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Old 06-17-2009, 05:19 PM   #81
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Group D at Erebor

The last round of matches was highly anticipated. One could sense the excitement already in the morning walking at the roots of the mountain through the makeshift cheap-apartments built for the tourists to the games, or through the number of vendor-tents and take-away breakfast shops on carts. The home team had performed well so the mood of the supporters was hopeful and optimistic – even if nothing was certain as yet.

Nothing was indeed settled. Eregion had played such a beautiful game this far and they might beat Erebor, even with more than one goal. On the other hand Mordor had really not been the team people had anticipated it to be, so Osgiliath might beat it big-time and leave the home team to the group stage. And there were all chances for that as the Mordor team had nothing but their honour at stake. Mordor’s honour? So nothing at stake, deduced many.

So when the first match between Mordor and Osgiliath began the cheers for the goodies were not so hearty one might have presumed against a team from Mordor. And when Eldacar took Osgiliath into lead already at 25th minute the cheers were cordial at best. Those fast to count came up with it quickly: with this pace it would be 3-0 – and Erebor would need at least a draw against Eregion.

But the Mordor team soon showed some marks of coming alive. It looked like there was something called honour in Mordor – or then they just couldn’t bear watching the jubilant Osgiliath-players, their hated rivals.

At the same time the game got rougher. As the fast orc-forwards started to wreck havoc in the Osgiliath defences the defenders needed to take rougher methods into use to stop them. But if you play rough with an orc, you know what you’ll get. A host of free kicks were called and a total of nine yellow cards were given.

There were also some really beautiful team play and nice saves in the latter part of the first half. So it was a very entertaining game indeed. And it continued like that in the beginning of the second half, but slowly the balance of the game was turning more and more towards Osgiliath’s goal.

But then it came, like a lightning from a clear blue sky. In the middle of some real pressure laid by Mordor forwards and midfielders, Cemendur managed to steal a fast pass from Shagrat to Gollum and sent it immediately forwards, where with a lots of individual skill, Eldacar dribbled a few orc-defenders and ran away with it. He made it all the way towards the goal and made a powerful shot from ten meters… and Shelob got one of it’s feet in the way!

It was hard to say where the Uuuh’s and Oooh’s from the crowd came from; from disappointment or from instinctual joy for their own team’s chances. But there was the rebound… Eager to turn forwards Gorbag came a bit too riskily to the situation not just getting the ball away over the sideline asap to be safe but tried to turn before taking the ball. Falastur hit it right there and then, hammering the ball in with a slide from six meters. Even Shelob couldn’t react into that.

The rejoicing of the home crowd was noticeably subdued. To be frank the claps were mostly polite and only the Eregion and Osgiliath fans were shouting hurrays from the bottom of their lungs.

But team Mordor hadn’t yet played it’s last cards. After the goal Mordor went into full attack -mode forcing the whole Osgiliath team into defence. But even there amidst the crowded defensive-area the small and agile orcs led by Gollum got chances to shoot one after another.

Ten minutes to the final whistle it finally bore fruit. After something like twenty consecutive passes the Mordor attack had totally dissected the defences and Gollum’s last diagonal pass from the edge of the box reached Grishnak just inches out of the off-side in the middle and Romendacil being in a sideways movement Grishank had it easy to send the ball to the opposite end of the goal.

The instant reaction of the home crowd was a thunderous cheer which got subdued pretty fast when they realised what they had done.

There were no more goals in the game even if Mordor went for an equaliser the last ten minutes. Osgiliath defences tightened up enough after the goal allowed and managed to block the last Mordor advances.

When the final whistle blowed the Osgiliath team and it’s supporters knew their fate was now in the hands, well feet, of the Erebor team.


Mordor 1-2 Osgiliath

shots 11-10
on target 5-5
GOALS:
*25, Osgiliath (Eldacar, Ostoher)
*59, Osgiliath (Falastur, Eldacar)
*81, Mordor (Grishnakh, Gollum)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mordor- Radbug, Gollum, Shagrat, Nazgul #4, Snaga
*Osgiliath- Anarion, Cemendur, Ostoher, Meneldil



The temperature at the plains rose steadily during the afternoon but started to cool down come evening, but the temperatures at the arena didn’t show any sign of coming down. On the contrary, the intensity of the hopes and fears was something you could almost touch in the athmosphere.

And the table was now set. Win or draw for Erebor would mean they would go through from the group-stages. Losing with one goal while making at least one themselves would get them through as well. Losing 1-0 would lead into – well people were not quite clear about it; a coin-toss, a rematch? But losing with two goals… that would not be an option – even if it was what everyone was afraid of could happen.

The home team started spiritedly and went aggressively into the tackles and tried to take the time and space out from the other team forcing them into rushed decisions and faults. The home crowds were cheering fanatically and Eregion soon realised this was the strongest opposition they had met in the tournament. Eregion was actually the weaker side in the field for the first fifteen minutes being forced into defence and not getting any decent build-ups into making.

But when the starting frenzy of the home team dried slowly down the thing people had feared (and the pessimists calling themselves realists had predicted) just stroke them. It was probably Eregion’s first decent attack in the whole game – and they scored!

It was a nice straightforward goal. Elladan made a good run on his side and passed the defender taking him, then a short run towards the goal along the end line and a nice diagonal chip backwards to Gil-Galad rushing forwards and heading the ball irresistibly in.

But the crowds were immediately awoken again when Bolg sent an angry shot from 30 meters which Elrond just barely managed to tip outside the goal resulting in a corner kick for the hosts. The game was on again. But admittedly it became a bit more even for the rest of the first half.

The home team had clearly decided on the half time to even the game at the first moments of the second half. And they did come in to the second half like a whirlwind. Like in the beginning of the first half the Eregion team was forced to make hasty decisions with the incessant all-around pressing. And then it happened…

Erestor was receiving a pass as the lowest defender but saw Nazgul #7 already coming for him leaving him no time to take the ball into his control when it came to him. He had glanced left to see Celebrimbor advancing slowly and tried to pass the ball to the left with a one-time touch – but the Nazgul managed to put his feet in the ball’s way changing the angle it flew. And Smaug who was running to pressure Celebrimbor noticed it in time and rushed to the middle in a flash and without any niceties shot the ball in. Elrond had no chance. It was like a penalty-shot. A penalty-shot, shot by Smaug.

The crowds had had occasions for cheering and bursting out during the tournament but this was just ear-deafening! It was 1-1! The home team was taking on Eregion evenly and what was the best, they got their precious goal! Now even 2-1 defeat would give them the second place in the group!

Clearly the intensity of the game went down after the equaliser. Erebor took it a bit more easily but neither did Eregion seem to press on with full speed. And soon it became visible that the home team was wearing down a bit due to those maniac-periods they had played. And at 72nd minute the visitors went one goal ahead again. Eärendil gave a beautiful free kick finding Glorfindel from the point and heading the ball stylishly with a ground-bounce over Bain who was trying to make a flying catch on the header he saw coming.

The game ended 2-1 and Erebor was qualified beside Eregion who won the group with a clean sheet. There was much rejoicing and the parties lasted through the night in all goodwill and joviality. Even some of the orcs were in a pretty good mood: Bolg, Nazgul #7 and Smaug would be on the next round while the Osgiliath-team would be not. Of course they were disappointed on how their own tournament went, but anyway better to see Erebor going forwards than Osgiliath.

There were some scattered skirmishes mainly between the orc and dwarf supporters during the ealy hours but the dwarven guards dealt with them effectively as ever.


Eregion 2-1 Erebor

shots 11-12
on target 5-7
GOALS:
*19, Eregion (Gil-Galad, Elladan)
*48, Erebor (Smaug, Nazgul #7)
*72, Eregion (Glorfindel, Eärendil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eregion- Glorfindel
*Erebor- Bolg, Thrain, Dain


Final standings: Group D

Eregion 9 6-2
Erebor 4 5-4
-------------------------------------
Osgiliath 4 5-5
Mordor 0 1-6
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Old 06-17-2009, 05:33 PM   #82
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Group E at Lothlórien

At Lothlórien it was first going to be a meeting of age-old friends – and well some not so much in friendly terms with each other. But anyway most of the players of Doriath and Dor-Lomin teams knew each other well and the party on the eve of the match aroused a lot of interest.

Some tabloids even reported that, invited by Nellas, Túrin and Saeros had shook hands and shared a cup of wine during the evening. Believes it who wishes, but it was clear that many people and elves enjoyed the party together, and there was much rejoicing. But in the actual game there would be some real fighting as only one of the two teams could go forwards – and both had the chances in their own hands as none of them believed in the host’s capabilities of winning the mighty Armenelos later in the evening.

But as the game started off it was clear who were calling the shots. Doriath’s midfield managed to fight back at times and Eöl and Maglor showed their dangerousness the few times they got the ball, but when the game fell on to the Doriath’s half the problems really started – as in earlier games.

The weakness of Doriath’s defences had been discussed a lot during the tournament but here’s one view of it by a well known Doriath-elf and football enthusiast who wishes to remain incognito:
“Well, basically I don’t understand the team manager why he would build the whole defence of the team on cursed players… I mean elves slain by the cursed ones. Now what an omen is that if not bad? We should have guys like Thingol and Mablung and Beleg in our team to be strong enough.”

Whatever the truth of the matter is, Dor-Lomin had gone into 2-0 lead before even half an hour of the game was played. First Beleg and Túrin tore the defence into pieces. Túrin outwitted Saeros with ease and then, when everyone was anticipating for a shot, he passed the ball left without even glancing that way knowing Beleg would be there. And right there he was, actually just passing the ball into an empty net in front of him. The second one was orchestrated by Beleg. This time Beleg draw the brothers Eluréd and Elurin totally out from their places and passed the ball back to the empty space where the great elf-friend Lórindol had ran from behind. It was a rocket of a shot coming from behind Melian’s own defenders denying her even a visual catch of it coming.

And Dor-Lomin went three goals ahead just two minutes before the end of the first half. Marach gave a corner kick surprisingly a long way backwards and from behind the great hassle in front of the goal Morwen Eledwhen booted such a shot that Melian had no chance even reacting to it from behind the crowd parked in front of her goal.

The second half was like a friendly match or a formality. And like in friendly matches it ended 1-1. Maglor sneaked the ball through the defences to make it 3-1 at 56th minute and Tuor nailed the game from Nienor’s dashing run at 72nd minute.

The elves were good sports in their defeat and congratulated the Dor-Lominian team for a long while in the field while changing shirts. Dor-Lomin had showed once again it was a force to be reckoned with and someone, likely Edoras, should be prepared for them.


Doriath 1-4 Dor-Lomin

shots 7-18
on target 3-9
GOALS:
*14, DL (Beleg, Turin)
*29, DL (Hador, Beleg)
*43, DL (Morwen, Marach)
*56, Doriath (Maglor, Eol)
*72, DL (Tuor, Nienor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Saeros, Elwe, Ellurid
*Dor-Lomin- Gloredhel


The result of the earlier game had kind of taken the edge out from the last match of the group with the home team having no chances whatsoever to qualify and the visitors being already through.

However the home team wished to show their supporters they would be a team worth the support and had clearly decided to play for honour to the end. Maybe they lacked the last effort as they had no real stakes or then the Armenelos team was just too good. Whichever way, there was no question about the outcome as the match begun.

Armenelos dominated the field and pushed the Lothlórien attacks back even before they actually started. That forced Lothlórien team to shoot from far away resulting in only three shots on goal – and none of them in.

After the first probing-phase Armenelos started to make serious attacks and at the half an hour point they scored. The power-duo Ar Pharazon – Sauron was at it again. This time Ar Pharazon served and Sauron scored. The rest of the half Armenelos controlled the game but eased the tempo a bit not to waste energy.

On the second half Armenelos came for the second time with serious business in mind and that spelled trouble for the home team once again. Eventually they scored for the second time after displaying some great offensive football. This time Tar Minastir freed Sauron in the middle and after sweeping the defenders from his way he shot the ball easily behind Galadriel making it a total humiliation in front of the home crowds. Some even say he had winked an eye on her.

The crowds roared with disbelief, anger and disappointment but even if the home team tried its best they just couldn’t break the solidity of Armenelos’ team-defence to come back to the game.

The way the game ended left a bitter taste into the mouths of many fans, but those more into football just couldn’t help admiring the football Armenelos was playing. With good-natured elves and the great heroes of men around at the ending party, the Lothlórien elves forgot the bitterness soon enough and were ready to praise also the great heroes of Armenelos as well.

Sauron hung around at the party for a while but after no one wished to speak or socialise with him he withdrew to his personal quarters he had brought with him. Not all his team-mates were happy about his presence in the team even if he had played outstanding football and was probably one of the leading point scorers in the whole tournament thus far. Many felt him to be the Sword of Damocles hanging up above their heads. But that only time would tell.

And what was Sauron thinking in his solitude?


Armenelos 2-0 Lothlorien

shots 14-7
on target 7-3
GOALS:
*30, Armenelos (Sauron, Ar Pharazon)
*56, Armenelos (Tar Minastir, Sauron)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Armenelos- Tar Calmacil
*Lothlorien- Rumil, Haldir, Eldarion


Final standings: Group E

Armenelos 9 8-2
Dor-Lomin 6 7-5
¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨¨
Lothlórien 1 3-6
Doriath 1 4-9
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Old 06-17-2009, 06:02 PM   #83
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Group F at Shire

Shire awoke to the final day of their tournament with hassle and buzz all around. Edoras had advanced already from this group but all other teams had it in their hands, well some more than the others. The hobbits were just too painstakingly aware that even if they had one point more than the two other teams fighting for the last qualifying place, the two could just do it winning the other one, whereas Shire had to face the mighty Edoras and was desperately in need of points.

So the first match of the day would set the table for the home team and they had to wait a whole day in thrill. And the hobbits spent it over the tables of the pubs and under the shades of great trees drinking beer, eating and speculating about the games to follow.

A few courageous and broad-minded rarities seeked the gatherings of other fans and they had bothersome news when they came back to their friends. The Valar-admirers were sure their godlike team would finally start to play after they had performed their rites of humility required when crossing the Great Sea. Dorthonion supporters were sure the old blood of the humans and elves would be revived again and they would dominate the field against the otherworldy passivity of the Valar (bless them, though). And the worst of all: the Edoras fans were sure their team would eat the Shire team for starters, led by Eorl and backed by the great mearas the tiny hobbits would be literally trampled to the ground!

So it seemed all the other teams’ fans had firm belief in their team. “So why wouldn’t we?” They asked each other. “Are we no better than that? They believe in their teams so why don’t we believe in ours? What if hobbits wouldn’t have believed in Bullroarer Took at Greenfields in 1147? Why would we desert him now?”


On the first match Dorthonion faced Taniquetil. Neither team would settle for a draw. Even the Valar looked sharper than in the earlier games when they entered the arena. But when the referee blew his whistle to get the game going everything changed. Both teams were extremely careful and avoided mistakes of any sort. At the half an hour point some of the audience had already fallen asleep even if no one denied the importance of the game. It was just boring and timid by both sides. There were even some booing from the crowds when a team passed the ball safely backwards for the seventh time in a row when there didn’t seem to be a safe opening forwards.

It was one of those games where the shooting-statistics tell one all there is to tell. On the first half Dorthonion shot only once – and even that wide the target. Taniquetil shot twice, once wide and on the other occasion… well it was goal to wake the people up, five minutes before the end of the half!

And there was some discussion on this goal! Manwë got the ball some forty meters away from the goal and chipped it into the air to give himself a header – and he clearly blew after the ball! And the ball flew an astonishing distance only to land at Oromë’s feet at the edge of the box. Oromë actually aimed the ball and made such a shot that even if Beor went for a flying save and got his hand in between the ball and the goal, the ball just took a swerve from his hand and went irresistibly into the back of the net like it had been ordered to get there. There were many Uuuhs of awe and even some protests of unfair means, but everyone admitted that what they had just seen was impressive indeed.

Dorthonion came to the second half spiced up but Taniquetil’s careful game allowed them few chances. Until Finarfin’s sons exploded the stadium for good. Dorthonion was back in the game at 63rd minute! And the game got a bit livelier as neither team really seemed to accept a draw as a result.

Then came the much discussed event. Varda was making a run by the side facing Gorlim. Gorlim tried to stop her but failed. Using the slight physical touch there as an inspiration, Gorlim suddenly plunged into the ground and started howling and yelling while holding his leg. Lady Elbereth could not listen to the wailing but stopped and kicked the ball over the side. But the referee would have none of it and gave Gorlim a straight red card sending him to the shower from filming immediately.

With one-player advance Taniquetil laid pressure to the Dorthonion defences more easily and the game got a new life as Dorthonion struggled to stay in with it. And Varda got her prize for being tender at heart. She made a beautiful pass high up in the air and the ball almost reached the stars – and then came Thorondor chasing the ball from high up flying towards the goal. Just before the Great Eagle and the ball were facing the ground, Thorondor made a soft tweak with its beak and the ball changed it’s trajectory past the astounded Beor while the Great Eagle made an ashtonishingly quick landing spreading it’s wings majestically wide in front of the goal. It sure knew what a show was!

Dorthonion really put in the best it could for the last seven minutes but the Taniquetil defences held the onslaught. Even the last hobbit had surely awaken on the second half for that splendid show they were offered after the boring first half.


Dorthonion 1-2 Taniquetil

shots 6-9
on target 3-4
GOALS:
*40, Taniquetil (Orome, Manwe)
*63, Dorthonion (Angrod, Andreth)
*83, Taniquetil (Thorondor, Varda)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dorthonion- Baragund, Bregor
*Taniquetil- Manwe, Lorien
RED CARDS:
*Dorthonion- 69, Gorlim (red)


But there were the bad news for the hobbits: Taniquetil had won Dorthonion. That meant the Shire would not qualify even if they played even with Edoras. Now they had to win. And that was easier said than done.

The hobbits started briskly with the aid of the bellowing home crowd but ran time and time gain into the insurmountable defensive towers of Shadowfax and Felarof. At 23rd minute it was one of these situations again. Halbarad tried to get past Shadowfax only to get the ball taken away from him. But the great meara saw Eorl running in the peak and made such a kick no man (or hobbit) could have ever performed and shot the ball far to the other end of the field.

There could be no talk of an off-side when the pass is given from the defensive box with that speed. So Eorl had passed the lowest defenders even before they realised what was happening. And as they turned in their heels Eorl already took the ball down some ten meters from the goal. Sam tried to dash for the ball but the old king was too experienced to lose that kind of a duel and so he tossed the ball into an empty net while brave Sam lay on the ground totally fooled.

