defences the hardest to break through. So even if Dwarves Utd’s more offensive playing style of this year has surprised and delighted many, with AC Beleriand they are having just a level too tough an opponent.

Celebrimbor is a mighty player but hardly match for his grandpa and uncles – and Aulë can take in only as much – but maybe Galadriel will prove the secret weapon messing with Fëanor’s head?
Well if that, then others than Fëanor will score the goals needed – and they, especially Aegnor and Eöl, have showed it in the last games they can do it.

The AKM predicts: AC Beleriand wins 3-1 (or 2-0).

Inter Beleriand vs. Gondolin
One could say team Gondolin is the prodigal son of this group: they attack and shoot as actively as AC Beleriand but have scored only two goals while AC Bel has scored five with the same amount of shots…But the wasted opportunities are not their only problem – Rôg is. That sounds like being rude but it is also true: while all the other keepers of the group have saving-percentages from 73-78%, Rôg’s is a disappointing 63,6%.

Inter Beleriand on the other hand has shown efficient finishing – and why not as Maedhros and Fingon are as dangerous they’ve ever been. It seems after the splendid last season Beren has had some problems fitting into the team (1+2 in four games would be good for most of the players but people naturally anticipate more from him). But if he does find his place there it is going to make Inter Beleriand a lot more dangerous team.

That said, it is going to be a tough match indeed. Gondolin did force Hithulm into a draw in the friendlies and will not give up their chance of qualification in front of the home-crowds – so Inter, lacking the stamina and aggressiveness of AC Beleriand will face a tough evening if they wish to win the game. The problem for Gondolin though is that even a draw might be enough for Inter Beleriand – if AC Bel wins Darves Utd. in the other game.

The AKM predicts: draw 2-2 (or Inter Beleriand wins 2-1).


Group C

Real Valinor		6	5-1	
Hithlum		3	5-4
Doriath		1	1-3
Shire-Bree Utd.	1	2-5

Real Valinor is one of the few teams that have already secured their qualification 100%. They could lose to Shire-Bree 0-6 but would still qualify. Even if both the home-team Doriath and Shire-Bree have their chances of qualifying the AKM thinks Hithlum will take the other qualifying position: after seeing the way they crushed Shire-Bree it is hard to see how Doriath could challenge them for real.

So one game has no relevance to the other team involved – unless one thinks of tactical issues aka. Real rather wishing to go to the “lower” bracket and avoid meeting FC Valinor & AC Beleriand (well there they’d have T-I-G to face – a team most traditional teams would like to leave to others to deal with). Although that result would require both a big loss to Real and Doriath being able to beat Hithlum. It is hard to se Real trying that way.

Which means the winner of the other game decides the other qualifier – and only a few would bet on Doriath on that.

Real Valinor vs. Shire-Bree United
Real Valinor is just on a different class from Shire-Bree. A simple comparison might do well to explicate it: Shire-Bree’s most dangerous player and the soul of their team, Gandalf, is the apprentice of Nienna, just a Real Valinor defender (aka. not a star of their team – just a solid back). Also the intimidating power of the Nazgûls would seem nonexistent when facing the Valar, Maiar and Noldor based line of the opposing team.

And what is worst to Shire-Bree: Real Valinor has one of the most aggressive offences while their own defences are one of the worst in the whole tournament – Halbarad seriously fighting for the position of the worst goalie in the tournament with his 54,5% saving-percentage.

The AKM predicts: Real Valinor wins 3-0.

Doriath vs. Hithlum
It looks pretty grim for the homeside. They need to win Hithlum and that is a mighty task against the offencive machine they have against them. Hithlum has kind of underperformed in their friendlies and the first round, but their 4-1 victory over Shire-Bree last round kind of showed what they are cabable of.

The hope the hometeam has relies then on defence. Melian is quite a wizard in it. And maybe with some fast counter-attacks Mablung or Elwë could score from? Huor sure isn’t one of the hottest goalies… But even if Doriath’s defences were capable, the Hithlum offence just looks overwhelming: Túrin, Húrin, Beleg, Hador Lorindol… and even if a Balrog would not be a cause for overt “fear and trembling” for the Doriath offences he would be an obstacle enough to make it hard for Elwë and Mablung to break free from.

Doriath will not be an easy opponent to Hithlum – the game has indeed the ingredients of a classic brewing with all the old friendships, debts and rivalries. But the AKM will still see Hithlum the winners.

The AKM predicts: Hithlum wins 2-0 (or 2-1).


Group D

FC Valinor		6	6-0	
Barad Dûr		4 	3-2
Gondor		1	1-3
Isengard		0	1-6

FC Valinor is another team that has already secure qualification – while Isengard is another team that has no chance of qualifying any more. Now how much these facts affect the results of the last round is hard to say: some play seriously just for the virtue or honour of it while others might just not give a darn. Or whether there are some tactical considerations that overrun pride? No-one knows.

The gret interest for this group surely is in the game between Gondor and Isengard: if Gondor manages to win Isengard while FC Valinor holds Barad-Dûr at bay it will mean Gondor qualifies – while Barad-Dûr needs to go at least for the least possible disadvantage with the goal-difference. So will FC Valinor lighten up to score a lot or not?

Gondor will need a lot of goals against Isengard while Barad-Dûr needs to lose FC Valinor as little as possible (or to draw or win of course). And how will FC Valinor and Isengard take their role in this fight for qualification between the two other teams?

FC Valinor vs. Barad-Dûr
It is hard to see FC Valinor having any symphaties towards Sauron. On the contrary it looks more like a game they’d love to win – and with players like Curufin, Celegorm, Huan and Eönwe in the team it looks improbable they would play lazily even if they are already qualified.

Barad-Dûr’s defence has thus far shown some qualities but it will be put in a totally different test with the attack of FC Valinor, and even if the wizards might prove worthy recruits on this game it hardly looks they’re going to keep FC from scoring.

Now whether FC Valinor would purposefully lose to get a place on the lower bracket is a possibility you might imagine players like Curufin or Celegorm to entertain – but as it would demand a loss to Sauron – well forget it. Their honour would not admit it.

The AKM predicts: FC Valinor wins 3-0 (3-1).

Gondor vs. Isengard
This game should end in a win for Gondor – not the least because Isengard has no chances to qualify any more while Gondor has all the reason to play it with full stamina. Does that mean Gondor has all the pressure while Isengard can play pressure-free? Well it does – and that could be a problem for Gondor.

A second problem for Gondor is that even if the ents, Uruk-Hai, a Nazgûl and a wizard were no serious opposition to Sauron and his minions aided by a few wizards, or the Valar & Maiar and Noldorian heroes aided by Thorondor – team Gondor only consists of men and there might be a difference here called intimidation…

So it will be a lot closer game the stats might tell one. That said the AKM still believes Gondor will win the day – or at least draw, which would be the victory for Saruman, being able to aid his master in the end.

The AKM predicts Gondor wins 2-1 (or a draw 1-1).

Group E

Eriador		6	3-1
Wilderland		2	5-5
Erebor		1	3-4
Misty Mts.		1	3-4

Eriador has cleared their qualification already – actually they have secured their place as number 1 of the group which means they will play most probably against Barad-Dûr or Gondor on the first round of the qualifications – a much more reasonable opposition many other teams will have. So are they feeling too good already? Well they shouldn’t even if their defences seem to work. Thus far for they kept reasonably strong attack of Erebor at bay – this round they will be tested Wilderland who can’t afford to lose and will thusly come with full strength against them.

Basically all the other three teams have a chance to qualify which predicts a hot last round at Erebor and Mirkwood. And to make it even more interesting, the one of the three having two points (Wilderland) is playing the thusly unbeaten Eriador at their homeforest (well home for Thranduil and kind of for some others) while the two with only one point meet at the Arkenstone Arena.

What that means is the following: If either Erebor or Misty Mts. wins their mutual game Wilderland is out unless it wins it’s own game against Eriador. In the case Erebor and Misty Mts. draw Wilderland’s hopes reside in the number of goals they have scored – and it has an upper hand there at the moment but sadly is facing a team who has only allowed one goal thus far while it’s rivals are not exactly masters of defence when clashing against each other. So all the three will wish to score – a lot.

Eriador vs. Wilderland
Eriador kept Smaug and a Nazgûl at bay so there is no need to think Scatha and a lesser Nazgûl would break down their defences. Thranduil, playing in front of his homecrowds might be a bit tricksier, especially aided by the first elves, if compared to Bard and Bolg they totally shut out.

That said Eriador blocked the attacking frenzy of Erebor neatly letting them only shoot 3/12 and there is to begin with no reason to believe they wouldn’t be able to contain Wilderland’s attacking fury as well. But there is a but – and that is that Wilderland is desperate for a win and will bring forth all they have.

Adding to that Eriador’s somewhat easy-going attitude to the games aka that they are not trying to win every game 6-0 if less is enough creates kind of an interesting situation were defender-champions team Eriador already belly-full meets attacking prowess of Wilderland crazy for a win…

The AKM predicts (after some serious to and fro): Draw 2-2 (or Eriador wins 2-1).

Erebor vs. Misty Mountains
Unless Wilderland surprises most everyone with a win over Eriador then the winner of this game will qualify – and the hungry homecrowds want and see Erebor to be that team. The problem is that even if there were not too many betting on Misty Mts. to have any say in this group before the tournament, now at the crucial moment they actually seem to have some. It is clear Misty Mts. is one of the most positive surprises this year.

Erebor sure has the backing of the frenzied homeside behind them but otherwise the stats look perplexingly even.

After both teams have met Wilderland and Eriador they have the same draw (with Wilderland) and a loss (to Eriador with one goal) and thus the same goal-difference, and actually also the same numbers of goals scored vs. allowed (3-4), and both have allowed about as many shots (Erebor 12/30 vs. Misty Mts. 13/30).

The difference between the two lies in the fact that Erebor shoots overall about 30% - and on target 25% - more than Misty Mts. But on the other side of the coin Misty Mts. has been 25% more accurate on their scoring and Chief Wolf’s saving percentage of 69,2% actually beats that of Beorn’s 66,7% - even if the difference there isn’t that remarkable (Beorn has let 4/12 shots in while Chief Wolf has let in 4/13 – so a one shot difference).

Statistically it does smell of a draw – but the AKM feels there is a slight edge favouring the home-team.

The AKM predicts: Erebor wins 3-2 (or draw 2-2).


Group F

Nargothrond		4	5-2
Tirion		4	3-1
The Sea		2	3-3
Minas Tirith		0	0-5

No one has secured qualification from this group but Minas Tirith has lost their hopes for it and are out. So it is a threeway game here – and it might end up hair-risingly close.

Whatever happens in the other game, the winners of the game between Nargothrond and Tirion will qualify – and Nargothrond will qualify also with a draw. But those are the only safe results and everything else is up in the air.

To put it into a nutshell. So Nargothrond qualifies with a win and with a draw. If they lose to Tirion they can still advance if The Sea doesn’t win Minas Tirith – but that surely is hypothetical. Tirion in turn qualifies with a win, but with a draw it goes down to goal-differentials, assuming The Sea beats MT naturally. In case of a draw between Nargothrond and Tirion the following takes place: if the Sea wins MT with one goal Tirion qualifies, if the difference between The Sea and MT is more than two goals The Sea qualifies. But if the difference is exactly two goals, well then it goes more subtle as the goal difference would be the same – and then the number of goals made overall would decide – and as the starting point is the same (three goals made by both teams) it means whichever team scores more on the last round qualifies.

The Sea has the most uncertain future of all the three contenders as even (the most probable) win will not secure their qualification – but a draw or loss would mean certain disqualification. Now if either teams of the other game loses the game (aka. it is not a draw) The Sea qualifies just winning Minas Tirith. But if the other game ends up in a draw they need to win preferably with three goals.

So both Tirion and The Sea wish to score a lot and Nargothrond’s philosophy has always been outscoring the opponents – so what a round of games to see! The AKM promises a lot of goals! And it is such a shame one of the three teams will have to drop from the tournament while there is fex. group H where every team would be just plain overrun by any of the three. But well, that’s tournament games…

The Sea vs. Minas Tirith
The Sea would seem to face the easiest team to score against with this last round’s scoring-competition. Tirion won Minas Tirith 2-0 and that is the minimum they will have to reach – so the question becomes can the Númenorian strikers deliver when needed, or will Ulmo himself – or Uinen who scored in the previous game – rise up to the occasion to add in the attack?

The AKM doesn’t see a reason to bet for Minas Tirith. They are not only out-classed in quality by The Sea but there is also the question of incentive. Now someone might object to the latter by saying that honour can be even stronger motivator to great deeds, even if there is no hope of reaching your goal. And The AKM will accept the statement. But will add that Ulmo’s The Sea has as much of their honour at stake here (for losing to Minas Tirith would be so embarrasing) but they have the added motivator in their real chance of qualifying.

Were the opposing team any other than Minas Tirith (who hasn’t yet scored a single goal) we might entertain a possibility of them scoring one goal when The Sea is too busy attacking and possibly their defence vulnerable by that. But Minas Tirith will not be able to use that opportunity.

The AKM predicts: The Sea wins 2-0 (or 3-0).

Tirion vs. Nargothrond
A draw would be enough for Nargothrond and sure Finrod, Orodreth and Finduilas should have some feelings towards their father/grandfathers/grandgrandfathers and just plain not wish to win them if it would mean the relegation of their own elders while another team would qualify.

Now sure that will not be Nargothrond’s general policy and the team goes for a win like any honourable team – but it might prove a small factor in the subconsciousness of those of the line of Finwë.

That said, the teams look pretty close: Nargothrond looks somewhat better of the two on offence and Tirion in defence – and both are pretty much top-class teams in both. And the game smells of a draw.

The AKM predicts: draw 2-2.


Group G

Tol-In-Gaurhoth	6	4-0
Angband		3	2-2
Anfaughlith		3	1-2
Imladris		0	0-3

Imladris has theoretical chances of qualifying and in the same vein it is theoretically possible that the T-I-G team will not reach the semifinals. The AKM does not hold either of the scenarios in the least bit believable and sticks to “the game” being played between Angband and Anfaughlith for the second position behind the T-I-G team.

Looking the last game-pairs from that perspective reveals the fact that Angband is very well set to qualify while Anfaughlith’s chances are thin indeed: both Angband losing (or not winning) Imladris and Anfaughlith beating T-I-G would both be major surprises indeed. So T-I-G and Angband will qualify.

Angband vs. Imladris
Imladris’ fate was sealed already with the group-selection but the team has still been a bit of a teethless disappointment. They did score two against Misty Mts. and one against Arnor in the friendlies while drawing with both teams – but with the group games they have not scored a ingle goal and their goal-difference is 0-3. Varda is quality in defence and the young Elladan and Elrohir should be decent forwards but nothing seems to happen: the opponents score the goals needed and they themselves are left scoreless.

That trend looks like continuing against team angband who are keen on qualifying and will not wish to leave anything for second-quessing. The only problem the AKM sees for Angband is that unlike the wolves of T-I-G or the Balrogs of Anfaughlith, Varda might be an exceptionally terrifying defender to their attackers. Not that it would mean Imladris had a chance to win the game, but it might mean Angband is not going to win with ugly numbers.

The AKM predicts: Angband wins 1-0 (or 2-0 the most).

Anfaughlith vs. Tol-In-Gaurhoth
Anfaughlith seems to be falling short of the goal once again even if their team is not that bad – it is actually pretty strong one but is just in too tough a company.

The only chance the AKM sees for them to draw or win this game is if T-I-G goes into one of their extravaganzes and decides to take the day off after securing the qualification or something along the lines. But if the T-I-G plays it in some serious fashion there’s no hope for Anfaughlith: their scoring sucks and their famous defence doesn’t seem to hold that well against Angband – so why would it suddenly against T-I-G who beat Angband 2-0?

Believing the T-I-G will play the game for real…

The AKM predicts: T-I-G wins 2-0.


Group H

Anduin		6	4-1
Mordor		3	3-2
Arnor		3	2-3
Rohan		0	1-4

So Anduin has already qualified while Rohan’s chances are not far from being purely theoretical (they’d need to win Arnor with pretty definitive numbers). The surprise team Mordor with it’s 51 million budget stands now their backs against the wall, for carrying forwards from the group phase they’d need to beat Anduin who even if possibly already satisfied with their qualification would love to see a Mordor team sink and let Arnor to qualify instead.

In the optimal situation for Arnor even a draw with Rohan could be enough but they will not be letting things into second guessing if they can just win and do it – and in the case of a threeway-tie they are actually in the worst situation in what comes to the goal-differences, so they’ll sure do what they can – and it is a nice later-age men derby between the northern Dúnedain and Rohanians, so the aKM thinks both teams will give their best.

Arnor vs. Rohan
So Rohan will fall with honour. Why is it thay will fall? Well, first of all northern Dúnedain kings are stronger and have more stamina than Rohanians in general. Secondly the Rohan team have a couple of Mearas to help them (which is actually one of their greatest weapons in defence) and the King of the Dead. But on Arnor team there are not only the Witch-King (who can win games alone when in the mood or needed) but also Elendil organizing the defence.

Team Rohan’s blood was drawn too heavily after the glorious last season and this is now the result – they will stay in the group-phase even if their effort would have been valiant, at times (referring to the 0-2 defeat to Mordor).

The AKM predicts: Arnor wins 2-1 (or even 3-1).

Anduin vs. Mordor
Mordor will do its best to fight Anduin and to qualify but it will just not be enough against an opponent not only that much better than they but also – despite their qualification already – because of their willingness to throw Mordor out of the tournament just for the pleasure or righteousness of it.

After two games their stats on shooting and allowing the opponent to shoot look pretty much similar (and the opponents have been the same) – but Arnor is clearly the more efficient finisher and Amroth nicely “outkeeps” the Watcher. That said Mordor is decent team enough to not let Anduin just walk over them – and thus the ending numbers might be tighter some would like them to be ot would foresee them.

The AKM predicts: Anduin wins 2-1.

[Boromir88]

TTN Predictions: Round 3

GROUP A

Armenelos vs. The Barrowdowns-
Now the Downs did well to spoil a pseudo-home victory for the Havens, but it won't be the same against Armenelos. Armenelos' physical and tactical prowess will be too much for the Downs, and considering the Valimar crowd have cause to protest the Downer fans, Armenelos may actually no longer be public enemy #1 in the Blessed Realm. *Armenelos wins 3-1.

Havens vs. Valimar-
The Havens really needed to win the Barrowdowns to advance. They might be good enough to draw with Valimar, but a draw won't be enough. And we don't see anyway Manwe, Arien and co. will let a playoff appearance slip away, when they're playing at home. *Valimar wins 2-1.

GROUP B

AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United-
Dwarves United doesn't have anymore tricks remaining up their sleeves. Their victory over Gondolin insures AC Beleriand won't overlook them as an easy opponent. But if they were shut out by Inter, AC Beleriand should get a confident shutout here. *ACBeleriand wins 2-0.

Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin-
TTN had predicted Gondolin to take 2nd place before the round robin, but a disappointing loss to Dwarves United has nearly dashed all hopes. Gondolin can still advance with a 2-goal victory, but all gameplay and stats show that is an extreme longshot. A one-goal victory by Gondolin would put the 2 in a virtual tie and then which one advances? Shootout to determine 2nd place? The reason Gondolin won't advance this year though, Rog. *Draw 2-2.

GROUP C

Shire-Bree United vs Real Valinor-
Shire-Bree is outclassed in every aspect of the game. Their only quality player able to keep up with a team of Valar and their friends is Gandalf. Against the Valar one might expect some type of "gentlemen's" approach, where they only play respectfully as not to embarrass Shire-Bree, but that's not consistent with Tulkas' teams. *Real Valinor wins 3-0.

Doriath vs Hithlum-
We do agree with AKM here, that despite the large differences in the payroll of both teams, thie will be a closer and a more intriguing battle. In the end Hithlum's an offensive powerhouse and Doriath is no Real Valinor to be able to keep it contained. *Hithlum wins 4-2.

GROUP D

Barad-Dur vs FC Valinor-
Group D is going to be a tough one to figure out this round. It's clear FC Valinor will sweep the group, but how hard will they press to wrack up goals against Barad-Dur? And Barad-Dur will surely be going all in...how much success they'll have, well we're not betting much. Although Sauron poses a more dangerous threat than Quickbeam and Eldacar. And the blue wizards are better equipped to take on the deadly duo of Celegorm and Curufin. *FC Valinor wins 3-1.

Gondor vs Isengard-
How hard will Isengard be trying on this game already eliminated is unknown. But also what must be considered is Sauron's part ownership of Isengard might give them enough spirit to play spoiler against Gondor. They'll be able to stay with Gondor on the field, but will they have enough motivation to push for a win? *Draw 1-1.

GROUP E

Erebor vs Misty Mts-
Here's the match TTN has been waiting to see. We predicted earlier, that we didn't like the make-up of the Erebor team this year and put Misty Mountains forward as the other qualifier. Both teams look dead even, so that gives evidence the Mountains will be able to hang with Erebor, but it also begs the question are they good enough to get the win? A draw will not be good enough. *Misty Mountains wins 3-2.

Eriador vs Wilderland-
Eriador doesn't have the same ability to score when needed, like last year, but their defense and Elrond is just as good as ever (which isn't surprising). Wilderland's a decent team, but they won't score 2 against Eriador, and thats what they will need. *Eriador wins 2-1.

GROUP F

Nargothrond vs Tirion-
This is going to be the group filled with the most anticipation. Nargothrond's playing much better than their form last year. Tirion is showing their quality now that they're not in a murderous group. It's unfortunate one of these 3 teams will miss the playoffs, be we haven't the slightest clue which one. We'll go with our beginning of year picks. *Nargothrond wins 3-2.

Minas Tirith vs The Sea-
It must be said The Sea has been a disappointment so far, granted they haven't lost. It's always hard to beat Ulmo's team, but in this group not losing (or even winning 1-0) might not be good enough. It's hard to think all that high payroll going down the drain if The Sea is eliminated, but that might happen. *The Sea wins 2-0.

GROUP G

Angband vs Imladris-
Angband bounced back nicely, behind their strong defensive efforts, and we don't expect Imladris to be able to pull off any surprises. They're all alone in a sea of baddies and have not lost their dignity or honour. But they're still losing. *Angband wins 1-0.

Angfauglith vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth-
Tol In Gaurhoth has looked sharper than anyone so far in this tournament and Angfauglith has serious problems in the mid-field. Angfauglith looks to be a tougher match-up defensively for the wolves and with advancement almost surely secure, perhaps TIG will be off on their game a bit and take it too easily. Draw 1-1.

GROUP H

Arnor vs Rohan-
Arnor did well in a comeback against Mordor and Rohan has looked like one of the worst teams in the tournament thus far. I mean I know teams like Minas Tirith and Imladris haven't scored, but they're also up against significantly tougher competition. Group H is the weakest this year and Rohan is still not playing very well. It'll be an interesting match if only because Dunedain vs. Rohanion royalty, so it will just be a good clean game showcasing the skills of both teams. But nothing memorable or special for the recordbooks. *Draw 2-2.

Anduin vs Mordor-
TTN picked Mordor as one of our longshot chances to advance out of Group H. Nearly everyone else had Mordor written off as easy fodder, but they've been a worthy and difficult opponent. It at least showed the Arda world Mordor could rise again if someone actually invested some more money into the team. But their key must win match was last round against Arnor, and they couldn't hold onto it. Andun has played up to their talent so far, and it's hard to see with an attack force of Grimbeorn, Eorl, Boromir II and Haldir that they'll be troubled by Mordor's defense that relies on fear and pure evil will. *Anduin wins 3-1.

[Boromir88]

TTN Predictions: Round 3

GROUP A

Armenelos vs. The Barrowdowns-
Now the Downs did well to spoil a pseudo-home victory for the Havens, but it won't be the same against Armenelos. Armenelos' physical and tactical prowess will be too much for the Downs, and considering the Valimar crowd have cause to protest the Downer fans, Armenelos may actually no longer be public enemy #1 in the Blessed Realm. *Armenelos wins 3-1.

Havens vs. Valimar-
The Havens really needed to win the Barrowdowns to advance. They might be good enough to draw with Valimar, but a draw won't be enough. And we don't see anyway Manwe, Arien and co. will let a playoff appearance slip away, when they're playing at home. *Valimar wins 2-1.

GROUP B

AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United-
Dwarves United doesn't have anymore tricks remaining up their sleeves. Their victory over Gondolin insures AC Beleriand won't overlook them as an easy opponent. But if they were shut out by Inter, AC Beleriand should get a confident shutout here. *ACBeleriand wins 2-0.

Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin-
TTN had predicted Gondolin to take 2nd place before the round robin, but a disappointing loss to Dwarves United has nearly dashed all hopes. Gondolin can still advance with a 2-goal victory, but all gameplay and stats show that is an extreme longshot. A one-goal victory by Gondolin would put the 2 in a virtual tie and then which one advances? Shootout to determine 2nd place? The reason Gondolin won't advance this year though, Rog. *Draw 2-2.

GROUP C

Shire-Bree United vs Real Valinor-
Shire-Bree is outclassed in every aspect of the game. Their only quality player able to keep up with a team of Valar and their friends is Gandalf. Against the Valar one might expect some type of "gentlemen's" approach, where they only play respectfully as not to embarrass Shire-Bree, but that's not consistent with Tulkas' teams. *Real Valinor wins 3-0.

Doriath vs Hithlum-
We do agree with AKM here, that despite the large differences in the payroll of both teams, thie will be a closer and a more intriguing battle. In the end Hithlum's an offensive powerhouse and Doriath is no Real Valinor to be able to keep it contained. *Hithlum wins 4-2.

GROUP D

Barad-Dur vs FC Valinor-
Group D is going to be a tough one to figure out this round. It's clear FC Valinor will sweep the group, but how hard will they press to wrack up goals against Barad-Dur? And Barad-Dur will surely be going all in...how much success they'll have, well we're not betting much. Although Sauron poses a more dangerous threat than Quickbeam and Eldacar. And the blue wizards are better equipped to take on the deadly duo of Celegorm and Curufin. *FC Valinor wins 3-1.

Gondor vs Isengard-
How hard will Isengard be trying on this game already eliminated is unknown. But also what must be considered is Sauron's part ownership of Isengard might give them enough spirit to play spoiler against Gondor. They'll be able to stay with Gondor on the field, but will they have enough motivation to push for a win? *Draw 2-2.

GROUP E

Erebor vs Misty Mts-
Here's the match TTN has been waiting to see. We predicted earlier, that we didn't like the make-up of the Erebor team this year and put Misty Mountains forward as the other qualifier. Both teams look dead even, so that gives evidence the Mountains will be able to hang with Erebor, but it also begs the question are they good enough to get the win? A draw will not be good enough. *Misty Mountains wins 3-2.

Eriador vs Wilderland-
Eriador doesn't have the same ability to score when needed, like last year, but their defense and Elrond is just as good as ever (which isn't surprising). Wilderland's a decent team, but they won't score 2 against Eriador, and thats what they will need. *Eriador wins 2-1.

GROUP F

Nargothrond vs Tirion-
This is going to be the group filled with the most anticipation. Nargothrond's playing much better than their form last year. Tirion is showing their quality now that they're not in a murderous group. It's unfortunate one of these 3 teams will miss the playoffs, be we haven't the slightest clue which one. We'll go with our beginning of year picks. *Nargothrond wins 3-2.

Minas Tirith vs The Sea-
It must be said The Sea has been a disappointment so far, granted they haven't lost. It's always hard to beat Ulmo's team, but in this group not losing (or even winning 1-0) might not be good enough. It's hard to think all that high payroll going down the drain if The Sea is eliminated, but that might happen. *The Sea wins 2-0.

GROUP G

Angband vs Imladris-
Angband bounced back nicely, behind their strong defensive efforts, and we don't expect Imladris to be able to pull off any surprises. They're all alone in a sea of baddies and have not lost their dignity or honour. But they're still losing. *Angband wins 1-0.

Angfauglith vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth-
Tol In Gaurhoth has looked sharper than anyone so far in this tournament and Angfauglith has serious problems in the mid-field. Angfauglith looks to be a tougher match-up defensively for the wolves and with advancement almost surely secure, perhaps TIG will be off on their game a bit and take it too easily. Draw 1-1.

GROUP H

Arnor vs Rohan-
Arnor did well in a comeback against Mordor and Rohan has looked like one of the worst teams in the tournament thus far. I mean I know teams like Minas Tirith and Imladris haven't scored, but they're also up against significantly tougher competition. Group H is the weakest this year and Rohan is still not playing very well. It'll be an interesting match if only because Dunedain vs. Rohanion royalty, so it will just be a good clean game showcasing the skills of both teams. But nothing memorable or special for the recordbooks. *Draw 2-2.