But the Shirelings didn’t give up but went for attack bravely. And the home crowd supported them to their last breath sweating as much as the players in the field (half of it coming from the physical effort and the other half from the suspense). But Edoras’ defences held firm wave after wave.

Just before the half time whistle Edoras scored a second goal. This time from a corner kick. Thengel gave the corner which came nicely to the rush in front of the goal and went from head to head there. Finally Eowyn got control of the ball in front of the crowded goal and saw Felarof rushing in. With a nice little touch she passed the ball back towards the galloping meara who just hammered the ball in from the 16 meter line, sending a few defenders to the ground from the impact of the ball.

The heads of the hobbits hung low as their dream was broken. All in the audience knew that and the players sensed it even if they bravely tried to come back to the game at the second half.

A fine goal by Eomer on 62nd. minute already got some honest cheers from the home crowd as they had started to cope with the reality. Edoras was so much better team than their own. They had won even Taniquetil! And wait, hobbits played even with Taniquetil! Hobbits are a great footballing nation… if not as good as Edoras.

In the after-tournament parties most hobbits made solemn swears that on the knock-out rounds their heart would beat only to Edoras, the best team in the whole Middle-Earth.

Would Edoras really be the best team in the whole Middle-Earth? That would remain to be seen. But even with their absolutely marvellous defence one must be honest and admit that they haven’t yet been challenged by any major team in the tournament.


Edoras 3-0 Shire

shots 12-7
on target 6-3
GOALS:
*23, Edoras (Eorl, Shadowfax)
*42, Edoras (Felarof, Eowyn)
*62, Edoras (Eomer, Eowyn)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Edoras- Thengel, Brego
*Shire- Ted, Cotton


Final standings: Group F

Edoras 9 6-0
Taniquetil 4 3-3
-------------------------------------
Shire 2 2-5
Dorthonion 1 2-5
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Old 06-17-2009, 07:29 PM   #84
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Eye GROUP B at Mirkwood

Mirkwood was abuzz with chatter about the Arda Cup. The host team would be playing that night, do or die, against a strong group from Arnor. A win and they were into the playoffs. A loss and they were done. And as many fans kept pointing out, a draw would be sufficient to advance, so Mirkwood held the edge.

But first there was another game to be played- Nargothrond against Helm's Deep. Helm Hammerhand and his boys had already been eliminated from contention, and Nargothrond was already assured a spot in the playoffs, but that didn't mean there was nothing to play for. A win or tie from Nargothrond would give them the top spot in the group, which would mean a chance to host their first round playoff game. And Helm's Deep had no intention of ending the tournament on an embarrassing note, so they would surely come to play.

The crowds for all the games had been excellent, but today's first game kicked off to a half empty stadium. The main crowds were obviously outside preparing themselves for the big one. But the folks who were in the stadium were treated to some defensive excellence from both sides. Long balls were won by the defense every time, and the penalty area and even the area just outside it was impenetrable.

Finally the offensive doldrums were broken in the 39th minute, not by a quality attack, but by a brilliant snipe from long distance. The keeper for Helm's Deep, Gram, handled a shot from Beren, and Nargothrond retreated upfield while he held it. He then strolled out a bit and boomed it away, but the ball was won by Glaurung just past midfield, and he sent it sideways left to Curufin to hold possession, and to the surprise of all Curufin boomed it high and to the right side without any hesitation, as he judged that Gram was slow getting back into goal. And indeed he was. Gram made a mad rush and jump back for it, but the ball snuck between his hand and the top post. It was surely one of the greatest shots the tournament would see!

During the second half quite a few Mirkwood fans began entering the stadium, and they were treated to a repeat of the first half- a defensive war. As time ran down it seemed Nargothrond had no intention of tiring themselves out, as they only needed a tie to clinch first place. Helm's Deep tried to take advantage, but Nargothrond was having none of it and kept the shut out. Helm's Deep would go home without a point, but at least an improved final performance to think about. Nargothrond on the other hand would host a first round playoff game after an undefeated run through their group.

Helm’s Deep 0-1 Nargothrond
shots 7-8
on target 2-4
GOALS:
*39, Nargothrond (Curufin, Glaurung)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Helm’s Deep- Brytta, Hama, Eomund
*Nargothrond- Gelmir, Arminas

The match of the night had arrived. It would be Arnor versus Mirkwood for the final spot in the playoffs, and the crowd was absolutely wired. Arnor made their way out to the sound of thunderous booing, but thankfully no weaponry of any sort came flying onto the field. And then came Mirkwood, and the booing changed to cheers, and the booming and patter of drums of all kinds filled the air.

As soon as the game started the crowd started all sorts of special cheers, but they were barely able to find their rhythm before their team truly gave them something to cheer about- a rocket by Scatha into the back of the net!

But for the next twenty minutes the match evened out and the crowd settled down a bit, and at the thirty minute mark they grew quieter still when Araphor found Valandur with a perfect pass across the box for the equalizer.

During the break the crowd energized again and greeted their team enthusiastically out of the locker rooms, and the lads on the field did not disappoint with Thranduil and Nazgul #6 playing a brilliant 1-2 game right up the center of the field for the early second half lead!

This goal was followed by a flurry of offense from Mirkwood trying to put the game away, but the feisty team from Arnor survived the onslaught and eventually gained a chance for a quick counter, which was finished off by the dangerous Araphor. There were twenty minutes left and it was tied again!

Arnor tried to keep their momentum going and ride the surge to a win, but the Mirkwood defenders tightened their games and held. Then just inside of fifteen minutes, Mirkwood started building the attack, and with under 10 left Fram redirected a ball from Scatha and Mirkwood was ahead again!

Knowing that their team only needed a tie and was leading with under ten minutes left, the crowd started drinking and singing and celebrating with all their might, and when the final second ticked off the clock the team ran up into the stands and joined their supporters in merrymaking! The home team would be going forward!

Arnor 2-3 Mirkwood
shots 8-14
on target 4-7
GOALS:
*8, Mirkwood (Scatha, Thranduil)
*30, Arnor (Valandur, Araphor)
*49, Mirkwood (Thranduil, Nazgul #6)
*67, Arnor (Araphor, Argeleb)
*81, Mirkwood (Fram, Scatha)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Arnor- Arantar, Eldacar
*Mirkwood- Radagast, Galion, Bilbo

FINAL STANDINGS GROUP B

----team------points---goal diff
Nargothrond.....9...........+3
Mirkwood.........6...........+3
Arnor...............3............-1
Helm's Deep.....0............-5
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Old 06-18-2009, 09:29 AM   #85
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GROUP C at Isengard

Although the fate of the home team was sealed, the three other teams in this group had it all to play for. Minas Morgul had surprised a few people so far, playing much better than big brother Mordor, and a draw against Gondolin would be enough for them to advance. Gondolin recovered from their opening night defeat against Hithlum with a comprehensive win against Isengard, and were now looking to banish the evil Witch-King and his following to the shadow-world. Hithlum would face Isengard, and needed a result to ensure passage to the last 16, something that wouldn’t seem too difficult judging by the lacklustre form the host had shown so far.

Match 5: Gondolin vs. Minas Morgul.
With kick-off approaching a black rider on a huge black stallion appeared. It was the Witch-King, fully armoured, looking kingly, stern and deadly. He paced up and down around the stadium, giving his opponents a close examination from head to toe, and not a few of the Gondolin (and Morgul) players looked terrified. Then his horse halted with a loud snort, and the Nazgul king dismounted. His assistants rushed up and helped him take off his armour, and helm, and the long black sword he was carrying to the dismay of tournament officials. Turgon, Etchthelion and Idril showed no fear however, and neither did Gothmog, who just scuffed at the intimidation-attempt by the Nazgul. They were here to play ball, not strut around trying to look important.

The match itself was extremely competitive and fast paced. Gondolin played passionately, always looking to set up their power trio of Ecthelion, Gothmog and Idril, but the Morgul team also looked dangerous, and the WiKi had a menacing air about him any time the ball was around him. Early on, Minas Morgul was defending rather deep, and it worked well too, at least until a wonderful long distance shot from Etchelion forced them to change their game-plan. The Elf hit a half-cleared ball on the half-volley from more than 30 metres, and got the perfect bend and power to it, giving The Mouth no chance to stop the ball from the position he was at.

This goal really opened up the game, as Minas Morgul now were forced to attack - and it took them little time to equalize. The goal came rather cheaply from a Gondolin standpoint. Duilin slipped on the wrong occasion, and Queen Beruthiel picked up the ball and sent a low cross that was met by Eärnur who got past his marker at the near post, firing in from close range. Poor defending from the Gondolin players on that goal!

In the second half Gondolin gave it their best, and when three quarters of the match was played they took the lead once again, as Gothmog nodded in Voronwe’s well measured cross. The small section of Gondolin fans were celebrating wildly now, believing their team had done enough to win. Long it looked like they had done so too, as Minas Morgul found it hard to create chances against the solid Elven defence. But out of the blue, and just as the team of the Moon seemed to have hit a brick wall, the Witch-King himself equalized. He received the ball from Castamir, accelerated past Penlod, and hit a shot from a position that normally wouldn’t worry Rog in the Gondolin goal, but the ball was hit so hard it had passed him before he could even react. The Morgul players were praising their captain for his marvellous feat, while the Gondolin team looked shell-shocked.

With only 5 minutes to go Gondolin went looking for a winner, and although they did get one last chance Idril couldn’t capitalize on it, and time ran out. Gondolin had been eliminated, while The Witch-King and his Morgul team advanced to the second round of play.


Gondolin 2-2 Minas Morgul

shots 14-13
on target 6-7
GOALS:
*20, Gondolin (Ecthelion, Duilin)
*35, Minas Morgul (Earnur, Beruthiel)
*62, Gondolin (Gothmog, Voronwe)
*84, Minas Morgul (Witch King, Castamir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondolin- Penlod, Elenwe, Salgant
*Minas Morgul- Angamaite, Gothmog II

Match 6: Hithlum vs. Isengard.
As the earlier match had ended in a draw, the only thing Hithlum had to play for now was the number one spot in the group. They would play in the second round no matter what, while the home team would not, and this fact certainly played a part of making this affair rather boring. Hithlum had two proper opportunities to score in the first half and made both count, and while Isengard did try to make a match of it, they were simply not good enough to threaten the Noldo side. In the second half Hithlum just kept possession without wasting too much energy, and their nonchalance almost resulted in an Isengard goal or two, but the score remained at 2-0.

Hithlum 2-0 Isengard

shots 13-6
on target 7-2
GOALS:
*23, Hithlum (Fingolfin, Feanor)
*43, Hithlum (Fingon, Aredhel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Hithlum- none
*Isengard- Wulf, Quickbeam, Lurtz

Final Standings: Group C


Team................W D L GF GA P
1) Hithlum..........2 1 0...6 - 3 7 Q
2) Minas Morgul..1 2 0...7 - 4 5 q
3) Gondolin........1 1 1...5 - 5 4
4) Isengard........0 0 3...1 - 8 0
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Old 06-18-2009, 10:06 AM   #86
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Group H at Bree

In group H the top two had been decided already in the second round. But who was the top dog? Was it Romenna, the extremely solid Numenorian team, led from the back by Elros, or perhaps Valimar, with their dazzling Ainu flair and power. Also there was the match between the two teams without any points so far: Bree and Amon Sul. Both were looking to make amends to that tonight.
Despite the relative unimportance of the games, Bree stadium was full. After all, the sun was shining and Arda Cup was in town. The home team wasn’t going to advance; the fans knew that, but why make this fact it even worse by staying at home sulking about it? Those who came out also got to enjoy two well-played matches of football.

Match 5: Valimar vs. Romenna
This clash of the undefeated lacked some of the passion it deserved, as Romenna especially looked mentally drained, having fought so hard to get into the position they are in, and having their minds set on the last 16 already. And nothing short of a 100% effort just isn’t going to be enough against this extremely talented Valimar side. Melkor once again did well and played a key part in both goals, scoring the second himself, while setting up team captain Eönwe for the first. Some commentator have already started to question who in actuality is the leader of this team. Is it Eönwe, herald of Manwe, or is it Melkor, He who arises in Might? When asked to clarify the situation after the game, Melkor himself denied any claim to leadership, stating that he is only the humblest of servants. Tulkas was of a different opinion “His words mean nothing to me, and no, I cannot support his inclusion despite the quality he has added to the team. Eventually it will back-fire”, the Vala spoke, adding that he would remain loyal to the team and cooperate even with Melkor as long as he was a part the team also.

Romenna 0-2 Valimar
shots 8-14
on target 3-7
GOALS:
*37, Valimar (Eonwe, Melkor)
*72, Valimar (Melkor, Arien)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Romenna- Tar Surion
*Valimar- Tulkas, Melkor

Match 6: Amon Sul vs. Bree

Amon Sul had yet to score a single goal ahead of this match, but with nothing to lose, they relaxed and for once played some attacking football, determined to go out with honours intact. Bree also came out looking to entertain their supporters, and entertain they did. The match was wide open and gave the crowd plenty of excitement, including four good goals. It ended 2-2, and both teams were satisfied to end this tournament with a smile on their faces. Afterwards all the players (except the Barrow-Wight) joined up at the Prancing Pony, and spent a wholly enjoyable night drinking and singing their troubles away. There would always be a next time.

Amon Sul 2-2 Bree
shots 12-15
on target 5-7
GOALS:
*13, Amon Sul (Arahael, Arathorn)
*26, Bree (Goldberry, Ferny)
*71, Bree (Barrow-Wight, Harry)
*82, Amon Sul (Arasuil, Arahael)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Amon Sul- Elendil, Araglas, Arathorn
*Bree- Bob, Ferny

Final Standings: Group H
Team................W D L GF GA P
1) Valimar......... 3 0 0...8 - 1 9 Q
2) Romenna......2 0 1...3 - 3 6 Q
3) Bree...............0 1 2...4 - 7 1
4) Amon Sul........0 1 2...2 - 6 1
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Old 06-18-2009, 10:57 AM   #87
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Eye GROUP G at Tuna

The mood in the city of Tirion upon Tuna was festive to say the least. Some of the fans were already celebrating as if they’d won the cup. Through the first two rounds Tuna had blasted their way to two wins and racked up the best goal differential in the tournament. They were quite certain that the final task, while potentially more difficult, would be met with the same offensive fury as usual, and Tol-in-Gaurhoth would fall in defeat.

The fans for TIG however were quite confident that Tuna would wither in the face of the speed, strength, and killer instinct of their werewolves. “They started to find their form in the last game, Steve, so this match is as good as over,” said Hakonwolf to Wereonwe as they prowled outside the stadium’s northern gates.

“Quite right, lad!” he answered. “We’re first rate at every position on the pitch! There isn’t a team in this tournament that can withstand us when we’re playing our game!”

But the fans of both teams would have to wait for their match, for first was Brethil playing Gondor. Brethil was already eliminated, and they were paying for honor. Gondor on the other hand had hopes of squeaking into the playoffs with a combined good win over Brethil and a loss by TIG, so they were certain to be firing on all cylinders.

As the game opened it was obvious that both sides were giving it their best shot, but the group from Brethil had the most intensity, wanting to prove that their poor showing thus far was not who they truly were. After several minutes of constant attack, the people of the woods broke through with the game's opening goal- a close range boot from Hunthor given to him courtesy of Halmir.

Brethil continued to apply pressure, and the fans of Gondor worried that their team would fall behind by two goals, but the valiant Boromir II whipped out his horn and blew a blast that made the opposition stop in their tracks and gave courage to the Gondorins (aka Gondorians, Gondorites, Gondolas). Under the leadership of Boro and his bro, the attack was built, and just past the half-hour point the swan Prince (not to be confused with the swan princess) sent in a corner that was headed unstoppably by Boromir and the game was tied!

The fans celebrated wildly, and Boromir himself ripped off his jersey and climbed on top of the goal and led them in cheers. When the ref came running up preparing to give Boromir a card for his display, Boromir leaped down and pleaded, "A madness took me, but it has passed!" Evidently the ref believed him for Boromir escaped an official reprimand and play continued.

The second half was much the same, with Brethil coming out on fire, scoring, and then Gondor pushing back, only this time it was Haleth and Dervorin doing the honors. As the seconds ticked away Boromir and company grew frantic, their chances of advancing slipping away. Imrahil and Faramir tried their best to create openings in the box, but the stout folk of Brethil held and the game ended at 2-2. Brethil had gained a point, and so would not go home empty handed. Gondor had not had a bad tournament either, but nonetheless the fans left the stadium disappointed.

Brethil 2-2 Gondor
shots 9-14
on target 4-7
GOALS:
*18, Brethil (Hunthor, Halmir)
*33, Gondor (Boromir II, Imrahil)
*60, Brethil (Haleth, Manthor)
*77, Gondor (Dervorin, Atanatar I)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Brethil- Asgon, Dorlas
*Gondor- Hirluin, Anardil

The table was set for the final game of the group- Tuna versus Tol-in-Gaurhoth. A win by Tuna would prove they were the top team in the group as they would move forward undefeated, but a win by TIG would steal the first place crown from the hosts and put them back on their way to repeating last year's semifinal performance, or possibly bettering it.

The fans from both sides were extremely confident, but the Werewolves who came in support of TIG were somewhat less gracious. "We're going to eat them alive!" shouted TGEWolf as she chewed on a suspiciously human looking bone. "All of our players are better than all of theirs!" yelled Nerwolf in support of her claim. "Our wolves know the game better than anyone!" agreed Shastawolf. "I can't wait to see the slaughter!" cried McWolf. "I'm just here to see Phantomwolf," muttered Wilwolf to herself.

As the Werewolves took the field, the Elves of Tuna did their best to applaud politely, though after being subjected to constant taunts from TIG fans all week they weren't very enthusiastic. The Werewolves on the other hand howled and roared and stamped their great hind paws on the seats and brought their forepaws together with all their might, and the noise they created was quite unbelievable for such a small group, though the section of TIG fans was certainly larger than it had been for the first two games. A great many Werewolves had showed up for the final group showdown. Even Feawolf, Mirawolf, Lariwolf, and Niennawolf had come all the way out of the East to join the throng.

Not surprisingly Greenwolf had made the journey as well, being related to two of the players on the field, though interestingly she was sporting a Phantomwolf jersey rather than one from her dad or sister. "My sister nearly cost us that first game, so I'm not about to support her," she said when asked about it. "And my dad is so terribly arrogant. Can you believe he put himself on his own Phantasy team?" But when it was pointed out that Phantomwolf was possibly the most arrogant wolf ever, Greenwolf just mumbled something about "none of your business".