Anduin vs Mordor-
TTN picked Mordor as one of our longshot chances to advance out of Group H. Nearly everyone else had Mordor written off as easy fodder, but they've been a worthy and difficult opponent. It at least showed the Arda world Mordor could rise again if someone actually invested some more money into the team. But their key must win match was last round against Arnor, and they couldn't hold onto it. Andun has played up to their talent so far, and it's hard to see with an attack force of Grimbeorn, Eorl, Boromir II and Haldir that they'll be troubled by Mordor's defense that relies on fear and pure evil will. *Anduin wins 3-1.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Elenrod:: Today: thousand-yard stares at the ready; classic relegation shock as Gondolin get shot by Legolas and Dwarves United, and the Havens get clattered by the Saucepan Man and the Downs, leaving both teams with zero wins. Elsewhere, more elimination blues as Imladris and Minas Tirith are still unable to get on the score sheet, with defensive powerhouses Angband and the Sea still waiting on the last day. Meanwhile, in Menegroth: “Don’t panic”, says Túrin and company, as the Hithlum scoring machine finally churns out goals. All these stories, predictions, quotes, and more, in today’s Matchday. Joining me today is the hopefully on-form tactical expert, Maikalomion.

Maika: Hello.

Elenrod: And the hopefully out-of-form, with regards to making controversial comments, Adam Smith.

Adam:: Still not the economist.

Elenrod: Indeed. With them is, in whatever form he is, Felagundion.

Adam: How was the lottery?

Felagundion: Wasted a hundred on my first week. I don’t think trying my luck is the way out of slavery.

Elenrod: The same could be said of many of this week’s teams, don’t you think? As usual, we’ll make our way down the list, starting with Group A. Now, what happened to the Havens?

Adam: Alien looked like he had one of those days any top-flight goalie has, when nothing but the absolute best shots seems to get past him. Combine that with an interested Bombadil, and the Havens were lucky not to lose.

Felagundion: The Barrow-downs were as dogged—and disruptive—as their fans. And they’ve chosen a grand stage to show that to the world.

Maika: As for the other game, we see glimpses of Arien’s 2012 form with his game for Valimar. It’s just so sad that she’s not getting enough touches. From what we’ve seen last year you know she can participate in the build-up play as well as bang in the goals. It doesn’t it have to be her against the entire defence, like what Legolas did; she can get Irmo and Ingwë involved in the attack.

Felagundion: All Manwë teams—heck, many Valar teams this year: Aulë’s, Ulmo’s, and Varda’s, for example—play a low-tempo game. Combine that with Valimar’s inability to dominate possession against a cohesive Armenelos midfield, that leads to how little of the ball Arien sees. Valinor and Real were very much up-tempo team—recover possession, then three passes later they’re in the opposition box. That’s where she thrived.

Adam: Next round they face a Havens team with a similarly cohesive midfield, especially with their double pivot of Eärwen and Mithrellas. So expect more of the same for Arien, I guess.

Elenrod: Any predictions for the final round?

Adam: Assuming Bombadil reverts to being uninterested, 2-0 Armenelos.

Maika: 1-all for the other one. No, 2-1 Valimar—the Havens defence is atrocious, and I expect Arien and one of Valimar’s midfielders to score.

Elenrod: That’s it then. Moving along…

Felagundion: Poor Gondolin. They met Leggy on his day, when his usually mediocre first touch was impeccable.

Adam: First goal was offside, though.

Felagundion: That wouldn’t have been anywhere near a goal had Penlod challenged the ball in the air instead of getting into a foot race with Leggy.

Adam: Hey, Penlod is fast. He was a poacher for Vinyamar, where he played more to his explosive speed than his height to get into the box and score those late winners.

Felagundion: Yes, but this and that are different. Over short distances of five to ten metres his sprinting is gold, but if your defensive strategy hinges on him running twenty meters to chase a water bug then you’ve lost.

Maika: I guess it’s just poor team-building on Gondolin’s part. They have a solid front five—when they switched to 4-1-3-2 to chase the game, they created a lot of chances and troubled Aulë enough to force him to change formations. But the ‘1’ in their 4-1-3-2 is not a real holding midfielder, and their defenders aren’t ones you want playing a high line. That’s why they’re so open in the middle and vulnerable to counterattacks.

Felagundion: They should’ve got a horse or an eagle instead. By the way, did any of you catch what Azaghâl said in the post-game press conference?

Elenrod: When he was bashed by the local press for how they treated the Gondolin players?

Felagundion: ‘Do you mean when we were a little bit rough with the tackling? In our league, we do that quite often. That's actually allowed in football.’ Brilliant quote.

Elenrod: Any comment on the other game? Or is that what you expected from the Beleriand derby?

Adam: AC Bel are still pretty much the bigger fish between the two, so yeah.

Felagundion: Denethor! I love him and his long diagonal passes. If your team is based on playing on the wings and outnumbering full-backs, then he’s gonna create a lot of chances.

Elenrod: What do you think happens to their next games?

Felagundion: 2-0 AC Bel. I expect Leggy to regress to the mean, fluff chances again, and he won’t be running past Rochallor. Also, Marach, unlike Rog, actually comes out of his box to clear long balls.

Maika: 2-1 Inter. Gondolin will have to attack, and that plays right into their hands. The next meeting between Beren and Salgant won’t be pretty. He’ll probably get sent off again.

Elenrod: On to Menegroth we go then. So what do we have here? Two teams just proving they’re on a different level to the other two?

Adam: Yeah, that’s basically it. But I’m worried about Hithlum. When you pay their attackers too much respect, when you set up defences a little closer to your box and concede the midfield, that’s when they shine, score four like they did here. But the teams in the quarterfinals or semis won’t give them that. They’d be like Real—be in-your-face and try to deny Túrin and company the ball.

Felagundion: In the other game, for a few minutes Real turned into the 1970s Netherlands team, dragging Doriath defenders all over the pitch. I’d be wary of them doing that against better squads, though—if they give away possession, and the opposition manages to find a mismatch quickly, that’s pretty much a goal conceded. Imagine if Ancalagon gets matched up with Enerdhil.

Elenrod: Predictions?

Felagundion: Can’t I just say both will be cricket scores? Oh, all right. 3-1 Hithlum.

Adam: 3-0 Real.

Elenrod: All right, then. Maika, you were a little bit quiet there. Not interested?

Maika: Not much to analyse, is there?

Elenrod: That’s true. Maybe Group D will be more to your liking.

Maika: Well, both teams who won had more talent than the teams they beat. Gondor’s approach was interesting, though. They didn’t just park the bus; they offered something going forward. It almost paid off, too—they created the first clear chance of the game. Eldacar should’ve converted that.

Felagundion: Didn’t you find Isengard scoring first vs Barad-dûr interesting?

Maika: Not really. Barad-dûr must have been expecting Quickbeam to win aerial balls, so they put the fellbeasts on him. They were then surprised when Saruman played a ball to his feet. But they adjusted after that and he was quiet for the rest of the game.

Elenrod: How do you think Gondor would fare against FC Val?

Maika: That’s a tough one… Barad-dûr has a better defence, and a slightly better offence, than Gondor. But enough to score against FC Val? I think 2-0 FC Val.

Adam: So second seed hinges on Gondor’s score vs Isengard. Hmm… 2-1 Gondor? Penalties for the last spot?

Elenrod: I guess that’s it for Group D. How about Group E? Will Erebor still make it? Do Misty Mts have a chance?

Maika: Aside from Eriador, this group looks open. Well, Wilderland are in a tough spot—they’re playing Eriador.

Felagundion: Which they can win. Erebor lost just by a goal.

Maika: It was a pretty comprehensive 1-0 defeat. Eriador were just better in all areas. Classic Elrond stuff; they just don’t overexert themselves. Then again, they don’t concede much, so they hardly have to chase a game.

Adam: Also, Wilderland are atrocious at the back. Maybe it’s just match-up problems, Ents guarding creatures with flames.

Elenrod: So how many goals will Wilderland concede against Eriador?

Adam: I’m thinking 1-0 Eriador.

Maika: Then 3-2 Erebor, with Bard scoring the winner.

Elenrod: On to Group F, then.

Felagundion: When Uinen scored the Sea’s second goal I was distraught. Distraught, I tell you. I didn’t think Ulmo and company would concede a second. To my great relief we did score an equaliser, but afterwards, our players were all knackered. If there had been extra time, or if there had been a bit more time on the clock, I think we would’ve lost. We really need one good centre-back.

Adam: That’s a bad thing, because Tirion cruised past Minas Tirith. Tirion v Nargothrond’s very important for deciding who advances, because I don’t think the Sea would drop the ball against Minas Tirith.

Felagundion: Yes, I’m very worried. Good thing we have a better goal difference, but we can’t play for a draw, because we don’t have all that good a defence to sit on. I hope we control possession, score an early goal, then just play on the break.

Maika: Glaurung will get a lot of space in the hole. He’d have a better game than he had vs the Sea.

Felagundion: It was depressing how easily Tar-Ciryatan stuffed Glaurung in his pocket.

Adam: By the way, another wonderful quote from Denethor II after the game. ‘You say talented players, but I don’t know. Are they that talented? I don’t know, really. I wish you were right.’

Felagundion: And then afterwards, when someone asked him if he had any regrets. ‘If I had a chance to change anything, I would have tried harder to get my son in. I wouldn’t have wasted 10 million on Éomer, who’s been useless.’ What I wouldn’t do to be a fly in their locker room.

Elenrod: The scores?

Felagundion: Oh, Eru… Nargothrond and Tirion draw 2-all?

Adam: Maybe 2-0 Sea. They’d win, and I don’t think they’d concede, but I doubt they can score three or more.

Elenrod: So spot kicks between Tirion and the Sea for the last spot? That’d be fun—second straight time the Sea would need penalties to qualify. Moving along; Group G, then. Was anyone surprised when Angband beat Anfauglith?

Adam: What? No. Angband have a better squad overall than Anfauglith. Anfauglith’s goalie is better, definitely, and maaaybe they have a better second striker, but in all other areas…

Felagundion: Well, both of their midfields are crap.

Adam: There is that.

Elenrod: How about Imladris? Is anyone alive there?

Maika: Well, if they or Minas Tirith—or both—fail to score, that’d be the first time a team failed to score in the Arda Cup. Even the hapless Shire-Bree squad placed in a group with that Doriath squad, as well as Himring and Tirion, managed to score.

Elenrod: Tough luck to be placed in a group of solid defences when you don’t have an Arda-class striker. What do you think will happen?

Maika: 2-0 to Angband.

Adam: And 1-0 to TiG.

Elenrod: And, finally, group H. So, Mordor beat Rohan, but they lost to Arnor. What happens if Rohan beat Arnor?

Felagundion: A whole lot of fun. The same scenario’s in play in Group B—there’s a chance of a team advancing to the knockout rounds with only three points. There’s a lot of firsts that could happen in this Arda Cup.

Maika: I don’t think it’ll happen, though. Arnor are clearly the second most talented team in the group.

Elenrod: Despite leaving it very late against Mordor?

Maika: Well, they upped the tempo only in the last twenty minutes of the game, when they still had to chase the game. Super intense pressing is usually done in either of these two phase—very early, when you hope to score an early goal then just sit back and play on the break, or late, when you can bear down superior attackers on tired legs.

Felagundion: It also helps when you have a specialist late-game poacher. Loved the ‘Super Araphor’ chants by the Arnorians.

Elenrod: Scores?

Maika: Hmm, 2-1 Arnor.

Felagundion: 3-1 Anduin? Well, I hope someone scores more than two in this group.

Elenrod: Do you have any favourite goals this week?

Felagundion: Arien’s solo effort was the only one that really appealed to me.

Adam: I liked Legolas’s winner. One touch and then a screamer from thirty metres.

Felagundion: A better goalie would have come out of his box and made the angle more difficult.

Adam: True, but Legolas doing his thing—maybe I’m a closet Leggy fanboy.

Maika: Aradan’s volley from a long ball was something special; to anticipate it and boot it in first time took some skill.

Elenrod: None of the Fëanorion stepped up this week, did they? By the way, did no-one think of Inter’s goal vs Roma when they saw Mordor’s goal? Just slick passing from the Nazgûls and the Mouth.

Felagundion: I suspect shenanigans from Sauron.

Elenrod: Haha, that’s possible. And that brings us to the end of another episode of The Matchday. Join us again next week as we discuss the winners and the losers of the groups, as well as predict the round of sixteen games. As usual, our thanks to Maika and Adam and Felagundion. Bye for now, and see you then.

[the phantom]

Group A @ Valimar

Finally it appeared that all the Numenoreans would get to see their football. They had come in droves over the sea—far too many to get tickets and still leave room for the home fan majority. But for this round most of the Valinoreans were dead-set on seeing their two favorites play in the Havens vs Valimar contest, and as the games were being played simultaneously that left open tickets for the visitors. Not to mention Valinoreans were feeling pretty hostile towards the Barrow-Downs what with their rudeness and outright vandalism, thus the home folks didn’t feel badly about allowing Numenor to own the stadium and hoping Barrow-Downs would be routed.

There were a few that were hoping for both Havens and Valimar to qualify, but the precise scenario necessary for that to happen was unlikely thus the more realistic folks didn’t dare to dream and were content if they could see a fine competition for the spot that Armenelos didn’t earn.

The feature game between The Havens and Valimar would be played in Valimar’s grand arena just as the first two rounds had been. The game between Armenelos and The Barrow-Downs however would be played a little ways away—more up than over. The stadium was called Ilmarin Field, but of course it wasn’t actually on the very top of Taniquetil where Manwe and Varda had their seats and halls, but rather it was partway up the winding path on a low shoulder of the mountain (which at 9,000 feet was still high enough to make a difference in the match).

Manwe and his squad call Ilmarin Field home during the summer/autumn regional league season, thus many though that team Valimar would opt to play their final contest here to gain an even greater home-field advantage. Manwe and his Ainur have quite a good record at Ilmarin through the years, partly due to the elevation. While their lesser degree of incarnation robs them of a degree of fine touch achieved by some others, it also leaves them more free to exert themselves without the annoyance of needing copious amounts of oxygen, thus the high stadium worked quite well for them.

But in the end team Valimar wanted to play their contest in the larger and more historic stadium, and frankly they were feeling comfortable there after two games and several practices. Why stop something when it’s working? And some said that another reason was to keep Barrow-Downs and their supporters from causing more trouble there. They were tired of the famous stadium bells being messed with. Ilmarin field on the other hand—there were just fewer things to mess with. Everything was solid rock construction carved right out of the mountain and held together with the power of the Valar, though more than likely the Barrow-Wights would merely see it as a challenge.

It was 2 o’clock and both stadiums were packed and eager to begin. Both Armenelos and Valimar looked confident, and their fans felt the same, but the Barrow-Downs and Havens were keen to stake their own claim to the playoffs. Upsets do happen after all.

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The Numenoreans had their own proud football tradition, but they weren’t too proud to appreciate being in the stands at Ilmarin Field. All of the walkways beneath the stadium were open along the western side of the stadium, and fans that were seated in the eastern seats made sure to walk the long way around so they too could see the view of the plain of Valinor stretched out beneath the stadium’s perch.

There was much pointing as onlookers tried to pick out the arena of Valimar in the mass of miniscule structures far below. Some that were knowledgeable about the layout of the city doubtless guessed correct, but from such a height only Elf-eyes could be certain.

Upon entering the stadium it didn’t take long to notice that their opponent, The Barrow-Downs, had very little support indeed. A small section of Wights at the north end was all—perhaps two-hundred at the most. The few locals that had opted to attend this match rather than the Valimar contest were understandably worried. “Where are the rest of the Wights?” they wondered, and they were certain the answer was—“Causing trouble somewhere.” But the Numenoreans were happy to turn the arena into their home stadium, and soon play was underway to the tune of various match-songs and traditional chants of Numenor.

Team Armenelos was firmly in command from the start—they were crisp and precise, and they had the size advantage as well without lacking speed. It was obvious that Elros and his team were giddy with seemingly the entire world willing them to win, and they were energized and keen to blow away the competition. Only five minutes in Ar Adunakhor gained a header that was just barely too tall, and then minutes later Tar Ancalimon sent a snipe that was hardly turned away by the keeper. At the 15 minute mark Armenelos saw their best chance yet as Elros was released perfectly and took an immediate shot, but Alien guessed right and made the improbable save.

The crowd groaned, but all wearing smiles. It was only a matter of time until the goal came—they kept getting chances. But then the fans at the top of the western side of the stadium grew silent, and the silence slowly spread, but was soon followed by a buzz of noise. The rest of the stadium wondered what the cause was, but word soon reached them—fans on the top row had heard from far below a tumult of sound, and as they fell silent they could hear it well enough to tell the familiar notes of the mighty stadium bells of Valimar. The sound of the bells was said to carry far beyond what they should so as to make all in the land aware of homeside goals, and evidently the sound carried far indeed.

Valimar had scored. But of course The Havens might’ve scored before, so they couldn’t truly tell the score. “Really they should have a different pattern or something to signify taking-the-lead or drawn-level,” several folks were heard to say. But soon their attention was drawn back to their own game, as Ar Pharazon had earned himself a free kick from about 25 yards out. Before the anticipation could fully build the ball was set quickly and Pharazon struck it, just barely clearing the wall. Alien had no view of it until it flew up over the heads of his teammates, and for the briefest of instants he thought it was going right to him, but it broke to his right and he had no chance of stopping it as close as it already was and moving at a decent clip. Armenelos had the well-earned lead!

As the crowd celebrated in song an eagle took flight out from the window of a solitary tower on the east side of the stadium, and he banked immediately to the west and went into a dive towards Valimar below.

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Meanwhile the Elves and Ainur watching the Havens vs Valimar match were intensely into things down in Valimar. It was an absolute battle, but a clean one, and a beauty to watch for fans of fine defensive work. Both sides were denying quite well, and both sides had gained but one dangerous look, thanks to the skill and athleticism of Arien and some nice pair work by Cirdan and Earendil. The difference was Manwe had saved the shot while Arien’s had been too hot for Amandil to handle, thus Valimar was sitting on a 1-0 lead.

Only minutes after Arien’s goal a messenger eagle arrived and word soon spread through the crowd that, as expected, Armenelos was leading Barrow-Downs. Havens and Valimar were at a stalemate in the meantime, with both holding possession decently in the midfield but entirely unable to advance. After the half-hour mark The Havens changed things up and tried a few long speculative passes, but Namo and his fellow defenders were having none of it. Shortly before halftime Valimar tried to send a few all the way to Arien, but Ar Zimrathan and Imrazor got in the way every time. With only seconds remaining in the half Arien finally knocked one down and got a decent touch on it and sent it to Ingwe, but Olwe beat him to it and cleared it.

Just as halftime arrived another messenger eagle flew in with news. There had been another goal at Ilmarin Field. The spectators nodded their heads and pointed to the eagle, telling neighbors that they had expected the Numenoreans to dominate, but then the message spread—it was The Barrow-Downs that had scored!

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Back up at Ilmarin the Armenelos supporters were worriedly conversing with neighbors during the halftime break. At around the 30-minute mark their team had started losing their edge, and as time approached 40 minutes they were beginning to look almost sluggish. Most of the fans hadn’t had to wonder what the cause was, as they were feeling it themselves after a half-hour of singing, yelling, and jumping. It was just hard to breath that high. Of course they and the players had noticed it from the get-go, but they had come in with so much energy and had pushed right through it, but there came a point where all the exertion without sufficient breath was taking a toll. The players were cramping easily, and were developing pains in their sides.

The Barrow-Downs on the other hand featured several players that didn’t seem to have such limitations—the Wights obviously, as well as Bombadil and Goldberry. In truth only Fatty Lumpkin looked the least bit bothered, and thus the game quickly swung the way of the Downs. First Bombadil wound his way through the tired defense for a snap-shot that was barely blocked by Atanamir, then Saucepan Man nearly scored off a corner, and then a bit later Hookbill forced a save again after a dizzying series of passes that the Numenoreans simply didn’t have the energy to follow.

Seeing the plight of the Numenoreans the Downs switched to an attack that quickly flipped sides of the field in an attempt to outnumber Armenelos on one side, which forced the defenders to flow left to right following the ball. After several minutes of such treatment Armenelos looked downright ragged and with but two minutes until halftime Bombadil and company ran right through the defense like water through a sieve, and the match was level.

The Armenelos supporters vented their frustrations on the Valinorean host committee. “That’s why they made us play here! They knew this would happen! This is ridiculous playing in conditions like this. It’s entirely unequal.” But the spectators near the section of Wights found themselves answered mockingly. “You good-guys are always making Orcs and Wights and such play games when the sun is high and shining down. This is no different. How does it feel?”

But Elros and company were not shaken as easily as the spectators, and they looked calm when they emerged for the second half. Soon it was clear that they had recovered and had adjusted their play to compensate. They were doing their best to avoid long runs, and were sharp and focused on their possession passing, sending the ball front to back, side to side, but withdrawing whenever they looked in clear danger of losing possession. After ten minutes of it the Downs began to turn up the pursuit, and attempting to force passes into traffic, and so Armenelos simply kept going all the way back to the rear. After a few more minutes of that the Downs, having only had possession for a couple minutes the entire half, decided to get much more aggressive, not even allowing the keeper to receive the ball without pressure. And that’s when Armenelos struck!

As if they were one unified being the whole team recognized the opportunity and acted accordingly. Atanamir sent it over to Telperien who sent it all the way to the middle to Ancalimon who ran to meet it and chipped it back to Tar Miriel who was rushing directly at him, and she immediately booted it forward over the defenders. Adunakhor, Pharazon, and Elros were all sprinting flat-out to catch up to it, and River Woman, GaladriWight and Lumpkin sandwiched between. When it fell Adunakhor managed to get in the way of River Woman and Pharazon leaped and faked a head-touch, which momentarily slowed Lumpkin and GaladriWight—just enough for Elros to dash past and receive the ball himself, and after one touch to slow it and one touch to set it he sent a perfect rocket to the right post and Alien had no chance for the save. Armenelos was into the lead once again!

Soon after word was passed around that just before the goal the folks at the western top had heard bells again—evidently Valimar had scored once more. But of course no one knew if it was 2-0 or 2-4, but the messenger eagle exiting the tower would soon know, as he was on his way down to Valimar to tell of Armenelos’ lead.

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When the eagle arrived to deliver his news he found that his beloved Valimar was in firm command, having just taken a 2-0 lead. It was Arien again doing the damage, this time off a feed from Vaire. As would be expected of a Manwe-led team (particularly one already as good as qualified and playing a likable foe) Valimar went into full defense after the second goal, content to hold their lead and confident they could do so. And even if Armenelos were to score a smashing victory and gain the top spot in the group, Valimar felt equally confident whether they were in the playoffs in the top of the bracket or the bottom.

But as time ticked away without any messages of further scoring at Ilmarin Field it seemed evident that Valimar would in fact take first in the group, and the home fans really grew excited, as they would have the opportunity to host the first round playoff match. All eyes went immediately to a messenger eagle when he arrived near the 75 minute mark, but he simply reported that Armenelos was still going full possession, but keeping the Downs honest with an occasional dash forward with a long pass, and they were smartly alternating the runners so as not to tire anyone.

When the clock went past 80 minutes fans began to talk seriously about buying tickets to the first-round match, but Havens was a proud team with good players and it turned out they wouldn’t go down without a fight. Finally Cirdan and Earendil managed to confound their marks with a spectacular one-two game from the left side, and Earendil drove it home as if he was stabbing a sword into Ancalagon. The fans applauded the goal, now somewhat nervous about losing their lead in the group (if Armenelos scored again), but the final minutes of both games passed without an event of import.

It was Valimar grabbing the first spot and Armenelos grabbing the second! And their fans celebrated far into the night….

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Armenelos 2-1 Barrow-Downs
on target 8-7
tot shots 16-15
GOALS:
*22, 1-0 Ar Pharazon
*43, 1-1 Bombadil (SPM)
*66, 2-1 Elros (TarMiriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Armenelos- TarAncalimon
*BDowns- LalwendeMP, Lumpkin

Havens 1-2 Valimar
on target 5-4
tot shots 11-9
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Arien (Namo)
*63, 0-2 Arien (Vaire)
*84, 1-2 Earendil (Cirdan)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Havens- Mithrelas
*Valimar-

---------  W-D-L   Pts  Score
Valimar    2-1-0   7    5-2
Armenelos  2-1-0   7    5-3
Havens     0-1-2   1    4-6
BDowns     0-1-2   1    3-6

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MESPN Exit Interviews

MESPN: Mr. Bombadil—how would you summarize the performance of your squad this year?
Bombadil: Well, derry-dol, it was a delight to play alongside my dear Goldberry, and I’m certainly looking to do so again!
MESPN: But what about your results? Are you pleased?
Bombadil: Results are what they are, and you can’t change them—you can just enjoy being here now. We earned what we got, but I think we can do better next time, my hearties!
MESPN: So you’re back next year?
Bombadil: Unless my lady Goldberry leaves, I can’t say that I will.
MESPN: Barrow-Wight, can you tell us where this squad is headed?
BWight: We were so low-budget that we made out with cash despite the early exit. You can bet we’ll be looking to spend some next year.
MESPN: Any targets?
BWight: I can think of a couple, but I’m not sure it’s appropriate to discuss them while they’re still playing with other squads in the tournament.
MESPN: We understand. Thanks a lot, guys.

MESPN: So guys—tough loss today.
Olwe: Yes indeed. Valimar is solid obviously, but we didn’t feel outclassed in this group. I think we were right there.
Falastur: Oh yes! It’s just an inch here and there that we need to scrape out and we’ll be into the playoffs again.
MESPN: Cirdan, do you think this squad looks the same next year?
Cirdan: Well, one can never promise, but given that we’re not horribly over-budget and very close to qualifying, I don’t see any radical changes on the horizon. I’m back certainly.
Olwe: And me as well.
Falastur: Me too.
MESPN: Any possible additions to shake things up that you already have in mind, or can you not say?
Falastur: Well, I can say I’ve had discussions with the other Gondorin ship-kings in the past, and one or two of them may have shown some interest.
MESPN: Well all right. Good luck, guys.

[Nogrod]

Group C at Menegroth & Neldoreth

The last round of group C was played at two marvellous venues: Real Valinor and Shire-Bree United would have their game at Neldoreth’s beautiful Holly Fields -stadium, while the home-team Doriath would face Hithlum in the “winner takes it all” -match home at Menegroth Arena.

To be fair, also Shire-Bree United had theoretical chances of qualification, but they were quite theoretical indeed. For Shire-Bree to qualify they would need to win Real Valinor with basically two goals more than with which Doriath would have to win Hithlum. Now both ideas, that Shire-Bree would beat Real Valinor or that Doriath would beat Hithlum, sounded a bit far-fetched to anyone who had seen the previous games or knew what kind of players different teams had on their rosters. It was true that Real Valinor had nothing at stake any more as they had already qualified, but even then it was not very probable they would take a lazy game in just before the important matches and risk losing their game-tempo & touch.

But the other game at “The Cave” in Menegroth was laden with expectation. Hithlum sure were the favourites by a mile, but there was still the fact that it would take Doriath just a win in that one game to qualify and leave Hithlum into the group-stage. Many at Menegroth had lost their hopes after the first two games that hadn’t gone as well they had hoped for, but realising the situation their hopes were rekindled: Hithlum were known as the tough offencive powerhouse but Real Valinor had been able to stop them (and Gondolin had been able to counter them in the friendlies!) – so why wouldn’t Melian be able to do that as well – and weren’t the Hithlum players more like their protegées than their masters?

Understandably then, the game with Doriath and Hithlum was the talk of the town and could have possibly sold double the tickets if there just had been room. Anyway, both arenas were sold to their capacity as the Holly Fields offered cheaper tickets in comparison to Menegroth Arena’s luxury-packages. Consequentually the game between Real Valinor and Shire-Bree also drew in those people who couldn’t afford tickest to Menegroth in the first place and though got their first sight of Arda Cup football this season in this last match of the group-stage.

The AKM will follow both games simultaneously as they deem it a good practise at this point of the tournament – even if there isn’t such a tight competition on group C where the results from the other game would dramatically alter the situation in the other game – or who knows?



Neldoreth

Shire-Bree must be given credit for their brave effort. Gandalf had somehow beaten the Nazgûls to show a fresh face and while Ferny had been left to play a more defending center-midfielder, Bandobras Took seemed to be all over the place causing harm to Real Valinor’s defences (well making Ingwion to run after him) as he would have been double the size and strength.

But to be honest, Real Valinor handled the early fury of the Shire-Bree offence with grace and sheer professionalism. The worst news to any Shire-Bree fans was the imminent fact how Nienna just diminished Gandalf – their top-scorer and soul of their game seemed small and insignificant beside his mentor – and totally unable to take the reins of the game to his hands. Meanwhile Tilion and Nahar made sure the Nazgûls were afraid of them enough to make them hesitate with the finishing of their offensives.

But that said: early in the game Shire-Bree was doing the game and Real Valinor was happy to hold it even. Many of the crowds cheered the underdogs for it – fair enough – while admiring the effectiveness of Real Valinor’s defence.

Menegroth

It has been often complained – with reason – that when the audience consists mainly of people with a lot of money to spend the atmosphere of the game suffers as the rich only want to “experience” the game-mood but are not willing to give their own effort to it by cheering, chanting or booing actively aka. creating that feeling they strive after. Many times it is true that it is the cheap parts of the stands that create the most noise and feeling to any game – and there were no cheap stands at “The Cave”.

But when the game began the stadium just burst with excitement. Even if the optimists of the home fans wished Melian could just shut the humans out, most of them realised it was a game of scoring as Hithlum would score a few anyway – so could Elwë keep on scoring, would Mablung rise to the occasion without Beleg, could Daeron or Saeros redeem themselves? There were so many questions in the fans’ heads…

And then there was a blunt answer from the field. A worst possible anwer, that is.

Túrin made Saeros look like a complete fool passing him with the age-old heeltrick, and using Hador as a wall, broke through the Doriath defences basically elbowing Nellas from his way – and just before facing Melian he shot the ball irresistibly past her – and past the reach of Dior – with such a force the spectators couldn’t but just hold their breath. Hithlum was in the lead with only nine minutes into the game.

Neldoreth

After the initial rush by the Shire-Bree, Real Valinor started to make some counterplay little by little and even if it didn’t seem like Real was making any effort the center of gravity started shifting.

At 17th minute Real Valinor earned a corner after a nice play by Nerdanel and Miriel where Halbarad just barely managed to tip the ball off the crossbar. Tilion gave a high corner towards Oromë who was marked by Gildor and Shadowfax – at the last moment Oromë ducked under the ball taking both defenders down with him – and the ball landed exactly to Nessa’s boot behind him. Some swore she had nodded to her brother in thanks before she shot the ball in. Be that as it may, it was a cool finishing and Real Valinor had taken the expected lead.

But Shire-Bree was not going to give up. On the contrary, it started to build more force to it’s attacks again and Real went into a more defending mode – just waiting for the fury to settle down it seemed.

Menegroth

Meanwhile at The Cave the homeside fans were getting even more anguished as Hithlum didn’t show any sign of being happy with the one goal lead but actually pressed their attacks forwards one after another.

Mablung did rekindle the hopes of the Doriath fans with his far-shot that swerved to miss the post with only a few inches but Hithlum called the shots most of the time. After Beleg had missed an almost certain goal to a questionable offside whistle by the linesman Elwing was forced to tackle speeding Húrin against the rules in the next Hithlum attack.

With the father and son behind the ball the defences were ready to take the hottest cannon-shot possible. While Túrin ran to the ball crossing left and Húrin trailing him crossing to the right the defences split to contain either shot – and no one quite realised Hador had sprinted forwards behind them; and after the two had jumped over the ball Hador booted it into the middle of the goal from the gap that had emerged.

With 24 minutes of the game Hithlum was leading already 2-0

Neldoreth

After Real’s goal the game felt pretty much the same it had when it started: Shire-Bree made a decent effort but Real Valinor kept them at bay with some ease – while at times they made a few pretty dangerous counter-attacks.

It was not that the Shire-Bree were totally excluded of chances but their quality was far inferior to Real. The news from Menegroth telling that Hithlum was leading already 2-0 didn’t cheer up the Shire-Bree team either.

Menegroth

With the second goal by the visitors Elwë and Melian brought their team together into a close ring. What was said there no one knows and the referees were forced to bring it down eventually as the clock was ticking. But what happened afterwards showed it worked…

For suddenly Doriath’s defences were like built from solid steel. With the help of Galadhon and Nellas they wrapped the Hithlum offences and contained them – just coolly shooting the ball away if no better solution was available. But they were also getting the ball forwards on many occasions: Mablung and Daeron were making the runs on both sides while Elwë was still keeping the middle but was clearly falling a bit backwards to feed the two more effectively – and when they were on offensive Melian would actually rise up to build the game almost beside her husband. Add to that the fact that Saeros was distracting both Túrin and Beleg in a major way, and the game started turning…

And just five minutes before the half-time the home team scored!

Melian gave a long pass from the center of the field to the left for Mablung who was rushing deep behind the defences. When Galdor and Gundor overtook him he passed it diagonally backwards to Elwë in the middle who passed it with one touch right-forwards to Daeron who got the Balrog on his neck – but fooling the beast totally by faking a shot he managed to return the ball just to the edge of the box for Elwë to rush in for.

You could see Singollo to take the shot from the bottom of his heart leaving Huor no chance whatsoever to pick it – and the ball was hammered to the upper-right corner of the goal, going there with the slight touch on the crossbar making the ball bounce violently downwards and rolling through the back of the net out and away from the goal. The crowds went wild and the sound of it was just perfect! The game was still on!

There was a huge effrot from the homeside the last five minutes before the half-time – an equalizer there would have changed the whole dynamics of the game for good. But they didn’t come closer than Mablung’s offside break-through and Daeron’s shot far and wide.


HALF-TIME


Neldoreth

The second half seemed to start like the first one with Shire-Bree building the first attack – with the news from Menegroth that Doriath was back in the game it felt like they had a chance anyway – but suddenly Real Valinor basically ended the game.

Nienna took the ball from Gandalf as easily as the proverbial adult takes a lollipop from a child’s hand. Real Valinor changed tempo and stamina in a fraction of a second just outpacing the Shire-Bree team. With the first pass Bandobras was near catching it from Quennar, Shadowfax was already a little late from Nessa receiving the ball in full speed, Gildor tried to slide to the pass coming to Miriel but ended up sliding into emptiness as Miriel had already gotten off – and the Fellbeast was far behind from Oromë when he hammered the ball in from close quarters leaving Halbarad no chance whatsoever.

The spectators were gasping. That was something they had never seen. And it probably was also what broke the Shire-Bree’s resistance for good.

Menegroth

Doriath came to the second half full of spirit and tried seriously to wrestle the game to the Hithlum side of the field – but Hithlum had decided it should go the other way. And finally the crowds at Menegroth could witness some really high-quality football with their own team involved.

The emotions were high. Morwen got a yellow card after assaulting Saeros who had been taunting Túrin for a long time kicking his heels everytime the referee didn’t see – and was only cooled down by Mablung and Beleg together… and Saeros getting carded as well. On the other hand it required all Melian’s skills to cool down Elwë when he had lost the ball to Húrin a few times in a row and Húrin had paid back with some self-righteous remarks on the matter.

It was an open game with Hithlum leading with 2 goals to 1 but Doriath really playing the best game of the season and making a real challenge.

Neldoreth

Like had been foreseeable, the pace of the game had fallen down after the 2-0 goal by Real Valinor and the virtuosity Real had shown – like if they want to, they score. But realising the situation that there were a lot of spectators watching the game at the first time since the tickets to Menegroth were so pricey both teams were clearly willing to give the crowds some entertainment, even if there was no real question as to which team would win the game. So with a kind of a common consent – which probably was never verbalized between the teams – both sides loosened their defences a bit and started trying some imaginative and / or brave ways to score resulting in a very entertaining game.

Gandalf actually hit the crossbar with a bicycle-kick from almost thirty meters – while Miriel and Nerdanel went through the Shire-Bree defences passing the ball to each other so that Miriel eventually passed the ball to Nerdanel even from in front of the empty net just to do a favour – and Shadowfax was able to cut it off at the last moment…

Even if there were no more goals the crowds were entertained to the full – and the game ended as it should have ended.

Menegroth

It was getting nerve-wrecking at the Cave. And many homeside fans swore why their team hadn’t shown this kind of game already in the earlier matches – sure Shire-Bree would have been just a bite for them with this play. But they were still trailing and the game was very even indeed.

Many think Huor at the goal is one of the weakest links of Hithlum team, but at least this day he made one of the saves of the round. Melian managed to free Mablung for a break-through but Huor made a reaction-save with his out-stretched left foot tipping the ball just slightly past the post. From the ensuing corner Huor fisted the ball confidentally away from Elwë who was rushing in for a header.

But Dior was also rising to his level on the other end of the field by denying Hador’s cannon from only fifteen meters (coming straight at him though – but anyway it was such a boot it could have pulled a lesser person with it inside the goal) and tipping Beleg’s close header just inches over the crossbar.

Túrin got his chance in the middle of the second half when Húrin freed him from the side of the box but his volley ran wide. A few minutes later Beleg ran the ball to the end of the field and centered the ball and Túrin dived to head the ball in – and Dior couldn’t pick it! His fingers did reach the ball but he was just that inch late and the power of Túrin’s header was such that it slipped between Dior’s fingers and went in.

With twenty minutes of the game remaining Hithlum was leading 3-1!

Hithlum-lead felt overwhelming but to the honour of the home team it must be said that they fought it to the bitter end – and their fans never gave up as long as there was time in the clock to be played. But to the even partially objective observer it was clear that Hithlum had the game in their control for the last twenty minutes, how much Doriath tried to come back to the game.

Doriath had made it a great match and forced Hithlum to perform their best – and many will say Hithlum got some invaluable practise on defending under pressure from it as the defence has been widely seen as their Achilles’ heel.


Results:

ShireBree United 0-2 Real Valinor
on target 3-6
tot shots 9-14
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Nessa (Tilion)
*47, 0-2 Orome (Miriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*SBUnt- Fellbeast#5
*RealV- Enerdhil

Doriath 1-3 Hithlum
on target 6-9
tot shots 14-18
GOALS:
*9, 0-1 Turin (Hador)
*24, 0-2 Hador
*40, 1-2 Elwe (Daeron)
*69, 1-3 Turin (Beleg)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Saeros, Galathil
*Hithlum- Morwen

Real Valinor	9	7-1	
Hithlum		6	8-5
Doriath		1	2-6
Shire-Bree Utd.	1	2-7

Real Valinor advances as C1
Hithlum advances as C2

[Boromir88]

GROUP D @ Dol Amroth and Pelargir

Both games in this final round of Group D were being played at the 2pm hour. A time when the sun would still be shining high in the sky and between the lunch and dinner hours for most fans attending. At Pelargir Park it would be FC Valinor vs. Barad-Dur. FC Valinor was assured qualification, but could still lose 1st place if Barad-Dur won. That would send a shock all around Arda though, as the stunning Valinoreans and Noldor have scored 6 goals and conceded 0. The only question seemed to be how much would FC Valinor want to beat Barad-Dur and thus make it easier for Gondor's qualification. And the 2nd match would be played in Dol Amroth, as the home team took on Isengard. Isengard's elimination was already assured, so the only question here, would they roll over, or would there be enough spirit infused by Sauron's minority ownership that makes things difficult for Gondor?

Pelargir

Pelargir Park was packed mostly with Umbarians and Orcs from Mordor who were there at Sauron's bidding. But several thousand Noldor were still around having booked tickets for the group (how could you pass up the show Curufin, Celegorm and company were putting on?) and hitched a ride on the large mobile stadium, that was parked in Pelargir for the round 1 games in Group F. There were also some Gondorians, fully behind the FC Valinor team with whole hearts, wanting to see a 3-0, 4-0 massacre.

It was a nightmare start to Barad-Dur. They were chasing FC Valinor's tailcoats. FC's movement, passing, and skill were just sublime and Barad-Dur was having a difficult time keeping up. Already in the 12th minute, Argon received a pass from Yavanna, he sidestepped the Fellbeast swooping down for the challenge and hit a rising blast over the diving Grishnakh.

Dol Amroth

In Dol Amroth the scoreboard lit up when FC Valinor scored, letting the massively pro-Gondorian crowd in Seaside Financial Field Barad-Dur was already losing and not even 15 minutes had gone by. The crowd bellowed melodious songs and cheers, hoping to boost Gondor's performance in their own match. Because while Barad-Dur wasn't likely to beat FC Valinor, Gondor entered the day with 1 goal, Barad-dur had 3, so they needed to not only win the match, but score some goals too.

Isengard wasn't doing anything against Gondor's stout midfield play, but their defense was playing with just enough drive to make it difficult on Gondor. "Come on!" yelled the anxious crowd "playing defensively might have been wise against FC Valinor but not in a must win match against Isengard!"

Gondor was controlling possession and finally took the initiative from the wild crowd cheering them on. Anarion hit the goal post, it had the Gondorians ready to burst and applaud the goal. With Anarion only rattled the woodwork, their joy dropped, but then Romendacil fought his way past Mauhur and cleaned up the rebound! Gondor had the lead, and a quick glance at the scoreboard showing the other match showed FC Valinor still held the 1-0 lead too!

Gondor wasn't done, the midfield was still controlling the majority of the possession and taking every opportunity to push forwards. Anarion, Romendacil and Eldacar were wreaking havoc in Isengard's defensive half and their defensive mid-fielders were stopping any sort of Isengard attack in their tracks. With minutes to go in the half, Meneldil took the ball from Grima and sent it immediatly to Anarion. Gondor was on the break and committed several bodies forward. Anarion passed it wide to Ciryandil who, in turn flicked a high ball to the other side of the field. Eldacar was able to chest it down and with Gondor able to switch up the point of attack within seconds. Eldacar only had Lugdush on the right side to beat. He easily sprinted past Lugdush and ran straight on goal, Ugluk was helpless and indecisive, and Eldacar gave Gondor the 2 goal lead right before the halftime whistle!

With Gondor playing exciting football for the final 15 minutes before half, the fans didn't stray their eyes off the field, nor see what was happening in the other match. So, what had been happening in Pelargir?

Pelargir

After the early goal, Barad-Dur was threatened by the fact this game could get out of control really really fast. Afterall in a span of 15 minutes they put up 3 goals on Isengard and in another quick period of time put up 2 on Gondor. Barad-Dur didn't have the athletes to run with FC Valinor's attack, nor did they have the solidity of a team organized midfield of Gondor. But don't underestimate Sauron's ability to find the right tactics and put his team in the best chances to succeed.

It was cleary early to Sauron if they tried to play FC Valinor like Isengard did, this was going to be a massacre. So after the early goal, Barad-Dur was a great offensive team from set pieces, but they showed to be a good defensive team as well. Sauron was done trying to chase Curufin and Celegorm around. If someone got beat...foul and make FC Valinor prove they'll have to score from free kicks or corners. Barad-Dur's midfield in particular, as soon as Yavanna, or Argon or one of the Feanorian sons sprinted by, they did just enough to trip them up and stop the action.

Unable to get into a smooth, rhymic attack, and with Sauron able to now set up his defense, FC Valinor was having a lot of trouble. The Valinoreans and Noldor were booing the referee, arguing it was clear what Barad-Dur was trying and thought players needed to be sent off for this type of unsporty play. But to the ref's eyes it appeared Barad-Dur was trying to make a play on the ball, and not just recklessly tripping FC Valinor players.

Whatever the case, the defensive strategy was working, as FC Valinor showed a weakness in scoring from set pieces, and Barad-Dur were experts not only creating goals from them, but defending them as well. Thus the half ended only in a 0-1 defecit for Barad-Dur. And taking into account the other game, both Gondor and Barad-dur were in a dead tie at the half: 4 points, 0 goal differential, and 3 goals scored each. If it stayed this way would that mean a shootout?

Although few fans thought based on what was at stake and the talent on the field, there were more goals to come in the 2nd. And there would be.

Staying in Pelargir, Sauron appeared to light a fire under his forwards during the break, because they had done nothing in the 1st half and how long would Sauron's new defensive tactics hold FC Valinor to 1 goal? Especially since the "foul to stop Celegorm and Curufin from getting into a passing rhythm" strategy risked getting a player sent off because a Fellbeast, Herumor, Angamaite and Beruthiel already had 1 yellow card from the first half.

So Barad-Dur furiously went all in upon FC Valinor's goal. Being unprepared by the sudden fury, were disorganized and slightly out of position, Thorondor came in late and fouled Beruthiel. It would be free kick about 7 meters out of the box. Beruthiel passed it wide to Castamir, but Maglor had him marked well and was running the Numenorean to the out of bounds. Castamir's angle had been cut off, but he somehow slid a pass between Maglor's legs. Then Sauron had cut inside Indis. Huan slid towards the near post, thinking Sauron would try to keep the ball low, but the Dark Lord cleverly flicked it over the diving hound. It was all level! And the Umbarian and Orcs went just wild. Simply wild.

Dol Amroth

So wild that when the packed crowd in Dol Amroth heard feint joyous screams (Dol Amroth stadium was relatively queit with the crowd being pleased by Gondor 2-0 lead and the 2nd half was just getting underway so many fans were still returning to their seats). They looked to see the bad news, Barad-Dur had actually come level with FC Valinor, which meant Gondor could win this game 5-0...it still wouldn't matter, Barad-Dur would have more points if they held onto the draw.

That news deflated the Dol Amroth crowd, who were now paying more attention to the other games scoreboard, hoping FC Valinor had the spirit to retake the lead, and not watching the fact that in Gondor's game Isengard was not ready to go away just yet.

Pelargir

After the thrilling game tying goal, Barad-Dur seemed to let up on the gas a bit, because the goal insured an excellent chance of Barad-Dur advancing. Sauron was still sticking to the defensive strategy of "foul an FC player when you're beat" though and he might have finally exposed a weakness with the FC team. They had trouble scoring when their superior speed and ball skills were neutralized by set pieces. If Barad-dur actually had some more invested talent, they may have just turned this game upside down and shocked the world.

But Barad-Dur's unsporty play did come back to hurt them. Not in getting one of their players sent off, but angering FC Valinor enough to make a more serious effort. Eventually in the 73rd minute, Celegorm and Curufin just plain outran Barad-Dur's defenders (and avoided the desperate tackles trying to stop them). Either one could have scored, but it was Celegorm giving it up to Curufin to reclaim the 1-goal lead.

Dol Amroth

Relief came to Dol Amroth after seeing FC Valinor quickly take back the lead, but it was still a precarious situation for Gondor. Barad-Dur now had 4 goals to Gondor's 3, so unless FC Valinor showed even more effort to increase their lead, Gondor needed another goal. They were hoping not to try to put their faith to advance on the whims of FC Valinor's ethics, and place it on their home team. But either Gondor decided to play the half more defensively, or they just believed Isengard wouldn't try to fight their way back.

Whatever the case, Isengard was showing quite a bit of spirit and found renewed spirit to play on. Maybe from Sauron's influence in Isengard's team? Who knows? 3 minutes after the crowd got a slight boost from seeing FC Valinor reclaim the lead, Saruman put a dagger in their heart. Isengard scored! How could this happen? They were eliminated...they had nothing to play for, yet they showed up with more passion and drive in the 2nd half than Gondor! Now Gondor would need another goal just to get back into a dead tie with Barad-Dur, or FC Valinor had to keep scoring goals while keeping Barad-Dur off the board (and that was less sure...I mean Barad-Dur already tied the game once!).

Pelargir

After the fantic beginning to the 2nd half and FC Valinor grabbed the lead again, the pace of the game really slowed down. FC felt assured of their 1st place spot (Barad-Dur scoring 2 goals in under 20 minutes, no way). And while Celegorm and Curufin were particularly annoyed by Barad-Dur's fouling strategy, Sauron called his team off. With the tempers soothed and FC Valinor having no need to spend energy for more goals, and tougher playoff battles on the horizon, FC Valinor in kind did not try to increase their lead. The game had been exciting, fans saw a lot of great play. The FC fans were in good moods because they had cleared the group with 9 points. The larger Barad-dur crowd were also feeling very good, their team gave everything FC Valinor could handle. Sauron had exposed a weakness, but just didn't have the talent to capitilize. Now they turned towards the scoreboard, hoping Isengard could hold the score at 1-2 in the final 10 minutes.

Dol Amroth

Gondor was frantic, their fans had chewed their fingers raw from anxiety. But Gondor was best when playing careful and methodically, not desperately trying to grab another goal. And Isengard was defending well, plus Ugluk who had seemed lost and out of position most of the time, was suddenly making leaping and strong armed saves. And then the ref blew the final whistle. No!!! That was it, it was over for Gondor. The small Isengard crowd marched out to a drum beat and chants. They were back to Isengard, and even if their team left with no points, they had not rolled over like most people had thought. They fought on to the end, even after that humilation against FC Valinor. Gondorians remained in the stadium, stunned and looking at the two scoreboards. Their team had won the match, but this had to be a terrible nightmare. They were going to wake up soon and somehow Gondor would be in the playoffs, Barad-Dur would be eliminated. But it was not a nightmare. Gondor was out.


Barad-Dur 1-2 FC Valinor
on target 3-7
tot shots 10-16
GOALS:
*12, 0-1 Argon (Yavanna)
*48, 1-1 Sauron (Castamir)
*73, 1-2 Curufin (Celegorm)
YELLOW CARDS:
*BDur- Angamaite, Sangahyando, Fellbeast#1, Beruthiel, Herumor
*FCVal- Thorondor, Argon

Gondor 2-1 Isengard
on target 7-3
tot shots 16-8
GOALS:
*35, 1-0 Romendacil (Anarion)
*44, 2-0 Eldacar (Ciryandil)
*76, 2-1 Saruman (Nazgul#5)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Ciryandil
*Isengard- Nazgul#5, Lurtz, Wulf, Beechbone

Final round...

Group D        W-D-L  Pts  GD
FC Valinor     3-0-0    9  +7
Barad-Dur      1-1-1    4  0
Gondor         1-1-1    4  -1
Isengard       0-0-3    0  -6

TTN's exit interviews with the captains of the eliminated teams; Isengard and Gondor will be out after all round 3 matches.

[Nogrod]

Group E at Erebor & Mirkwood

The last games of group E would be played at Mirkwod and Arkenstone Arena at Erebor. The hosting side Erebor would meet Misty Mountains at their home stadium inside Erebor while Wilderland would meet the already qualified Eriador at the stadium of the Enchanted River just south of the Elven road in Mirkwood.

The Mirkwood Stadium with it’s blueprint seats of different shapes and sizes and prespun webs for spiders hanging over it was once again crowded by a host of different creatures from ents to Nazgûl and elves to spiders.

The Eriador fans were facing a kind of a “first world problem”. With their own team already qualified – actually as the number one of the group – they could just enjoy the game. But if they thought about which other team they would wish to qualify most of them would have probably thought Wilderland with the bunch of elves and ents in its ranks. For even if the two other teams had great Eagles in them they were mostly composed of dwarves, men and creatures of darkness. But how to cheer for the team that is playing against your own team – or to really boo to them from the bottom of your heart if you want them to succeed rather than the two others playing another game far away?

For all the other teams and their fans it was a thrilling situation before the last games as every team had a chance to qualify – and not to. Before this round Wilderland had two points and Erebor and Misty Mts. one each. So if Erebor and Misty Mts. draw their game Wilderland could qualify even if it lost with one goal. But if either Erebor or Misty Mts. won the game between the two, that team would go to four points requiring Wilderland to win the game against Eriador to qualify.

What that means is that even if the main sight of both Erebor and Misty Mts. will be on just winning the game (and hoping Wilderland will not win Eriador), Wilderland will wish to score as many goals as possible in case of tied points. And looking at the perspective of a draw between Erebor and Misty Mts. they’d want to score a lot as well just to have a chance.

So every team but Eriador wishes to score as much as possible… and with teams whose philosophy in general is “outscore the opponent” facing this kind of a round, well there just couldn’t be better starting point for a last round, now could there?



Mirkwood

From early on it was clear both teams were starting it carefully – or then Eriador was just gracefully elegant in shutting Wilderland down. The farther the period went the more one started to think in the latter vein as the oftentimes wildly attacking Wilderland was plain denied their normal offensive game by Eriador’s tight defences. But focusing on that Eriador itself had only rare chances of making a difference in offence.

It was not exactly unentertaining, but Wilderland were just not willing to change gear in any definitive way in fear of opening a path for counteroffencives that might ruin their chances depending on what went on in the other game – and as long as it was a draw in the other game they would have been fools to take big risks early in the game.

Erebor

In a total mirror-image of the game in Mirkwood the one between Erebor and Misty Mountains was all fire and brimstone from the very beginning. No mercy was asked and none was given – and when the referees cut into the game it seemed both sides despised their efforts to create order – although they were only too happy to gain nice free kicks from good positions.

In the Erebor defence the great eagles Meneldor and Landroval were responsible for keeping Durin’s Bane at bay while Thorin Oakenshield insisted on keeping Azog in control… two great eagles against a great Balrog, or Thorin vs. Azog… it was some true wrestling of both physics and wills.

On the other end Misty Mts. played more of a position defence than guarding certain persons with Caradhras and Watcher closing the center and William the Troll and Gwaihir going around them trying to cut any passes inside the box or physically removing ones trying to come too near the center – and at times they were actually given strong support by the Great Goblin coming that much down to assist.. but even if they seemed to be insurmountable for the humans like Bard and Brand, Smaug and the Nazgûl didn’t seem to care but rushed through and beside them on their will – creating a lot of struggle and mayhem as they went. Just think of Smaug getting mad at Caradhras and then Caradhras retaliating Smaug’s offences…

It was not a game for the weaker souls – especially if one took in the stakes they were playing: the winner would qualify (most probably) and the draw would be bad and would require a game like 5-5 or something to give either team a chance of qualifying.

Mirkwood

Coming towards the half an hour marker the game was still even and Eriador was blocking Wilderland’s efforts mostly on the midfield while concentrating themselves on the few counterattacks – which were only quite dangerous at best. NogWight did boot one relatively good shot from about 25 meters but it went a meter wide and Glorfindel’s header from a corner got tangled in Skinbark’s boughs.

But as the other game was still 0-0 it would mean that Wilderland would follow Eriador into the qualifier games and thence the feeling was more or less reservedly easy – like both teams played it for real but then again didn’t.

Erebor

There was no sign of the leasurely pace of the game played in Mirkwood deep inside the lonely mountain.

On 27th minute Narvi and Rumil played themselves sneakily inside the box past the Eagles but Thorin was there to greet the two and cut the last pass that would have let Narvi to score from in front of an empty net. The two dwarves nodded to each other courteously but there was no friendship there as this was a game of life and death.

From the next offence to the other end Nazgûl #7 got the ball on the corner of the box while pressed by Gwaihir. With a sneaky backwards-pass he managed to draw the great Eagle with him and away from the ball for the short monent for Smaug to sniff the situation: grasping the ball with his right wing while curving sharply to the left he managed to pass the Watcher. Meeting Caradhras Smaug crashed head on to the mountainside while dribbling the ball from his right wing to his left and giving it a hammer-like blow Chief Wolf had no chance of getting as he had no line of sight for it behind Caradhras.

The Lonely Mountain burst with cheers so loud it felt the whole place was indeed trembling. Erebor had taken a step forwards to qualify!

Mirkwood

After the new situation from Erebor was announced at the stadium of the Enchanted River in Mirkwood it got Wilderland to suddenly burst into a totally different fight. With Erebor leading the other game Wilderland was suddenly blocked from the qualification. The abrupt change of gear created problems for team Eriador and they seemed to struggle with accomodating themselves to the new pace set by their opponents. With the roar of the crowds of local Silvan elves, Noldor, ents, huorns, and dark creatures of every kind Eriador supporters found themselves outnumbered for good- and the balance of the game suddenly shifted.

For a while Wilderland managed to break the hedgehog-defences of Eriador with their fervour – and that was enough for them. After a few unsuccesful efforts Thranduil finally found Scatha parking in front of the Eriador goal with Gil-Galad sadly late from his duties and Asfaloth only beginning to gallop that way.

Even Elrond’s skills were no match against the Great Worm from close quarters – and the impressive tail-swing almost broke the net. It was 1-0 for Wilderland and they had a tight grip on the qualification again! It’s probably needless to say the crowds were just going crazy.

But after the goal Eriador kept their calm and concentrated firstly on avoiding any more setbacks from the now very self-confident opponent – and Wilderland was not able to capitulate their high and finally even they looked at the clock and shared the hope of retreating to the half time with these numbers and not ones worse than these.

Erebor

After Smaug’s goal the game had become even more rough as Misty Mts. was having none of losing and Erebor would not give in an inch of their precious lead… but with about ten minutes to go of the first half the news from Mirkwood kind of changed it all.

Wilderland was leading – and Eriador was not known of scoring a lot anyway – so was all their struggle in vain? Was Eriador giving in purposefully aiding some of their friends in Wilderland to qualify against all of us in the field here? That kind of things should not make a difference for professional players but it clearly did – and the last ten minutes the intensity of the game just collapsed even if no one kind of meant it to collapse. Somehow the energy was gone.