But it was Tuna's turn to make an entrance, and what an entrance! The players rushed onto the field flipping and cartwheeling, all while dribbling balls and even passing them to one another. They had been on form since the beginning of the tournament and it looked like tonight would be no different, and the crowd hollered its approval.

But as the game began, the crowd's high spirits were tempered somewhat by strong play from Tol-in-Gaurhoth. Most of the sloppiness that was evident in their first game was gone, and they were able to hold possession and sustain attacks on Tuna far better than anything Tuna had seen thus far in the tournament, though the Werewolves still couldn't crack the final line of defense or Aule the keeper. Though this perhaps was a function of being one wolf short, as Phantomwolf, instead of focusing on the game, kept hovering over near the section of TIG fans and chatting with members of the crowd, particularly the lady-wolves. Finally the ref handed Phantomwolf a card, as he had been so deep in conversation with Greenwolf that he had failed to notice the ball hit him on the back of the leg. "The game's out here, sir!" shouted the ref. "Play properly or you'll be sent off!"

With the addition of Phantomwolf things got dangerous for Tuna, and at the 20 minute mark SPMwolf sent a screamer just barely outside the bar and the crowd gasped. Then again two minutes later Gwathwolf came free for a header, but Aule made a miraculous fingertip save to preserve the tie. The crowd was quite nervous indeed. But then the Tuna defense finally stole it and sent it up the field quickly, and Miriel and Nerdanel ran in and challenged Mormwolf with a shot that he only barely caught up to. The crowd cheered wildly. This was what they expected from their team. TIG's philosophy of leaving their goal open to counter-attack and hoping their defenders were fast enough to get back and slow the attack up long enough to get the defense set was sure to be dangerous against a team like Tuna who had such amazing skill at the forward position.

And indeed, at minute 34 Tuna made TIG pay for their aggressiveness as it was again Miriel and Nerdanel on the counter and TIG just couldn't stop them. The TIG fans for the first time showed some signs of doubt. This Tuna team was good! Perhaps it wouldn't be the slaughter they had hoped for. Finally just before the half TIG got the equaliser from Gwathwolf and the werewolves went into the locker room with some of their swagger back.

The second half started with TIG on the attack yet again, only the Tuna defense seemed to be well over their shock at the quality of play and they were able to more easily spark counter-attacks on the Werewolves, and Mormwolf was extremely nervous back in the TIG goal, for every few minutes the forwards from Tuna would come dashing at him with few defenders to help, and it was no surprise when one got by him at minute 59, this time courtesy of Finwe.

But the Werewolves surged back and attacked the goal with nearly every player they had, and at 67 minutes Lomwolf sent a no-look heel pass back to Wereomer who had a few feet of open space and he boomed the equalizer past Aule.

The Werewolves continued attacking full bore, but again Tuna made them pay with a quick break up the field, and once again the amazing Miriel found the back of the net and Tuna was in the lead again. The crowd was out of control at this point. They were seeing some exciting football!

TIG tried to press the attack again, but this time it was Tuna, riding the wave of emotion from the crowd, who became the aggressors, and the TIG defense was pressed against the wall, subjected to attack after attack! They used every trick they knew, and were carded more than once, but nothing could turn aside the skill of the Elves. Mormwolf made three spectacular saves, but that wasn't enough, as with seven minutes left Finarfin sent such a perfect ball to a breaking Nerdanel that no one could do anything, and Tuna had the two goal lead.

TIG shut things down after that, and Tuna was happy to do the same. They would both be going forward to the playoffs- Tuna as the hottest team in the tournament, and TIG as a team that seriously needed to strategize better, for the one they had employed on this night had been a recipe for disaster. It need not be said that there were many celebrations in Tirion and upon the slopes of Tuna outside the city. The home team was riding as high as any team in recent memory.

Tol-in-Gaurhoth 2-4 Tuna
shots 17-20
on target 8-11
GOALS:
*36, Tuna (Miriel, Nerdanel)
*42, TIG (Gwathwolf, SPMwolf)
*59, Tuna (Finwe, Mahtan)
*67, TIG (Wereomer, Lomwolf)
*75, Tuna (Miriel, Finwe)
*83, Tuna (Nerdanel, Finarfin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*TIG- Phantomwolf, Skipwolf, Wereomer, Borowolf
*Tuna- Amras, Guillen

FINAL STANDINGS GROUP G

-----team------points----goal diff
Tuna..................6...........+8
Tol-in-Gaurhoth...4.............0
Gondor...............2............-2
Brethil................1............-6
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Old 06-18-2009, 11:22 AM   #88
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Eye

FINAL GROUP STANDINGS

GROUP A (Moria)

----team---points--goals--against--differential
Angband........7........6.........4.......+2
Minas Tirith....5........7.........5.......+2
Moria.............3.......3.........7........-2
Alqualonde.....1........1.........7........-2

GROUP B (Mirkwood)

----team---points--goals--against--differential
Nargothrond..9........5...........2........+3
Mirkwood......6.........7..........4........+3
Arnor............3.........5..........6.........-1
Helm's Deep..0.........1..........6.........-5

GROUP C (Isengard)

----team---points--goals--against--differential
Hithlum.........7........6.........3.........+3
Minas Morgul..5........7.........4........+3
Gondolin........4........6.........5........+1
Isengard........0........1.........8.........-7

GROUP D (Erebor)

----team---points--goals--against--differential
Eregion........9..........6..........2........+4
Erebor..........4..........5..........4........+1
Osgiliath.......4..........5.........5..........0
Mordor..........0..........1.........6.........-5

GROUP E (Lothlorien)

----team---points--goals--against--differential
Armenelos....9...........8..........2........+6
Dor-Lomin....6...........7..........5........+2
Lothlorien.....1...........3..........6.........-3
Doriath.........1...........4.........9..........-5

GROUP F (Shire)

----team---points--goals--against--differential
Edoras.........9..........6..........0........+6
Taniquetil.....4..........3..........3.........0
Shire...........2..........2..........5........-3
Dorthonion...1..........2..........5........-3

GROUP G (Tuna)

---team---points--goals--against--differential
Tuna..........9........11........3.........+8
T-i-G..........4........7.........7...........0
Gondor.......2........5.........7..........-2
Brethil........1........3.........9..........-6

GROUP H (Bree)

----team---points--goals--against--differential
Valimar........9..........8.........1.........+7
Romenna.....6..........3.........3..........0
Bree............1..........4.........7.........-3
Amon Sul.....1..........2.........6.........-4
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Old 06-18-2009, 12:56 PM   #89
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Eye Here are the PLAYOFF MATCH-UPS!

These are the sixteen teams who fought their way through group play to gain a chance at the coveted Arda Cup! The playoff format is standard- winner advances, loser goes home. Winner of match 1 plays winner of match 2, winner of match 3 plays winner of match 4, etc. So without further delay, here are the games you've been waiting for. The playoffs are here!!

Angband versus Romenna

Nargothrond versus Tol-in-Gaurhoth

Hithlum versus Taniquetil

Eregion versus Dor-Lomin

Armenelos versus Erebor

Edoras versus Minas Morgul

Tuna versus Mirkwood

Valimar versus Minas Tirith
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Old 06-18-2009, 07:56 PM   #90
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Jim "Scoop" Johnstone here and Round 3's predictions turned out to be significantly better than Round 2. I managed 9-7, in calling games correctly, if it weren't for a few unexpected ties that would be much better! That brings the total to 15-17, and I'm looking to shoot that prediction record up now that it's playoff time and there are no nasty draws! Now we get a clear cut winner, and the champion is decided in a playoff system, as is the right way of crowning a champion!

These games will be significantly tougher to predict, there are no more Isengard cupcakes teams can beat up on, and you lose, you're gone, there is no room for teams to slip up. Now it's time to offer in-depth, unbiased, and the best analysis of each match you will ever find.

Match 1: Angband v. Romenna

What a mighty even first game match this is...Romenna's stout defense and well organized team vs. the powerful might and scary scoring threat of Angband. Usually I would take the ability to score a goal at anytime in the match as the winner, however in Cup in a parallel universe, a well-organized Iraq team gave the offensive powerhouse Spain one heck of a game.

Romenna lost their last match to Valimar, but Valimar is probably slightly more talented than Angband. Angband comes off a win against Alqualonde, but it was a pretty lackluster perfomance...and now there are questions about whether the goodie-two-shoes Hurin and Gwindor want to play for their team. Those two think they have completely clean hands...ha...ha, but if Angband wants to advance far in the tournament Hurin will definitely have to get evil.

Angband's offensive ability will outmatch Romenna, and Carcharoth will continue to improve from his last preformance. Angband wins 2-1...and I will also predict the guy named Tar will get the goal for Romenna. Do I pick up an extra point?

Match 2: Nargothrond v. Tol-in-Gaurhoth

Poor Nargothrond to get this opponent in the first round. But maybe it's good, because everyone in the Soccer community knows TIG has been a major letdown so far. The fans have lost some of that swagger after a disappointing group play showing...and the team may have lost their swagger too. That's not good, because guys need swagger, they need to know they are better and they will go out and beat you on the field. If a team doesn't have that, they might as well go home now, because they aint winning this tournament, let alone beating anyone in it!

Positively though, TIG is not facing Miriel, and no one on Nargothrond can even come close to Miriel's ability...so at least morm-"Swiss Cheese"-wolf should be able to handle GK and hopefully the FWs will step up their game, because right now I'd rather have Natalie Portman, a t-bone steak, and a basket of mozarella sticks as the TIG forwards, because at least they will be appetizing to watch. Where was I...oh yes, match prediction...Draw 2-2, but TIG will take it in a shootout.

Match 3: Hithlum v. Taniquetil

Taniquetil is lucky to be here, there is no motivation, no passion. They believe if Eru wills them to win, they will win, and there is nothing the can do about it. Bogus, I say. The team that will win this tournament, will win it, because they play the best soccer...and that team is not going to be Taniquetil.

Hithlum's got high expectations, and so far they may not have lived quite up to it, drawing with Minas Morgul in their group (but Minas Morgul is an unexpected surprise so far!) The point is, Hithlum is in, they're up against a talented team, but a team that is entirely unmotivated. It's playoff time, which means it's Feanor time, and he will show up all the phantasy managers dumping him faster than a hot potato for that rotten Miriel. Hithlum wins 2-0.

Match 4: Eregion v. Dor-Lomin

It's a surprise to me that Dor-Lomin is here, but Turin still is not a premier player. What did he have in the must win match against Doriath? Oh that's right, one assist. And of course now he is up against the strongest defensive team in the tournament. I challenge anyone to put up more than 2 goals against Eregion. Dor-Lomin's own defense has been shaky, if Eregion gets 2 goals on them (and they will) it's over. Eregion wins 2-1.

Match 5: Armenolos v. Erebor

On paper this looks like it won't be a contest, Armenolos is too powerful, and unstoppable with Sauron playing at the level that he is. It doesn't matter what he's planning, alone, in the clubhouse - away from the rest of the team. Whatever he's doing it's working, and the team feels it's working too, because Armenolos dominated everyone in their group. And unlike some other groups, that was one of the tougher ones, any one of the 4 teams had a good shot a winning or advancing. Armenolos has shown up ready to play.

Though I suspect the tough to tame dwarves, and the most charming and lovable dragon there is, Smaug, will have some fight in him. This could be an off-game for Sauron, as the Dwarves will prove to be tough foes against him, as they always have been. Too bad for Erebor, that Armenolos has many more weapons at their disposal. Armenolos wins 3-1.

Match 6: Edoras v. Minas Morgul

This is probably the toughest match of the 1st playoff round to call. Edoras who has not given up a goal yet, but they have only played the Taniqantscore bums, the Borethonion slugheads, and The not even good enough to get a corny name Shirelings. Minas Morgul will be a true test to Edoras' defense...and this is the match I am more looking forward to. Because Minas Morgul has proven they can put up points, and points against tough defensive teams like Hithlum and Gondolin.

Edoras has an under-rated offensive ability, and their comradarity as a team is unrivalled, but ultimately Minas Morgul has hands down the best player on the field and he's got 3 of his Nazgul who will come to his call on the defense. Theoden finally breaks and so does Edoras, it was a good showing for them, but they are a few stars short of having a really dominant team. Minas Morgul wins 3-2.

Match 7: Tuna v. Mirkwood

This will be another offensively dominated match, you can forget about the defenses. For no amount of odds will I predict this game will end 1-0. Miriel v. Scatha...edge Tuna. Finwe v. Legolas...edge Tuna. Nerdanel v. Thranduil...edge Tuna...you see the point don't you? Tuna's offense is even better than last tournament, and last tournament they scared a lot of teams, but defense was their undoing.

But before I actually trash both defenses, it's necessary to point out the addition of Aule at GK for Tuna, who has been pretty impressive so far, and against some capable offenses too, like TIG and Gondor. Tuna might not rely on defense, but they are going to tell every opponent, "Go ahead try to put up 4 goals on us" because that's what it will take to knock them off. Mirkwood has some firepower, but not that much. Tuna wins 4-2.

Match 8: Valimar v. Minas Tirith

Poor Minas Tirith, it's been an impressive and good tournament for them, but Valimar is just too much for them. Aragorn will surely give his guys a speech that will heat the blood and stir the mind, but speeches don't win matches. Aragorn has not seen an enemy like Melkor, they will fast find themselves down 2-0 and the Minas Tirith defenders will be clueless to how it happened. Valimar wins 3-1.
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Old 06-21-2009, 06:46 PM   #91
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The Arda Kicker Magazine round up

Arda Kicker Magazine has been following the last round of the group-stage and is happy first to deal the following stars from round three.

Five stars go to:

Curufin of Nargothrond
Felarof of Edoras
Miriel of Túna
mormwolf of TIG

Three stars go to:

Aulë of Túna
Beleg of Dor Lomin
Boromir of Minas Tirith
Carcaroth of Angband
Elrond of Eregion
Gwindor of Angband
Melkor of Valimar
Scatha of Mirkwood
Ungoliant of Valimar

One star goes to:

Aragost of Amon Sûl
Arahael of Amon Sûl
Araphor of Arnor
Eldacar of Osgiliath
Finwé of Túna
Hardang of Brethil
Huan of Hithlum
Nerdanel of Túna
Orodreth of Nargothrond
Rôg of Gondolin
Romendacil of Osgiliath
Sauron of Armenelos
Shadowfax of Edoras
Tar Atanamir of Armenelos
Theoden of Edoras
Thranduil of Mirkwood
Varda of Taniquetil


~*~
FANFARES! tat-ta-dat-taaaa!
~*~


Then it will time for some special awards after the group-stage is now completed!

The amazing defence (defenders & goalie) of Edoras (Theoden, Frealaf, Elfwine, Shadowfax and Felarof) playing three shut-outs in a row will gain five stars each.

The most solid midfields who otherwise seldom score points in the tournament as a whole; those of Valimar (Balrog #4, Arien, Tilion, Melkor) will gain five stars each and those of Angband (Tevildo, Gwindor, Thuringwethil, Húrin) will gain three stars each.

Best value for “money” prizes will be given to the most effective players who have not been starred by the organisers of the tournament. They will get the following stars: Nerdanel (18pts.) 5 stars, Eärendil (17pts.) 4 stars and Eldacar (16pts.) 3 stars.


------

All this will result in the following stars (those not playing anymore are in italics) after the group phase:

11 stars:
Felarof of Edoras
Melkor of Valimar
Nerdanel of Tuna

10 stars:
Elros of Romenna

7 stars:
Eldacar of Osgiliath
Miriel of Tuna
mormwolf of TIG
Shadowfax of Edoras

Bubbling under in six stars… Curufin, Galadriel, Gwindor, Sauron, Theoden and Tilion.

In five… Arien, Arwen, Balrog #4, Eärendil, Elfwine, Frealaf, Gandalf, Huor, Nazgul #6 and Turgon.

Beleg and Elrond are in four stars. In three stars there are twenty players…


A little teaser coverage by AKM to follow in a shortwhile...
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Old 06-21-2009, 07:16 PM   #92
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AKM reminiscences

On last year's tournament the first knock-out round went as follows:

Rivendell won Valimar in a shoot-out
TIG beat Mordor in a thriller

Formenos overran Amon Rhûdh
Nargothrond lost scandalously to Túna

Gondolin beat Umbar
Armenelos had it easy with Doriath

Hithlum crushed Mirkwood
Angband gave no chance to Fornost


Only Túna managed to beat the odds being the second best of it's own group and beating the number one of another group.

The teams were a bit different then - a lot different on some accounts, like trading the whole forward-trio of Formenos (Aredhel, Maedhros, Fëanor) to Hithlum for this season - but one does well to remember those times as well...

How did it continue?

Well, the teams advancing to the quarter-finals last year were TIG, Formenos, Armenelos and Hithlum.
(For more, see the very first post of this thread on page1)
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Old 06-21-2009, 10:22 PM   #93
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Eye Group Predictions In Review...

GROUP A
1st Place: Angband
11/13 people had them advancing
10/13 had them finishing first

2nd Place: Minas Tirith
only Hakon and Wilwa had them advancing
only Hakon had them finishing second

Not a single person had both Angband and Minas Tirith in their proper places.

GROUP B
1st Place: Nargothrond
12/13 had them advancing
10/13 had them finishing first

2nd Place: Mirkwood
6/13 had them advancing
4/13 had them finishing second

Skip, Nogrod, Shasta, and TGEW had Group B perfect.

GROUP C
1st Place: Hithlum
13/13 had them advancing!
13/13 had them finishing first!!

2nd Place: Minas Morgul
0/13 had them advancing!!
0/13 had them finishing second!

12/13 people picked Hithlum-Gondolin, 1 person picked Hithlum-Isengard. So no one had it right.

GROUP D
1st Place: Eregion
13/13 had them advancing!
11/13 had them finishing first

2nd Place: Erebor
4/13 had them advancing
4/13 had them finishing second

Nogrod, Boro, Hakon, and Nerwen had Group D perfect.

GROUP E
1st Place: Armenelos
9/13 had them advancing
5/13 had them finishing first

2nd Place: Dor-Lomin
6/13 had them advancing
3/13 had them finishing second

Only Morm and Skip got Group E perfect.

GROUP F
1st Place: Edoras
4/13 had them advancing
0/13 had them finishing first!!

2nd Place: Taniquetil
12/13 had them advancing
0/13 had them finishing second!

Everyone except TGEW had Taniquetil finishing first! No one got Group F completely correct.

GROUP G
1st Place: Tuna
11/13 had them advancing
Wilwa had them finishing first

2nd Place: Tol-in-Gaurhoth
13/13 had them advancing!
Wilwa had them finishing second

Most everyone had the right teams, but had them turned around. Except Wilwa. She got Group G perfect.

GROUP H
1st Place: Valimar
12/13 had them advancing
10/13 had them finishing first

2nd Place: Romenna
3/13 had them advancing
2/13 had them finishing second

Nogrod and Gwath got Group H perfect.

********************

So, the heaviest favorites to advance were Hithlum, Eregion, and TIG with 100% of the vote, and the voters were right with all three teams.

The next heaviest favorites to advance were Nargothrond, Taniquetil, Valimar, and Gondolin with 92% of the vote. Gondolin disappointed the crowds and didn't advance however.

Minas Morgul advanced and was picked by NO ONE!

Minas Tirith advanced being picked by only Hakon and Wilwa.

Romenna advanced only being picked by three people.

Edoras and Erebor were only chosen by four.
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Old 06-23-2009, 03:27 PM   #94
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Match 1: Angband v. Romenna

As a sign of good will Angband had chosen to host their game against Romenna on the fields of Ard-Galen, and not in their usual cavernous underground stadium deep under the Thangorodrim. That was the official story anyhow. In reality, Angband had never before acted on an altruistic agenda, and few believed good will had anything to do with the decision now either. The fact that there were no Orcs in the line-up, but several Men and Elves, coupled with this new-look team’s dependence on speed, movement and skill, rather than than on intimidation and sheer power, were likelier to have been the reason for the choice, commentators judged.

The day began in full sunshine, and the visiting Romenna players and fans could not believe their luck. It was a beautiful day for football and the pitch was in perfect condition, the complete opposite of what they’d expected from an away game at Angband. A few hours before kick-off the Romenna fans singing stuck in their throats however. Thangorodrim started to belch out fumes and black smoke, and the sun was dimmed. The earth trembled under their feet, and there was a noise as of rolling thunder coming from the very earth, seemingly. As Ancalagon entered the pitch a there was a flash of lightning, and the howling of Carcaroth chilled the visiting fans to the bone. This would be no walk in the park.

As play got under way, the Angband fans, mostly Orcs and Easterling, made a rhythmic but unsettling noise beating bones and skulls upon each other, many of them unearthed from the Haudh-en-Ndengi nearby. The Romenna players and fans looked disgusted and upset, but there was little they could do but go on now. Soon the Numenorian team was struggling to stay alive themselves. Angband came out firing on all cylinders, and attacked with fury on both wings and the centre. The tall and brave Numenorian centre backs did an excellent job containing the aerial threat of Ancalagon however, and Maeglin had a hard time getting into space too. Romenna themselves found it very difficult to get players into decent attacking positions, and when they did, they were too undermanned. In the 34th minute they got the chance they were looking for as Ulfast slipped, giving the ball away. Now they attacked with six players against only three Angbad defenders, but Vardamir hesitated, and then tried to play a difficult pass that was easily intercepted. Uldor was quick to react on the chance to counter and sent a long ball up towards Ancalagon, who was challenged by Aldarion, but none of them could reach the ball and as it dropped behind them Thuringwethil came from nowhere, fluttered past the last man and all alone with the Romenna number one she beat Elros with a delicate chip. The capacity crowd roared with glee and hatred.

Now Romenna were forced to attack, but still they came nowhere against a very solid Angband. The fans tried to urge them on, but they too were undermanned and the home crowd’s ridicule always reached the Romenna player’s ears before the encouragement did. Still they battled valiantly, and Angband could not score again until much of the second half had passed. And too be fair, the goal should not have been allowed. Hurin, who had had a quiet game until then, suddenly exploded into action, dribbling past Anarion and then Tar-Ancalime, but when the ball got away from him he went down in a heap, crying foul and appearing to be seriously hurt. The crowd was furious and under pressure the referee pointed to the spot. That was a blatant dive from Hurin, who brushed himself off with a grin, getting back onto his feet. Ancalagon stepped up and put away the penalty kick, but that’s no way to lose a football match!

The Romenna players protested, and the fans booed Hurin, the last one they’d expect to pull a trick like that on them, but to no avail. Now the intensity of the match ebbed out a little, as Angband tried successfully to keep possession of the ball, while Romnenna chased shadows mostly. They did get a few half-chances to reduce the deficit, and had they done so it might have been an exiting finish, but this was not to be their day. The full time whistle went and Angband had advanced to the quarter finals. Comfortably.

Angband 2-0 Romenna
shots 14-9
on target 6-3
GOALS:
*34, Angband (Thuringwethil, Uldor)
*67, Angband pen (Ancalagon, Hurin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Drauglin, Balrog #5, Hurin
*Romenna- Tar Ancalime, Vardamir
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Old 06-23-2009, 04:54 PM   #95
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Eye At Nargothrond...

Nargothrond versus Tol-in-Gaurhoth

There was a steady stream of Elves leaving the gates of Nargothrond throughout the day, making their way on devious paths up to the top of a high cliff overlooking the Narog. There stood the entrance to the great stadium, which was delved deep down into the bluff, so far that the stadium was actually domed rather than being open on the top.

The residents hoped that this would yield their team an extra advantage, as the Werewolves from Tol-in-Gaurhoth were used to the outdoors. The crowd was excited, but not too cocky, for the previous year they had suffered a first round defeat in their home stadium at the hands of Tuna, and the pain of it was fresh in their minds. And this team of Werewolves was certain to put up a fight, having tasted quite a bit of success last time around.

Quite a few Elves from the havens and from Doriath made the trek to see the game, and were definitely supporting Nargothrond, and so it was that the Werewolves entered to only a few cheers, where as Glaurung and company were greeted with great enthusiasm. The dragon-father looked very imposing, and Beren and Mablung up front appeared determined to deliver a win. After gutting out three straight one-goal victories, they felt they had the necessary competitiveness to get it done again.

As the game kicked off, it definitely appeared that Nargothrond was well prepared. Their fine defense, led by the likes of Curufin and Luthien, held firm against the first wave of aggressive attacks, and then they pushed the ball downfield to counter. The Werewolves however defended just as expertly, and Nargothrond could not gain a decent look.

Neither side threatened seriously for the first several minutes, but finally just after 20 minutes Glaurung made a great individual run, beating two defenders and leaving the ball for Beren who made no mistake and put the home team ahead early! "We're one goal away!" exclaimed many fans, who were certain that two goals would be enough to defeat any foe. After all, hadn't their team held the dangerous Scatha and friends from Mirkwood to one goal, as well as the fine club from Arnor?

But the Werewolves, determined to show that they were a more dangerous team than any Nargothrond had faced, pushed forward with great energy and time and again made fantastic runs forward. But each and every time their skill and speed was matched by Luthien and the sons of Feanor. The Werewolves also got as physical as they could get away with, except with Glaurung, but as the minutes wore on the Elves and Beren showed that they could take the pounding and did not slow.

Half time arrived and the frustrated Werewolves made their way to the lockers to talk things over. The crowd wasn't celebrating yet, but the mood was certainly upbeat. "Just forty-five more minutes!" they cried.

But it turned out even five minutes was too long to hold out. The Werewolves stormed out of the tunnel and began playing their fastest and roughest yet, and Phantomwolf managed to keep his feet and the ball through a double tackle from the sons of Feanor and sent it off to SPMwolf who held off Luthien with his broad back and sent the ball past Orodreth to equalize!

Nargothrond tried to answer back, and gained a couple of chances, but Mormwolf corralled the attempts easily and Nargothrond was denied the lead. Then TIG put their possession game into play and try as they might Nargothrond could not gain the ball back. The Werewolves passed it side to side, front to back, and tried to keep the other side running nonstop, while all over the field they continued to create contact as much as possible to bang up the other side.

As the clock went over 70 minutes, it appeared that they were having results at last, and Nargothrond looked just a half-step slower, and so the Werewolves went in for the kill. They built up the attack carefully and gained a couple of decent chances, but then they really pressed forward and attacked with nearly everyone and Nargothrond's defense simply could not withstand the assault, as at minute 76 Nogwolf deflected Borowolf's side-bar miss back into the goal to take the lead!

The home crowd urged their team to greater efforts, but it seemed they were out of gas, or the Werewolves had gained an extra boost, for their attacks were turned aside with ease and the goal was never under serious threat. Glaurung beat his tail upon the ground in anger as the final whistle blew and the heroes from Nargothrond trotted dejectedly off the field. The Werewolves on the other hand leaped into the crowd to celebrate with their small section of supporters. They were through to the quarterfinals!

Nargothrond 1-2 Tol-in-Gaurhoth
shots 11-18
on target 5-8
GOALS:
*21, Nargothrond (Beren, Glaurung)
*49, TIG (SPMwolf, Phantomwolf)
*76, TIG (Nogwolf, Borowolf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Nargothrond- Finduilas, Mim
*Tol-in-Gaurhoth- Skipwolf, Borowolf, Runewolf
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Old 06-23-2009, 05:49 PM   #96
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Match 4, Dor Lomin at Eregion

It was a cool and shiny day in Hollin. The colours were subdued but bright, like they tend to be: different shades of grey, pale green and yellow, different light browns, occasional red and the light blue and white from the sky… The great arena built a day’s walk from the gates of Moria was getting filled up with people around the Middle-Earth. There were elves and men from all ages and dwarves and maiar, and sure some odd ones as well. Tom Bombadil and Treebeard were caught by the media, as well as a few hobbits of some stature.

It was looking like a family-gathering, which it kind of was. Both teams knew each other well and loved and / or honoured each other. The welcoming-banquet on the eve of the match took to the wee hours – to the concern of the organisers: a bunch of players with a mighty hangover was not exactly what they wished to see.

But the players were professionals and took to bed early enough. The same could not be said of the supporters, especially the human supporters of Dor Lomin. They celebrated to the morning and waking up at noon continued where they had left it during the night. And the talk was getting more abrasive and proud.

Many humans boasted they were the elders around. Their team had fought the Evil itself, Morgoth, while the players of the Eregion team had only skirmished with the shade of Morgoth, Sauron. And the humans were the ancestors of many of the players in the opposing team, allowing the most drunken supporters to call the elves “kids” or “youngsters”, which surely annoyed many of the first-born.

But it was also the vanity of the elves that proved to be a problem. Unlike gracious and wise elves they were supposed to be, some of them didn’t let the drunken words pass but took to them. “Are we not the first-born? So who’s the youngster around here?” or, “What would your heroes be without us who have saved the day so many times in the past?” Any educated reader might figure out the following arguments about who rescued who, or who betrayed who, or who was to blame initially for any tragedy x, y or z…

The evening coming along – and the discussions among the supporters of the opposing sides getting tougher and turning into minor rows here and there - the organisers felt they had a possible problem in their hands and decided to act on it. After talking to the captains of the teams, namely Gandalf and Marach, they agreed on the procedures.

Some rebel-rousers were taken into the custody but it was a low-profile manouver until the beginning of the match. The supporters of both teams were trying their best to out-sing the supporters of the other team when the teams finally entered the field. And how they did it!

First there came Gandalf and Marach, hand in hand, talking amiably to each other as they went along. They were followed by Túrin and Gil-Galad, as well hand in hand. And all the others followed in pairs until finally Tuor and Eärendil came in as the last pair their arms over each other’s shoulders. The crowds were silenced when the first players were sighted but burst into great applauds realising the message. And with Tuor and Eärendil entering they just got wild. It was good, thus far.

But however nicely the teams entered the field, the game itself was a tough-fought one.


From the beginning the general mood of the game became clear. It was an open game where both teams tried their best not falling into defence only or playing it safe. Dor Lomin built chances for Beleg and Túrin and they were dangerous indeed. The elven supporters watched in awe the way those two played and crossed their fingers for their thus far solid defence and master Elrond to keep them at bay. But on the other end the scrappy defence (in both meanings of the word) of Dor Lomin was having problems with the well organised attacks Eregion team built up and the human supporters were biting their nails every time the elves got a real build-up going.

At 35th minute one of those build-ups finally paid off. After a beautiful set-up Eärendil passed the ball neatly behind the Dor Lomin defenders. Glorfindel had just gotten rid of his shadow – Galdor that is – for the first time in the match and suddenly faced Huor one on one. He pretended to shoot with his right foot and Huor fell into it jumping towards the left corner. Changing his foot Glorfindel had an easy task to pass the ball into the right one before Galdor and Marach were on him (Galdor actually got booked for a late tackle from that situation).

After the goal the Eregion team withdrew to defend their lead for the last ten minutes of the first half in good order, and even if Dor Lomin pressed on they were not able to break the defences of the elven team – even if one spicy shot from thirty meters by Beleg really forced Elrond to do his best to tip it away from the top-right corner of the goal.

The second half went much in the same vein as the first one had done. Eregion controlled the game more and built careful and organised attacks while the Dor Lomin team ran their game through Beleg and Túrin trying to get them into shooting-range. The reason for the lack of goals was clear for everyone to see; Eregion’s forwards shot a number of times but oftentimes over or wide the goal whereas the better quality shots by Beleg and Túrin were either shut out by the great defence of Eregion or saved by Elrond’s master-quality goalkeeping. With a lesser goalie Dor Lomin could have equalised a few times during the first thirty minutes of the second half.

Just ten minutes before full time, when the elven supporters had already started singing their songs of victory Dor Lomin finally scored to make the game even.

Hador had advanced from the right side and playing a wall with Beleg managed to reach the corner of the box. With a neat little trick he got Erestor off balance for the second needed to hammer a real power-shot towards the goal. Elrond could only parry the ball away pushing it to the right – which was exactly what Túrin had anticipated seeing that Hador was to shoot. With his stunning acceleration Túrin left Celebrimbor standing as he sprinted towards the goal only to get the ball straight to his feet. There was no room for mistake from there. The human supporters made a standing ovation to their hero and only sat down after the game had continued for few minutes.

Even if both teams added their pace for the last ten minutes the game went into overtime. The crowds were now getting real value for their money: what a thriller!

On overtime both teams had their chances. On the 6th minute Beleg hit the post with a swerving powershot from between Gildor’s legs. Elrond was totally out from the situation but it seemed the elves were lucky in this game.

On the other end Eärendil completely fooled his great grandfather and passed the ball to Gil-Galad who volleyed the ball with might from 15 meters… just wide!

On the 15th minute Gundor sliped with the ball and Gil-Galad managed to rob it from him. Suddenly an easy paced build up had reversed into three to two counter attack by Eregion. Eärendil took Gloredhel with him leaving Glorfindel free in the middle when Marach was challenging Gil-Galad. With a great technique Gil-Galad managed to pass the ball to Glorfindel who had time to advance a few steps and then rocketed the ball towards the top-left corner… And Huor made a spectacular save! The elven crowds had already began to yell and cheer only to be silenced with the performance of the Dor Lomin goalie.

On the 21st minute of the overtime Dor Lomin made a promising attack. Beleg got the ball to the side and made a straight run towards the goal-line while Túrin was running towards the goal with Gandalf and Celebrimbor marking him closely. Beleg beat Erestor at the goal-line and chipped the ball towards the middle… and it was going wide it’s mark as Túrin was too far away and held by Gandalf while Celebrimbor had turned to pick the pass. But what did Túrin do? He dived forwards from between the defenders and went for an on-air header. And he made it! The move came so out of the blue that Elrond had no chance when he finally saw it coming! It was a goal! Gooool!


Dor Lomin was through! Eregion had been beaten in their home venue! The elves couldn’t believe it. Two thirds of the stadium were totally silent while the human supporters were yelling, screaming and dancing while calling Túrin’s name in a mighty choir.

Could anyone stop this mighty duo?

Eregion 1-2 Dor Lomin (Overtime)

shots 14-14
on target 5-9
GOALS:
*35, Eregion (Glorfindel, Earendil)
*80, Dor-Lomin (Turin, Hador)
*OT 21, Dor-Lomin (Turin, Beleg)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eregion- Valandil, Elrohir, Gildor
*Dor-Lomin- Galdor, Tuor, Gundor, Morwen
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Old 06-23-2009, 05:54 PM   #97
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Match 5, Erebor at Armenelos

The magnificient city of Armenelos was hosting an Arda Cup play-off game for a second year running. The Armenelos stadium situated just in the shadow of the tower and the citadel was ready to receive the players and the fans and the town was buzzing with enthusiasm and confidence.

On the match-day all the major daily newspapers published Arda Cup -supplements reporting widely on the games so far, speculating on Armenelos’ next opponents and reminiscing about the last year’s tournament.

The catastrophy of last year is forgotten, I’m ready even for a shoot out if one comes this year”, Ar Gimilzor assured in an "Armenelos Times" interview. “But we’ll play in a way we don’t need to go into those anymore”, he added. And people were pleased. All the team and management were on the affirmative: the team had learned from last year’s tournament and would not let the opposing teams to take early leads like last year. They would press on from the very first minute to the last.

It was widely accepted that Erebor would be no match for the home team. They had a dragon to be sure but Sauron could easily hold it at bay if needed. Armenelos had humbled their opponents game after game in the group phase and they had promised to continue that style in the play-offs as well.

"The Númenorian" was the most confident as it’s front page screamed: “No chance for petty dwarves and lesser men! Armenelos will prevail!”. As people started gathering to the stadium the old song “Rule Armenelos, Armenelos rule the world!” was heard from all around the gathering populace – and getting into the stadium itself it concentrated into one big roar for the home team: Rule Armenelos, Armenelos rule the world!

There were a few hundred die-hard fans of Erebor attending the match, mainly men and dwarves. Also a few thousand football fans had arrived from Gondor and the south. But almost 90% of the spectators were Númenorians championing their own team with enthusiasm. To the visiting team the roar and thunder of the home team supporters was intimidating indeed as they entered the fully packed stadium bellowing and chanting for the home team.

And so was the game itself. Armenelos ran over Erebor from the first minutes as they had promised. After half an hour’s play the home team was leading already 2-0. Armenelos pressed on from deep inside Erebor territory forcing the Ereborians to lose balls or to try long passes up to the forwards. The Armenelos midfielders and defenders took those long passes easily into control and ran into attack time after time. Smaug was a shadow of it’s earlier glory in the field now that Sauron was personally guarding it and shutting out any possibility Smaug might have had to take control of the ball and eventually do something.