HALF TIME



Mirkwood

It was clear Wilderland was looking at the other game and came for the second half with a much easier pace playing through the defence first – so unlike you’d anticipate from them. But it was a wise tactics for by keeping their lead they’d win the game and secure their qualification whatever happened in the other game

Eriador was not going to attack like maniacs either but played it safe and sound like they tend to play. But with the slight passiveness of team Wilderland Eriador actually started to get a hold of the game a little by little. Eriador was not a team that would lose purposefully but they wouldn’t over-stretch their attack either without thinking of the defence first.

Erebor

Misty Mountains had gathered all their will-power during the half-time and came to the second half blazing with fire and brimstone. They were attacking again like madmen more or less totally ignoring their defence with only a goal in mind – and thence hopefully starting the fight for the qualification for new.

Erebor had anticipated an effort from the Misty Mts. but with Wilderland leading the other game they were not in their greatest spirits and thought the other team would be in the same mind-set – and were totally unready to answer to the total onsalught by their opponents. With the aid of their homecrowds they slowly started to pick up on their defence and to pull together but it was exactly then – at the worst possible time – that Misty Mts. equalised.

And in what a way it happened! Durin’s Bane forced himself to the goal and finally got a pass from Azog drawing all the defenders to him - but he passed the ball backwards after seeing there was a clear shot for Rumil who ran in and booted it with all his might leaving Beorn quite helpless with it. And so the Lórien elf silenced the whole Lonely Mountain – except the fans of Misty Mts. who were going crazy with the equalizer!

Wilderland was still going to qualify but if there would be a change in the game between Eriador and Wilderland, then Misty Mts. was back in the game again. They had no say in the other game, but they were doing their part – and many in the audience started to fear the home-team was not… now where was their effort to fight?

It is a rare thing dwarves or the darker creatures pray for the elves to score – but now everyone at th4e Arkenstone Arena was crossing their fingers for Eriador to come back to the game in Mirkwood.

Mirkwood

Meanwhile back in the jungle… well forest, Wilderland kept on defending their lead with Eriador slowly but firmly pressing the game to the Wilderland half of the field. But compared to the match played in Erebor the energy and the tempo of the game was probably not even half of that.

Erebor

At 64th minute Bolg gets a second yellow card and is immediately shown a red by the referee! The home team or their fans can’t just quite understand what happened. Thorin is close to gain a yellow card himself running after the referee and complaining wildly – happily for Thorin the referee didn’t see him going to Bolg and punching him straight in the face after being forced away from the referee by his team mates.

But the row had started… The dwarves were booing both to the referee and Bolg – and well to goblin-spectators as well. The goblins were naturally taking none of it but jumped on the dwarven supportets. In no time the fight spread all over the stands.

It was finallly suppressed by the Eagles, Smaug, Durin’s Bane and Caradhras – together with some of their kin from the audience picking up a policing duty. Only a few dwarves and goblins were foolish enough to try and continue rebelling facing that kind of “peace officers”. After th last rebel-rousers had been kicked off from Erebor the game was ready to continue – although in a quite a reserved mood.

Mirkwood

Eriador had the command of the game now but they were not raining offences towards Wilderland but rather building the attacks slowly controlling the game to their liking.

And sure it had been a question of time Eriador evened the game… and it was a neat combination as well.

Arador sent a cross from the left towards NogWight who was breaking in from between the ents – but seeing Isildur on the move diagonally behind him NogWight let the ball go through as he was in a too tight a position between the ents. As soon as the other defenders realised it they instinctively turned towards Isildur – which meant that also Radagast from the right took the lean towards the son of Elendil only to realize that Glorfindel had time to make that extra inch from behind him to reach the one-timer pass from Isildur’s boot – and to head it in!

All those in the audience appreciating football were thrilled with the smooth team effort and neat execution of the goal – but most booed to it as with that goal Wilderland’s chances of qualification were yet again a goal away, against a team that looked like it was superior on every front and annoyingly confident.

Erebor

With the news from Mirkwood The Arkenstone Arena just burst alive after few minutes of tension and nervous anticipation. The game was on again! But the homeside was one player short!

Oh, the anguish of the home-crowd! Now it was all up to their own team and they were shorthanded!

Despite their lack of a player Erebor started pressing heavily towards the Misty Mountains defences creating the most dangerous chances of scoring with Smaug booming a “winger” just over the crossbar and Bard forcing Chief Wolf into a parade save tipping it wide by an inch.

Mirkwood

Wilderland was in between the rock and the hard place. And they decided they’d try to break through. With the leadership of Scatha and Thranduil they forced their attacks on only to find themselves contained just half-way between the center and the box. Eriador was just too good in containing their passing lines.

With Isildur and Glorfindel mainly hanging around the center ready to take a run Wilderland was not able to rise all their players up – but with Arveleg, Arador and NogWight running around to intrude the one with the ball Wilderland found little time or space to build up anything either as Eriador’s defences held their lines admirably close preventing any clear lines for passing.

And so it ended. Eriador allowed Wilderland to take one point with them but the still qualified as team number one from group E – and that was enough for them. Wilderland’s fate would be up to the other game then – which was running late now because of the incident with Bolg’s red card.

Both the crowds and Wilderland players were keeping their breath after the ending whistle for any news from the other venue…

Erebor

83 minutes on the clock! Erebor is pressing on with the attack – Brand takes a shot! And it is headed out by Caradhras.

A corner. Bard gives a swerwing ball into the middle. William heads it upwards beating Nazgûl #7 for it. Orophin dives before Dain and kicks the ball forwards with a one-timer before the ball comes down humiliating the dwarf with shooting it from above the dwarve’s head.

For a moment everyone just watches the ball go high and towards the Erebor side of the field – and Beorn starts jogging towards the midfield to catch it as to play it back as soon as possible.

Suddenly there is this odd feelling of something being going on even if you didn’t quite know what was it. Meneldor and Landroval shrieked at the same time and took it to their wings rushing high up.

A shadow went past the arena and there was a hissing sound coming from nowhere only to sweep across the field before anyone could react but the two Eagles who were sudenly seen diving behind their leader playing on the opposite side.

Gwaihir was diving down with speed only a few spectators could follow beaking the ball in front of him as he dived (the AFA rules denied flying creatures to carry the ball while airborne) and after passing Beorn who was just emerging as a bear to reach farther Gwaihir winged the ball towards the goal some thirty meters from it. Narrowly escaping a clash Landroval shrieked and took off while Meneldor dived after the ball… he managed to hit the ball with the tip of his right wing diving towards it just in front of the goal – but it was not enough! It changed the trajectory of the ball but didn’t prevent it from going inside the goal.

Misty Mountains were leading! Just six minutes before the final whistle – and they had one player advantage… which they held into. And Misty Mountains qualified in front of the astonished home crowds.

The violent clashes between the dwarves and goblins after the game are a story of their own not touched upon here but it looks doubtful Erebor will be hosting any games in near future because of what happened.

But it was clear Bolg was not welcome to Erebor any more – and some even whispered he had made it on purpose and was thus not only a clumsy and violent freak but also a willing traitor who would be hunted down if ever seen near Erebor.

Be that as it may, Erebor was out.


Results:

Erebor 1-2 Misty Mts
on target 5-7
tot shots 14-14
GOALS:
*28, 1-0 Smaug (Nazgul#7)
*53, 1-1 Rumil (DBane)
*84, 1-2 Gwaihir (Orophin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Erebor- Thorin, Bolg, Meneldor
*MMts- Watcher, William, Rumil, Azog
RED CARDS:
*Erebor- Bolg (64, second yellow)

Eriador 1-1 Wilderland
on target 3-4
tot shots 10-11
GOALS:
*34, 0-1 Scatha (Thranduil)
*70, 1-1 Glorfindel (Isildur)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eriador- Araphant
*Wilder- Nazgul#3, Imin

Eriador		7	4-2
Misty Mts.	4	5-5
Wilderland	3	6-6
Erebor		1	4-6

Eriador advances as E1
Misty Mountains advances as E2

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

1945 Western Beleriand Time:
Good evening, and welcome to the first ever Tar-Eldar Network Television double minute-by-minute coverage.

1945:
We shall be covering the final Group B games in Gondolin: AC Beleriand vs Dwarves United at Tumladen Park, and Inter Beleriand vs Gondolin at the Stadium on the Rock.

1947:
Both stadiums are packed, and have been so for hours. As expected, the home supporters outnumber the Inter fans almost two-to-one at the Stadium on the Rock, and AC Bel fans own slightly more than half of Tumladen Park.

1948:
For fans who weren’t able to buy tickets, a giant screen has been set up just outside the old Ondolindë Stadium, displaying both games. Over a hundred thousand viewers of various sympathies have already set up camp before it.

1948:
What could happen in this group? Well, anything. The most unlikely scenario is AC Beleriand being eliminated, but it is still possible, if Dwarf U beat them by three or more goals and Inter win the other tie.

1950:
An Inter win would secure their advance, unless they win narrowly, Dwarf U win by two goals, and AC Bel score at least once to give them more total goals scored. They can get top seed if AC Bel lose by two or more goals, and they beat Gondolin by the same (or greater) difference.

1951:
Dwarf U’s advance is more fraught; they have to win, and hope Inter don’t win, unless they can win by two or more goals.

1951:
Any positive Dwarf U result would end Gondolin’s hopes. A Dwarf U loss and a Gondolin win would secure their advance.

1952:
With everyone expecting the Dwarves to be hammered by Fëanor and company, most eyes will be on the Stadium on the Rock. Tuor was right; there is still all to play for. But, of course, some have underestimated the Dwarves before, too, and it has led to grief for Wilderland and Anduin.

1954:
The projected formation sheets for both games:


[AC Beleriand in red and white; Dwarves United in black and white.]

~*~*~


[Gondolin in blue and white; Inter Beleriand in blue and yellow]

1955:
All four teams walk into the pitch and were welcomed by a deafening roar, sure to be heard outside the Encircling Mountains. Fëanor looks totally focused as he shakes hands with Aulë. Maeglin’s facial expression is unreadable as he shakes hands with Maedhros.

1957:
The stadiums are now rocking; chants, cheers, and drums reverberate within the walls. Blue and white banners flutter around the walls of the Stadium of the Rock.

1959:
It’s a minute before the opening whistle is blown. All four teams take up positions on their respective pitches.

1’ The opening whistle is blown.

3’ Tumladen Park
AC Beleriand seem to be breaking out their patient passing game in preparation for the knockout stage. They set up camp outside the Dwarf U penalty box, but they are in no hurry to breach its defences, probing for weaknesses with quick passes from wing to wing.

6’ Stadium on the Rock
Meanwhile, Gondolin have already created the first chance of the evening—Elemmakil beat Haleth and Baragund to the byline and sent in a cross, but Haldad and Gorlim bodied Tuor and Maeglin well, and Turgon claimed the cross easily.

10’ Stadium on the Rock
That was almost disastrous for Gondolin. Salgant dallied too much in possession, and Beren took the ball from him. He got as far as outside the penalty box before firing narrowly over.

16’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Tuor! (1-0 Gondolin)
Maeglin managed to distance himself from Forweg’s dogged marking and played the ball to Tuor near the arc. With the Inter defenders and Turgon expecting Tuor to pass back to the Sharp Boot, he surprised everyone by turning on Haldad and smashing it home past a rooted Turgon.

17’ Stadium on the Rock
Inter might be regretting sitting deep and allowing Tuor a foothold close to the box. They’ve never played against a target man like him before.

25’ Tumladen Park
Yellow card Celebrimbor.
The other game is heating up. Aegnor created a bit of space between himself and Celebrimbor, and the crafts-Elf extended an arm to block his low cross for a breaking Eöl. Aegnor took the free kick, but Aulë managed to head it clear.

30’ Stadium on the Rock
Baragund came close to grabbing the equaliser for Inter! Beren played in Fingon, but Galdor managed to recover and come between him and the goal. Unnoticed by everyone, right-back Baragund advanced deep into Gondolin’s half and took Fingon’s backheel pass just outside the box. His dipping drive had Rog beat but sailed just wide.

31’ Tumladen Park
Gimli almost scores the opener for Dwarves United! Azaghâl intercepts an Eöl through ball and sends a long pass behind Imlach and Rochallor, who were just a few metres behind the halfway line. On comes Legolas to claim the pass, but Marach rushes out of his box to head the ball clear—towards the feet of Gimli! The Dwarf’s shot from near the halfway line sails just inches above the crossbar. A bullet dodged by AC Bel, and a missed opportunity for the Dwarves.

38’ Tumladen Park
Goal Balrog #4! (1-0 AC Beleriand)
The two AC Bel full-backs, who have never been on the scoresheet in 2013, created this goal. Fingolfin easily beat Telchar and sent a float cross into the Dwarf U box. With Eöl, Fëanor, and Angrod in the penalty area, Dwarf U’s defenders didn’t notice Balrog #4 dash in from the other wing to volley in Fingolfin’s cross past Galadriel.

39’ Stadium on the Rock
A cheer echoes around the stadium as they hear the news of the other game. As things stand, Gondolin would advance due to their head-to-head advantage over Inter (since they are tied on points, goal difference, and goals scored.)

41’ Stadium on the Rock
Yellow card Egalmoth.
Lúthien Tinúviel was too fleet-footed for the Leader of the Heavenly Arch. She easily dribbled past Egalmoth and was about to get to the byline when she was tackled from behind by the Gondolin right-back.

42’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Maedhros! (1-1 Inter Beleriand)
Beren took the free kick. His dangerous inswinger had Rog and company focused on the near post action, but a simple cushioned header from Maedhros redirected the ball into the net off the far post.

45’ The halftime whistle is blown.
AC Beleriand were comfortable in their game—Dwarves United managed only 31% of possession and two shots in the first half. In the other game both teams were as patient in possession as they possibly could, considering their situation—Inter tried to run their attacks through Beren, while Maeglin was the creative hub of Gondolin. Neither team has played long balls to their target men yet, but with Inter abandoning their deep defensive line and challenging the midfield, expect both teams to try to bypass the increasingly crowded centre of the pitch.

46’ The second half begins.

47’ Stadium on the Rock
Yellow card Gorlim.
The Inter centre-back is penalised for a studs-up challenge on Maeglin. Tuor won a long ball from Salgant and knocked it down for Maeglin, who dribbled away from his marker Haldad. Gorlim slid in to try to stop Maeglin’s forward run, but the referee adjudged that his tackle was dangerous. Gondolin gained a promising free kick near the penalty arc.

48’ Stadium on the Rock
Maeglin failed to get sufficient dip on his free kick and the ball sailed harmlessly over Turgon’s goal.

51’ Tumladen Park
Look at Legolas go! Aulë cleared a Fingolfin cross, and the ball landed near Gimli, who played a perfect through pass for a sprinting Legolas. But with Rochallor quick to recover and Marach covering the angles, the Silvan Elf elected to make the ball bounce off the horse’s hoof and past the byline. Corner kick Dwarves United.

52’ Tumladen Park
Superb Aulë header, and impressive Marach save! Gamil Zirak took the corner and the Vala rose highest to thump the ball into the net, only to be denied soundly by Marach. Imlach was first to the clearance and booted it as far from the penalty area as he could.

58’
Both games have calmed down right around the hour mark. AC Beleriand patiently keep possession around Dwarf U’s penalty area, looking for that open lane or patch of space through which to deliver a fatal blow, and Dwarves defend grimly, knowing that they won’t see much of the ball and must make every chance count. Meanwhile, at the Stadium on the Rock, the game turned into a midfield slog of pressing, failed through balls, tackles, and errant passes. Rog and his defenders remain hopeless at sending an accurate long ball towards Tuor’s head, while Maedhros is well marked by Penlod, who challenged him to every header.

61’ Stadium on the Rock
Yellow card Forweg.
Maeglin is all over the pitch, helping in the midfield battle then dashing forward in possession. Forweg and Hunthor are unable to deal with Maeglin and Duilin’s pressing, playing errant passes and conceding possession too easily.

In one such sequence, Maeglin got between Hunthor’s pass to Forweg, and the latter tugged on the Sharp Boot’s arm as he attempted to dribble forward. The free kick was conceded from middle of the pitch and is of little consequence, but with Forweg less able to tackle with abandon for fear of a second booking, Gondolin will slowly gain advantage in the centre of the pitch

66’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Maeglin! (2-1 Gondolin)
Duilin’s perfectly weighted pass, Maeglin’s exquisite volley, and Tuor’s intelligent dummy run—it seems that everything’s clicking in Gondolin’s offence. Duilin took on an increasingly timid Forweg, forcing Haldad to advance from the defence to stop him. Tuor then made a run towards the near post as if to receive a cross, dragging Gorlim away from the centre. Maeglin then had a clear path to make a run and volley in Duilin’s chipped ball over the defence, with Lúthien arriving too late to stop him.

70’ Stadium on the Rock
While the other game seems to have settled into a lull, Inter almost immediately replied to Maeglin’s goal. Beren dribbled almost the length of the field before Salgant closed him down. He fired a lateral pass to a charging Lúthien, who dribbled her way past Idril and cut inside just as Egalmoth stepped up to challenge her. With Maedhros and Fingon occupying the centre-backs, she found space to shoot a curler that Rog managed to bat away.

76’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Fingon! (2-2 Inter Beleriand)
And we’re right down to the wire, folks! It was a standard Inter play executed at high speed. After dispossessing Idril, Beren and Lúthien passed their down the left wing, as if taking a stroll to Angband. Lúthien crossed for Maedhros, who managed to beat Penlod to the header. His knockdown connected perfectly with his best friend’s foot, and Fingon volleyed in a rocket past a frozen Rog.

77’ Stadium on the Rock
The Inter fans are taking over the stadium, making a lot of noise. The home supporters are nervous in their seats, snacking on their fingers. AC Bel still hold a lead over Dwarf U with little time left, so a goal scored by Gondolin could still turn their fortunes. Would it come in time?

78’ Tumladen Park
Yellow card Telchar.
A late challenge on Fingolfin three metres from the left corner of the Dwarf U box was deemed bookable by the referee. Telchar tried to help the Noldor High-King up and apologised gruffly for his dangerous tackle. Fingolfin patted the Nogrod smith in the back in reply.

79’ Tumladen Park
Goal Fëanor! (2-0 AC Beleriand)
It’s all over but the whistle for Dwarf U. Aegnor’s free kick hit the wall, but Fëanor had the alacrity to get to the rebound quickly as the wall scattered. With Galadriel unsighted, she was unable to get to his pinpoint strike and the lead now seems insurmountable for Aulë’s team with so little time left.

82’ Stadium on the Rock
Yellow card Penlod and penalty for Inter.
Is this the dagger for the home side? Beren’s drive from twenty-five metres ricocheted off Penlod’s knees and hit his arms. He then argued with the referee that he was trying to get his hands out of the way, but the referee would have none of it and pointed to the spot. If Inter scored here, Gondolin would need two goals to advance.

83’ Stadium on the Rock
Fingon took the penalty, but Rog guessed correctly and saved it! Fingon got to the rebound first but Rog managed to tip it away to Penlod, who sent a long ball forward.

84’ Tumladen Park
Goal Ulrad! (3-0 AC Beleriand)
AC Beleriand had enough time to add to their lead, with the outlaw taking Eöl’s backheeled pass after a solo run. Ulrad’s drive proved too fast for Galadriel to handle, and it’s all but certain that last year’s bronze medallists are advancing as first seed.

84’ Stadium on the Rock
Goal Tuor! (3-2 Gondolin)
Marvellous! Fantastic! It was footballing drama at its finest, as tears turn to jubilation before the home supporters! After Rog’s miraculous double save against Fingon, Idril took Penlod’s long clearance and dribbled the length of the pitch against a disorganised Inter defence. She crossed for her husband in the box, and Tuor rose to fire a thunderous header past his despairing father-in-law.

84’ Stadium on the Rock
The crowd goes wild! Tuor carried Idril in his arms and ran before the home supporters, who chanted their names in response.

86’ Stadium on the Rock
Inter pushed for an equaliser, but Gondolin was equal to them. Aranwë had got in the way of a Fingon long-range drive, and Penlod beat Maedhros to every header.

90’ The full time whistle is blown.
Gondolin advance! Inter are left behind once again by the closest of margins! Heartbreak for Fingon and Maedhros; joy and hope for Tuor, Idril, and Maeglin. What would Inter do in the long offseason ahead of them?

In the other game, it was a professional performance from the red-and-white squad, as Fëanor’s AC Beleriand stamp their domination on Group B. The Dwarves almost played spoiler to the home team’s hopes, but their losses against both Beleriand squads prevented them from repeating last year’s surprise.

Exit interviews shall be provided in The Matchday episode next week.

AC Beleriand 3-0 Dwarves United
GOALS:
38, 1-0 Balrog #4 (Fingolfin)
79, 2-0 Fëanor (Aegnor)
84, 3-0 Ulrad (Eöl)

Total Shots:
16-7
Shots On Target:
8-2

YELLOW CARDS:
1-2
ACB: Rochallor
DWU: Celebrimbor, Telchar

~*~*~

Inter Beleriand 2-3 Gondolin
GOALS:
16, 0-1 Tuor (Maeglin)
42, 1-1 Maedhros (Beren)
66, 1-2 Maeglin (Duilin)
76, 2-2 Fingon (Maedhros)
84, 2-3 Tuor (Idril)

Total Shots:
17-21
Shots On Target:
7-9

YELLOW CARDS:
2-2
INB: Gorlim, Forweg
GDN: Egalmoth, Penlod

--------------- W-D-L Pts GD
[1]AC Beleriand 3-0-0  9  +6
[2]Gondolin     1-0-2  3  -1
Inter Beleriand 1-0-2  3  -1
Dwarves United  1-0-2  3  -4

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference
[1]: team secured first seed
[2]: team secured second seed

[the phantom]

Group H @ Amon Hen

A few folks here and there complained about Arda Cup’s “special consideration” for Group H. Why shouldn’t they have to play the final round simultaneously like everyone else? Well, obviously, it was because the Amon Hen Coliseum was unlike any other arena, and so the seating disparity that would exist between them and the alternate site would be enormous. While this could indeed provide an advantage to the squads playing the second match, it had been done in this fashion for the past few years, thus it wasn’t without precedent.

The first match pitted the Dunedain of the north against the horse-lords. Since Rohan was nearer, and because the Gondorians were their fast friends, doubtless Rohan would have the lion’s share of crowd support, but they’d also be smart enough to know that a Rohan victory would more likely help Mordor than their own Rohan. MESPN correspondent Arvagil, who especially covers squads from Eriador, had this to say: “I expect if Arnor has the lead in the second half the Gondorian portion of the crowd may go over to their side. They’ll realize that Rohan can’t advance at that stage, and so they’ll wish for an Arnorian victory in order to block Mordor’s chances.”

And what were Mordor’s chances? They’d looked impressive against Rohan, and then held the lead against Arnor until the final 15, when Arnor scored twice. But Anduin had been the class of the group thus far, defeating Arnor solidly by two and then grabbing a two-goal lead on Rohan and sitting on the lead for most of the second half. But—if Rohan and Arnor tied in the first game, or even if Rohan won by less than 4 goals, suddenly the door would be open for Mordor to advance with only a draw…

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For the final set of games of Group H, the Coliseum was filling to the brim. A few odd extra boats from up and downstream were expected for the final round, but far more showed up with Anduin poised to win the group, which would mean that they would also host the first round of playoffs at Amon Hen, thus folks figured they could catch the final round and be on-site to be first in line to purchase tickets for the first round of the playoffs.

The teams from Rohan and Arnor looked grim and determined as they prepared for the match. They weren’t on bad terms with one another at all, but they weren’t exchanging any smiles or hugs, as they were fully set to give no quarter, as both had a shot of advancing to the playoffs.

The crowd was expecting Rohan to be aggressive from the outset since they were the ones with the most ground to make up in the standings, but it was Arnor that took the initiative from the get-go. They left behind their usual caution and possession and made some riskier passes forward, and tried to give Witch King and company chances to force the action. Hama and the horses at the back staved them off decently, but after Witch King made a nice touch and sent a quick pass that yielded a surprise drive from Araphor that rattled the goalposts, Theoden called in for some defensive help. The Rohan supporters smiled—their team preferred to play defense first anyway, and if Arnor wanted to leave themselves open at the back, that was fine with them.

Things were suddenly tougher going for Arnor, but they were well-schooled and went to work against Rohan, now playing it more carefully and working their whole team up in support, and one-touching it around close quarters with precision. After 10 minutes of work they earned themselves an Elendil header off a corner and a pretty re-direct from Arantar, but Theoden had them both played perfectly. But the Rohan fans were getting uncomfortable now, as their team hadn’t shown them anything. They were under assault, and looked to be withering.

And at minute 33 it finally happened—Witch King and Araphor managed a series of passes on the left side that scared Rohan enough to shift over, and immediately Araphor sent a ball pinpoint right through to the right side where Argeleb one-touched it back into the middle of the spinning defense and Arassuil met it in stride and fired it through a lane, and Theoden didn’t see it in time to react. Arnor had the lead!

When things got rolling again Arnor looked like they were going right back to work, but Hama sprawled out to tip away a pass and Snowmane immediately hoofed it forward where King Dead got a hold of it and served it out in front of Faramir and Eowyn, and only a sliding Malbeth forcing Faramir to take his shot out of rhythm kept the equalizer from happening, as the boot didn’t have quite enough on it and Arvedui made a heroic save. The Arnor fans sighed and then laughed it off, certain they’d be back in control soon, but the team on the field took things more seriously. After a brief meeting between Elendil and Witch King things were back under way, and Arnor was no longer attacking. They were possessing and time-wasting, and when Rohan had it they fell back swiftly, and that’s the way they finished the half.

During the break the crowds debated what would happen in the second half. Rohan needed to attack, that much was obvious, but what would Arnor do? They had so much success early on attacking, so why not keep doing it? Particularly if Mordor happened to win, they needed goals to catch them in differential. But others said that the strategy they’d settled on to end the half would continue—Arnor had been spooked that they’d lose their lead too quickly, and if they could just draw things out for a bit they’d almost certainly get a draw, and then bank on Anduin defeating Mordor.

When the second half started, it seemed the more conservative fans were correct—Arnor was playing it cautious. For the first ten minutes or so Rohan seemed downright surprised, and then seemed to struggle to adjust, but finally Faramir had the soldiers whipped into shape and Rohan started looking like the mirror image of Arnor from the first half. But the main difference is that they had no Witch King—the way he unnerves mortals is something that, while subtle, is a nice bonus, but Rohan had to earn their chances more honestly.

At around 60 minutes Rohan began to get desperate and they started taking any decent looking shot they got. They managed to put several on target and made Arvedui move, but none of the shots were close enough to truly be threatening. At minute 80 they completely muffed a corner, sending it clean over everyone, and at that point Theoden decided to shut things down. They simply didn’t have enough time to score enough goals to qualify, and if they didn’t qualify, they’d rather Arnor get in than Mordor, so rather than try desperately for the draw they elected to just whittle the time away.

Elendil accepted the turn of events graciously, and appeared to share a knowing look with the Witch King. Perhaps they had even expected the surrender slightly sooner. But better late than never. Arnor had the victory. They owned six points, and would have to wait and see what happened between Mordor and Anduin in the evening. An Anduin win or draw would send them forward, while a Mordor win would leave them out in the cold (unless they won by four goals, which was inconceivable).

Arnor 1-0 Rohan
on target 4-5
tot shots 12-14
GOALS:
*33, 1-0 Arassuil (Argeleb)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Arnor- Earendur
*Rohan- KingDead

When the evening match between Anduin and Mordor was ready to roll there were close to 200,000 ready to watch. There was a large contingent of Orcs and creepy-crawlies to support Mordor, but the Anduin supporters made them look like nothing in comparison. Groups of Elves from Lothlorien and Mirkwood were for them, the men of the Anduin vales were for them, the Gondorins were for them, and the Arnor and Rohan supporters would also be pulling for Anduin.

But what sort of game would the home side have to offer? So long as they didn’t lose by four goals they had a ticket to the playoffs, so how much did they care about winning this contest? Was there any chance that they had a preference on facing either Valimar or Armenelos in the first round? Most agreed that the opportunity to host their game was too good to pass up, so surely they’d at least try for a draw. And quite a few thought they’d prefer to lock Mordor out of the playoffs as well and let the Arnorians in instead, so surely they wouldn’t be rolling over.