But the flare and stamina of the home team was just amazing. They rained attacks to Erebor defences from left and right, shooting from far and near. As there always seemed to be a new way of creating an attack, the Erebor players could never anticipate for good what was going to happen next. “Lord of the West” rocketed the ball in from 32 meters at the 13th minute of play while the forwards were denying Bain any decent view to the ball when it left Ar Adunakhor’s boot. Ar Pharazon shoved the ball in from close quarters at 29th minute after a corner kick.

It was a virtuoso performance from the home team. And there was more to come. Less than ten minutes into the second half Ar Gimilzor made the lead 3-0 and broke the spine of the visiting team – thus finally throwing the disaster of the last year’s play-offs from his back. The game was over and the rest was a formality.

Armenelos kept the game under control but they also eased up their pressure and active guarding so that the Erebor team also managed to create a few chances – even though most of their shots went wide. At 76th minute the visitors finally got their comfort-goal with Nazgul #7 seeing nicely how the defenders took Bolg a bit sloppily and sped the ball to him behind the defenders. Bolg thanked for the nice pass and scored from the penalty spot.

In the end Armenelos had chances to make it 4-1 but Tar Minastir shot it just an inch wide.

After a confident win the host-supporters could play it generous and no major rows were reported from the night following the game. A few skirmishes of course, but that’s just normal with events like these.

So Armenelos really showed their quality once again pulling out a clear victory with a masterclass performance. The ones getting on their way the next should really prepare - if that helps...


Armenelos 3-1 Erebor

shots 15-8
on target 7-3
GOALS:
*13, Armenelos (Ar Adunakhor, Tar Calmacil)
*29, Armenelos (Ar Pharazon, Sauron)
*52, Armenelos (Ar Gimilzor, Tar Minastir)
*76, Erebor (Bolg, Nazgul #7)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Armenelos- Tar Minastir, Tar Ancalimon
*Erebor- Bard, Girion, Bolg
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Old 06-24-2009, 01:08 PM   #98
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Eye At Tuna...

Tuna versus Mirkwood

The Elves and Ainur who were staying in and around Tirion could not have been more thrilled. They had witnessed the team from Tuna sweep through their group, and now they were awarded the chance to see yet another game!

It was a very small number of fans who made their way to Valinor to support Mirkwood. A couple dozen orcs (to support the Nazgul), a small group of woodmen (to support Grimbeorn), a small ship of Rohirrim (to support Fram), a couple ents (to support Treebeard), a few score of wood Elves (to support Thranduil and his lot), and a pack of spiders who were "Just here for the party!".

But the many thousands of other seats in the stadium were filled by supporters of Tuna, and the team hoped to draw energy from the crowd. As the home side stepped out onto the field, the crowd was louder than they had been for any of the group play games. The recess between the group stages and the playoffs had given their imaginations time to wander, and there was hardly a Tuna fan in the house who had not been thinking that their team could very well win the Arda Cup this year. They had the highest scoring offense in the tournament and the best goal differential, and they had reached the quarters last year. And this year their defense had been improved! Surely they were one of the favorites!

The game began and the crowd roared as Tuna immediately went on the attack. Five minutes in Nerdanel sent a great cross to Miriel, but Radagast was a wizard on defense and didn't let her take it cleanly. Treebeard came up in support and sent the ball back towards midfield where Fram won it and sent it towards one of the corners where Thranduil outfought Indis for control. He immediately charged towards the box, wrong-footed Ingwe, and blasted a shot past the onrushing Amras. Aule had the shooting lane covered however, but the shot was so forceful that Aule could not grab it cleanly and it squirted on towards the opposite side where Nazgul #6 was the first to it and gave Mirkwood the lead!

The crowd groaned. This was not the way to start! But Tuna could score a heap of goals, so things weren't too terribly dire. And indeed, Tuna went immediately on the attack again, and over the next few minutes Oropher had to make a couple of great saves to preserve the lead. But just when it looked like he couldn't hold on any longer, Grimbeorn managed to steal the ball away from Finarfin and the counter-attack was on yet again. The forwards from Mirkwood sprinted forward with everything they had, and their sudden speed and passing accuracy caught the Tuna defenders off guard and they could not recover in time to stop a thunderous tail shot by Scatha, and Mirkwood was up by two goals only 15 minutes into the match!

Tuna tried to go on the attack again, but now with a nice lead Mirkwood pulled back and concentrated wholly on defense, and even the potent offense of Tuna could not score. Radagast was quick and clever enough to contain Miriel for the most part, and the strength of Treebeard neutralized Finwe, while the tireless energy and rough play of the bear-man Grimbeorn put a stop to Nerdanel. And the rest of the team added their talents to the fray and the result was that Tuna slumped off the field at the half down two goals. Local newspapers and magazines already started trying out headlines- "Tuna Trapped!", "Trouble Upon Tuna!", and "Mirkwood Shocks World!".

But one minute after the break, those headlines were forgotten as Tuna finally broke through. Tuna attacked with speed and skill that Mirkwood had never seen, and Finarfin cut the lead in half! Again and again shots rained in, but fortunately for Mirkwood most were high or wide, and Oropher managed the ones that would have been equalizers. Mirkwood attempted to push the ball down-field themselves, but Tuna won it back every time and continued the pressure. "No way can Mirkwood hold us off forever!" cried the fans.

And they were right! With just over fifteen minutes left Miriel finally shook off Radagast and Finwe found her on the run and the score was even! The fans were out of control, urging their team to win it in regulation, but the Mirkwood team pulled themselves together and sent it into extra time.

When the extra minutes began, it was Mirkwood going all out attack to the surprise of Tuna and their fans. Twice in the opening minutes Tuna nearly made them pay with a quick counter, but Mirkwood managed to get it back and continued the pressure. And then, only five minutes in, King Thranduil headed in a perfect pass from Bilbo and the crowd noise went down to a low buzz.

The Tuna supporters round the stadium attempted to maintain hope. "Twenty-five minutes left- Tuna still has time to score." Mirkwood pulled everyone back to defend. "We have a great offense. We'll equalize." Mirkwood cluttered up the area in front of the goal. "There's still time. Twenty minutes." Nerdanel and Finwe were looking slower from their treatment by Treebeard and Grimbeorn. "Fifteen left. The offense can still come through." Mirkwood suffocated all attacks, allowing only long shots. "Ten left! Hurry!" Mirkwood gained possession and refused to give it back. "Come on! Time is running out!" Tuna controlled the ball and started the attack again, but Mirkwood held firm. "Noooooo!!!!"

It was over. The home fans covered their faces, or kicked their chairs, and some even wept. The fans from Mirkwood, however, celebrated together like they had never celebrated before! They had pulled off possibly the greatest upset in the history of Mirkwood!

Tuna 2-3 Mirkwood (OVERTIME)
shots 20-13
on target 8-6
GOALS:
*6, Mirkwood (Nazgul #6, Thranduil)
*14, Mirkwood (Scatha, Legolas)
*46, Tuna (Finarfin, Nerdanel)
*73, Tuna (Miriel, Finwe)
*OT 5, Mirkwood (Thranduil, Bilbo)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Tuna- Mahtan, Amras, Nerdanel
*Mirkwood- Radagast, Thranduil
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Old 06-24-2009, 02:15 PM   #99
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Match 3: Taniquetil at Hithlum

The curse of the Noldor was the talk of the town ahead of the third match of the knock-out stages of Arda Cup between Hithlum and Taniquetil. Was the Doom of Mandos still in effect? Some said yes, other no and not a few said yes and no, meaning that yes the Noldor would remain dispossessed of jewelry and kingship, but no, not of football trophies. Some also remembered the words the herald of Manwë had spoken to Fëanor in Tuna ages ago: “For none of the Valar canst thou overcome now or ever within the Halls of Eä”. Were these words applicable to football? Those who believed they were, meant that Hithlum had no chance to win of course. Others felt that the only way the passive and complacent Valar could beat Hithlum was by divine intervention, which was clear breach of the AFA regulation. When asked about it, Mandos remained enigmatic, saying “Ye shall know when the time appointed cometh!” The reporter went on to ask if he felt worried that Fëanor, Fingolfin and company would run them over, especially given the Vala team’s lacklustre performance so far in the tournament. “Nay, I already know the final score”, was the Taniquetil keeper’s short answer. Fëanor was less courteous. “The time of the Valar is over” he said. “They should have stayed in Aman behind the safety of their mountains. Here they have nothing to gain and empty-handed they shall return.”

The eagles of Manwë were soaring high over Lake Mithrim when the game finally commenced. Judged by the previous matches played, Hithlum were the favourites, and as they came out it was clear that they were pepped up not only to play well and win, but also to try to really rub it into their old mentor’s faces that they no longer were students but masters of the green field. But the old demiurges showed what experience counts for, and although Hithlum certainly did play masterfully, they could not easily break down the Taniquetil defence. Fëanor took it upon himself to win the game, and he tried every trick in the book, but if he beat one Taniquetil player, another one came to covered up the space, and Hithlum were only given half-chances to shoot from bad angles or long distance. Taniquetil were far from harmless too, and although they lacked the pace and movement of Hithlum, their close control and passing skills were divine giving first Lorien, and then Osse decent shooting opportunities that could have resulted in a goal.

However, Just as the Valar looked to have weathered the storm and started to take over the match a piece of brilliant skill from Fëanor and his oldest son Maedros changed the game. Fëanor spun past Varda, and accelerated towards the Taniquetil box, then played a hard diagonal ball across the box that Maedros met first time with his deadly left boot, and although Mandos moved early, as if he already knew where the ball was heading before it was struck, he was still powerless to stop the rising thunderbolt from finding the top corner. Hithlum were one up and that was the half time score.

Taniquetil were forced to play a little bit more offensively now while Hithlum gained in confidence. Not long after half time the Noldo scored again, and all the talk about curses seemed to run out of steam. Once again Fëanor lived up to his reputation as one of the greatest footballer to have kicked a leather ball, by scoring a goal out of nothing. Picking up the ball in his own half, he made some amazing dribbles in the mid-circle to create space and accelerated towards the Taniquetil area. When he saw how the defenders backed off he took the shot from 30 metres, and hit it with such power that Nessa instinctively ducked to avoid getting hit, and although Mandos did try to block it, he was a moment to slow and Hithlum was two up.

Now Hithlum started to play on the result, and given Taniquetil’s difficulty scoring goals that was a sound tactic. The home fans were jubilant, already celebrating the advancement to quarter-finals with thirty minutes left of the game, but it was too early it proved. For the Valar were still in the game, and in term of possession and goal-scoring opportunities they had matched the Noldor tonight. In order to win matches one needs to score goals though, and this was Taniquetil’s problem once again. Huan stood firm, protected by his two-star defense, and time was ebbing out. But suddenly, with seven minutes left, Thorondor came up with the spark that the Valar needed. Varda sent in an inviting cross, and the great eagle rose high between the Noldo centre-backs and headed the ball past Huan. Now the nerve was into the game, and Tanquetil was looking to push for an equalizer. They did come close as Manwë got a great shooting opportunity in the centre of the penalty area, but a heroic block by Caranthir saved the day for Hithlum. The final whistle went and Hithlum had defeated the Valar, regardless of what the ancient prophesies said. The crowd rose to their feet and gave their team a standing ovation. But the real difference between the two sides tonight was Fëanor, his was the glory tonight. Had he played for Taniquetil and not Hithlum, chances are the result would be different altogether.

Hithlum 2-1 Taniquetil
shots 12-9
on target 5-4
GOALS:
*28, Hithlum (Maedhros, Feanor)
*52, Hithlum (Feanor, Aredhel)
*83, Taniquetil (Thorondor, Varda)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Hithlum- Balrog #1, Fingon
*Taniquetil- Este, Manwe
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Old 06-24-2009, 05:54 PM   #100
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Match 6, Minas Morgul at Edoras

It was going to be more than just a football match. Local newspapers talked of “Pelennor Fields revisited” and Eowyn and Theoden assured the public in an interview: “We have beaten those monsters once so we’ll be able to beat them this day as well”. But it was clear the four Nazgul, or Gothmog, or the Mouth would not let the strawheads humiliate them a second time. And they had performed superbly this far in the tournament playing in one of the toughest groups in the whole games.

The organisers had been anticipating a host of visitors but when they started arriving in hordes the day before the game it was soon realised there was going to be a legion of them. Reserve units of the mounted-guard were called in duty from the surrounding countryside, additional camping areas were marked and facilities added.

Some newspapers estimated afterwards that there had been as much as 25 000+ visitors to the game from outside Rohan: Corsairs from Umbar, black Numenoreans, Haradrim, Easterlings, orcs and beasts and a big host of Gondorians willing to see king Eärnur once again – and also friends of the Eorlingas from Minas Tirith.

Some people had protested at the time when the Meduseld-arena was built that it was crazy to build a 60 000 people stadium in the middle of Rohan. But this day it was filled to the last seat and still a number of people were left outside the stadium as it just couldn’t take in any more spectators (the maximum capacity had been already broken by some three thousand spectators).

And the feeling inside the stadium! It was just astonishing. Many locals were wondering whether there could be so many colours in the world; or so different melodies and rhythms… And still underneath the carnevalistic chanting and drumming there was a darker undercurrent there. Losing was not an option to the supporters of either team and no one could predict how the disappointment of the losing side’s fans would erupt. For one of the teams the tournament would end this day.


The game itself started with some probing from both teams. To the joy of the home team fans it was Edoras that slowly got the upper hand in the match. Minas Morgul’s defence was one of the toughest in the tournament but it wasn’t exactly the fastest. And there the speed and agility of Eowyn and Eomer made a difference. And they worked really hard. With their constant runs they opened holes in the Minas Morgul defences and created scoring opportunities.

But all that was possible only with Edoras’ royal midfield controlling the middle-field sovereignily with the help of the mearas. Due to different pre-game tactical decisions the Minas Morgul midfield, the two Corsairs and the Queen, were all the time facing five players of the opposing team and thus rarely managed to pass the ball on to their forwards. But when they managed it, it was immediately dangerous – like when Beruthiel managed to dribble away two opponents and to pass the ball to Castamir running at the sideline. Castamir outran Elfwine and then passed the ball into the middle where Eärnur got rid of his marker and volleyed the ball just a little wide.

But finally at 32nd minute the home team got what it duly deserved – and the home crowd burst into cheers. With fast paced sprints and some instinctual passing Eowyn and Eomer opened the whole Minas Morgul defence. Eowyn’s last pass surprised all as she passed the ball not to Eomer who was heading for the post for a free scoring opportunity, but to Eorl who was keeping up with the younger forwards and had been left alone for a moment when all the defence was buzzing around Eowyn and Eomer. Eorl hammered the ball in from 18 meters with force that left the Mouth no chance.

After the goal the Witch King dropped a little backwards to aid the midfielders and that did balance the fight there a bit, but Edoras was still controlling the game in general. The home crowd’s chanting grew more confident with the passing of every minute and with the referee whistling the half-time the fans were singing songs of victory. Even the die-hard Minas Morgul fans had to admit that Edoras was the better team on the first half.


Minas Morgul had changed their tactics a bit for the second half. The Witch King and Eärnur had fallen backwards leaving Castamir as the only forward up high. That finally evened out the midfield but left the game imbalanced as the Edoras half of the midfield was heavily manned and the Morgul side was almost empty.

And what would the quick-footed Eowyn and Eomer do given such a space to roam? Well, they made a goal! The two ran the Morgul defences into disarray once again – and finally with the help of Aldor Eowyn managed to send Eomer free to score.

The home crowd went wild. 2-0!

But then the Witch King stepped forwards and gathered the team around him. No one knows what they said to each other or what witchcraft was performed. The referee tried to get the game to continue but the Morgul team was locked into a tight group for a minute or so, until a terrible shriek and wail burst from the Morgul team - so terrible even the orcs in the audience were scared to death by it.

And the Edoras team soon realized they were playing a totally different team they had played the first hour against. The Minas Morgul team was now aggressive and fast. It looked like the Witch King was everywhere. After one shot to the crossbar and another just barely fisted wide by Theoden the Edoras defence started marking him with two defenders when ever it was possible. But when the Witch King was drawing the defenders to him Queen Beruthiel took the lead in the Morgul attack.

Still even guarded the Witch King was a formidable player. At 71st minute he gave an ingenious pass to Queen Beruthiel who was able to slip past the two great mearas – like she had mind over them as she had with her infamous cats – and to the horror of the home crowd she scored. A nice chip flipping the ball with the outside of her foot past diving Theoden and into the back of the net. She truly deserved that goal.

The home team fans were nervously watching the game-clock. Twenty minutes to go. The biting of the nails began but most of the visitors got lighted up and the horns and drums were playing once again. Morgul attacks rained on Edoras’ defences which did hold, until they broke again, just five minutes before the full-time

The Witch King went for the ball together with Shadowfax and they collided slightly. The Witch King flew in the air and landed on the ground laying there immovable. Shadowfax has sworn afterwards there were no actual physical crash between the two but the WK had just flown on his own. The issue remains unsettled but as soon as the referee had whistled the Morgul team a free kick the WK had risen up with clearly no injuries of any sort.

The free kick was clearly a practiced trick. The Witch King, Castamir and Eärnur all three packed into the middle at the edge of the box. When Beruthiel started running towards the ball to kick it they all spread: The Witch king to the left and Eärnur to the right… and Castamir started running back! The WK and Eärnur draw some defenders with them and Castamir the middle ones but just as they realised there was something wrong there Castamir had already turned on his heels and was sprinting forwards again – following the ball Beruthiel had sent him behind the defenders. When the defenders had turned around it was already too late. Castamir sent a rocket just below the crossbar leaving Theoden king no chances. The game was even and it ended even.

Edoras had pulled their ranks together during the pause before the overtime and the game was quite balanced. Both teams had some scoring chances but as they both played now carefully wishing to avoid any mistakes the overtime ended goalless. So it was to be a penalty shoot-out.


The tension was just unbearable. Many spectators were told to have fainted even before the first shot of the shoot-out was made. After the tossing of the coin it was decided that Edoras would start shooting.

Eorl himself walked to the spot and adjusted the ball. He looked totally calm and concentrated. He looked kingly indeed! After setting the ball he took only a few steps back and then looked at the Mouth to the eye – or to the place where the eyes should be. “Forth Eorlingas!” he suddenly bellowed and hammered the ball in to the top left corner of the goal. The stadium exploded and they shouted: “Forth Erolingas! Forth Eorlingas! Forth Eorlings!”, from the bottom of their hearts.