When the refs got the game started though it didn’t look like Anduin was interested in taking the game to Mordor. They didn’t seem to want to hold the ball at all, and their runs looked half-hearted, and this suited Mordor fine, as they were looking to attack out of the gate. But it must be said for Anduin that while their attackers lacked energy, Fram, Celeborn, and the rest of the folks at the rear were dialed in, and seemed to enjoy Shelob and company coming at them. Surely it was by design—but why? Were they just using the game as a final tune-up before the playoffs?

If that was the case, their preparations were looking good, as they were taking everything Mordor could throw at them, and that’s without getting extra help from the front or even bothering to keep Mordor honest with serious attempts to counter. Mordor grew frustrated indeed and pushed ever more aggressively. Fram was just harassing Shelob—everyone knows what a monster-stopper he is ever since he turned Scatha into a lamb in that historic clash years ago. And while Minalcar at times was unsettled by the Nazgul, Celeborn and Felarof tried to handle them for the most part leaving him to dog the steps of the Mouth of Sauron.

Finally around the half-hour mark Mordor started looking threatening, as they had nearly every player dedicated to the attack, and they were really starting to find rhythms thanks to their long testing of the Anduin defense. First one of the Fellbeasts managed to gain a decent tail-shot, forcing Amroth to make the save, and then a few minutes later Shagrat managed to sneak into a dangerous position and one-timed a Nazgul pass, but again Amroth was there for the save. The hard-core Anduin supporters applauded, but the Arnor fans were annoyed. “Don’t just treat this as a practice!” they could be heard shouting. “Our playoff fates are in the balance!”

And just a few minutes before halftime their darkest fears were realized, as the Mouth fired a rocket off the crossbar and Shelob used one of her many legs to clean up the rebound, and Mordor was into the lead! The Orcs went absolutely wild, as they knew they were now sitting in line to qualify in the top position from the group! As play resumed many of the Arnor and Rohan fans especially began to boo, as they were most displeased with Anduin’s play and the results it was getting, but Anduin ignored it and kept doing more of the same, and to the relief of most of the spectators Mordor didn’t quite manage another serious threat before the halftime break.

During the half many of the fans considered leaving in protest and demanding their money back at the ticket office. But the vast majority thought better of it in the end, saying, “They can’t do that for the entire second half surely—something will change.” But as the second half started they looked to be quite wrong, as Anduin let Mordor have it and Mordor rushed forward to attack yet again. Many were halfway out of their seats to go demand their money back when it happened—Celeborn got in the way of a pass and rifled it downfield, and Haldir and Grimbeorn were swiftly after it with Eorl and Boromir II close behind!

The Mordor defense was caught completely off-guard and it was a four-on-two. Haldir brought it down and sent it over to Grimbeorn, who laid it back for Eorl, who sent it forward to Haldir, and he sent it across for Grimbeorn and he headed it home! Just like that the score was level!

But no! Lost in the action was the offside flag! Eorl was judged not to have sent his pass before Mumakil and Gothmog II stop-started and let Haldir and Grimbeorn on the wrong side of them! It was a very desperate maneuver, but most that had a good view of it said that the Mordorians had timed it right and the call was the right one. Amroth knelt and pounded the field a few times, and the rest of Anduin showed their disappointment as well. They’d been waiting to do just that and they had blown the opportunity! They couldn’t hope to catch Mordor sleeping again—they now knew that Anduin wasn’t going to roll over any longer.

But despite Mordor being wise to their plans, the game turned against them anyway. They now had to play more honestly and Anduin was suddenly possessing well to boot, and after a while it became obvious that Mordor just couldn’t match them. At first they noticed their attack was getting nowhere, and then the game moved to the midfield, and then it was on their side. Around 60 minutes Anduin started willing the game to go their way for real. First Boromir II sent a drive barely high, then Leod nearly put in a loose ball, then Grimbeorn forced a save on a corner, then Haldir forced an even better save from a perfect free-kick bender.

And finally at minute 70 Anduin got their equalizer, as Haldir found Boromir for a quick give and go and Boromir made no mistake with a step on his man and an opening to shoot through. The Anduin supporters applauded the effort, while the Arnor fans leaped up and down and screamed! Now they were in the playoffs instead of Mordor!

Mordor wasn’t going to go down without a fight—they needed but one goal to turn the group on its head again, but there was nothing they could do. Anduin was dominating now, and before the final whistle sounded they nearly scored twice more. Though they wanted the win and showed some momentary disappointment with the result, Anduin eventually broke into smiles and embraced, realizing that they’d be hosting a first-round playoff game. Anduin had conquered their home group, and Arnor had finished in second!

Anduin 1-1 Mordor
on target 5-3
tot shots 14-10
GOALS:
*37, 0-1 Shelob (Mouth)
*70, 1-1 Boromir II (Haldir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Anduin- Boromir II, Grimbeorn
*Mordor- Nazgul#2, Gorbag, Shagrat, Mumakil

--------  W-D-L   Pts  Score
Anduin    2-1-0   7    5-2
Arnor     2-0-1   6    3-3
Mordor    1-1-1   4    4-3
Rohan     0-0-3   0    1-5

MESPN Exit Interviews

MESPN: So, Theoden—I can’t imagine you thought you’d end up pointless in group.
Theoden: Obviously.
MESPN: What could have changed?
Theoden: We could’ve played better.
MESPN: Faramir, any thoughts?
Faramir: What he said.
MESPN: Okay. Is everyone going to be back next year?
Faramir: Eowyn and I are determined to be back. I can’t speak for others.
MESPN: Theoden?
Theoden: *sigh* I don’t know.
MESPN: Is Rohan shopping for new blood?
Faramir: We always have our eyes open.
MESPN: But any names anyone can give us?
Eowyn: Anything at this point would just be reckless speculation. But I suppose there is one that I’m somewhat certain of. He’s never played in Arda Cup before—he’s not overly fond of crowds and large cities.
MESPN: Ah—hoping he’ll join you in driving away the bad dark of this year’s campaign?
Eowyn: Heh, he’ll like that.
MESPN: All right then, good luck.

MESPN: So close to the playoffs, guys.
Mouth of Sauron: We have failed our investors. They will not be pleased.
MESPN: Mainly Sauron, right?
Mouth: Indeed.
MESPN: At least you were low-budget enough to make a bit of money anyway.
Mouth: Making “a bit” isn’t the standard. In the end we want it all.
MESPN: Well then, what’s the plan for the future?
Mouth: It’s tough to say until all the games are finished, but rest assured we’ll look to gain in competitiveness without putting ourselves at financial risk.
MESPN: Any new faces for next season that you can predict?
Mouth: I would guess a player or two will swap from Barad-Dur, but Sauron will have the final word.
MESPN: Are you saying you’ll receive their castoffs?
Mouth: No. Both Mordorian squads will improve.
MESPN: You certainly have confidence for someone that got bounced from group play.
Mouth: Make your little jokes while you can.
MESPN: Thanks for giving your permission.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

1740 Valinor Time:
Good evening, and welcome to the second ever Tar-Eldar Network Television double minute-by-minute match report.

1741:
We’re reporting to you live from just outside the city of Swanhaven, beside whose harbour is anchored the Tol Eressëa Mobile Stadium. This would be the stadium’s last stop in this year’s Arda Cup competition, but many football fans (count us among them) hope that the stadium would be put to use again next year.

1744:
The Sea vs Minas Tirith would be the last game played in the mobile stadium, unless the Sea manage to win Group F. So what are the chances of that happening? If the other game ends in a low-scoring draw, and they beat Minas Tirith by three or more goals and score at least three goals more than the teams from the other game, they take first place. On the other hand, any result other than a Sea victory would eliminate them.

1747:
Provided that the Sea win their tie (and analysts as well as betting agencies are unanimous that they will), the loser of the other fixture would be eliminated. A draw would favour Nargothrond, having a superior goal difference (+3) to Tirion (+2). In case of a draw, the Sea would need at least a two-goal victory to have a chance of advancing.

1749:
Nargothrond vs Tirion would be played in Alqualondë’s Seaside Stadium. Alqualondë Arena has been opened to visitors, and both games would be shown live on the arena’s giant screens.

1751:
Expect both the Sea and Tirion to be heavily supported in both of their games, with their fanbases much closer to the stadiums than Nargothrond or Minas Tirith’s. Some supporter groups of the latter two teams have come across the Sea aboard the mobile stadium, though, and Finarfin’s folk would probably be split, rooting for their lord in Tirion and his son in Nargothrond.

1754:
The projected formation sheets for both games:


[The Sea in white and blue; Minas Tirith in silver and black.]

~*~*~


[Tirion in teal and yellow; Nargothrond in green and yellow.]

1755:
There are five minutes left before the games begin, and a roar goes around both stadiums as the teams walk into the pitch. Noticeably absent is the captain’s armband on Denethor II, probably as a result of his, ahem, interesting post-game comments during the previous matchday; Mardil is wearing it this evening.

1757:
At the Seaside Stadium, the crowd applaud warmly as Finarfin and Finrod share a hug near the technical area. Meanwhile Finwë chats with his grandson Orodreth and great-granddaughter Finduilas.

1759:
With a minute left before the start of the matches, teams take up position on their respective pitches. The Sea field an offensive 4-2-1-3, which is understandable given their need to score a lot to have a chance of going into the knockout rounds.

1’ The opening whistle is blown.

5’ Seaside Stadium
It is predictable that Nargothrond are controlling possession, considering their numerical advantage in the centre of the pitch, but Tirion are surprisingly giving Nienor and Finduilas time on the ball, pressing aggressively only when Glaurung receives the ball; Anairë and Eldalótë are doing their best to keep the dragon from turning to face the goal.

6’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Meanwhile, Minas Tirith start with much energy. Éomer and Mardil close down Tar-Ciryatan and Voronwë whenever they have the ball, preventing them from passing to Vëantur.

12’ Seaside Stadium
Nargothrond vs Tirion is turning into a slog. With Glaurung tightly marked, and Caranthir doing a good job on Gwindor, Nargothrond have no way of getting forward. Despite their dominance in possession, they haven’t created any chance yet. To their credit, neither have Tirion. And a draw suits them better than it does the home side.

14’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
The Sea have created the first chance of the evening. With Mardil helping in the midfield, the Sea right-back Uinen is left unmarked. She had time to move forward with the ball and deliver a cross for Tar-Minastir, but he couldn’t get a clear header due to Ecthelion II’s marking and Denethor II easily gathers the tame shot.

20’ Seaside Stadium
Goal Mahtan! (1-0 Tirion)
Tirion draw first blood! It was a classic Tirion goal: Rúmil beat his marker Barahir to the byline, got a cross in for Finwë to knock down on to Mahtan’s path. The Noldo smith had enough space for a curler that evaded Orodreth’s diving save.

21’ Seaside Stadium
The Tirion fans are chanting and cheering. They are clearly unused to being left behind in the group stages and relishing the idea of their return to the knockout stage. Meanwhile, Nargothrond supporters must be worried that Tirion scored on their very first attempt. Would their defence hold up against the best strike partnership in the group?

23’ Seaside Stadium
One advantage Nargothrond have in this tie is the amount space their midfielders can get. Since Glaurung is a few metres higher up the pitch than Nienor and Finduilas, Anairë and Eldalótë’s marking of the dragon has given the two a lot of time on the ball. Mahtan is essentially Tirion’s third central midfielder, but he cannot cover both of them at once. Nienor and Finduilas exploited this by passing their way around Tirion’s midfielders. They managed to advance deep into the teeth of Tirion’s defence; Finduilas’s drive from twenty-five metres was barely tipped away by her grandfather Finarfin.

26’ Seaside Stadium
Eldalótë moved a little forward to track Nienor’s runs. This leaves Anairë all alone to deal with the Father of Dragons. Let’s see if he would exploit his newfound freedom.

28’ Seaside Stadium
Yellow card Amras.
And so he does. With Nienor and Finduilas finding their way forward blocked, they passed the ball back to Bëor, who played an accurate long ball for Glaurung. The dragon easily turned on Anairë and stormed forward in possession, forcing Amras to stop Glaurung with a cynical trip.

29’ Seaside Stadium
Goal Glaurung! (1-1 Nargothrond)
While the Sea are still unable to get on the score sheet, the game in Alqualondë is tied. Finrod took the free kick, which silkily flew over the Tirion wall before dipping straight into his father’s path. Unfortunately Finarfin spilled his save into the path of Glaurung, who snouted the ball past him to bag the equaliser.

31’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Goal Tar-Meneldur! (1-0 The Sea)
Finally, the Sea score. Vëantur had to drop deeper to receive a pass from Tar-Ciryatan, who was being hounded by Mardil. But when he got the ball, it took him a little more than a second to notice Tar-Meneldur’s run into the channel between Cirion and Ecthelion II then play a millimetre-perfect through ball for him. All it took then was a simple side-footed finish past Denethor II and the Sea are finally in contention. They still need to catch up to Tirion’s +2 goal difference, though.

32’ Seaside Stadium
With news of the Sea’s goal, the match between Tirion and Nargothrond becomes a little cagier. Losing the game would mean elimination, unless Minas Tirith can get an equaliser, which is a tall order to put it mildly.

35’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
But the Stewards are trying to claim an equaliser. After some neat wing play between Cirion and Mardil, Cirion found space to cross for Boromir I. But Ossë calmly heads the ball away before the Minas Tirith forward could get it.

37’ Seaside Stadium
Nargothrond are playing keep ball, knowing that have the better goal difference and would advance if all three teams finish with five points. But Tirion are fighting to win the ball back; Aredhel dropped to the midfield to pressure Bëor in possession.

41’ Seaside Stadium
Goal Aredhel! (2-1 Tirion)
Bëor dithered in possession, and Aredhel easily dispossessed him. She then passed the ball to Mahtan before turning and sprinting behind Baran and Arminas. Mahtan dinked the ball over the top of Nargothrond’s defenders, and Aredhel controlled the pass before Orodreth could clear it then slotted home into an empty net.

45’ The halftime whistle is blown.
The last four minutes must have been a nightmare for Nargothrond. The home crowd is really turning up the noise and the team on the pitch is responding by defending with gusto. As things stand, Tirion and the Sea would advance to the round of sixteen, leaving Nargothrond behind in the group stage. But Finrod’s squad have already grabbed a late equaliser before, and surely Tirion must bear in mind what happened to the Sea when they met Nargothrond.

In the other fixture, the Sea must be frustrated, scoring but once against a team with nothing to play for. They would hope that the second half would be kinder to them in terms of goals, since they shouldn’t fully trust Tirion’s lead to last until the end of the game.

46’ The second half begins.
A single goal can still change the fortunes of three teams in Group F. Which two teams will advance at the end of ninety minutes?

48’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Goal Tar-Minastir! (2-0 The Sea)
With the second half only three minutes old, the Sea already doubled their lead. Cirion was caught out of position when Voronwë stole the ball from Éomer. Noticing Tar-Minastir run behind the empty left-back zone, Voronwë played a long diagonal to the Númenórean forward. Tar-Minastir then fired a near-impossible curler from an acute angle before Ecthelion II could close him down.

49’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
I think Tar-Minastir violated the laws of physics. He was about a metre from the byline when he took that shot.

55’ Seaside Stadium
Yellow card Baran.
The first High-King of the Noldor took an elbow to the face from Baran while challenging for a long ball. Baran apologised to Finwë, but he should probably think of apologising to his teammates more. He has conceded a free kick thirty-five yards from goal, a distance Mahtan or Aredhel could easily cover.

56’ Seaside Stadium
Superb free kick, and an equally impressive save. Mahtan curled his free kick past the Nargothrond wall. Orodreth was equal to it, however, staying on his feet until he saw the ball swerve away. He dived at full stretch to punch it away, and the rebound fell to Bëor, who hoofed it clear.

57’ Seaside Stadium
Yellow card Caranthir.
The situation almost resembled that of Gondolin’s winning goal; Gwindor took Bëor’s long clearance and attacked Tirion’s disorganised defence. With Glaurung romping through the middle, a backpedalling Caranthir was unsure whether to show the Nargothrond winger inside or to the touchline. When Gwindor made his move to take Caranthir on, the Tirion left-back deliberately tripped him.

Caranthir might rue the booking more than the conceded free kick—he was able to handle Gwindor when he’s in front of him, but has trouble containing him when forced to run backwards.

58’ Seaside Stadium
Finrod’s free kick slammed into the wall, and Irimë booted it clear.

65’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Yellow card Tar-Ciryatan.
The Númenórean was penalised for a handball, using his upper arm to control a defensive header against Éomer.

66’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Hyarmendacil got a finger on Mardil’s dipping free kick and tipped it over the crossbar. Corner to Minas Tirith.

67’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
Goal Éomer! (2-1 The Sea)
Minas Tirith finally score a goal in the tournament! Telumehtar took the corner, and Mardil was able to win the header against Voronwë, flicking it to an unmarked Éomer, who met the ball with a ferocious overhead kick. The goal conceded won’t cost the Sea much so long as Tirion is winning the other match, but would this come back to haunt them?

74’ Seaside Stadium
Nargothrond knows that if they can get the ball past the midfield to Glaurung, Gwindor, or Finrod, they have a chance of scoring. Barahir briefly left his zone to play wall to Nienor, who got the ball quickly to Glaurung. The dragon easily shrugged off Anairë’s challenge and charged forward in possession. As Amrod stepped forward from the back line to stop him, Gwindor ran into the space, closely tailed by Caranthir. His one-touch drive from Glaurung’s through ball deflected off Caranthir’s toes and out of bounds. Corner kick Nargothrond.

75’ Seaside Stadium
Goal Finrod! (2-2 Nargothrond)
It didn’t take more than eight minutes for the Sea to regret Éomer’s goal. Finduilas played a short corner kick to Finrod, who stutter-faked his way through the heart of Tirion’s defence before slotting in a low shot past Finarfin.

76’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
The Sea know that if they can get a goal, or either one of Nargothrond or Tirion score, they could still advance, so they are calmly trying to break down Minas Tirith’s defence. But Éomer’s goal seemed to encourage the Stewards, and, urged on by their small band of supporters, they smartly repulse any attempted Sea attack before launching their own counterattack.

80’ Seaside Stadium
With ten minutes left to play the energy level in the Seaside Stadium seemed to have dropped. Nargothrond are content to play keep ball in the midfield, and Tirion are surprisingly not closing them down as energetically as they did before, perhaps with half an eye on the scoreboard. A Sea goal would be dangerous to their chances of advancing, but under current circumstances they would advance as second seed.

84’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
The Sea have abandoned calm precision attacks and are trying the battering ram. They are trying to win corner kicks, before bringing up Ulmo and Ossë to win headers. But Denethor II and the defenders are up to the task of denying them.

85’ Seaside Stadium
It’s as if Tirion remembered that the second seed would be playing the imperious Real Valinor in the round of sixteen, so they now tried to win the ball back from Nargothrond. Nienor and Finduilas were now liberated from the need to attack, and they drifted around looking for space before receiving a pass from each other. Tirion could not keep up with their pass-and-move tactic.

87’ Tol Eressëa Stadium
The Sea must have had about as many shots in that seven-minute spell as they have had the whole game, but Minas Tirith also showed a bit of fang during that span. Boromir I received a long clearance from Firefoot, but fluffed his lines when Hyarmendacil left his goal to close him down.

90’ The full time whistle is blown.
The two teams who failed to advance last year are now through to the last sixteen, and they two teams who advanced last year are left in the group stage.

Finrod, having twice saved his team from defeat, is now being carried off the field in honour; the Nargothrond supporters applaud them off the pitch. Tirion also receive a standing ovation from their fans. They hope that, having improved greatly from last year, they could take the game to Real this time around.

Minas Tirith were not expecting much, having been drawn into a group of First and Second Age legends. Some fans would find it mildly amusing that the Man whom Denethor II called useless scored their only goal in the tournament.

And as for the Sea… paying a nine-digit wage bill only to be left in the group stage must be painful. After their high point of keeping a clean sheet against FC Valinor in a friendly, they sort of slowly spiralled downward. Their primary problem was the lack of aggression going forward, since the group stage is more about scoring goals than keeping clean sheets. They were eliminated by the narrowest of margins against above-average opposition, so one is unsure whether they would trim some wages or try to improve the squad. It would be a difficult offseason for Ulmo and company.

Exit interviews shall be provided in The Matchday episode next week.

Nargothrond 2-2 Tirion
GOALS:
20, 0-1 Mahtan (Finwë)
29, 1-1 Glaurung (Finrod)
41, 1-2 Aredhel (Mahtan)
75, 2-2 Finrod (Finduilas)

Total Shots:
15-18
Shots On Target:
6-8

YELLOW CARDS:
1-2
NGR: Baran
TIR: Amras, Caranthir

~*~*~

Minas Tirith 1-2 The Sea
GOALS:
31, 0-1 Tar-Meneldur (Vëantur)
48, 0-2 Tar-Minastir (Voronwë)
67, 1-2 Éomer (Mardil)

Total Shots:
10-11
Shots On Target:
3-5

YELLOW CARDS:
1-1
MTI: Eärnil
SEA: Tar-Ciryatan

-------------- W-D-L Pts GD
[1]Nargothrond 1-2-0  5  +3
[2]Tirion      1-2-0  5  +2
The Sea        1-2-0  5  +1
Minas Tirith   0-0-3  0  -6

W-D-L: win-draw-loss
GD: goal difference
[1]: team secured first seed
[2]: team secured second seed

[Boromir88]

Group G @ Anfauglith

One game in Group G would be played at Tol-In-Gaurhoth's stadium between Angband and Imladris. And the other game at Anfauglith's Coliseum between Angfauglith and Tol-In-Gaurhoth. Before the two primetime matches kicked off two things were almost completely certain. TIG would advance and Imladris would be eliminated. There were circumstances which could prove these statements wrong, but most pundits said 2 halflings blindly walking into Mordor and destroying the ultimate ring of power is more probable. TIG doesn't give up a lot of goals and they're up against Angfauglith, who doesn't score a lot. So, the chances they lose by 2 or 3 goals is indeed improbable. Imladris would need Angfauglith to lose and to also beat Angband that makes up their -3 goal differential. They've been kept off the scoreboard by TIG and Angfauglith so far, and will have no lesser of a challenge against Angband tonight.

The starting of the match could not have gone better if Morgoth had sang the theme for it. Telvildo and Oikeroi were constants pests to the Imladris players. Not afraid of the band of Valar, Elven, and mortal players the cats had no problem sneaking by and stealing possession from right under their feet. Already in the 12th minute Angband got on the scoreboard from a screaming bullet off of Ancalagon's tail. Then a few minutes later Oikeroi quickly stole a pass from Galdor and tried to shoot a quick one in. Valandil stopped it, but couldn't hold on, and made a further mess trying to dive on the ball he fumbled, but Ulfast got to it first and punched it in. And just like that Angband was up 2-0 before the 20 minute mark.

The crowd was roaring cheers, even if it was in TIG, there was no shortage of Angband sympathizers and the TIG team had already convincincly defeated Angband, so they were just geared up for a bloodbath against the goodie Elven squad from Middle-earth.

Being up 2 goals, Morgoth switched to his shutdown defense that everyone in the stadium was used to seeing. Although, maybe in this case their pride led to overconfidence or they thought Imladris' spirits were completely broken from a poor tournament. It wasn't a particularly good attempt by Elladan. Carcharoth should have had an easy save but he was caught napping and it somehow got past him. No matter how it comes about, a goal is a goal. It counted and just like that Imladris felt they were back in the game.

Imladris tried to ride the positive feelings to the break and maybe get a quick equalizer, but Morgoth, angered by conceding a goal to Imladris was having none of it. Angband ordered his team into keeping possession for the remainder of the half and they were able to do so quite easily.

The 2nd half began and it surprised the crowd it was still a close game, because watching it just seemed Angband had a firm grip and everything was going exactly as Morgoth planned. But the scoreboard told a different story, even though if probably only the small Imladris crowd still believed their side could challenge the mighty power from the North.

Imladris would have no such halflings luck today though, the 2nd half was a defensive clinic in playing a possession game. Carcharoth could actually nap at the goal and not worry about anymore goals. In the 66th minute Angband sealed their victory, and it was none other than Morgoth himself scoring off of Ulfang's corner. It was now 3-1 and Imladris did not have the will to try to fight back as they had in the 1st half.

Imladris would have the long road back home with quite a disappointing group performance. Angband was sitting in 2nd place with 6 points and +2 differential. It put them in good position to advance, but whatever had happened at Anfauglith had the final say of which 2 advanced. So, what had been going on in Anfauglith?

Angband 3-1 Imladris
on target 8-3
tot shots 17-9
GOALS:
*12, 1-0 Ancalagon (Telvildo)
*18, 2-0 Ulfast (Oikeroi)
*31, 2-1 Elladan (Arahael)
*66, 3-1 Morgoth (Ulfang)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Ulfang
*Imlad- Varda, Galdor

----

Tol-in-Gaurhoth had "it" back. The intimidation, the swagger, the athleticism, everything that made the team a fearsome title contender year-after-year. But they felt like a road team for the first time in Anfauglith's massive stadium. Angfauglith fans had spent the hours before the match trying to convince themselves their team could score the multiple goals needed to steal one of the playoff spots. TIG was calm and confident though in their defense to get another win and go into the playoffs yet to even give up a goal.

Scoring on Angfauglith's stiff defense is still a tough challenge for anyone and there was no hope TIG could intimidate the Balrogs and Ungoliant, so they would need to rely more on their skills and a concerted team effort than they were used to. TIG was dominating possession, but without the fear factor, nor their full focus and heart to drive their attack Angfauglith's defense was having an easy time stopping the wolves.

TIG seemed to just be going through the motions, and in the 32nd minute it cost them when Ungoliant saved one of InzilWolf's half-hearted shots and the spider began a quick counter attack. The Balrog defenders burst forward, not at all confident in their mid-field players to get the job done. Eventually Haldir got the ball on the left flank and gave it up to Gothmog. Gothmog froze the wolf defenders just long enough to blast it past ShastaWolf. ShastaWolf was furious growling at his defenders for leaving Gothmog unpressured for that long and they needed to close down on the Balrog immediately.

Anfauglith Coliseum blasted it's warhorns and chants, they scored on TIG. Not even Morgoth could say he accomplished that and more importantly they held the lead, which also held going into the half.

That still didn't change the facts of the game, even losing 0-1 TIG would advance and advance as the group winner too. And when the halftime score in the other game revealed Angband was beating Imladris 2-1, Angfauglith fans realized they needed more goals.

No one had yet to score 2 on TIG and as correctly called by PhantomWolf, Gothmog is a fantastic forward, but he can't possibly take the ball from the defense and run the length of the field himself all the time. Angfauglith's mid-field was the weakest in the tournament and so TIG was having no problems controlling possession in Angfauglith's half. They still didn't seem to have the focus or motivation that was needed to score on the suffocating Angfauglith defense, organized in front of Ungoliant.

In truth, it didn't matter though, because they were still leading the group. But after seeing in the other match Morgoth put his team up 3-1 in the 66th minute, that brought more life to TIG's attack. Wanting to have no room for doubt now, and let 1st place slip away, at the 71' LegateWight passed it to PhantomWolf who put a wicked curve on his shot that even fooled Ungoliant.

TIG had levelled the match and that deflated the crowd who had been teased with the possibility of Angfauglith advancing, but now were facing the reality. It wasn't TIG's fault, they were a worthy and stout opponent. And Angfauglith had some of the most fearsome talent in the game today, so why had it failed to make the playoffs for the 2nd straight year? It was clear there were a lot of problems with the mid-field, but was that the fault of the mid-fielders or the way the investors (principally Morgoth) organized the team?

Angfauglith 1-1 Tol In Gaurhoth
on target 3-5
tot shots 8-14
GOALS:
*32, 1-0 Gothmog (Haldir)
*71, 1-1 PhantomWolf (LegateWight)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angfaug- Balrog#2, Gothmog, Haldir, Borlach
*TIG- SallyWight, Drauglin, Thuringwethil

Round 3 standings...

Group G           W-D-L   Pts   GD        
T-I-G             2-1-0     7   +4
Angband           2-0-1     6   +2
Angfauglith       1-1-1     4   -1
Imladris          0-0-3     0   -5

Exit interviews from the eliminated teams will come later.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Group Tables:



(1) secured first seed
(2) secured second seed
(x) eliminated

Bracket:


Power Rank:



(Teams in bold are group leaders; teams in italics are eliminated.)

Greatest gain:

• +9 Angband
• +8 Hithlum, Gondolin
• +6 Misty Mts

Greatest loss:

• -8 Barad-dûr
• -6 Dwarves Utd
• -5 The Havens, Inter Beleriand, Erebor

The Power Ranking is based on the aggregate of offensive and defensive ranking, combined with the adjusted goal difference rank of each team. The listed offensive and defensive rankings are from the actual numbers by the teams, and not adjusted. Ties are broken by a) win-draw-loss record; and b) goal difference.

The offensive ranking is based on the goals scored throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) greater number of shots made on target; and b) greater number of shots made.

The defensive ranking is based on the goals allowed throughout the matches. Ties are broken by a) least number of shots allowed on target; and b) least number of shots allowed.

Top Individual Performers:
(Players in italics are from eliminated teams.)

GOALS + ASSISTS

4+0
Scatha (Wilderland)

3+1
Maedhros (Inter Beleriand)
Túrin (Hithlum)
Sauron (Barad-dûr)
Argon (FC Valinor)
Curufin (FC Valinor)

3+0
Glaurung (Nargothrond)
Ar-Pharazôn (Armenelos)
Eärendil (The Havens)
Arien (Valimar)
Tuor (Gondolin)
Aredhel (Tirion)

2+2
Eöl (AC Beleriand)
Maeglin (Gondolin)
Hador (Hithlum)
Durin’s Bane (Misty Mts)
Finrod (Nargothrond)

2+1
Smaug (Erebor)
Aegnor (AC Beleriand)
Ancalagon (Angband)
Fëanor (AC Beleriand)
Fingon (Inter Beleriand)

GOALKEEPING

• 90.00% – 09/10 – Tulkas (Real Valinor)
• 87.50% – 07/08 – ShastaWolf (Tol-in-Gaurhoth)
• 83.33% – 15/18 – Arvedui (Arnor)
• 83.33% – 15/18 – Tar-Atanamir (Armenelos)
• 83.33% – 10/12 – Amroth (Anduin)
• 83.33% – 10/12 – Manwë (Valimar)
• 83.33% – 05/06 – Huan (FC Valinor)

[Nogrod]

The group-phase is over and it’s time for the play-offs! And what thrillers there are on offer!

Sure a few games look like the one going through is more or less secured based on the huge difference in the quality of the groups – but even in those games one must remember that it is now up to a single game and even the mightiest teams can screw it up and the lousiest teams may have luck on their side… or then some teams just are harder for some others to play against even if they would crush other types of teams likeBalrog does a flower. But just glancing at the possible quarterfinals makes one shiver – what pairings there wil be, and how many “moral finals” already on these early stages!

But to the first round of qualifiers first.


A1 Valimar vs. H2 Arnor

Valimar: Through the years all Manwë’s teams have been formidable by their looks and scary by their inherent power but they have never quite delivered, being the team that famously wins with one to nil, gets risen only againt the baddies and loses when some real talent plays against them. This year it looks a bit different and the adding of Arien into the offence (or her return actually) makes them look really dangerous this season.

Arnor: The kings of the north are a proud team but sadly their quality is not one matching their elders or the other powers of Arda. Last season they fought bravely against Inter Beleriand and Eriador only to be run over by Gondolin – this year they started by losing squarely to Anduin only to rise up and redeem themselves with narrow victories over Mordor and Rohan – hardly teams winning of which would make you rise up on any table of odds for the cup. The Witch King and Elendil sure are players no one can bypass but neither has shown anything tremendous thus far.


From that it should be easy to deduce the AKM will not bet on Arnor to qualify. To make an immediate disclaimer the AKM notes though that Arnor is maybe suited better than any other team to prove to be a hard opponent for Valimar just because of their goody-good looks and their defence-first strategy. But there is also the issue of the Witch King who might be – and normally would be – an asset for the team having him, but who could actually arouse some righteous anger in team Valimar making them by-pass their initial drive to be nice against Arnor’s northern Dunedáin.

The stats are favouring Valimar in no uncertain terms. As themselves the stats are basically even or somewhat favourable to Valimar – but looking at the level of the game in the two groups the teams played one sees immediately that Valimar has earned their stats against pretty much a league better opponents than Arnor.

And to close the case the AKM wishes to draw the attention to two stats in particular. Valimar’s efficiency in scoring (counting all the shots) is 15,2% against Arnors’s 7,9% - and Arnor has allowed 45 shots againt them while Valimar has only allowed 33 – and that is, against a lot tougher opponents.

The AKM predicts: Valimar goes forward winning 2-0.

Valimar		5-2	2-1-0
4/10 – 3/10	5/14 – 4/12	4/9 – 5/11	= 13/33 – 12/33	5/33	15,2%
Manwë	0/3 + 1/4 + 1/5 = 2/12	83,3%

Arnor		3-3	2-0-1
4/13 – 7/16	6/13 – 6/15	4/12 – 5/14	= 14/38 – 18/45	3/38	7,9%
Arvedui	2/7 + 1/6 + 0/5 = 3/18	83,3%

B1 AC Beleriand vs. G2 Angband

AC Beleriand: Fëanor-tribe has been just cool and collected this season, rising up to be one of the serious candidates to win the whole cup this year. Their game has been impressive and efficient both ways – even if many people tend to worry about their downstairs. And it is coming forth more and more as a team and not like Fëanor and his minions; actually Aegnor, Eöl and Balrog #4 are ahead of Fëanor in phantasy points and Fingolfin shares the fourth place with him. That said, Fëanor still is the biting teeth only few teams have and he can change the course of a game single-handedly if there is need for it.

Angband: Melkor’ team took a really bad beating from the T-I-G on the first round of the group-stage and many thought their star was descending – but since that they have gathered themselves and shown they can really play some impressive and efficient football. And no team in their senses would disregard the threat of Ancalagon and Morgoth playing together. Behind them, with Tevildo there goes also Oikeroi who has shown himself a real threat as well. So Angband is not a team to be taken lightly by anyone – even the Valimar-based teams.


Fëanor vs. Morgoth would be a classic anytime but this time both teams have also a lot to claim – AC Beleriand sure is willing to go to the final from where they were shut off last year and Angband still remembers sorely the shoot-out they lost to Minas Tirith more or less to the floppiness of their performance during the game. With the animosity between the teams already in the air, everything talks of one of the hottest games of the round taking place here. Well, Fëanor vs. Melkor… how hot can it get?

Both teams have met with some real tough opposition in the group phase – but a bit different ones. AC Beleriand has met with strongly offence-orientated Gondolin and Inter Beleriand and the strong defenders Dwarves Utd. while Angband has met lousy Imladris, defending-powerhouse Anfaughlith and the all-around aggressive madness of the T-I-G. Therefore one should take AC’s statistical lead over Angband in offence with a pinch of salt. That said, AC Beleriand has been almost double more effective in scoring than Angband – and the difference of their opponents’ defending thus far hasn’t been that great.

Carcaroth may be having a shinier legend as a goal keeper but Marach is on the other hand quite unjustly one of the least appreciated top-goalies of the tournament basically year after year – and Marach does beat Carcaroth in percentages thus far. Carcaroth has the minus in his stats for meeting T-I-G – in other games his percentges are pretty good indeed (1/6 aka. 83,3%) – but as Marach has stood against both Gondolin and Inter Beleriand with 81,8% one should deem that more or less even – or then even favouring AC Beleriand slightly.

Those facts considered – and taking in the great rivalry the game is going to have the AKM thinks AC Beleriand will qualify – even if it’s going to be a tough one.

The AKM predicts: AC Beleriand wins 2-1.

AC Beleriand	8-2	3-0-0
7/16 – 6/12	6/13 – 3/10	8/16 – 2/7	= 21/45 – 11/29	8/45	17,8%
Marach	1/6 + 1/3 + 0/2 = 2/11	81,8%
Angband		5-3	2-0-1
4/14 – 6/15	8/19 – 3/10	8/17 – 3/9	= 20/50 – 12/34	5/50	10%
Carcaroth	2/6 + 0/3 + 1/3 = 3/12	75%

C1 Real Valinor vs. F2 Tirion

Real Valinor: Before the season many thought Real Valinor would not be top contenders both because they felt satisfied with the last year’s victory but also because they lost their single most important game-changer with Arien moving to Valimar. But Real has shown the doubters they’re in the game also this year for real, for Real (if you excuse bad puns). They draw with FC Valinor in the friendlies (losing them twice last season), beat the mighty Hithlum 3-1 and took comfortable 2-0 victories of the lesser teams of their group (Melian’s Doriath and Gandalf’s Shire-Bree – teams good enough to have caused a lot of trouble to many teams qualified from other groups).

Tirion: With last season’s bitter memories (facing FC Valinor, Real and Armenelos in the group phase and left the last of the group) Tirion is all for revenge – and they have been quite impressive. Beating Gondolin in the friendlies 2-0 showed their qualities and drawing with Angband solidified their status. Pushing the Sea off the qualifiers is a mark of a good team and being able to contain Nargothrond to a draw tells the same story. Finwë and Aredhel form one of the deadliest offencive duos of the tournament and with them the team either takes the glory or perishes.


Even if the AKM thinks Tirion is a great team and would have talent to advance a long way it seems Real Valinor is just a level too tough an opponent for them – as last year. The chance Tirion might have is if Real is already looking forwards to their game against FC Valinor the next round and forget they need to win Tirion first. But looking at the professionalism within the ranks of Real Valinor that seems like a vain dream.

Finwë, Aredhel and Mahtan should make any opponent worried, but compared to Miriel, Nerdanel and Oromë backed by Nessa… well there just is a difference. Caranthir leading the defence with Amrod and Amras is great and having Finarfin at the goal even more so – but compare it to a defence led by Tilion including Nienna and Nahar and goal guarded by Tulkas himself – and once again you see a difference.

Drawing with the Sea and Nargothrond are merits to Tirion, but Real Valinor’s beating of Hithlum 3-1 is just on a different class. Tirion will not let Real win easily but Real will prevail in the end – and Real will be their undoing once again.

The AKM predicts: Real Valinor wins 2-1.

Real Valinor		7-1	3-0-0
9/22 – 5/14	7/15 – 2/8	6/14 – 3/9	= 22/51 – 10/31	7/51	13,7%
Tulkas	1/5 + 0/2 + 0/3 = 1/10	90%
Tirion		5-3 	1-2-0
4/13 – 4/12	8/16 – 3/9	8/18 – 6/15	= 20/47 – 13/36	5/47	10,6%
Finarfin	1/4 + 0/3 + 2/6 = 3/13	76,9%

D1 FC Valinor vs. E2 Misty Mountains

FC Valinor: Everyone is afraid of brothers Curufin and Celegorm and with Huan backing them up – aided by Yavanna, Eönwe and Thorondor… well they are a bunch no one wishes to meet in contest. Talk about elite players and here you have them, a full house scoring eight goals to one conceded in the group phase. They have so much to grunt from last season and such a crew you hardly see them lose a game this year with their superb offencive power and tight defence.

Misty Mountains: The wild-card of this year’s tournament made it through before Erebor and Wilderland – maybe because of the success of the Hobbit movies (Azog!) or something – no one really undestands it. After drawing with Imladris and losing to Barad-Dûr in the friendlies they were able to knock out two major teams! That belittling aside, Durin’s Bane is a top class player and Gwaihir has the character of being able to win things by himself when needed (like he kind of did in their last game against Erebor).


Now Gwaihir might have been able to fool Meneldor and Landroval but Thorondor, the king of Eagles, will have none of that happening under his watch. Durin’s Bane may be a mighty one but faced with Eönwe and Huan he will have no chance whatsoever to bully his way through – or to threaten Tulkas. On the other end of the field the brothers, Yavanna and Argon will just vreac havoc even if the defences are big…

One might argue that FC Valinor’s stats are mileading as they had one of the easiest groups to qualify from whereas Misty Mts. really had to battle it out – and one could add that Huan’s fit this year has not been seriously tested as he has only been shot at six times (while Chief Wolf has faced 18 shots), but even that taken in to account it is hard to see any other result but FC Valinor going forwards from this game – to meet Real Valinor!

The AKM predicts: FC Valinor wins 3-1.

FC Valinor		8-1	3-0-0
7/14 – 1/7	6/14 – 2/8	7/16 – 3/10	= 20/44 – 6/25	8/44	18,2%
Huan	0/1 + 0/2 + 1/3 = 1/6	83,3%
Misty Mountains	5-5	1-1-1
4/12 – 6/12	5/13 – 7/18	7/14 – 5/14	= 16/39 – 18/44	5/39	12,8%
Chief Wolf	2/6 + 2/7 + 1/5 = 5/18	72,2%

E1 Eriador vs. D2 Barad-Dûr

Eriador: Led by Elrond Eriador has been as effective as possible with the minimal effort once again. Eriador is a team the AKM journalists love to hate: steady, careful, risk-avoiding, temperate, quiet, low-laying yet effective and inpenetrable fortress for a team – and that doesn’t mean you can’t score against them, no way – but somehow in the end of every tournament Elrond is one of the best goalies even if he doesn’t have the most work, and they win games to reach the final stages of the games whoever they meet on the way. But like never 4-0 but rather 1-0 or 2-1. Annoyingly efficient team –and can go far this year as well.

Barad-Dûr: Sauron got it from the group phase and gave a decent fight to already satisfied FC Valinor – other than that would have been scandalous: had they not qualified as Gondor and Isengard were more jokes than real teams this year (and yet Gondor forced them into a draw). Sauron has added credibility to the defences – and he must be cursing now the fact that the stubborn NogWolf didn’t see the ingenuinity of his plan to make Nog as a wolf the pillar of his defence but went on for a mediocre midfield status to Eriador as a Wight - a classy werewolf would have been a great add-on to the wizards and one Fellbeast. But it’s not only that: Castamir and Beruthiel are not delivering – like they didn’t the last year – and Sauron has a lot to do to try and score games by himself.


Only a few would bet on Barad-Dûr but if they get it right they’ll earn some real bragging rights. And the AKM actually thinks that if you have to (or want to) bet against odds in one game this might be the one you might try it.

Now Eriador’s stats are a bit better than Barad-Dûr’s but FC Valinor disregarded the opponents of Eriador were league ahead of those Barad-Dûr has faced. Now the wizards of Barad-Dûr’s defence might pose a problem for Isildur and Arveleg but it is doubtful they could enchant Glorfindel or NogWight. On the other end Sauron is always a trouble for any defence, but looking at the line of Gil-Galad, Asfaloth, Aragorn and Arwen in front of Elrond it would seem Sauron’s chances of scoring more than Eriador as a team is slight.

As said, the stas are pretty close, but consistently favouring Eriador.

The AKM predicts: Eriador wins 2-1.

Eriador		4-2	2-1-0
6/12 – 4/12	5/12 – 3/12	3/10 – 4/11	= 14/34 – 11/35	4/34	11,8%
Elrond	1/4 + 0/3 + 1/4 = 2/11	81,8%
Barad Dûr		4-4	1-1-1
6/14 – 4/13	5/13 – 5/11	3/10 – 7/16	= 14/37 – 16/40	4/37	10,8%
Grishnakh	1/4 + 1/5 + 2/7 = 4/16	75%

F1 Nargothrond vs. C2 Hithlum

Nargothrond: The offencive powerhouse number one, but not that impressively ahead of others –they are more or less falling into the same category with teams like Gondolin or Armenelos: teams that have what it takes and yet have hard time to deliver it. But with the attacking trio of Finrod Felagund, Glaurung and Gwindor, how is it they just don’t seem to deliver? Orodreth sure isn’t the hottest goalie but guys like Beor the Old and Barahir should be able to keep the defences tight.

Hithlum: Last year was just a disaster. This time around Hithlum has put all their eggs in one bucket. Yes, they lost to Real Valinor badly on the first round and their friendlies were not exactly showing them as an unstoppable force… but nonetheless Hithum is serious to advance and it takes quite a team to stop them. Just looking at their goal difference from the last two games, 7-1, should make any opponent pause. Especially the “founding father” Hador Lorindol has really stepped up this season (well with all his familys fortunes in the team he should) and Túrin has been getting hotter and hotter every game. Huor at the goal might be their Achilles’ heel though – even if he os not exactly a bad keeper – but is he a winning keeper and for how far?


Looking at how different the two groups were it is astonishing how similar the stats of both teams are. Shots to goal and shots allowed – as well as overall shots and overall shots allowed are almost identical. Hithlum is more efficient in scoring (16% vs. 13%) but Orodreth keeps the goal reasonably safer (79% vs. 74%) – which is (with the similar numbers with shots made and allowed) quite accurately shown in their scores: Hithlum has made on goal more while Nargothrond has allowed one less.

So statistically the game starts with neither team having an edge – and both teams rely on forcefully attacking football. Add to that the tensions between some players in the teams… If Fëanor vs. Melkor is a hot duel then what should one say about Túrin and Glaurung fighting it off? And well, we’re going to have another really hot game here!

But where to pick the difference then? Nargothrond has been consistent against tough adversaries drawing with both The Sea and Tirion while Hithlum took a beating from Real Valinor. On the other hand Nargothrond beat the very weak Minas Tirith “only” 3-0 while Hithlum cleared a lot tougher (compared to MT) Shire-Bree and Doriath 4-1 and 3-1 respectively. On Nargothrond’s side Gwindor has yet to find his form and Nienor who was in flames in the friendlies has somewhat disappeared. On Hithlum’s side both Beleg and Húrin have been playing in a low key thus far as surely a lot more has been anticipated from them. So hard to say…

The AKM predicts: a draw 2-2 (or 3-3), the ensuing shoot-out will be anyone’s game.

Nargothrond		7-4	1-2-0
10/25 – 4/12	6/13 – 7/15	6/15 – 8/18	= 22/53 – 19/45	7/53	13,2%
Orodreth	0/4 + 2/7 + 2/8 = 4/19	78,9%
Hithlum		8-5	2-0-1
5/14 – 9/22	8/18 – 4/10	9/18 – 6/14	= 22/50 – 19/46	8/50	16%
Húor	3/9 + 1/4 + 1/6 = 5/19	73,7%

G1 Tol-in-Gaurhoth vs. B2 Gondolin

Tol-in-Gaurhoth: The wolfpack has been quite anemic since the restrictions on their lupinity took place and being forced to play more as Wights than Werewolves. But with the eased rules they are now allowed six werewolves in their pack (one of them being actually none less than Draugluin himself) and with the surprise-signing of Thuringwethil they suddenly look like they used to be: dangerous, aggressive, athletic, fast, furious and deadly – and all that with solid defences. And they have suddenly bounced to be one of the most talked-of team, but also a serious contender to go, very far at least.

Gondolin: Many say Gondolin is not playing up to their credentials and that the days of their glory have waned away – and somehow dismiss them as not “any more” a great team. And it is true they haven’t played on the final rounds in a few years now – but they are still a formidable team. Last year, like this one, they took themselves out from the group-phase with a glorious last match fight. Last season they had the tough luck of being thrown under a bus called AC Beleriand in their first qualification game (they lost then cleanly 0-2 but this year in the group stage only 1-2). Looking at their friendlies kind of tell a lot: they were beaten by Tirion 0-2 but draw with Hithlum 2-2 – so they are capable of challenging even the great teams on a good day and they do know how to fight – but can also collapse like they did against Dwarves Utd. at group phase.


In a sense this is actually a perfect match-up for both teams as the first round of qualifiers go. If T-I-G is willing to rise as a serious contender for the whole Cup they need to be able to beat Gondolin which is a level tougher opponent than Imladris or even Anfaughlith (which T-I-G draw with) – especially as Gondolin is going to attack in force unlike most of the teams T-I-G has played against. But also, if Gondolin is willing to pose as a serious team they need exactly this kind of very physical and rough-playing opponent to hone their defence and show they can actually outscore a team of that kind.

And yet as you could see both teams as quite challenges to each other, one can see both teams having decent chances in winning the game as well.

Leaving all that behind it is true tht T-I-G’s stats look consistently – if narrowly – better, except in goal-keeping where the difference is big indeed for T-I-G. It’s not only Shastawolf’s excellence compared to Rôg but the difference is rooted in the number of shots the teams allow. Eight shots towards goal in three games vs. eighteen shots makes a huge difference. But there is a “but” as well. Both Beleriand teams – and even Dwarves Utd.! – are actively offensive teams who shoot a lot whereas Imladris and Anfaughlith are almot opposites to that. Then again T-I-G defences managed to keep Angband’s shots relatively few in numbers even if they normally do play aggressive offence.

So in the end it will all be up to whether the T-I-G can keep their goal clean as it seems Gondolin will allow a goal or probably two anyway. So how many will Gondolin score?

The AKM predicts: T-I-G wins 2-1 (or draw 2-2).

Tol-In-Gaurhoth	5-1	2-1-0
6/15 – 4/14	6/14 – 1/8	5/14 – 3/8	= 17/43 – 8/30	5/43	11,6%
ShastaWolf	0/4 + 0/1 + 1/3 = 1/8	87,5%
Gondolin		5-6	1-0-2
6/12 – 7/16	6/16 – 4/13	9/21 – 7/17	= 21/49 – 18/46	5/49	10,2%
Rôg	2/7 + 2/4 + 2/7 = 6/18	66,7%

H1 Anduin vs. A2 Armenelos

Anduin: The strength of the team is not in having one or two superstars to bring the games home but in their quite level quality through the team. So no stars but no weak links either. Winning group seconds Arnor 2-0 was confident work but other than that they have hardly impressed anyone (playing even with Shire-Bree or Mordor hardly sounds like a quarterfinalist performance). It maybe the river Anduin may host a great team in years to come able to go far in the tournament, but it is not this year.

Armenelos: The proud kings of their great island of Númenor have downgraded their salaries but at the same time made their team more solid – with the come back of Elros the team is ready to make good the last year’s disaster. If you can call losing to FC and Real Valinor a “disaster” instead of calling it just understandable – and that might be their greatest problem this year, they themselves. If they only concentrate on setting things right on a grander scale they might forget to play football – which they sure know how to do. Taking a bit more relaxed attitude would do them good and could carry them all way at least to the semis – or even to the end. But concentrate on wrong things and their tournament might even end here.


Both teams are rare breeds in a way that they both are pretty rock-solid through and through with no real weak links in them. And the stats are astonishingly similar up to the exact same percentages in both goal-scoring and –keeping. Anduin has a little better defencive stas overall while Armenelos is an inch better in the offensive stats.

But then we come, once again, into comparing the groups in which the stats were made – and only a fool would say that playing against Arnor, Rohan and Mordor would come even near equalling games against The Havens, Valimar and the Barrow-Downs (the last one maybe, but not the two earlier ones). Taking a look back at their friendlies confirms the matter. Both lost a game in the friendlies with one goal: Armenelos to AC Beleriand and Anduin to Eriador – all respect to Eriador but quite a few would bet on AC this year if the two met. They both also played a draw: Anduin with Shire-Bree and Armenelos with Nargothrond – and there should be no question which one draw was the great deed and which one was not.

If they play their best Anduin can challenge Armenelos but the AKM wouldn’t bet a lot on their chances against the mighty Númenorians.

The AKM predicts: Armenelos wins 2-1.

Anduin		5-2	2-1-0
7/16 – 4/13	4/12 – 5/14	5/14 – 3/10	= 16/42 – 12/37	5/42	11,9%
Amroth	0/4 + 1/5 + 1/3 = 2/12	83,3%
Armenelos		5-3	2-1-0
6/14 – 6/14	4/12 – 5/14	8/16 – 7/15	= 18/42 – 18/43	5/42	11,9%
Tar Atanamir	1/6 + 1/ 5 + 1/7 = 3/18	83,3%

[Nogrod]

Now before the play-offs really beging it’s a good time to turn one’s eyes back for a monent to hear from them who are not among the teams playing any more, for sure there will be things interesting the audience concerning both their performance this year as their plans for the next season. The AKM managed to meet Bandobras Took (Shire-Bree United), Elwë Singollo (Doriath), Bard The Bowman (Erebor) and Scatha (Wilderland) at the AFA meeting and sat them down for a short chat. And we also managed to wrestle out from them predictions on how the tournament will go...


The AKM: Mr Bullroarer, how do you think your tournament went this year?

Bandobras: Well we did draw with mr. High elven king’s team here, but if you put any team in the same group with Hithlum and Real Valinor, well then phewffft… We played well and can contain the 3 million we lost unlike many others who will be deep in trouble.

The AKM: But can you keep the Grey Wanderer and his horse with you the next year – and we understand Gildor was playing for you with a one season contract anyway? So where do you turn for reinforcements? More Nazgûl with ten million salaries each? Khamûl scored zero in the tournament and #6 collected two assists in five games…

Bandobras: Don’t you lecture on me young man. Sure we’re no AC Beleriand or Real Valinor everyone would take a major cut down in salary only to just be able to play for them. But we’re not that unattractive either. We can both attract good players as afford to make our terms clear for those possibly wishing to come or stay. Just take my word for it.

The AKM: Are you possibly referring to what what we heard from your young relative, mr. Peregrin back there that he might be having an old friend of his “from the top circles” joining him next season – and thus actualy betraying he will play for you the next season? And maybe young mr. Meriadoc is joining as well – I think he would have a friend in “the top circles” as well?

Bandobras: Oh, no… nonsense. That fool of a Took! You media-people go sell your magazines and adds with over too-early speculation. That’s what you’re good at.

The AKM: Okay, thank you mr. Took. Now lord Thingol, how about your teams performance this season?

Elwë: Well, obviously we’re not happy being left into the group stage this year, but to be fair, hats off to Real Valinor and Hithlum, they were just better teams this year and we had tough luck in the group-lottery.

The AKM: You seem to take it quite gracefully – and sure you lost some talent from last year’s squad… so what are your plans for the next season?

Elwë: Wouldn’t it be a bit premature to play or show one’s hand while this year’s tournament is still underway?

The AKM: Obviously. But could you give us something?

Elwë: Well, we made quite a nice financial result with only 5 million in losses – but all the merchadise and luxury-packages we were able to make on top of the pure ticket-sales, which of course go to the AFA, while hosting the group kind of brought us into a nice balance – so unlike some other teams which like mr. Took already noted – will have severe financial problems we stand on a firm footing and let’s say, we’re doing our best to bring some talent back for the next season to be more competitive. We sure will have the markers next year both to the players from the big teams whose teams need to make cuts and to those of smaller teams who can’t afford to pay their stars anymore.

The AKM: So you’re wishing for Hithlum to fail this year with their mighty economical investments – getting Beleg back to lead your troops by the side of Mablung? Or maybe getting Beren and Luthien back from Inter who did fail?

Elwë: That’s what you say…

The AKM: All right then… How about you mr. Bowman, not exactly a bullseye this year…

Bard: Well not… Personally, it just felt I couldn’t quite come to play on my level – and in a way the whole team had a similar kind of feeling. Don’t know where it came from, though. An underperformance, yes.

The AKM: And it all culminated in your last game against Misty Mountains… now some have already suggested there were foul play involved, especially Bolg’s red card. Was he bought?

Bard: I find that kind of speculation deeply disturbing and against the ethics of the sport.

The AKM: Are you then inferring that these baddies turn into highly ethical and virtuous beings as soon as they just get a glimpse of a white leather ball on a green?

Bard: Of course not… but that would have been degrading beyond reproach. Anyway, it is hard for me to see Bolg playing for Erebor the next season – or well, never.

The AKM: 29 million losses. How’s you next season looking?

Bard: Do you call that a question? Erebor Crftsmen Union does have deep pockets and Moneybags Monetary Management isn’t downright poor either – but sure we’re facing some major cuts… and the cuts in salaries will most probably involve everyone.

The AKM: What if Smaug is offered more somewhere else – like by Sauron to play for Wilderland?

Bard: Let’s hope even the greediest of the dragons has a spot in his soul for his home.

The AKM: Thank you mr. Bowman. Turning to you Scatha – how would it feel to play alongside Smaug the next season?

Scatha: Oh, the talented youngster? Why not, why not… our playing-styles sure are quite different – him having all those fancy wings and such – but why not? It might even be fun.

The AKM: Am I right in thinking that you were not pleased with your team’s performance this year either?

Scatha: Either you’re not too smart little-man or then you think me a simpleton – which isn’t very smart from you either… But the fact is this: if you just play three draws you seldom advance – and this year we didn’t have that final energy or stamina to pull a win from those close games.

The AKM: Who would you like to buy off from Erebor for the next year; Smaug, Bolg, a Nazgûl maybe?

Scatha: If you ask my opinion, I’d pick my kin of course – the Nazgûl are overrated as they are just men and the goblins rarely have what it takes to play a game. But the bosses decide these things, not me. I just play.


The AKM: Thank you all for your views. Now could I just bother you with your comments or predictions about the tournament: how’s it gonna go?

Elwë: With my dear commander Beleg our prodigal son Túrin will reach far in this tournament. But I’m going to cheer more for my dear friends and relatives with Nargothrond and Tirion to be honest…

Scatha: I could actually side with you cheering for Nargothrond – but unlike you I think that led by Glaurung they will crush Hithlum – and who’s to stop them then? But the team most people seem to forget is Angband… you think this Fëanor guy is that good, really? I think it’s reality-check -time.