But the shouts and cries of joy died down as soon as they began as the Witch King walked to the box and took the ball. He took a bit longer distance from the ball than Eorl, hissed slowly something no one could hear or understand and then went to it. Just a he was touching the ball in full speed he somehow managed to halt his movement and the swing of his leg. Theoden dived to the lower right corner but the Witch King stood still and waited. The two stared at each other, Theoden lying on the ground and the WK standing by the ball. The stadium was totally quiet as people were holding their breath. “Aren’t you once again humiliated before the eyes of your people and your forefathers Theoden king?” The Witch King hissed mockingly “Now rise, you unworthy image of a king that I can see you crawl another time”. Theoden spat at the ground his eyes flickering with anger as he pushed himself up to all fours. “Over my dead body, you beast!” he yelled at the Nazgul. “As you wish, you piece of sad flesh…” the WK replied and shot the ball with all the power human and superhuman he had – straight towards Theoden’s head. Theoden ducked the ball only by an inch. Had it not killed him with the impact it would anyway have ended Theoden’s game right there. Such a power was in that shot that it tore the fastening hooks of the net from the grass and the ball rolled behind the goal and slowly to the first rows of spectators.

After the staff had readjusted the net the shoot-out continued. It was 1-1.

It was Eomer’s turn to shoot. The Eorlings prayed and bit their lip still disturbed and anxious of what they had just witnessed. Eomer took his time to concentrate. Then he went for it. The Mouth dived to the left and the ball went to the left… and wide! Eomer had missed the goal! The Eorlings were just shocked! It just couldn’t be!

Castamir walked to the spot looking very much confident. Some say he even flashed a malicious smile to Theoden to disturb his concentration. It didn’t look like Castamir was making an effort in front of 60 000 spectators for which of the teams would go forwards. It looked like he was back in the yard kicking the ball with other children. And that of course was the impression he wished to deliver to shake Theoden’s shattered confidence even more. And as fitting, Castamir took the shot casually – but the shot was anything but casual. It was aimed straight to the lower left corner of the goal, but Theoden guessed it right! It was a save! The crowd didn’t believe it at first but when they finally did they burst into wild cheers. There was hope again!

Eowyn was next and the crowds cheered to their beloved lady. She looked very much determined not glancing to the sides at any point. The shot was good. It went straight to the lower left corner of the goal but somehow the Mouth had got it right and tipped it wide with his fingers. The orcs were cheering.

So the last king of Gondor before Aragorn’s rule walked to the spot. If Eorl had looked kingly, so did Eärnur. People were impressed, even Theoden was. But Theoden had his confidence back now, he would not need to bow before any king. But Eärnur just hammered the ball in. Theoden did guess it right but the ball was so fast there was no chance he could have stopped it even if his fingertips did touch the ball as it went in. Minas Morgul led with two goals to one after three shots from both teams had been given.

Then Shadowfax trotted to the field raising the hopes and cheers from the home crowd once again. It was clear to anyone seeing the situation from a closer range that the Mouth was not at all happy with needing to stand up against a powerful meara. It looked like the Mouth was uncomfortable, insecure even. And Shadowfax shot the ball in so confidently it brought tears to many fans’ eyes. It was a masterful execution. The Mouth was left standing on his straight feet when the ball was already in the net.

But when Queen Beruthiel came forwards the home crowd’s hearts sank once again. She had really been the Queen of the match organizing all the deadly attacks the Morgul team had made when the WK was guarded. Her movements were elegant when she walked in, adjusted the ball and made an evaluating gaze at Theoden while slowly walking backwards from the ball. No one of the home crowd dared to boo or whistle. She froze for a second and then ran to the ball like a big cat and shot… to the post! Theoden had guessed totally wrong and dived to the other side but Beruthiel hit the post! It was 2-2 after four shots delivered by both teams! The game was on!

Felarof came forwards as the last of the five from the home team and the spirits were rising once again. People thanked the gods for the choice as the Mouth had clearly had it hard with Shadowfax already. Felarof tried to challenge the Mouth with it’s piercing gaze but the Mouth had lowered his head refusing to face the great meara. The referee blew his whistle allowing the shot to be taken but the Mouth was still just looking downwards standing still. Felarof waited a moment for the Mouth to lift his head but as he didn’t Felarof went for the shot. Just as the great meara was about to shoot the Mouth suddenly got electrified: he jerked his head up and roared like thunder with his mouth fully open stretching his limbs wide. Felarof was not intimidated by that, nor could anyone say the great meara would have been seriously startled, but it looked like it had an effect on Felarof’s concentration and the shot was far from perfect. And the Mouth fisted it wide!

It was all up to a single battle between Khamûl and Theoden. If Theoden was to win the competition would continue one pair against one pair until the other team would win. If Khamûl was to prevail it would be all over for Edoras. The orcs and easterlings cheered for their champion and the Eorlingas were crossing their fingers if they could manage it from the shaking.

“Would you crawl for me too, you pitiful king of the strawheads?” Khamûl hissed softly when he had adjusted the ball to it’s place and looked at Theoden. Theoden remained still and silent looking at the Nazgul to the eye without blinking. He would not be drawn into that banter a second time. “This time, this field… there’s no one to save you. You’ll have to stand alone, on your own.” The Nazgul turned to look around to the crowds and then returned his gaze to Theoden. “They’re watching you Theoden king, your people, your ancestors… are you ready for the task? Are you fit enough to fight?” Theoden remained silent just staring back at Khamûl. They stood like that staring at each other for a moment. It was silent. The silence of 60 000 people is something far beyond describable, but it was there, the silence of 60 000.

Finally Khamûl made his move. He sprinted with amazing speed and shot the ball to the upper left corner. And Theoden was following the shot! His fingertips touched the ball swerving it away from its original trajectory… the ball hit the crossbar… then the post… then Theoden’s back… and it was in! Minas Morgul had won!

No one could explain the emotions running with the home team supporters. The Eorlingas were beaten. The motley crue of visitors (25 000 of them – except the Rohan-friends of Minas Tirith) jumped up and started chanting, dancing, singing, beating their drums, blowing their horns… and the home crowds just sat still trying to understand through their tears what had happened.

Minas Morgul was through and the glorious Edoras was out. It was not just a bitter moment as it would live in the memories of people for their lifetime.



Edoras 2-2 Minas Morgul (SHOOT-OUT 2-3 to Minas Morgul)

shots 14-19
on target 6-8
GOALS:
*32, Edoras (Eorl, Eowyn)
*53, Edoras (Eomer, Aldor)
*71, Minas Morgul (Beruthiel, Witch-King)
*85, Minas Morgul (Castamir, Beruthiel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Edoras- Aldor, Eowyn, Frealaf
*Minas Morgul- Sangahyando, Castamir, Beruthiel
SHOOT OUT:
*Edoras- Eorl (G), Eomer (M), Eowyn (S), Shadowfax (G), Felarof (S)
*Minas Morgul- Witch King (G), Castamir (S), Earnur (G), Beruthiel (M), Khamul (G)
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Old 06-25-2009, 12:16 PM   #101
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Minas Tirith at Valimar

It was decided that the respective group winners would be given the opportunity to host the first round of the knockout-stages of the Arda Cup. Since Valimar won group H, match 8 was supposed to be held in th fair, silver-domed city, but as it turned out, it was impossible for the authorities of Aman to grant entry-visas to the mortal men of Minas Tirith, not to mention their fans. Regardless of this, Cirdan of the Gray Havens would not have been able to provide with white ships to transport all the involved personal on the straight path to the West, at least with such short notice. Therefore Valimar team leader Eönwe asked the Cup administrators if it were at all possible to play the match in Bree instead, since the team was already settled here and enjoyed it. This was an arrangement to everyone’s liking, since the travelling fans of Minas Tirith could make it here in numbers. Barliman Butterbur of the Prancing Pony, as well as all the other Inn-owners, was also well pleased, as his business could enjoy a prolonged period of Arda Cup boom business.

There was no question of which team the locals cheered for. Although they’d enjoyed seeing Valimar play in the group stages, and were proud that the mighty Ainur wanted their stadium as a home away from home, Aragorn played for Minas Tirith and that was all the Bree-landers needed to know. Aragorn, or Striker as he is known in these parts, is a legend after all the charity work he’s done over the years and if anyone could disturb the mighty Valimar, Aragorn was the man to do it, at least according to the pundits at the Pony. But the neutrals and betting agencies all agreed that no matter how good Aragorn was, he alone would not make the difference. Minas Tirith had surprised everyone just by making it past the group stages, but Valimar had impressed perhaps more than any other team in the tournament and anything but a comprehensive win for the Aman side would be a sensation.

Ahead of the match Goldberry sang the national anthem, and the crowd was moved to tears by the aural and visual beauty. But when Ungoliant and the Balrogs entered a great fear fell on them although they’d seen the monsters before. This was nothing you’d get used to. Aragorn also came out and the crowd roared, chanting his name with deafening power. There was also Melkor, He who arises in Might, still in a fair hue, very pleasant on the eye. His behavior had been impeccable so far, but the Bree crowd remembered the naughty tricks played on Tom Bombadil, and although Melkor was seemingly innocent of the events not a few suspected that he was the mastermind behind the scandalous attempts to injure the star man. There had also been signs that Melkor had assumed the real leadership over this Valimar team, with the exception of Tulkas who remained loyal to Eönwë.

On the field however, there was no sign of internal troubles for Valimar. They were all professionals and here to play well, and that they did. In the group stages they’d dominated, but now when it mattered even more, they seemed to have a higher gear still to kick in. Minas Tirith were soon clinging on for dear life, and even the deadly duo of Aragorn and Boromir had to help out at the back in order to contain the mighty Ainur. Melkor was playing like in ages past on the midfield, not selfishly as one would have expected ahead of the tournament, but well-balanced, passing the ball when that was the best option, and taking on defenders himself or shooting when this fitted his counsels better. To be fair, Minas Tirith never had a chance. The first goal came in the 22nd minute when Tulkas headed Eömwë’s cross past Etchelion after a wonderful flowing move by Valimar. The White City defended well, and Ecthelion made a few stunning saves to keep them afloat, but little before half time Melkor managed a second goal, as he collected a return pass from Tilion and with great composure scored with a placed shot. Based on what the crowd had seen two nil down in halftime was a pretty good result for Minas Tirith.

Aragorn tried to inspire a comeback, but had to realize that Valimar were too good on the night. Mardil the Faithful, who’d impressed earlier with his creative play, came closest for the White City, as his curling free kick clipped the ouside of Ungoliant’s post, but in the 62nd minute the match was practically over when Eönwë scored his third goal of the tournament off a threaded pass from Arien. The Bree crowd applauded politely although their favorite team had been beaten. At least they felt better about their own team now, which actually managed to disturb this impressive Valimar side, at least for a while. The question is, will anyone better their effort, or can Valimar perhaps go all the way?

Valimar 3-0 Minas Tirith
shots 19-7
on target 10-2
GOALS:
*22, Valimar (Tulkas, Eonwe)
*41, Valimar (Melkor, Tilion)
*62, Valimar (Eonwe, Arien)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Valimar- Pallando
*Minas Tirith- Calimehtar, Beregond
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Old 06-25-2009, 12:21 PM   #102
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Eye

It has been decided that two "neutral" locations with excellent facilities and a history of strong (and non-violent) support for football matches will host the quarterfinals- Gondolin and Rivendell. The four teams from Beleriand will go to nearby Gondolin, while the four teams either West of the sea or East of the Misty Mountains will come together in Rivendell.

QUARTERFINAL MATCHES

Angband vs Tol-in-Gaurhoth (at Gondolin)

Dor-Lomin vs Hithlum (at Gondolin)

Armenelos vs Minas Morgul (at Rivendell)

Mirkwood vs Valimar (at Rivendell)
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Old 06-25-2009, 04:18 PM   #103
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What time is it? It's quatre-finale time, for the 2009 Arda World Cup. After a sub-par 15-17 group play record, I've managed to turn it around with a 6-2 start, in the 1st round of the playoffs. I will guarantee my readers right now...I will call every quarter final game correctly. So, listen up phantasy players so you can make the best of your trades!

Can one of the surprise teams (Dor-Lomin, Minas Morgul, or Mirkwood) continue their run and make it all the way into the semis!? Or will the power-houses flex their muscles, sharpen their claws, and bite down?

Match 1: Angband v. Tol-in-Gaurhoth

This is probably the toughest match of the quater-finals to call. Both teams have great odds at winning third, and an outside shot of playing in the finals.

When will TIG toughen up? And I don't mean toughen up, as in commit more fouls, because these wolves foul as much as Moria. I'm pretty sure Borowolf's picked up a yellow in each game, and the 3 defenders haven't faired much better. Their defense has been exposed by the Tuna Trio, and when they get beat they pick up the cards. Their defense even played sloppy against a mediocre Gondor team. That might have been early in the tournament, but TIG has been showing about as much urgency as Taniquetil!

For Angband...let's see a dragon versus the 3 TIG defense-gaurs, edge goes to the dragon. And trust me if TIG thinks they can hit their way to victory, Angband will hit back harder. The wolves' bite is more like a playful nibble compared to Angband's. Angband plays for contact, and they have shown to play much better against a physical team, than against some panzy Elves like Alqualonde. TIG will need to come in with a different strategy if they want to win. Instead of fraternizing with fans, they will have to try and put some charm on the Angband team. It would certainly throw Angband into a confused state, and may throw them off their game. Alas, disappointment will hit the TIG fans, as Carcharoth has gotten better every match, and you really expect the wolves to want to sweet-talk the Angband players? Angband wins 3-2.

TIG's taken a significant step back from previous years and you know...maybe they will actually field their entire team before the Cup is one week away, next time?

Game MVPs:
-Angband: Carcharoth
-TIG: Nogwolf

Match 2: Dor-Lomin v. Hithlum

Dor-Lomin is possibly the only fluke team left in the tournament. I give props to Turin for his 2-goal performance against a super Eregion defense, but everyone knows the only reason they are here, is because Gandalf and Elrond managed to drink spoiled skim miruvor. It's dumb enough to drink spoiled miruvor, but that's not even as upsetting as drinking skim. Everyone knows you have to go whole (2% is forgivable), but anything else and you're asking for trouble. Dor-Lomin's luck is going to run out, as Hithlum has so far shown they are probably the 3rd best team in the tournament (behind Armenolos and Valimar) and are really starting to hit their stride, proving to themselves against the stuffy Valar from Taniquetil.

Feanor will have a field day slicing up the Dor-Lomin defense. Holding Eregion to 1-goal is not all that impressive, because we already knew Eregion would have trouble scoring. I'd like to see Dor-Lomin try to score on Huan, I swear I've seen him eat raw meat before, and Huan will be eating up every shot. Dor-Lomin's only chance might be the refs finally deciding to red card the hound for tearing apart 6-7 soccer balls each match. Hithlum wins 3-1.

Game MVPs:
-Dor-Lomin: Turin
-Hithlum: Feanor

Match 3: Armenolos v. Minas Morgul

It's been a superb run for Minas Morgul, I will even say the Wiki deserves Player-Coach of the Year honors, for his ability to rally his team all the way into the quarter finals. You know if Minas Morgul were up against Hithlum (who they tied in group play!) or Angband, they'd have a pretty fair shot...for the right odds I'd take them. But, does anyone else see a major problem here?...Umm, yes Sauron kind of plays for the other guys, and 75% of Minas Morgul's defense is comprised of Nazgul, plus the Mouth and Gothmog II are virtually Nazgul anyway. Not to mention all of the Wiki's power comes from Sauron.

Luckily, players are forbidden to wear jewelry, thus Sauron's control will be somewhat lessened. However, if any of the Nazgul hope to be employed during the offseason, they will stay out of their boss's way any how. Even if the Wiki decided to keep up his tradition of entering the field on a dark horse, sporting his mighty crown, Sauron will come with a larger crown and the crowd will be left clueless when the Wiki's horse instantaneously is engulfed in fire. Armenolos wins convincingly 2-0.

Game MVPs:
-Armenolos: Sauron
-Minas Morgul: Earnur

Match 4: Mirkwood v. Valimar

This might not be the blowout people assume. Obviously Mirkwood has about as good of a chance of beating Valimar as I have calling one of these matches incorrectly, but they exposed Tuna's defense. Although most of Tuna's 20 shot bombardment were misses, that was due to the Mirkwood defenders forcing the Tuna Trio into impossible angles, and afterall Oropher made the saves that he had to. Will their defense do it again? Haha, in their dreams.

I think the dragon vs. the 3 Balrogs from Valimar will be an interesting match-up to watch. It should put a bottom to the bottomless debate of who would win in a battle...dragon or a balrog? Scatha has to be aware though, that fire or no fire it makes no difference to Balrogs. But, in the longest pre-game conference ever, Treebeard stood up for his teammate: "Let's not be hasty! I would take Scatha as a soccer teammate over any Balrog, any day. Scatha is in much better shape. You may not remember, but I do, because my memory is long and deep...Balrogs have been chronic smokers since the beginning of time. Gothmog has been known to go through as many as 720 packs a day. Ever since he trademarked the name and became the spokesperson for Mogboro's, Balrogs everywhere started lighting up."

Despite Treebeard's deep knowledge about the conditioning habits of Dragons and Balrogs, Mirkwood will not have enough to defeat Valimar. Their defense can not absorb the amount of pressure, that will be placed upon them for two straight games. Valimar wins 4-2.

Game MVPs:
-Mirkwood: Scatha
-Valimar: Melkor

That's all I got for you today...remember my guarantee Phantasy managers 4-0! You will not find better analysis.

By: Jim "Scoop" Johnstone
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Old 06-28-2009, 02:44 PM   #104
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Quarterfinals at Rivendell.

When the Arda Cup organising committee (ACOC) and the Arda Football Federation (AFA) turned towards Rivendell to organise two quarterfinal matches a heated debate ensued at Elrond’s council. Basically the elves were enthusiastic about the opportunity but the teams they would host were a cause for some concern. No one had anything against the Valar coming: that was an honour to be sure. Also there were few elves and elf-friends in the team Mirkwood who would be warmly welcomed. But that Sauron and all his lieutenants would enter Rivendell were no evil had ever entered! That was unheard of! Or the traitors of Armenelos, those elven persecutors? Or Melkor himself?

There was another problem as well. How would tens of thousands of fans manage to enter Rivendell through the narrow paths and causeways? It would take weeks for them to get through in their tens of thousands. Happily an ingenious solution was reached and it would be one of the architectural miracles of the whole Middle-Earth – even if it would be kind of a transient structure.