Bard: Well, if Nargothrond beats Hithlum Eriador will stop them in the next one. I mean they may not be all the flash and all that jazz, but they produce results – and I’ll be cheering for them for sure. Anduin and Arnor are close to my heart as well and I think both have chances to get at least one step ahead.

Bandobras: Really? Have you ever seen Valimar play – or played against them? I’m afraid even the proud northern kings are no match for them – even if I will be there cheering with you for them.

Bard: I’d be betting my money rather on Anduin beating Armenelos.

Elwë: I would not wish to sound rude, but do you have any understanding of the Dúnedain – or the difference between the likes of you and them? With all due respect, that is.

Scatha: Ha-ha! Old vain elves and their golden days of old… you guys lost it, haven't you realized it?

The AKM: Okay, okay… easy, please… Your favourites to win the championship?

Bandobras: Valimar beats T-I-G in the final 2-1.

Elwë: Hithlum meets AC Beleriand in the finals and on that occasion I’m going to cheer for Túrin and his father.

Bard: I need to stick with Eriador coming through all the way from the “lower” bracket. But who would they meet there? That’s a bit fishy… Either Valinor-team or AC Beleriand. I do hope Eriador wins it and clears their runner-up status from last year into champs.

Scatha: Hithlum is the worst opponent Nargothrond could have on the first stage as they are the only other team I’d say Nargothrond needs to give credit on their side of the bracket. But if – and I’d say when – they clear it, then it is finals for Nargothrond. There they’ll meet Angband, naturally. Even if the semifinal between Tulkas and Morgoth will be a tough one I’m quite confident Ancalagon beats the Fëanor-brats.

The AKM: Well, thank you all for your time and all the best for the next season.

[the phantom]

MESPN Round-Table Discussion
Live from Amon Obel

Philip McPhantom: Well folks, here we are- it's playoff time again! And as always we’re here to provide views of the way group-play ended up and to give predictions for the first round of the playoffs. I’m Philip McPhantom, MESPN Lead Football Coordinator, and with me I have the dragon Ruharg the Red, the lead sports editor of Monster Magazine, and Ar-Tar-Aradil, sports writer for Westernesse Weekly and president of the Numenorean Association for the Advancement of Football.

Ruharg: Hello again.

Ar-Tar-Aradil: Pleasure as always.

P McPhantom: Well, first things first, why don’t we all say where we’ve been and where we’re headed.

Ruharg: I spent group play in Erebor, and for the first round I’m headed up to Mithrim to watch AC Beleriand and Angband play.

Ar-Tar-A: I spent the first two rounds about Tol Eressea mobile stadium, and when it docked in the Blessed Realm I went on to Valimar to watch the final game there. For the playoffs I’m headed back to Valimar to watch them play Arnor.

PMcP: I watched the first round at Anduin, then I made it down to Dol Amroth in time to catch Tol Eressea when it docked briefly there and caught the second round at Balar, and then went up to Gondolin for the third round. For the playoffs I’m headed to Tol-In-Gaurhoth.

Ruharg: I have wings, so I can get around pretty darn fast, but how are you two getting around so quick?

PMcP: Well, a few eagles cut a deal with MESPN—they’d get our correspondents around quickly, and they’d have their choice of seating for free wherever we were headed, and meals on us of course.

ATA: Yeah, a big thanks to our eagle friends.

PMcP: And in case any of our listeners are wondering why we’re in Amon Obel, it was just a nice meeting spot for all our analysts. Adanel was covering the Anfauglith group and she was passing through on the way to Nargothrond, Finwanaro is also on his way to Nargothrond from the Doriath group, and it wasn’t much out of the way for Mortakh, as he’s going from Anfauglith to Mithrim.

Ruharg: Will any of those three be joining us today?

PMcP: They’re actually doing a show of their own right now, but I do have lists of their picks and comments, so maybe we’ll mention them later.

ATA: Where are the rest of the MESPN folks?

PMcP: Well, Haldan ended in Dol Amroth and he’s headed up to Amon Hen, Glain is headed from Gondolin to the Blessed Realm, and Arvagil is going from Anduin up to Weathertop.

ATA: So MESPN will have all the sites well covered.

PMcP: You know it!

Ruharg: Can we get down to business now?

PMcP: My my, can you believe someone is anxious to discuss football?

ATA: Heh, I think we all are.

PMcP: So first things first—what did you two think of the group stage? Ruharg first, since he’s so impatient.

Ruharg: I’m not exactly happy about the group I witnessed firsthand, obviously.

ATA: Yes, your dragon buddies had some hard luck in Erebor.

Ruharg: I thought Smaug and Scatha might give Eriador some trouble, but credit to them—they handled things professionally. And Misty Mts, well—I feel they sort of outdid the others at their own game.

PMcP: Durin’s Bane played like a dragon, didn’t he?

ATA: And the Misty defense proved rough and tough enough to handle the Wilderland and Erebor attacks.

Ruharg: All true. Credit to the Misty Mts.

PMcP: Why don’t we back up a minute and start at the top—Group A.

ATA: It was much as I expected—Armenelos and Valimar advancing and The Havens giving them a good run for their money.

Ruharg: And I was pleased to see the Barrow-Downs step up their game.

PMcP: Yes, they gave Armenelos and Havens all they could handle. How about Group B?

ATA: Also as I expected.

Ruharg: About everyone had AC Beleriand through, but Gondolin wasn’t who I picked.

PMcP: Picking the second team from this group was very tough. I had the Dwarves.

Ruharg: I had Inter Beleriand.

ATA: Those were both worthy picks. The defensive organization and talent of the Dwarves set them apart in group, while the offensive flare of Inter made them attractive.

Ruharg: But in the end Gondolin outscored them. I shouldn’t have doubted Maeglin and company.

PMcP: Did everyone get Group C correct?

Ruharg: Real and Hithlum here.

ATA: Same. I toyed with the idea of Doriath and Shire-Bree as a second team—they weren’t pushovers. But the other two squads just had too much firepower.

PMcP: How did you fare in Group D?

ATA: I thought Gondor would get in ahead of Barad-Dur.

Ruharg: That’ll teach you to bet against Sauron. How could you not have him in the playoffs?

PMcP: To be fair, he doesn’t have the hottest talent helping him score. Though I did think they’d have Gondor’s number—he’ll forever be a thorn in their side.

ATA: Everyone had FCVal of course.

PMcP: Heh, yes, no reason to discuss that. How about Group E?

Ruharg: Now, now, no reason to rehash those bad memories. I think we covered it.

PMcP: Ah right. Group F?

ATA: I definitely got this one wrong. I had The Sea and Minas Tirith.

PMcP: I had Sea and Tirion.

Ruharg: Sea and Nargothrond.

PMcP: So why didn’t the Sea come through?

ATA: Scoring. Tirion and Nargothrond had the weapons and the mindset, but The Sea just didn’t know how to be aggressive, so they were left out despite having good possession numbers and a solid defense.

Ruharg: Yep, they just needed a bit more fire.

ATA: *sigh* Maybe fire and water don’t mix.

PMcP: Group G?

Ruharg: This was probably my favorite group—three of the squads had creatures after my own heart.

PMcP: How did you pick between them?

Ruharg: I didn’t think there was any way Morgoth would get left in groups. He’d will his way to victory one way or another. As far as choosing the second squad, I went with Angfauglith, and I was wrong.

ATA: I picked them too.

PMcP: I got this one right, boys. I had TIG winning the group. I thought their midfield was better than Angfauglith’s, and their defense was just as good, and their style better suited for Angband. And onto the final group…

Ruharg: I had Anduin, but not Arnor. I had Mordor instead.

ATA: You were nearly right, but you should’ve stuck with Arnor.

PMcP: Arnor was smarter and more organized, yes, and perhaps Witch King was helpful in breaking down the opposition. He’s familiar with Mordor’s players after all.

Ruharg: And it’s a shame that Rohan goes home without points, but it doesn’t surprise me. They simply lost too much from last year.

PMcP: Now let’s look forward at the playoff matches, guys. Valimar versus Arnor.

ATA: We know the Dunedain of the north have upset the high-flyers of the Blessed Realm before, but I’m having trouble picking them this year.

Ruharg: Yes, Valimar wins this one. With Arien spear-heading things up front, Arnor won’t be successful with their tactics.

PMcP: What do you think those tactics will be?

Ruharg: They’ll try to own the ball a lot and clog things up and play politely etc. and generally try to keep things at 0-0 for as long as possible, then try for a miracle goal.

ATA: That does sound about right. And really I’d give them some chance at pulling it off against most given their execution and discipline, but you’re right Ruharg—I think Arien is too hot to handle like that.

PMcP: So then, any chance Arnor realizes that and tries a bit more attacking to keep Valimar honest?

ATA: I’ve debated about that, and in the end, I just think Arnor will stick to character.

PMcP: Okay then, how about perhaps the most anticipated match of the first round, Angband versus AC Beleriand?

Ruharg: This ought to be everyone’s most anticipated match. I mean—look at the squads. Before the start of the tournament, if you’d have said that this would be the championship game, no one would have expressed any surprised. It’s almost a shame that the clash happens so soon and one team will go home so early.

ATA: Heh, yes, this is definitely a match of epic proportions, but I’m not disappointed to see it early. With the way the tournament is set up there will always be a match or two like this early on, and it’s part of what keeps things interesting, right?

Ruharg: I guess that’s one way to look at it.

PMcP: Any bold predictions?

ATA: I think AC wins this one solidly. But of course Ruharg will disagree.

Ruharg: Well, actually, I’m leaning towards AC as well.

PMcP: What?!

ATA: Surely not!

Ruharg: Ha ha, yes, I know, it’s out of character. You know I’ve always liked Morgoth-led teams, and Ancalagon is definitely one of my favorite players, but just looking at the matchup…

PMcP: Go ahead and get specific, Ruharg, tell us what you see.

Ruharg: Well, AC actually has a defender that can provide some match for Ancalagon’s speed and size, with their Balrog, and Fingolfin is a fabulous athlete and should be able to shut down the primary make-things-happen man, Telvildo. And at the other end I just don’t think Angband is prepared for the four-headed attack of AC.

ATA: That’s what I saw making the difference. Eol and Feanor are so similar—Feanor is obviously on a skill level by himself, but they play the same with the creativity and ability to keep the ball on a string. To shut down the offense you have to stop both of them, and then Angrod and Aegnor seem to really work well with them.

PMcP: Yes, I thought it was a good call letting Beren go and bringing in the brothers. Sometimes quantity outdoes quality.

ATA: And let’s not pretend that those two are low quality either. Perhaps not individually on Beren’s level, but they aren’t far, and there are two of them.

Ruharg: I agree—Angband would have a better shot at shutting them down if they only had three to worry about rather than four.

PMcP: Well then, let’s get on to Real Valinor versus Tirion.

Ruharg: I thought from the start that the defending champs had a free pass to the quarterfinals.

ATA: Not so fast—I think Tirion won’t be easy.

PMcP: But you do think Real wins?

ATA: *sigh* I guess, but I don’t want to sound like it’ll be a romp. I think the three sons of Feanor at the rear will be, with their skill-set and experience, uniquely qualified to put the brakes on Miriel and Nerdanel. If Real is going to score I think they’ll need Orome to show up in a big way.

PMcP: And what about Tirion’s attack?

ATA: The trio of Finwe-Aredhel-Mahtan has to be respected. Now, I think Real can shut them down about as well as anyone if they commit to it in front of Tulkas, but that will detract even more from their offense if Tilion and midfielders have to be defense-first. I think all of this adds up to a low-scoring affair.

Ruharg: I’ll believe it when I see it.

PMcP: How about the other Valinor, FC, playing against Misty Mts.

ATA: If there’s a first-round blowout, this is where it happens.

Ruharg: I won’t say that. Misty has earned enough of my respect. I’ll say they put up a fight and frustrate FC a bit. But yes, FC wins in the end.

PMcP: Why a blowout, Ar-Tar?

ATA: Caradhras, William, and the Watcher aren’t known to be the most mobile defenders. They match up better against size and power. What chance in the world do they have with Curufin, Celegorm, Yavanna, and Argon running at them?

Ruharg: But perhaps won’t Durin’s Bane and company be able to keep pace?

ATA: Between Eonwe and Thorondor that threat will be erased, and Maglor is more than a match for any of the other attackers.

PMcP: Okay, what do you guys think of Eriador versus Barad-Dur?

Ruharg: An intensely meaningful and interesting game, Elrond against Sauron. Both of them have been trying to stretch their investment influence, and in the future I imagine they and their business partners will be seriously sparring over influence in the Misty Mts and perhaps Wilderland.

ATA: Much of that will depend upon how successful their current squads are.

PMcP: Quite right, and that’s what makes this important. It’ll be a few extra million to the winner.

Ruharg: I figure it’ll be low scoring—

ATA: No surprises there.

Ruharg: Indeed. And frankly I’m at a loss to predict a winner. I suppose I’ll go with Barad-Dur because of Sauron as the x-factor, but I don’t feel good about it.

PMcP: How is he going to score all alone against an Arda-class keeper and a fine defense in front of him?

Ruharg: That’s why I don’t feel good about it. But I don’t like Eriador’s chances of scoring either, not with the two Blue Wizards now hanging about.

ATA: My tie-breaker is the midfields—I think Eriador’s will get them more chances, whereas Sauron won’t see much of the ball.

PMcP: That’s where I ended up with my picks. So how about Nargothrond versus Hithlum?

Ruharg: This ought to be an extremely entertaining view. Both offenses should be able to overrun the opposition.

PMcP: How many goals in the game?

Ruharg: I’ll say six.

ATA: That sounds about right.

PMcP: Who wins? Adanel, Mortakh, Haldan, and Arvagil all went with Hithlum, but Glain, Mortakh, and I have picked Nargothrond.

Ruharg: Nargothrond. When Hithlum gets it they just try and score, but Nargothrond is more flexible with building their attacks, and I think their ability to morph out of the break-neck pace and control things will work to their advantage.

ATA: I think the opposite—I think Hithlum’s attitude of attacking without hesitation will lead to more goals, plain and simple. And Ruharg is just picking Nargothrond because of Glaurung anyway.

Ruharg: Har har.

PMcP: All-righty, let’s move on to Tol-In-Gaurhoth versus Gondolin.

ATA: I think Gondolin can score on TIG. They’re crafty and good tactical ball-movers—

Ruharg: Where’s the “but”?

ATA: Ha ha, yes, BUT—Gondolin won’t be able to stop TIG from scoring. They just don’t have enough at the back.

Ruharg: Exactly. TIG will play longball after longball and the Wolves and Thuringwethil will win enough to create a few chances, and from those chances they’ll score enough to win.

PMcP: So we’re all in agreement there. How about the final game, Anduin versus Armenelos.

ATA: Predictably I’m going with my home city. I think Armenelos will dominate the midfield and possession, and Boromir and Eorl won’t be able to impose their will on anyone. And at the back I think Anduin will be outmatched.

Ruharg: Slow your roll, there—I don’t think Celeborn or Fram will feel outmatched, and Felarof is always useful at getting up high for headers and blocking lanes. I can see that Armenelos will probably own possession, but I don’t think they’ll score easily. And Grimbeorn—frankly I like his chances of scoring off a set piece or off a corner.

PMcP: So you’re picking them?

Ruharg: Yes, Anduin for the win.

PMcP: Well, there we are, just in time—we made it through all the first round playoff games. Enjoy watching, you two, and of course everyone else out there listening. We’ll be back in a few days to discuss how tragically wrong or geniusly correct our picks were.

Ruharg: The latter referring to me, of course.

ATA: *chuckle* I suppose stranger things have happened.

PMcP: Now, now, you ought to know it’s too early to gloat.

Ruharg: And you ought to know that now is the only time to gloat—we never make it through with unblemished picks!

*laughter*

PMcP: Well, we’ll see if anyone can break that streak this year. Have a good one.

ATA: Thanks.

Ruharg: See you later.

[Boromir88]

After the teams from Group D and G were eliminated the players returned to their homelands. There were no throngs, parades, or cheering crowds to greet them, just journalists and beat reporters asking the captains and personnel about next year:

GONDOR

The mood in Gondor was grim, but not depressing. I mean yes, FC Valinor was in their group, but still most Gondorians felt their team should have defeated Barad-Dur and qualified, especially since they were the host team of the group. They had not, and primarily it was their lack of goal-scoring this year. Eldacar, Anarion, and the rest just didn't deliver this year, as they had the last.

Anarion addressed the media: "We lost some money, but nothing that should bankrupt the owners or mean the team goes into a complete firesale mode. There probably won't be many changes, just some trimming here and there. If I have to accept less for my downturn in performance this year, then so be it. Hopefully we can target some annual travellers who would help us score some more goals. Gandalf, Isildur, or Eorl would be nice additions, but they might be content staying put and it would take a lot of money to lure them away. We can't overpay just to bring in one player."

ISENGARD"

As one of the lower salary teams, Isengard basically broke even despite their elimination. So there won't be any panic and Sauron (who is a co-owner with Saruman now) believes the talent on the team is good, they just need to strategize better and adjust game tactics. They were blown off the field by FC Valinor and that put Isengard in a large hole, that despite playing better in their other games, they just couldn't dig out of.

Saruman is already at work trying to use his Voice to win over potential free agents, but he refused to give any names at this time: "I called a couple former allies, and a couple enemies. And one or two of them may have been both at one time or another."

ANGFAUGLITH

This is a team that is likely in a lot of trouble. They've missed the playoffs 2 straight years and still have a high payroll. And the other investors are possibly planning what could be called a coup against the majority owner, Evil House (Morgoth).

The anger of the other investors (House Haleth, House Hador, Old Beor House in particular) began when apparently before the Angband-Angfauglith match Morgoth made a gentlemen's agreement to keep the game close and at most on a 1 goal differential. When Morgoth pushed for a 2nd goal after Gorgol's red card, it was seen as a broken promise. It should be noted, we don't put much stock in this story, because even if Morgoth had made that agreement, Angfauglith needs to know it was likely Morgoth hatching one of his tricks. But whatever the truth, it does mark the first noticeable divide between Evil House and the other owners.

A divide that has only been growing since Angfauglith's elimination, with the other owners now accusing Evil House of treating the team as an "Angband Junior" and not being aggressive enough in forming a stronger team. And we do see this as more credible, with Morgoth treating Angfauglith simply as a little-league team. After group play finished, one player from Angfauglith (who asked to remain anonymous) reported Morgoth approached and said: "Would you like to come up to the big leagues next year?" (aka play for Angband).

No one knows where Angfauglith is heading or planning next year, it is a volatile and growing more hostile situation every day.

IMLADRIS

Imladris' main problem was their low budget team was put in a tough group. They still didn't look particularly well against anyone, although Imladris is only down 4 million. With Arnor and Eriador already in the playoffs, Elrond's firm ownership over Imladris should still remain, just reinforcing the point that financially Imladris is fine.

Varda was gracious in talking to the media about next year: "Imladris is Elrond's house and so I would expect him to show the same careful hand and wise signings as he has for Arnor and Eriador. I know with how much the salary was reduced from 2012 to this year, it was asked if Imladris would just be a low-budget feeder team to make money that Lord Elrond would then spend on the deemed more important clubs. A large part of the payroll cut this year was simply losing some key highly priced players, like Elros, to other teams. We'll be adding talent for sure next year and start negotiating trades with our sister clubs, like Arnor and Eriador."

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Elenrod: Question: How many Inter Beleriand players does it take to change a light bulb? Answer: None; they’ll be doing fine for a while before they blow it at the last moment. Today: giving you more stomach acids than you can handle, Gondolin and Misty Mts leave it ‘til the 84th minute to secure qualification. Meanwhile, Glorfindel and Éomer play spoiler as their late goals slam the door on Wilderland and the Sea’s chances of advancing. All these stories, post-game interviews, goals of the week, and more in The Matchday. Today we’ll be discussing all the results of the third group stage round; unfortunately we won’t have time to talk about the last sixteen fixtures, but we’ll be saving them all for a special episode of The Matchday: Extra Time sometime later this week. With us today are the usual suspects: Tactics expert Maikalomion, fresh from a trip to Gondolin.

Maika: Hi. Yeah, I’ve just covered Group B for TENT. The food in the press box in the Stadium on the Rock was fantastic.

Adam: But I bet it’s nothing compared to what we had in Tol Eressëa.

Elenrod: And that was not an economist, Adam Smith, who went all the way to the eastern shores of Aman to cover Group F.

Felagundion: And I just watched all the games from here.

Elenrod: Of course, blogger Felagundion, that’s because you’re our captive pundit. And long will that continue.

Felagundion: Tsk. Don’t I have a filthy rich relative who’s about to kick the bucket and pass me some windfall?

Maika: Erm, we Elves don’t die.

Felagundion: Argh! The lot of you, the whole Eä, you’re all conspiring against me!

Elenrod: That must be similar to how Fingon and Maedhros feel, being dumped thrice in a row under very heart-breaking circumstances.

Felagundion: Ooh, well… not to that extent. Those poor lads.

Elenrod: So I guess we’ll go over Groups B and F first. Now, what happened at the Stadium on the Rock?

Maika: I don’t know why everyone’s forgotten about it—well, I guess it’s because he’s been eliminated in the round of sixteen twice in a row after winning the cup—but Maeglin is a proven match-winner. He’s someone who can go, ‘Sod it, I can’t lose this game,’ and just take over.

Felagundion: And Rog—good Eru, Rog—, he stepped up when it mattered.

Adam: Also, when I watched from my hotel room aboard Tol Eressëa, I saw Inter had no one who could challenge Tuor in the air. Gondolin had their Penlod the Tall to mark Maedhros the Tall, but Tuor won a lot of aerial balls—at least, those delivered decently, but even some of the poor ones. And his winner… that was like a slam dunk leap in basketball.

Elenrod: I liked the Gondolin supporters’ chant after that: ‘Silverfoot, Goldenhead, a match made in heaven.’

Maika: Someone screamed, ‘Tuor Deeney’ at him from near the press box. That was fun.

Felagundion: And before that, a few Gondolin supporters shouted, ‘Do a Doncaster!’ when Rog saved that penalty. It was loud enough that I heard it on TV.

Elenrod: What now for Inter? Do they break it up?

Adam: It would be tempting to say that. They were so close, again. And they lost to Gondolin, again. I think it’s more a mental thing than anything. For example, I think Beren should have taken that penalty—Fingon had too much baggage of being eliminated in the last game of the group stage to have full confidence in putting that penalty away.

Felagundion: Interesting that you mentioned Beren. He said that he and Lúthien would be coming back next year, because going out that way left a sour taste in his mouth. Maedhros then hinted that Lúthien might reinforce their weak midfield—certainly, Forweg and Hunthor were easily panicked by Maeglin and Duilin’s pressing.

Elenrod: What about Turgon’s comments to the press about missing his kingdom?

Maika: Someone asked Maedhros about it. ‘Would Turgon leave Inter?’ He said that he didn’t know what his half-cousin’s plans were, but he said that, ‘Whatever he decides to do, I’d wish him the best. Besides, with the people we have here, there will be no shortage of folks looking to come here and play together again.’

Elenrod: So I resounding ‘I don’t know’, then?

Maika: I read it as, ‘We’re ready either way.’ Which is good. This team will eventually figure it out. They’re too good to keep getting left out of the knockout rounds.

Elenrod: Right, then. On to the scenes at Tumladen Park. What do you make of it?

Felagundion: AC Bel proved that they’re one of the favourites to win the whole thing, plain and simple.

Maika: I like how their full-backs stormed forward for the opening goal. I was getting worried that they’d forgotten how to do that. Once they get to the knockout stages they’ll have to figure out how to throw the kitchen sink at teams who park the bus. I mean, compared to last year, when Bregolas was their sole holding midfielder, they now have a double pivot, so they have four players who can help stop those counterattacks that they were so vulnerable to last year.

Elenrod: Okay. So, what is the future for this Dwarves United squad? If that Gimli halfway line shot had gone in, would it have all ended differently for them?

Felagundion: No. I’d expect AC Bel would still attack them, and they’d still sit deep and play it long to Leggy, so the only thing that would’ve changed is the score line. 3-1 instead of 3-0.

Adam: I don’t agree. AC Bel’s opener came from their full-backs storming forward. Would they have done the same had they been a goal down?

Maika: I think they would have, but they would have done so later in the game, maybe around the hour mark if they still haven’t broken Dwarf U down by then.

Adam: That’s true… Fëanor’s that kind of tactician. By the way, I’m worried for the Dwarves’ finances. They made a profit last year and reinvested it into the squad, but now they’re in for huge losses. Factor in Erebor’s elimination, and we could see an offseason of tightened belts in the Dwarf U squad.

Felagundion: Not an economist, eh? But I agree. I wonder what would happen to Celebrimbor and Galadriel. I do hope we pick up Celebrimbor.

Maika: But it’s more likely that Galadriel’s leaving. Aulë hinted in the post-match presser that they’re planning to add a bit of size and speed to the very rear. Also, he said that they were unlucky to be in this year’s group of death, and they should probably be one of the sixteen best teams in the tourney. I don’t know about his second statement, but his first one’s spot on. Only goal difference separated them from Gondolin the second seed.

Elenrod: I guess that’s it for Group B. Now, Adam, what can you say about the last matchday of Group F?

Adam: As a neutral, it was a feast of great goals. But since we’re talking about our favourite goals later…

Maika: One of them was deflected, though.

Adam: Which one?

Maika: Éomer’s goal glanced off Ossë’s shin. If you watch the replay, you’ll see his sock flutter a little.

Adam: Was it? Oh, that explains it. I was thinking, ‘Unreal technique, giving a bicycle kick such spin.’ Well, that’s no good, then. He really is rubbish, as Denny said.

Felagundion: You should’ve seen the anguish of Tirion and the Sea fans after Finrod scored that unbelievable equaliser. ‘Did we blow it? Will the Sea score another goal?’ ‘Did we blow it? What if Tirion don’t get another goal?’

Adam: I thought you’re supposed to be under house arrest?

Felagundion: I have friends who are fans of other teams. They text me a lot.

Adam: Right. Anyway, the Sea’s lack of a prolific goalscorer got found out. All of their front four can put it into the net, but none of them is the brace or hat-trick type of striker.

Maika: Also, Minas Tirith were defensively solid, crowding out the Sea’s midfielders so they couldn’t get the ball forward easily. If only they’d done the same to Tirion…

Elenrod: Maybe they’d make Mardil a permanent captain of their squad; he seems to get his tactics right. What’s next for Minas Tirith?

Felagundion: Éomer’s gone; I don’t think he’d stay after the abuse he got from Denny. Also, Mardil said that he’d been looking at Armenelos’ games—in some ways they’re similar teams, possessing athletic players who have roughly the same level of talent (although, of course, the level of talent in Númenor is much higher than in Gondor.) That means they might try out a back three, too. I’m interested in that; Cirion looks like he’d be a good wing-back.

Elenrod: And the Sea? They’re one of the most expensive teams in the competition. This must hurt.

Adam: The Sea’s backers have deep pockets, so I don’t think they’d worry about the sunk costs so much as the failure to make a dent in their tournament position. Last year, at least they got out of the group and were eliminated by the eventual champions, but now they’re eliminated by what are, at best, quarterfinals-level teams.

Felagundion: I resent that. Nargothrond have a proper cup-winning squad. But anyway, the Sea lost by the narrowest of margins—goal difference, basically down to goals scored. Ulmo said in the press conference afterwards that he might add a free agent scorer, but that would mean reshuffling their line-up.

Maika: I hope Voronwë stays in his position; he’s one of the few complete midfielders in this year’s tournament—he can tackle, he can read the opposition’s attack and their defence, not to mention that he has the passing range to exploit the holes in defences he can see.

Elenrod: Right, now let’s swiftly go over the rest of the groups, starting with Group A. Thoughts?

Maika: I saw an interesting statistic about the Havens. In Group A, they were actually dominant in terms of total shots ratio, the percentage of total shots in a game taken by a team. The Haven’s TSR is 54%; Valimar’s is 50%, meaning they shoot once for every shot they allow. Armenelos’ opponents actually take more shots in a game than they do. So I think the problem with the Havens, why they can’t turn that shot dominance into game dominance, was finishing and goalkeeping.

Felagundion: Well, Amandil is atrocious, third-worst keeper this year. And Eärendil isn’t exactly a clinical finisher. Remember, when he was Eregion’s lone striker back in 2011, it was Glorfindel who was shouldering the scoring load from the midfield during the group stage, before he stepped up a little during their last few games.

Elenrod: On to Group C, then.

Adam: Children vs adults. What else can one say? Doriath and Shire-Bree performed better than expected, but Real still have that championship pep in their step, and Hithlum are serious about qualifying again after last year’s disaster.