The stadium was built outside Imladris, to the southern slopes of the mountains surrounding the secret haven of the elves. Like in the ancient days, the dwarves were called to help and they carved two thirds of the stand and the individually decorated benches into the root of the mountain totalling some 30 000 seats made with astonishing artistry. Meanwhile, aided by the ents the elves built a living stand to the remaining open side of the stadium. There around 15 000 spectators would be sitting on the branches of the huorns – the tallest of which created a leaf-roof over the stadium covering the spectators from the direct sunlight or possible rain. With the help of Yavanna a perfect grass-field was created in just a few days.

Now as the stadium was smallish taking in only some 45 000 spectators the organisers had to take some measures to deal the tickets evenly – and to avoid any orc-invasions and thence possible trouble. So it was decided that 9000 tickets would be sold to the fans of each team and the remaining 9000 would be sold to the elves – wherever they came from. There were some protests made mostly by the orcs and easterlings that the deal favoured the elves. But the organisers stayed firm: they had the position to decide and they had been fair. At the same time it was clear to any observant onlooker that with the policy the hosts had secured a majority of good in the audience.

But on the day of the games most of the petty grievances were forgotten. This was the best football one could see in the whole Arda and everyone was looking forwards to it - as well as to the great performances of their favourites - spread nicely over different teams.
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Old 06-29-2009, 10:28 AM   #105
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Eye at Gondolin...

When Gondolin won the bid to host games during the Arda Cup 2009, there was much debate about the stadium. All of the craftsmen and artisans agreed that something special should be built for the occasion, but they differed upon what.

One camp supported a brand new stadium built upon the plains surrounding the great hill of rock, but a larger camp supported some sort of renovation to the old historic stadium which sat halfway up the southern side of the dome of rock.

In the end it was the old winning over the new, and thousands of workers set to the task of bettering their ancient venue. As the stadium was built perched on a hill and in the midst of a city, there was no way to push it outward. The only way to increase seating would be to choose more efficient angles and get rid of decorative space and add some luxury boxes to the top- and that's just what they did!

And with the removal of space and decoration from the inside, the artisans set to work on the outside of the stadium, designing great arches and fountains on the roads leading to the stadium, and refinishing the walls of every home and business along the way. The city had never looked so perfect! And just in time for the arrival of the fans from Beleriand.

There were rowdy orcs from Angband, fair Elves from Hithlum, hardy men from Dor-Lomin, and packs of Werewolves from Tol-in-Gaurhoth, and all were deeply impressed by the strength and beauty of the city. Many of the folk from Hithlum stayed with friends or relatives within the city, and a couple of Dor-Lominites were granted the same favor, but most of the men and orcs were put up in the hotels surrounding the arena (which were only in use during events such as this). The Werewolves it seemed were not trusted within the walls, but this suited the creatures fine as they seemed to prefer living a bit more "wild" out on the fields outside the city, and so all was well.

After the renovation the stadium was able to hold 70,000 spectators, and with its claustrophobic design there wasn't a bad seat in the house and it was certain to be noisier than other stadiums of its size. It was decided that 25,000 seats would be allotted to each team for their own game, 5,000 seats for the game they weren't playing in, and 10,000 seats would be available each game to residents of Gondolin. Far more wished to attend the games, and so prices were quite high, and those lucky enough to get tickets could easily resell them for three or four times what they payed, but this was rarely done. A chance to see the game was considered priceless by most of the holders.

There was much debate about which team should gain the support of the home fans. Some of the fans from Gondolin who had made the journey to Isengard for group play intended to support Hithlum, as they had witnessed their play within the group and were impressed. Not to mention that Turgon's father, uncle, and a couple of his cousins were on the team. And then of course, there was the lady of Gondolin, Aredhel. Surely she should gain the majority of support!

But there were quite a few who were leaning towards supporting Angband. Maeglin had a great amount of support with the Noldorin craftsmen, and Gwindor was also well liked by the Elves. And then there was Hurin- fast friend of the King. His role in holding off the forces of Morgoth and saving the people of Gondolin at the close of the Nirnaeth Arnoediad was not forgotten. How could they not support someone who had given them so much?

But then what of the men of Dor-Lomin? Hadn't they, along with Hurin, held the rear to until the last man fell dead so that Gondolin's king and his forces could escape? They were just as worthy of support as Hurin! So who would gain most of the crowd in the anticipated Dor-Lomin versus Hithlum match that evening?

But first there was another match, and the home fans agreed upon it- they would not be rooting for the Werewolves in the first game of the day- Angband versus Tol-in-Guarhoth!
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Old 06-29-2009, 11:11 AM   #106
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The Arda Kicker Magazine round up for first play-off -round

Better late than never... So from the first play-off round Arda Kicker Magazine will provide the following stars.

Five stars will go to:

Fëanor of Hithlum
Oropher of Mirkwood
Túrin of Dor Lomin

Three stars will go to:

Beruthiel of Minas Morgul
Elrond of Eregion
Huor of Dor-Lomin
mormwolf of TIG
The Mouth of Minas Morgul
Theoden of Edoras
Thranduil of MIrkwood
The Witch King of Minas Morgul

One star will go to:

Beleg of Dor Lomin
Carcaroth of Angband
Ecthelion of Minas Tirith
Eomer of Edoras
Eönwë of Valimar
Eowyn of Edoras
Gil-Galad of Eregion
Huan of Hithlum
Melkor of Valimar
Orodreth of Nargothrond
Sauron of Armenelos
Uldor of Angband


Special stars on offer once again.

As the whole Armenelos team has played just splendidly but the scoring and defending has been a spread team-effort none of them has been high in the point-scorers’ lists. Therefore AKM wishes to give the whole Armenelos team five stars each for a solid teamplay.

Mirkwood defence (Radagast, Treebeard, Grimbeorn) will gain additional three points each for a superb performance being the key to their victory by containing Túna's the most effective forwards of the whole tournament.


This gives us the overall standings as the following (look at the joint leaders and shiver!). Those not playing anymore are in italics.

Twelve stars:
Melkor of Valimar
Sauron of Armenelos

Eleven stars:
Felarof of Edoras
Nerdanel of Tuna


Ten stars:
Elros of Romenna
mormwolf of TIG

Nine stars:
Theoden of Edoras

Eight stars:
Fëanor of Hithlum
Huor of Dor-Lomin
Tar Atanamir of Armenelos

Seven stars:
Eldacar of Osgiliath
Elrond of Eregion
Miriel of Tuna
Shadowfax of Edoras


Bubbling under in six stars... Ar Pharazon, Curufin, Galadriel, Gwindor, Tar Telperion, Tilion, Turín and the Witch-King. At five stars 18 players...

Looking at how many of the top seats are taken by players already out of tournament the run for winning the AKM-stars award looks to be like anybodys' game!
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Old 06-29-2009, 11:22 AM   #107
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Quarterfinals at Rivendell, match 1

Armenelos vs. Minas Morgul

The kick off for first game was in the afternoon and the stadium was almost full. But it was a game of mixed loyalties and especially the elves and men had hard time deciding in who to egg on into excellence. But it wasn’t an easy choice for the orcs and easterlings either. Surely the Minas Morgul team boasted a lot of their heroes but Sauron himself was playing in the opposing team – and who would dare to cheer against him?

From the first minutes on a few peculiarities emerged. Every time Ar Gimilzor or Ar Pharazôn got the ball the elven crowds booed mightily, and every time Eärnur took it the Middle-Earth humans cheered wildly. But in the end it looked like the good audiences seemed to cheer more to the kingly and shining Armenelos team and the “baddies” more to the Minas Morgul team (Sauron of course being the exception).

The team Armenelos was impressive to watch indeed. Their appearance was so noble and high many M-E humans were stunned by it: they were men, but what kind of men! Tall, straight, graceful in their movement, radiant, strong, fast, royal… Knowing all the things they had done was a problem but no one could deny their grace and beauty. And the elegance, beauty and power Sauron had! It was like Annatar had reborn to the game – totally outshining and outwitting his lieutenants! How diminished from his former glory in the tournament the Witch King was! Just a shadow...

And so it was that Armenelos never gave the Minas Morgul team a chance in the game but controlled it from the very beginning to the end. With Sauron organising the game the Armenelos players seemed always to be at the right place at the right time whatever tricks the Witch King and Khamûl tried. King Eärnur and Queen Beruthiel were basically the only players in the Minas Morgul team who didn’t seem to be influenced by Sauron’s commanding presence – but as the rest of the Armenelos team was at least as tough as they were, if not tougher – they had little chances to build up the game just the two of them.

To the honour of the Minas Morgul team it must be said though that their defence did put up a real fight. Khamûl even dared to challenge Sauron himself and even took the ball away from him a few times – or forced him to shoot from a difficult position resulting in shots that went wide. Also the two other Nazgûls in the defence made a decent work showing their no lesser kingly status against the kings of Númenor. Without that spirited defence the numbers could have been ugly indeed.

But it was clear which team was the better one. Armenelos called the shots and Minas Morgul’s attacks were rare and inefficient (they managed only two shots towards the goal in the whole game!). And when on the 33rd minute the “Tower Watcher”, the defeater of Sauron, Tar Minastir himself shot the ball into the goal with a beautiful volley from 20 meters the crowds just burst into cheers. The Armenelos game had been just impressive and to have Tar Minastir as the scorer was just great to the elves and men as he was basically the only one in the Armenelos team they could honour without too many precautions.

On the second half Sauron nailed the game after twenty minutes of play. He managed finally to outwit the whole Nazgûl-defence - in a way that looked more like spiritual intimidation than just physical dribbling. One by one he left the defenders into his shade and went one on one against the Mouth who also looked like he was more terrified of his master than wishing to save the goal. The orcs and the few monsters cheered loudly but the rest of the spectators felt confused not quite knowing how to take it.

Anyway. The Armenelos team had scored a convincing win once again and was going to the semifinals against the other winner of the Rivendell-games. Whichever of them it was, they had been forewarned. Even if Armenelos had been convincing already the last year they had been dropped out of the games in the semis. This year the team clearly looked confident the same wouldn’t happen – and they were indeed looking for a revenge on Valimar from a long time ago...


Armenelos 2-0 Minas Morgul

shots 14-10
on target 6-2
GOALS:
*33, Armenelos (Tar Minastir, Ar Adunakhor)
*65, Armenelos (Sauron, Tar Ancalimon)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Armenelos- Tar Ancalimon, Tar Calmacil
*Minas Morgul- Castamir, Nazgul #2, Nazgul #1, Beruthiel
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Old 06-29-2009, 03:39 PM   #108
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Eye at Gondolin...

(intro to Gondolin)

MATCH 1: Angband versus Tol-in-Gaurhoth

As predicted, Angband took the field to great cheering from the stands. Their own fans obviously were loud, but the smaller groups of Hithlum and Dor-Lomin fans were supporting them as well, cheering especially for Hurin, while the folks from Gondolin were showing great love for Maeglin. Despite the evil that had taken place, he had done much good in his time, and nobody can hold a grudge against someone if they've delivered a championship in their time, as Maeglin had so many years ago.

When the Werewolves entered the fans from Angband booed vigorously, but the other non-TIG fans applauded politely for the most part. It was the least they could do as they would be hard against them the rest of the contest. But the noise from the booing and polite applause was completely drowned out by the sound of 25,000 ear-splitting howls. It was hard to believe how much noise their fans were capable of. Perhaps the home-field advantage that Angband hoped to enjoy wouldn't be quite as pronounced as they thought.

And indeed as the match began it was TIG who looked to be the better side. The forwards were looking dangerous, and Phantomwolf, Borowolf, and Lomwolf came up aggressively to provide extra pressure. Their passing still wasn't the sharpest, but their speed and strength helped them win the ball and keep it most of the time. Drauglin tried to match them, but even he couldn't keep up, and Telvildo seemed plain scared, like a cat treed by a dog. "I knew a cat wouldn't do well against wolves!" shouted Brinwolf from the stands. But she spoke too soon!

Shortly before it hit 30 minutes, TIG was looking dangerous as ever, but Telvildo came out of nowhere to make the steal and sent it quickly downfield, where Hurin outraced everyone to it. The defenders had had so little to do that they were completely flat-footed! Hurin took it in on Mormwolf who was left all alone, and he could only watch as the legendary footballer sent it past for the lead!

TIG went after it harder than ever, leaving Mormwolf completely vulnerable, but lucky for them they maintained control until minute 39 when Gwathwolf headed in the equalizer off of a nice placement by Nogwolf. It was tied at the half!

The fans chatted excitedly as they grabbed refreshments during the break. This was quite the game! Not only had Hurin scored, but TIG was playing a risky and exciting style! Maybe the Werewolves weren't so bad after all.

The second half began as a back and forth affair. Each side had some opportunities, but when the shots found the mark the keepers turned them aside. But then at minute 65, once again on the counter-attack, the home crowd was treated to a score by Maeglin and the stadium was its loudest yet! The Werewolves were certainly angered by this, but they seemed unable to strike back, as now it was Angband holding onto the ball and attacking with it. As time went under ten minutes, it looked like Angband had what it took to hold down TIG, but Nogwolf proved them wrong by stealing it and taking it upfield past several defenders all the way into the box.

He then left it for SPMwolf and continued forward, taking a defender with him. SPMwolf took the opening and fired a shot, but it hit the post! The Werewolves groaned, but their groans were swiftly transformed into wild howls as Phantomwolf came out of nowhere to thunder in the rebound! As the seconds ticked away the stadium really began rocking! This thing was going into overtime!

Just a few minutes into overtime, Ancalagon gained his first quality chance, but Mormwolf saved it brilliantly. Even the Angband fans applauded. Could the Werewolves actually be winning the crowd? But just a few minutes later it was obvious that they could never completely win the crowd- not with Gondolin's own Maeglin out there. He took it in against Kuruwolf and lost it, and the crowd felt he was roughed, but the refs didn't hand out a card, and the crowd showed its displeasure quite clearly.

As the end of overtime approached, it looked like things were headed to a shoot-out, and the excitement mounted. But it was not to be. Once again on a counter-attack, Angband pushed upfield quickly and with even numbers Hurin beat his man and forced Mormwolf to commit before sending it to Maeglin for the winner!

The stadium went wild! Their very own Maeglin and Hurin the steadfast had won it!

The Werewolves left the stadium heads hanging low. They had failed to achieve last year's results or better. Next time they would have to get their team together sooner, and refine their style, as it just wasn't good enough against a stupendous side like Angband.

Angband 3-2 Tol-in-Gaurhoth (OVERTIME)
shots 14-20
on target 6-8
GOALS:
*28, Angband (Hurin, Telvildo)
*39, TIG (Gwathwolf, Nogwolf)
*65, Angband (Maeglin, Gwindor)
*81, TIG (Phantomwolf, SPMwolf)
*OT 26, Angband (Maeglin, Hurin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Gwindor, Ulfast, Balrog #5
*Tol-in-Gaurhoth- Lomwolf, Wereomer, Kuruwolf, Borowolf
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Old 06-29-2009, 04:03 PM   #109
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Quarterfinals at Rivendell, match 2.

Mirkwood vs. Valimar

If the spectators were a bit confused and unconfident in picking the side to cheer for in the first match, the second match was not a too different story. The elves from the West had it easy. They were there on the Valimar’s 9000 ticket allowance – and quite a few of them, especially the Teleri, had bought tickets under the general elven allowance as well – and would cheer mainly for Valimar. The elves from the Middle-Earth had it tougher. Sure they honoured the Valar but there were players like Oropher, Thranduil, Legolas and Galion (the clear favourites of the wood-elves); Radagast and Treebeard (loved especially by the Lothlórien elves), and of course Bilbo Baggins (who seemed to be the special favourite of the Rivendell-elves).

The dwarves had it tough as well as Aulë and the Túna team had been already relegated (the dwarves had been given a thousand tickets as part of the compensation for the work they had done building the stadium). The few Eorlings at place sure championed Fram and the hobbits’ hero was of course Bilbo. The benches - the huorns that is - on which the spectators sat on were huge fans of Treebeard, which indeed caused some minor disturbances when the huorns cheered for Treebeard while spectators were sitting on their branches…

The orcs and other “baddies” had minor problems as well: Scatha and Nazgul #6 were on the Mirkwood team but the three Balrogs on Valimar side were just awesome, not to speak of Melkor himself! But the team-mates of Melkor and the Balrogs? What could be worse – but at the same time so overwhelming?

All in all, that confusion resulted in a spirited night of football as the alignments were so divided that in the end people (well, all kinds of creatures) just mainly stuck into enjoying the game. And what a game it was!


There was a shock-beginning to it.

To the total bewilderment of the elves of the West – and to the great joy of the hobbits, the Rivendell elves and the huorns forming the stand – Treebeard and Bilbo stole the lead for the Mirkwood team already at the eighth minute.

And the way it was executed! With a corner kick Treebead had come to the fore and Bilbo suddenly got an idea before Thranduil made the kick. So Treebeard bowed down and lifted Bilbo up into his branches and they both signalled the elven king what he should do. And Thranduil gave it a go chipping the ball high up in the air from where Treebeard took it with his outstretched root (ents are not allowed to use their branches to handle the ball as they are considered as hands) and passed it up forwards – simultaneously rushing to the goal. And Bilbo headed the ball downwards from four meters high and behind the back of stunned Ungoliant.

Although some of the crowds protested the referee found nowhere a ruling stating another player couldn’t support another player carrying him on his shoulders (well, branches) and declared it a goal.

But unlike some of their supporters, the Valimar team was not upset of the setback but soon took the control of the field pressing for the equaliser while Mirkwood pulled back and defended. And it was a staunch defence: Radagast and Treebeard had miraculous timing while the stamina and pace of Grimbeorn and Bilbo managed to surprise the Valar-attacks time after time. But it was clear to everyone the defences could not hold forever – and they didn’t.

Melkor made an unforeseen move in the attack passing the ball behind him to Tilion from a scoring opportunity of his own, and Tilion thanked his former assailant for the opportunity making such an unpredictable shot it took all the defences by surprise – Oropher included. The game was even ten minutes before the half-time.


But the Mirkwood team came fighting into the second half – and once more dumbfounded the Valimar supporters on the first minutes of the half. This time Nazgul #6 took advantage of the defending Balrogs’ arrogance and managed to dribble his way between them – just before getting burned - to pass the ball to the side where Thranduil had outrun Alatar and got to kick in a one-timer half-volley Shelob had no chances to react to.

The Mirkwood team was leading once again! But like in the first half, the Valimar team pulled itself together and took the control of the game pressing an attack after another into the Mirkwood side. And on the 76th minute it paid off again.