Elenrod: And Group D?

Maika: Sauron proved that he is indeed the most talented non-FC Val player in that group, misdirecting a talented goalie like Huan in his equaliser. They ended up losing the match, but that goal was what put them over Gondor into the next round.

Felagundion: Also, Anarion did so little against Isengard. You’d have expected him to take charge and orchestrate their attacks, but nothing. Was last year a fluke?

Elenrod: We’re really going through this really quickly. Group E, then.

Adam: I think we’ll have to slow down for this one. This was an insane group. Eriador really slacked off, which was understandable, considering they’ve already won their group. But that was dangerous, considering that if they do that in the knockout stage, they’d be out.

Maika: I think that, more than the Witch-king, Eriador really miss Valandil. I thought Valandil was an understated cog in last year’s Eriador; he was an unfussy defensive midfielder, masterful at nipping counterattacks at the bud, but he also initiated their attacks with short quick passes to the attacking midfield trio in front of him. With him, Eriador had more surety, purpose, directness in possession, so that they could actually control the game instead of just being solid defensively.

Adam: I agree. We’ve talked about how scoring goals is more important in the group stage, and defending more important come the knockout rounds, but the favourites—the Valinors, AC Bel, this year’s TiG—, they control the game. They can score well and defend well because they can take the ball anytime they like. A complete holding midfielder can make an attacking team stronger defensively, and he can make a defensive team feel safer going forward—he completes a team. Last year’s Eriador can commit up to five players on the attack because the six players behind them are so comfortable dealing with any counterattack. Araphant and Arador just don’t give them that kind of confidence.

Felagundion: So basically Valandil is wasted at goal—he’s rubbish at Imladris. But the other game: What happened to Erebor’s defence? It’s like they dropped off a cliff. Beorn was terrible, and their defenders looked disorganised. Was Gwaihir that important?

Elenrod: It looked like it—his side won, after all.

Maika: And as I’ve been saying, Durin’s Bane, Narvi, Azog, and Rumil are a well-balanced strike team. You have power, pace, energy, and technique spread out among them. I won’t be surprised even if they score vs FC Val.

Elenrod: Oops, hold on, we’ll leave that for another time. Moving on to Group G… TiG pulled an Eriador? Decided to take an early holiday?

Adam: Something like that. Also, Angband are prone to those lapses of concentration that should have been ironed out this late in the tournament. A similar error against AC Bel would be the end of their run.

Felagundion: I’m somewhat sad for Anfauglith. They had that target man-quick man pairing that looked top-class, but their lack of midfield came back to bite them.

Maika: There should be a lot of cheap, underrated midfielders out there. For example, Bregolas is out of contract, and he did well for AC Bel last year. Teams should just be more persistent in finding those players.

Elenrod: Last group, Group H.

Felagundion: What is up with Sauron and his teams? He scores against the best team in his group, and Mordor draw with the best team in their group. I won’t be surprised if they turn out to have been using performance-enhancing rings.

Elenrod: I do need to tell you, Felagundion, that if you do get sued for slander, you’re on your own.

Adam: Isn’t anyone worried that Arnor only scored once against Rohan?

Maika: Well, the Witch-king and Araphor aren’t exactly whom you’d call volume scorers. And they were playing rather passively for the second half.

Elenrod: I suppose that’s it for our discussion of matchday three. Goal of the week time. Let’s start with you, Felagundion. I know exactly what you’d choose: Finrod’s equaliser vs Tirion.

Felagundion: Felagund will http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgqsaDnsEq8]pants you and your friends[/url] for the whole world to see. It was incredible how he made Irimë, Amrod, and Amras look like Sunday league players.

Elenrod: There were a lot of good goals in the other game, too. I’m sure a lot of people had to change pants after Vëantur’s through pass for Tar-Meneldur, but Tar-Minastir’s goal http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfgNj7wH2VA]from an impossible angle[/url] takes the cake for me.

Adam: Was Isildur’s flick-on for Glorfindel’s equaliser vs Wilderland a rabona? It seemed like he passed it from behind his legs. If it was, why doesn’t he always demonstrate that level of technique every game?

Maika: Adam already described Tuor’s winner vs Inter, but I also liked Gondolin’s second goal. The cohesion of their front line is just a joy to watch. But my favourite goal was Sauron’s one-on-one with Huan. I’ve already talked about it, but really, to have the audacity to face a two-time Arda Cup winning goalie like that, dummy him, then chip it over him… Like I said, I don’t think anyone expected them to win, but it was that goal that proved the difference in their qualification.

Elenrod: I guess that’s it for today. Don’t worry, viewers, we will be back sometime again this week for our round of sixteen preview. Thanks again to the Maika, to Adam, and to Felagundion. We might have a special guest for our Extra episode, so do tune in for that. We’ll see you again soon.

[Boromir88]

It's that time again for TTN's star performances in the 3rd round. Also, we have special stars for the best overall peformances during group play. Since the top single game performers can overlook strong, consistent performances over a span of multiple games, TTN will award special stars as we see fitting.

We will be explaining less the awarded stars in Round 3 (since what we're looking for should be clearer now) and instead explain the awarded special stars more.

Stars (Round 3)

ONE STAR

GK- Huor (Hithlum)
GK- Tulkas (Real Valinor)
GK- Manwe (Valimar)
GK- Orodreth (Nargothrond)
GK- Silent Watcher (Mordor)

DF- Morgoth (Angband)
DF- Fingolfin (AC Beleriand)
DF- Tilion (Real Valinor)
DF- Namo (Valimar)
DF- Caradhras (Misty Mts)

Here we'll just say Caradhras was given a star because of its stout efforts in holding a potent Erebor attack to 1 goal. Misty Mts defensive performance was key to it's surprise 2nd place finish in Group E. (Well a surprise to everyone except TTN who stated Erebor's temper would be their undoing. Although, we had said Thorin would be red-carded in the game, and it ended up being Bolg instead. Can't be 100% all the time.)

MF- Nessa (Real Valinor)
MF- Arassuil (Arnor)
MF- Elros (Armenelos)
MF- Argon (FC Valinor)
MF- Ulfast (Angband)

FW- Finrod (Nargothrond)
FW- Maeglin (Gondolin)
FW- Maedhros (Inter Beleriand)
FW- Sauron (Barad-Dur)
FW- Aredhel (Tirion)

Here we'll explain Sauron's goal and overall leadership in the match against FC Valinor is deserving of a star. It kept Barad-Dur in 2nd and eliminated Gondor. Aredhel's inclusion is more for the consistent performance. Her 3 goals in 3 games were arguably the biggest reason Tirion made it back to the playoffs this year.

TWO STAR

GK- Tar Atanamir (Armenelos)
GK- Arvedui (Arnor)

DF- Balrog #4 (AC Beleriand)
DF- Gwaihir (Misty Mts)

MF- Hador (Hithlum)
MF- Mahtan (Tirion)

FW- Arien (Valimar)
FW- Turin (Hithlum)

THREE STAR

And the best performance of Round 3 goes to...

Tuor, FW from Gondolin.

After deciding Tuor's game opening and then game-winning goal in the 84th minute was a notch above Arien's and Turin's 2 goals each it was a nearly endless debate between Tuor and Gwaihir. I mean there really was no arguable difference between the two. Yes, Tuor scored 2 goals, but that's also the job of the forwards. Gwaihir did it's job by leading the defense, but also a bit more by getting a late game-winning goal. And both games were must win to advance matches for their respective teams. We had to re-vote 4 times, as our Beleriand voters and Middle-earth voters kept creating a dead even split.

In the end, one representative from Middle-earth (who will remain anonymous of course) switched to Tuor.

-----

Now then the special stars. These are awarded based on the best and most consistent performances from the first 3 games in the tournament.

Best Forward - Scatha (Wilderland). The dragons 4 goals was tops amongst all other forwards. 3 stars.

Best Mid-fielder - Argon (FC Valinor). Several forwards had 3 goals and 1 assist, Argon was the only MF in the group. After Curufin stole the show in the Game 1, Argon really has been FC's best player over the full 3 games. 3 stars.

Best Defender - NilpWolf (TIG). Tied with Tilion and Ingwion with the most fantasy points (16). But TIG has allowed the fewest shots on goal, and only allowed 1 goal. NilpWolf is thus awarded 3 stars. And for arguably being one of the best defenses in group play the other TIG defenders (BoroWolf, GaladWight, Drauglin) are given 2 stars each.

Best Goalie(s) -

Tulkas for the best SV% (90%). 3 stars.

For the most saves (15) while still having a Sv% over 80%...Tar Atanamir is awarded 2 stars.

Not to degrade Arvedui's equal stats to Tar Atanamir, but we went with Tar Atanamir based on a tougher group and thus saving shots off Earendil, Bombadil, and Arien have more weight than...Grimbeorn, Shelob, and Helm.

Finally, the best overall defense - Real Valinor. Allowed only 1 goal in 3 games (same as TIG and FC Valinor). FC Valinor's defensive stats, while being impressive needs to be looked at in the light that they were going against 3 clearly inferior opponents. Real Valinor held Hithlum to just 1 goal and that is a remarkable feat. Then their two shutouts against Doriath and Shire-Bree, while those two teams are not offensive powerhouses...they are certainly no worse than Gondor and Isengard.

Tilion, Ingwion, Nahar, Nienna. 3 stars each.

TTN's Stars after Group Round

6

GK Tar Atanamir (Armenelos)
DF NilpWolf (TIG)
MF Argon (FC Valinor)

5

DF Tilion (Real Valinor)
DF Ingwion (Real Valinor)
FW Scatha (Wilderland)

4

GK Arvedui (Arnor)
GK Tulkas (Real Valinor)

3

DF Nienna (Real Valinor)
DF Nahar (Real Valinor)
MF Hador (Hithlum)
FW Sauron (Barad Dur)
FW Curufin (FC Valinor)
FW Tuor (Gondolin)
FW Turin (Hithlum)
FW Legolas (Dwarves Utd)

Then a whole bunch at 2 stars...

(Italics are eliminated players)

[Boromir88]

TWO TOWERS NETWORK: Octofinals Preview
-Boro88

A look back at the first 3 rounds. I was quite happy with using our "wins above replacement" stats to predict winners. 14 of 16 playoff teams correct, there were just some who ended up in reversed order. But we had identified the major underdog upsets (Misty Mountains, Gondolin) as well as the overpriced and over-rated (Erebor, Angfauglith).

Our two misses were Mordor and The Sea this year. I wouldn't even count Mordor as a miss though, because in a statistical anamoly they had more goals and a better differential than Arnor, but Arnor's magic bag of surprises got them through. Mordor was the better team, but Arnor ended with more points. Although, we had called Arnor to advance as well, and identified Anduin as the overpriced and overrated. They were not, so you could say we missed the mark there on Anduin. The other miss, The Sea, we thought defensively were strong enough to advance over Tirion. But we had said that Group F was the toughest 3-team battle for 2 spots in this year's tournament.

In those two cases WAR was off, but I'll take 14/16. And this is where it should really help us start determining winners. It's time for what TTN likes to call the "Octofinals". Where 16 teams, 8 matches, and no more ties remain. When the games get better, the opponents tougher, and there are no Rohan's or Barrow-Downs' left.



Arnor vs. Valimar- The low-budget veterans from Arnor do it again and find their team in the playoffs. Some might recall 2010 where the Norbury kings threw off the majestic Valar in thrilling overtime fashion. But they were a different team back then, and Valimar is a different team now too. After having a real motivation and complacency problem, Manwe has his Valarin mates playing very well. Arien is used to winning playoff games, and won't be content losing in the octofinals. Arnor is feeling good just being here and having a nice profitable year, they will play as the complacent team this time.
*Valimar wins 2-1

Angband vs. AC Beleriand- Wowzers, Angband and AC Beleriand...a match up from the earliest annals of this sport. A match that could be a semifinal, or even a finals battle. And then the winner goes out of the frying pan right into the fire next in having to play Valimar. This is where I hope WAR helps the most in predictions. Feanor has never been eliminated before the quarterfinals. And while I suppose there is a first time for everything, Morgoth and his baddies historically fall short. It's the playoffs, which means it's Feanor time and it's time for him to have a breakout game against the mightiest of enemies.
*AC Beleriand wins 3-2 (OT)

Tirion vs. Real Valinor-
If AC Beleriand and Angband is expected to be a bloodbath, this game should be a technical masterpiece on the pitch. Both teams of longtime family and friends should play respectfully, but it will not be boring by any means. There will be a lot of action, the defenses will be tested...in the end Real Valinor is better at playing Tirion's game, than Tirion is at being itself.
*Real Valinor wins 3-1

Misty Mts vs. FC Valinor-
Now the Misty Mts did a nice job beating out their Middle-earth rivals in both Wilderland and Erebor, but this is something entirely different. Frankly it's time for the Misty Mountains to go back home because we're seeing something similar to the FC Valinor - Isengard outcome. Misty Mountains is a better team than Isengard, so they won't give up 4 goals.
*FC Valinor wins 3-0

Barad-dur vs. Eriador-
Surprisingly this is one of the harder games to call. On the surface it looks like last year's semi-finalist should be able to confidently clear Barad-Dur. Their cool, professional style just wins games. Although they're playing with fire only beating Misty Mountains 2-1 and drawing with Wilderland. Barad-Dur gave FC Valinor a battle and their mastery of set pieces will get them the upset in this match.
*Barad-dur wins 2-1 (OT)

Hithlum vs. Nargothrond-
Another match that is just too too close to call. One of the offensive juggernauts will be eliminated here and now. Nargothrond makes a successful return to the playoffs after years of missing out, but WAR reveals their players are the "one and done" type. They usually lose the octofinals match, even when they do advance. Hithlum missed the playoffs last year too, but their roster is stacked with Arda class champions and they're also specialists at winning shootouts (which this game will be)
*Ties 3-3. Hithlum wins the shootout 4-3.

Gondolin vs. Tol-in-Gaurhoth-
Of all the teams you could say probably don't deserve to be here, it would be Gondolin. I don't mean to be harsh, but come on, they gave up 2 goals to Dwarves United and lost. TIG looks good, they played a bit complacent in the last match against Angfauglith, but they could afford to and conserve energy for this game. Gondolin's defense isn't good enough to contain a clicking (and balanced) TIG team.
*TIG wins 3-1

Anduin vs. Armenelos-
The royal Numenoreans don't look quite like their 2009 championship team, but they are resembling their 2008 semifinalist and 4th place finisher team. It is said the 2nd Age contained the greatest age of Men and they should be able to dispatch their 3rd age foes rather easily. Anduin looks good, but they were in the weakest of groups and their journey ends here.
*Armenelos wins 2-0

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Elenrod: Dear viewers, your televisions aren’t broken. This is The Matchday: Extra Time. It’s basically the same show as The Matchday, just with a different name, because that’s the kind of imagination that you get here. Today: the cast of The Children of Húrin meet on a football pitch in High Faroth; you know one of Nargothrond and Hithlum will end in tears. Elsewhere: is it still a siege if both teams are on the defensive? Sauron’s Barad-dûr visit Eriador again after their Second Age encounter. Meanwhile, can anyone stop a fourth Valinor derby in two years from happening? Our panel discusses whether Tirion or Misty Mts have a hope in hell of doing so. All that and much, much more in The Matchday: Extra Time.

Iorithil: You’d probably need to catch your breath after that.

Elenrod: He’s back! After weeks of hiding, Quenta Noldorin Sport’s Iorithil is with us once again.

Adam: Do you have a new book out again, I wonder?

Elenrod: And you probably thought never the twain shall meet. It’s not an economist, Adam Smith.

Iorithil: Nope, no new book. Although I am in the process of writing one.

Maika: Haha, well, there goes my suspicion that you’re both just the same person.

Elenrod: Determined not to get left behind, our tactics guru, Maikalomion, is also here.

Felagundion: I am getting paid extra for this extra time, am I not?

Elenrod: Of course, you are, blogger Felagundion. Now, let’s discuss the upcoming last sixteen ties. Making our way through the bracket, let’s start with Valimar hosting Arnor. Hm, haven’t we seen this fixture before?

Iorithil: 2010 Arda Cup Round of Sixteen, Norbury at Valimar. The game ended 2-1, with Araphor scoring both goals, including the winner.

Felagundion: ‘Araphor scoring the winner’ is such a clichéd phrase.

Elenrod: Anyone thinks the same thing would happen?

Adam: It could, but I think it wouldn’t, for two reasons. Number one: Arien. Yes, she was in that ill-fated Valimar squad, but she hasn’t won the cup then. She’d drive Valimar forward, dropping deep to collect the ball herself if necessary. Number two, and more importantly, Wiki. By which to say he’d draw the righteous wrath of the Valar.

Maika: Well, if Arien does drop deep, she still has to depend on Irmo and Ingwë moving forward; otherwise they’d just be playing in front of Arnor’s defence. Isn’t the accusation levelled towards Manwë’s teams is that they lacked incision in the final third?

Felagundion: Manwë teams are such a pain to predict. They’re usually more talented than their opponents, but they can lose—have lost—for the silliest of reasons.

Elenrod: So, has the jury reached a verdict?

Adam: Arnor’s offence hasn’t impressed at all in that unflattering Group H, so I’d guess a safe 1-0 Valimar.

Elenrod: All right, then, let’s move on to our first grudge match. Dagor-nuin-Giliath or Dagor Bragollach—whatever you want to call it—, Angband visiting AC Bel’s Lakeside Arena at Mithrim. Can Morgoth pull out something extra to beat Fëanor’s steamroller?

Adam: There are two things two bear in mind here. Number one: AC Bel are better than Angband. Anfauglith are a tough team, but Inter, Dwarf U, and Gondolin are also good, so that’s three wins against good teams for AC Bel vs only one for Angband. Number two: AC Bel’s playing style eliminates a lot of the randomness that gives weaker teams a chance to beat a stronger team. Fact is, the only team they lost to last year, Real Valinor, were better than them, so don’t expect any sucker punches to knock AC Bel out.

Maika: There’s another team that AC Bel didn’t beat last year—Doriath drew with them after going behind by two goals. They exploited AC Bel’s weakness at the time, their lack of width, and crowded out Fëanor, Eöl, and Beren in the middle. Also, they had Beleg and Lúthien, players who were clinical in finishing the few chances Doriath had.

Iorithil: Ancalagon is also a clinical finisher, I think. Morgoth is, as well, at least on set pieces. And in open, play, they have pace through their spine of cat players in defence and midfield, as well as the excellent supporting striker Tevildo. Though Angband won’t have a weakness of AC Bel to exploit now, but they basically have a better defence than Doriath, anyway.

Elenrod: So Angband have a chance?

Adam: Everyone always has a chance against everyone else—that is, until AC Bel record 60+% possession and allow Angband to shoot only five times the whole game. I think 2-0 AC Bel

Elenrod: Felagundion, you were a little quiet back there. Maybe Real Valinor vs Tirion is more to your liking?

Felagundion: Not really. But if you want, I’ll chip in. Real beat Tirion last year. Tirion got much stronger, and Real were weakened—a little. But I expect the same result: 2-1 Real

Elenrod: Well, that was quick.

Iorithil: I agree with him. Real kept the spine of their championship team: Tulkas, Tilion, Nienna, Nessa, Nerdanel, and Míriel. Basically, those players were instrumental in beating five tough teams—and Rohan—in their championship run. And this new group has to be confident after finally not losing to FC Val after three tries.

Elenrod: And there’s a good chance they’ll be meeting again, what with FC Valinor facing Misty Mts in another round of sixteen tie. Maika, do you think Misty Mts have a chance? You have been raving a lot about their front four.

Maika: Haha, well, I said they could score against FC Val, but I also think FC Val could score three or four against them.

Adam: How about Argon, eh? What a player. He got his first Arda Cup cap last year after years of being ignored, and now he’s probably the most important cog in this FC Valinor machine.

Felagundion: I wouldn’t go that far. He has the same stats—three goals and an assist—as Curufin.

Adam: But good defences are already used to dealing with Celegorm and Curufin. And Yavanna seems to have hit a rough patch of form. Argon is their most consistent performer during the group stage. Well, him and the back four, I guess.

Maika: That is true. They allowed only a little over eight shots per game, against teams that are technically offensive in style. Huan had to save just five shots the whole group stage—Arvedui of Arnor and Tar-Atanamir of Armenelos made that many saves per game.

Elenrod: Your call?

Maika: Hmm, I said Misty Mts could score against them, but I don’t think so. 3-0 FC Val.

Elenrod: And now we move on to a lesser rivalry: Barad-dûr at Weathertop, playing Elrond’s Eriador.

Iorithil: I have a feeling this is an almighty upset in the making.

Elenrod: Really, now, Iorithil? Why?

Iorithil: I watched your show last time, when Maika mentioned Valandil as one of their important players from last year. Of course, they also lost Wiki, Malbeth, and two of their attacking midfielders, Arahael and Arassuil. That’s a lot of corporate knowledge gone. Well, their defence is still top-notch, as you’d expect, but their defence-to-attack transitions look discombobulated.

Maika: Well, if NogWight grafts well into that system, he could help. He was a fine forward for the Wolves, good finisher, of course, but also excellent in linking up with the midfielders. With Eriador, he uses his positional intelligence and industry to link midfield and attack, driving them forward with his running and short passing. He hasn’t formed a seamless rapport with Glorfindel, Isildur, and Arveleg yet, but if they click…

Adam: But would Sauron give him time? Last year, Barad-dûr were full of energy, but it was all headless-chicken-running-around-the pitch style. This year they’re really snapping to tackles, pressuring ball-handlers, cutting into passing lanes, like what Sauron urged his 2011 Wilderland team to do against Valinor. And Grishnákh is still a pretty good goalie, even if he’s dropped off from his unsustainable preseason form.

Elenrod: So, what do y’all think?

Iorithil: Hmmm… 1-1, with Eriador edging it in penalties.

Adam: Sounds about right, though I wouldn’t be surprised if Sauron nicks a winner in extra time.

Elenrod: Next up is probably the marquee event of the last sixteen, in terms of goalscoring potential: Hithlum visiting Nargothrond at the High Faroth Arena.

Adam: Bookies are putting the over/under of total goals scored in this game at five. I wouldn’t be surprised if they repeated the seven-goal thriller they had in a friendly match last year.

Felagundion: Hithlum don’t have a midfield, and Nargothrond keep the ball well. I expect they’d score less than three goals.

Iorithil: The Túrin vs Glaurung angle is interesting, even if they’re on totally opposite sides of the pitch. Well, there’s also Nienor, Gwindor, Finduilas, Húrin, Morwen…

Maika: Remember how Gwindor burned Hithlum in that friendly Adam mentioned? I think he scored a first-half hat trick then. Reckon he’d do the same this year?

Adam: Arroch did a pretty decent job on Míriel. I think Nargothrond won’t have any single mismatch to exploit; they’d have to keep their offence flowing. That’s their forte, anyway.

Elenrod: And on the other end? Túrin is back, Húrin is there, and so is Hador. What would Orodreth and company do?

Felagundion: That’s a big question. They have the pace to exploit Nargothrond’s high line, and they’re superb finishers; excellent at set pieces, too. It’ll be defending from the front again for Nargothrond, preventing the ball from getting to Hithlum’s forward line through high pressing. Good news is, none of Hithlum’s back four is a good ball-handler, aside from the Balrog.

Elenrod: So what’s your call on this?

Felagundion: I fear Hithlum won’t be denied, but Nargothrond can control this game. 3-2 Nargothrond.

Elenrod: That’s it, then. Tol-in-Gaurhoth-Gondolin, anyone? Gondolin have to be pretty confident after their drama-filled victory over rivals Inter.

Iorithil: The way TiG are playing, it doesn’t matter which of Inter or Gondolin they face. It’ll be one-sided.

Maika: Yeah. The Wolves are excellent in all three areas of the pitch, and ShastaWolf bounced back from his horrible 2012 and is, once again, one of the best goalies of the tournament.

Iorithil: Considering how weak their side of the bracket is, I’d be surprised if they don’t make it to the finals. 2-0 TiG, but 3-0 is also possible.

Elenrod: Last we have Anduin hosting Armenelos. Armenelos lost top seed to Valimar by the narrowest of margins, but Anduin won their group quite convincingly.

Felagundion: Except against Mordor.

Elenrod: That is true, that is true. So, do they have a chance?

Maika: This is a pretty good Armenelos side. Anduin have talent, but most of this crew won an Arda Cup together. They’ve never been eliminated before the quarterfinals, except last year, and even then they gave the eventual champions Real a pretty good fight in that last group stage match. Ar-Pharazôn is golden again, and Elros has seamlessly slotted into that number ten role, chipping in a goal and two assists.

Adam: Yeah. It’s just their bad luck that it looks like they’d be meeting TiG next round. The Wolves have been their bogey team for quite some time now—2008 and 2011 come to mind. Otherwise, they have a good chance of beating Eriador and getting to the finals.

Elenrod: So the score?

Maika: 2-1 Armenelos. Anduin have a good attack, and a pretty solid defence. But Armenelos’ talent and experience should see them through.

Elenrod: And with that, we’ve come to the end of our program. Many thanks again to our panel. Iorithil, a pleasure to have you here.

Iorithil: I want to be back again next time.

Elenrod: And we’d love to have you again. Maika, what are your plans?

Maika: I’m going to Weathertop to cover Eriador-Barad-dûr.

Elenrod: And you, Adam?

Adam: I thought I was covering Nargothrond-Hithlum alone, but surprisingly—

Felagundion: The folks upstairs are letting me go with him.

Elenrod: Good for you, Felagundion. Have a fabulous week, everyone. We’ll meet again soon.

[the phantom]

Trouble With Hosting in Valimar
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

In the days leading up to the first round of the playoffs there were many in Valimar that worried they wouldn’t have their grand arena prepared to host. They had hosted Group A during the group stages, and one of the visiting teams was The Barrow-Downs, which always brought with it a rowdy group of Wights, and they had done no small amount of damage to the stadium.

The match reports that covered the final round of group play for the most part didn’t include the gory details—either because much of it took place immediately following the game, or because the Valar were leaning on the press to suppress the embarrassing happenings. Everyone knew that the mischievous Wights had cut the ropes that operate the stadium bells (during all three rounds no less), and some of the bells had been dented or scratched by Wights hurling stones at them (in order to celebrate away goals). But the Wights stepped up their vandalism in a major way for the final round—actually succeeding in cutting some of the bells down and sending them crashing down the stone shafts beneath them, as well as painting on the walls, pulling decorative plants and trees up by the roots, slashing tapestries, emptying food stands of supplies, and that’s not even half the list.

In many cases the hosts would not themselves feel embarrassed, as they would be victims—the perpetrators should feel the embarrassment! But the Valar, Manwe in particular, was taking a lot of heat for the incidents, as his new policies (made for the sake of the games) were cited as the biggest reason for the damage. The policies were curiously inconsistent (as Tulkas and Orome in particular pointed out)—they were quite hands-off and free in allowing any and all into Valinor, but then restrictive inside the stadium (outlawing even ornamental or sheathed weapons). But by far the law receiving the most criticism was the one strictly punishing those caught fighting in or around the arena, as the law made no allowance whatsoever for justification—i.e. if an Elf were attacked by a pack of Orcs he would be locked up if he fought to escape. Not to mention it would be extremely difficult for Valinor to hold and punish a foreigner (like one of the Barrow-Wights), and so really the law only effectively hamstringed the Valinoreans themselves.

The trouble-making Wights were very emboldened by the rules, knowing they could do anything they pleased and the locals wouldn’t dare try and stop them, or even be equipped to do so if they wanted to. Needless to say the results were disastrous, and the law-abiding Elves and Ainur could only watch in utter rage as the Wights desecrated their playing grounds. There were authorized security forces on hand, but it wasn’t nearly enough for the large-scale and organized attack, and they were able to take very few prisoners. Those that they did capture quickly made use of the progressive in-out passage laws and restrictions and had themselves removed to captivity in their homeland, where instead of being punished they were congratulated, while some Wights merely vanished into the vapors of the underworld and spirited themselves away, giggling all the while.

“Everyone was so excited to host in the Blessed Realm after the ban was lifted,” said Tirion’s captain Finwe. “They did rectify some of the problems that were present last time, but unfortunately they created a host of new problems by moving too fast in a new direction.” When asked if the problems would continue in the playoffs, Finwe sounded hopeful. “Well, of the 6 teams playing games in the Blessed Realm in this slate of games, only the Misty Mts is likely to bring destructive fans, and they’ll be playing here in Tirion rather than Valimar. Manwe has given me permission to have some of our own rules here, and needless to say I’ve taken precautions.”

Football fans around Arda can only hope that Finwe’s positive outlook will prove to be realistic.