This time it was a one Vala-show indeed. Melkor took the ball from Legolas in the midfield and went forwards with it. Grimbeorn tried to challenge him only to find himself face down in the grass – the referee saw nothing illegal in that. Tulkas waved his hand being totally free on the other side after getting himself free from Radagast’s marking but Melkor turned into the middle himself and rammed past Treebeard making Treebeard fall as well. Now most of the crowds were protesting out loud but the referee just spread his hands that there was no foul involved.

Gotten clear of Treebeard, Melkor faced Oropher one on one. Some heard him cursing Oropher some heard Melkor taunt him – but which way it was no one knows. But what everyone saw was the equaliser! Oropher tried his best but that was not enough having to stand an onrushing Melkor who seemed to grow in power and stature the nearer the goal he got. It was like a giant against a dwarf – if that analogy is allowed discussing an elf. The giant won anyway.

Mirkwood put it’s best to defend the rest of the second half and managed to keep the Valar attacks at bay – and even creating some counter-attacking chances themselves thus lessening Valimar’s enthusiasm for all out attacking. The game ended even.


The overtime brought no solution to the situation as now both teams played it clearly more safely. So it was a shoot-out!


Scatha came to shoot first. It took it’s time to settle the ball into exactly the right position and then took two steps backwards from it. Then Scatha swung it’s tail – just as Ungoliant had presumed. The giant Spider went to the right corner spreading all its legs there but what did the dragon do! Scatha took surprisingly fast steps towards the ball while swinging its tail just over it and tossed the ball to the left lower corner of the goal with it’s right foot! Whatever the crowds dislikes for the dragon were, they had to admit the brilliance of the execution of that penalty shot.

To the relief of the Valimar supporters it was Tulkas next. And he hammered the ball in with such a speed and power Oropher had no chance to even move before the ball was already in the back of the net – and through it. It took the officials some time to stitch the net back into shape.

Thranduil followed Tulkas. He took his shot towards the lower right corner but Ungoliant guessed it right and managed to web the ball. The elven crowds were silenced.

But the herald of Manwë had no better luck. Even if the shot was nice heading to the same lower right corner, Oropher guessed it right as well and tipped the ball just wide with his fingers. The shoot-out was even!

Legolas took the next turn. He concentrated behind the ball enough to get Ungoliant annoyed and then went for it. Just before reaching the ball Legolas made an incredible move turning around 360 degrees – and shooting with his left foot from the swing! It totally surprised diving Ungoliant and the ball was in the back of the net, almost straight in the middle!

Melkor was next. His intimidating presence made even Oropher nervous. Melkor settled the ball down to its place and then studied the elf on the goal for a while. “I’ll shoot to the high left corner, elf. Just to inform you…” he said in a low thundery voice and took a few steps back. The audiences were holding their breath. Thousands of thoughts zig-zagged in Oropher’s mind as he tried to decide whether to go for left or right, whether Melkor was bluffing or double-bluffing…

“As I said, to the high left…” Melkor roared and ran towards the ball. Oropher was just about to jump to the high left corner when insecurity hit him and he cancelled the move going for the down right… just to cancel that idea too late and falling down on his knees… only to hear the roars of the crowd. The ball was in, in the high left corner of the goal as Melkor had promised. That was cool finishing. It was 2-2 after three shooters from both sides.

Nazgûl #6 came next. Against all odds he scored winning the poker against the mother of all great spiders. And Tilion in turn was just as unpredictable as was anticipated, and thus he beat Oropher easily. It was 3-3 after four shooters from both sides.

The final round began with Grimbeorn walking forth. The great Beorning set the ball and then took quite a distance from it. His father was bellowing cheers for him so loudly they surpassed all the other voices in the stadium. Grimbeorn took his time and then rushed forwards – changing into a bear while running – and blasted such a berserk shot through Ungoliant’s webs the great spider herself was astonished by it. Mirkwood hung on the lead with only one shot to come!

It was lady Arien, the shiny maiden of Laurelin, who came to make the final shot of the first round of the shoot-out. She shone so brightly Oropher had no chances to see anything. Even the spectators had to cover their eyes from the light she shone around. Oropher tried to put his hand in front of his eyes to see but so brightly did Arien shine that he saw nothing but light, being blinded by it. When Oropher heard the pace of her feet on the ground and finally the thud of a kick he dived with chance to the left… and felt the ball touch his hands… and to go wide!

Arien was denied! Mirkwood had won!


It was a sensation indeed! Mirkwood had beaten two powerhouses in a row. And team Armenelos would have to re-orientate their target! They could not afford toying with Mirkwood – even if some correspondents from “Armenelos Times” already sent back home headline-suggestions like “Armenelos within an easy walk from the finals!” The Mirkwood team was a serious contender with seemingly the grace of Ilúvatar herself on its side. There was no other explanation to their success, said many.

The Valar were gracious in defeat – even if some said that Ungoliant, the Balrogs and Melkor refused to exchange shirts with the winning team and had sworn harshly before going to the showers. But the others looked like defeat meant nothing to them and they invited the winners into their special lavish tents to share a glorious night meal with them to honour a great match.

While the Valar of the team Valimar were celebrating with the Mirkwood team in a great tent erected to the moors – well most of them and some chosen elves from the organising committee and a few other special guests – Manwë, Varda, Ulmo, Aulë, Yavanna and Oromë, with Gandalf, Tom Bombadill, Beorn, Old Man Willow, Quickbeam and others looked for the overall security of the encampment. All the skirmishes were dealt with effectively and even the orcs soon realised it was time to party and not time to fight with such a powerful policing force around. And anyway, Sauron was through to the semis as well as one Nazgul and the dragon Scatha. It could have been worse…

So pretty soon these mighty guardians had a chance to slip into joining the party leaving the security measures to the elves of Rivendell for the wee hours. It is said that party continued long after the daybreak…


Mirkwood 2-2 Valimar (SHOOT-OUT 4-3 to Mirkwood)

shots 11-16
on target 5-7
GOALS:
*8, Mirkwood (Bilbo, Treebeard)
*34, Valimar (Tilion, Melkor)
*51, Mirkwood (Thranduil, Nazgul #6)
*76, Valimar (Melkor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Mirkwood- Thranduil, Radagast, Fram
*Valimar- Balrog #2, Tilion, Melkor, Balrog #4
SHOOT OUT:
*Mirkwood- Scatha (G), Thranduil (S), Legolas (G), Nazgul #6 (G), Grimbeorn (G)
*Valimar- Tulkas (G), Eonwe (S), Melkor (G), Tilion (G), Arien (S)
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Old 06-29-2009, 08:08 PM   #110
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Eye back at Gondolin...

The first match of the day had been an overtime thriller between Angband and Tol-in-Gaurhoth, and to top it off the hometown lad Maeglin had put home the winner. So it was that the fans in the arena were in fine spirits and ready to cheer heartily for both Dor-Lomin and Hithlum as they made their way onto the pitch.

For the first ten minutes the forces of Dor-Lomin drove back the Elves, surprising them with the best play they had seen in the tournament thus far. Turin and Beleg were quite the weapons! But far too soon for Dor-Lomin's liking Hithlum regained their composure and pushed back, and their prowess in turn caught Dor-Lomin off guard.

Already at 12 minutes, it was Aredhel thrilling the fans from Gondolin with the game's first goal. Both mother and son had scored, and Turgon watching from the stands looked quite happy. Hithlum kept up the attack, and it was obvious Dor-Lomin was barely hanging on. They committed two defenders to Feanor at all times, making it clear that their strategy was to force someone else to beat them. Unfortunately Hithlum's Finrod was well up to the task and slotted it home for the 2-0 lead into halftime.

After the half it was more of the same, and Fingon gleefully sent in an easy shot off the perfect pass from Aredhel and it was 3-0! At around 65 minutes Hithlum called off the dogs and settled back on defense, and Dor-Lomin couldn't crack the Hithlum line. Finally with under 10 minutes left Turin sent it a wicked bend that is sure to be on highlight reels for years to come, but it was too little too late. Hithlum was through to the semis with a very fine performance!

Dor-Lomin 1-3 Hithlum
shots 9-15
on target 4-8
GOALS:
*12, Hithlum (Aredhel, Fingolfin)
*27, Hithlum (Finrod, Caranthir)
*50, Hithlum (Fingon, Aredhel)
*83, Dor-Lomin (Turin, Beleg)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dor-Lomin- Morwen, Galdor, Gundor
*Hithlum- Fingon, Feanor
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Old 06-30-2009, 08:55 PM   #111
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AKM Star-Time!

After looking closely at the quarterfinals the AKM board has decided to deal the following stars...

Five stars will go to:

Carcaroth of Angband
Maeglin of Angband
Oropher of Mirkwood

Three stars will go to:

Aredhel of Hithlum
Huan of Hithlum
Húrin of Angband
Melkor of Valinor

One star will go to:

Bilbo of Mirkwood
Caranthir of Hithlum
Khamûl of Minas Morgul
Nogwolf of TIG
Sauron of Armenelos
Tar Atanamir of Armenelos
Thranduil of Mirkwood
Tilion of Valimar


Best value for money –prizes for those players that the organisers gave no stars to begin with go to Thranduil of Mirkwood (22 pts.), Tilion of Valimar (21 pts.), Nazgul #6 of Mirkwood and Aredhel of Hithlum (20 pts.). All receive 5 stars!

Armenelos defence was once again overwhelming. They receive two stars each.


This gives us the following list of the best players so far when not only scored points are considered... Those not playing anymore are in italics.

15 stars:
Melkor of Valimar

13 stars:
Sauron of Armenelos

12 stars:
Tilion of Valimar

11 stars:
Felarof of Edoras
Nerdanel of Tuna

Tar Atanamir or Armenelos

10 stars:
Elros of Romenna
mormwolf of TIG

Nazgul #6 of Mirkwood
Oropher of Mirkwood
Thranduil of Mirkwood

9 stars:
Carcaroth of Angband
Theoden of Edoras

8 stars:
Aredhel of Hithlum
Fëanor of Hithlum
Huor of Dor-Lomin
Tar Telperion of Armenelos

7 stars:
Ar Zimrathan of Armenelos
Eldacar of Osgiliath
Elrond of Eregion
Miriel of Tuna
Shadowfax of Edoras

Tar Ciryatan of Armenelos

On six stars there are seven players of whom still in the tournament are: Ar Pharazôn, Gwindor and Húrin...

On five stars, 16 players...
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Old 06-30-2009, 11:26 PM   #112
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The AKM ”Statistics Hour”

Going to the semifinals, the Arda Kicker Magazine wants to provide it’s readers with some statistics that can not be read straight from the point-leader tables – and some of which can be read if one has the time to do it...

There will be the games the teams have played, the shots taken and received + those on target in brackets followed by a summary, saving percent of the goalie + the point averages (phantasy points) from the games thus far (with the goalie it of course is not an average...). The team in question is always the “home-team” eg. it’s numbers are first in the match-ups.


So the match Angband vs. Hithlum

Angband
Minas Tirith 2-2 15–9 (8-4)
Moria 2-1 12-7 (6-3)
Alqualonde 2-1 11-12 (6-5)

Romenna 2-0 14-9 (6-3)
TIG 3-2 OT 14-20 (6-8)

Goals: 11-6
Shots: 66-57 (32-23) + 1xOT
Saves: 6/23 = 74% saves

Point averages:
GK: 16
DF: 5,25
MF: 13
FW: 13,5

Hithlum
Gondolin 2-1 13-8 (7-4)
Minas Morgul 2-2 14-11 (6-4)
Isengard 2-0 13-6 (7-2)

Taniquetil 2-1 12-9 (5-4)
Dor Lomin 3-1 15-9 (8-4)

Goals: 11-5
Shots: 67-43 (33-18)
Saves: 5/18 = 73% saves

Point averages:
GK: 16
DF: 9,5
MF: 7,66
FW: 17,33


The match Armenelos vs. Mirkwood

Armenelos
Dor Lomin 3-1 16-12 (8-4)
Doriath 3-1 16-10 (8-4)
Lothlórien 2-0 14-7 (7-3)

Erebor 3-1 15-8 (7-3)
Minas Morgul 2-0 14-10 (6-2)

Goals: 13-3
Shots: 75-47 (36-16)
Saves: 3/16 = 82% saves

Point averages:
GK: 20
DF: 14,6
MF: 7,75
FW: 20

Mirkwood
Nargothrond 1-2 11-9 (4-4)
Helm’s Deep 3-0 15-6 (7-2)
Arnor 3-2 14-8 (7-4)

Túna 3-2 OT 13-20 (6-8)
Valimar 2-2 SO 11-16 (5-7)

Goals: 12-8
Shots: 64-59 (29-25) + 2xOT
Saves: 8/25 = 68% saves

Point averages:
GK: 10
DF: 3,66
MF: 7,75
FW: 16,66

~*~


A few thoughts on these numbers by the Arda Kicker Magazine's editor-in-chief.


The game between Angband and Hithlum is a bit too close to call. Both teams seem like quite equal on all the statistics. The only difference that could be brought forwards is that Hithlum seems to allow the opponent fewer scoring opportunities. That can be seen both in the tables of shots against the team (and those on target) as well as the point averages of the defenders. Although a little reservation should be made on the fact that Angband met TIG in an overtime match where the TIG shot 20 (8) in one single game.

The AKM verdict: A tough one but a slight edge to Hithlum.


The game between Armenelos and Mirkwood looks like it has been already settled – unless Ilúvatar really has decided to bless team Mirkwood for his unfathomable reasons making any speculation about the deeds of the players just null and void. But looking at the stats there is but one favourite: Armenelos.

Their goal difference is just astonishing 13-3! They have made the most goals and given up the least. With no overtime games they have shot the most, especially towards the goal. And Tar Atanamir’s save-percentage is an astonishing 82% (compare that to Oropher’s 68%). With point-averages the two teams are even only in the mid-field (which usually tells more where the scorers reside than what’s the effectiviness of the midfield of the team in question). Armenelos defence outscores Mirkwood with 14,6 – 3,66 average!

The AKM verdict: If you want to lose your money – or love taking real chances, or actually believe Ilúvatar has his hands in this - bet on Mirkwood. Otherwise, Armenelos is the bet.
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Old 07-01-2009, 12:23 AM   #113
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Please sir, may I 'ave some mo'e luck?

You want more luck you say? Ha! You won't find any more luck in these parts. We started with 32 and are now down to 4. You don't reach this stage based on 'luck.' Maybe, by chance you can sneak into the playoffs, or win a playoff game, but not the semis. You know where teams like Tuna, Taniquetil, and Dor-Lomin are at, after whining about the 'unlucky' bounces, the 'favouritism' in officiating, or the 'will' of Eru? They are back at home drowning themselves in tears and Gin. This is the big stage, you want the Championship, you better have more than luck. All four of these teams have proven they have the game and skills to be where they are, and this will surely be a finale to remember.

Alright, so I didn't deliver on the 4-0 promise from last week, but that was because the mighty Mirkwood slayers strike again. I'm still 9-3 now in the playoffs, and even more impressive, in the Quarters I predicted 7, out of the 8, of the teams' scores correctly. That's right, I haven't been 'lucky,' nor have I been 'unlucky,' that's just plain out skill. (Are you beginning to sense a theme for this week?) So, I predicted Valimar's score wrong, and they lost...maybe you lost some money, but if you were smart to chose the scores I picked, you probably won more than you lost. You're welcome.

There are 4 matches remaining, we will soon be down to 2, and then a champion! Let us begin...

Angband v. Hithlum

This will be an exciting match, and an extremely hard one to call. The Nerwendis odds-makers have no idea how to call this one.

Let's start with the offense, and the edge will go to Angband. Ancalagon doesn't seem to be performing at the level he was expected to, but that's a bit deceiving. Dragons cause huge problems for defenses, and opponent defenses always try to focus on Ancalagon, but this has been freeing up Maeglin and Hurin to do some damage. Plus the role players Telvildo and Thuringwethil have added significant contributions from time to time. I said at the beginning of the year Dragons cause some real heartburn for defenses, and half the teams remaining have a Dragon.

Defensively the edge will go to Hithlum. Carcharoth has been one of the best goal-tenders of late, however his defense is a problem. Hithlum's defense is led by Ulmo, and the way they work together is just stunning to watch, they look far better in this Cup than Eregion did. They have the ability to pack in the box tight and create little space for opponents to get off a good shot, but also amazing closing speed on the edge. Offenses either have to pass it back out, or send in a suicide cross, before Ulmo comes crashing in, steals the ball, and starts a dangerous counter-attack. Also, Hithlum's defense rarely picks up a card, that's because they rarely get beat, and if they do, they are quick at recovery.

Angband can play rough, which is a decent defensive strategy, but when you are playing against the best, hitting them hard will serve little benefit. Angband's defense comes no where near to the organization and speed of Hithlum's, which makes it an ultimately inferior strategy. Where Hithlum's potent offense will carve up Drauglin and make Carcharoth have a long day.

The X-factor of the match is Feanor. It's interesting to see them put up 3 goals against Dor-Lomin, but Feanor was not much of a factor (if at all). This just shows why Feanor is a true Captain, and not some over-paid, ball hog like Miriel, who will sit at midfield and throw a tantrum if she doesn't have the ball for 42 seconds every minute. Feanor has the ego to take over a game, and offensively carry his team on his backs, but also has shown he is not so ego-tistical that he won't ever give it up. If Feanor recognizes he is not at 100%, or he is having trouble breaking the double and triple teams, he has the skill to skill to quickly and effectively pass the ball off to a teammate, setting him/her up for a scoring oppurtunity. Feanor can take over a match, but he also trusts his teammates...and why wouldn't he? I mean they just put up 3 goals without his aid. Feanor will come back, in this match and pick up a goal and an assist, or 2 goals, to thank his team for being able to count on them and Hithlum will be going to the finals. Hithlum wins 3-2.

Armenolos v. Mirkwood

Now this is going to be an interesting match. You have Armenolos singing songs of victory riding on "Tar-Atanamir's great hands," "Ar-Pharazon's golden leg," and "Sauron's black boot." But Mirkwood, who has their own pest problems, have been even bigger pests for their opponents (and without question the Nerwendis odds-makers!). Ordinary fans might like the underdog story, but the House never likes an underdog.

Offensively, edge goes to Armenolos. They have been the best team throughout the tournament, not only offensively, but defensively. Sauron has quietly been a factor, getting a goal here, a goal there, as well as being one of the tops in assists. Mirkwood's got a very potent offense too, and I don't think Armenolos has faced one like it. Right now, with the way Thranduil is playing, he must not know he is a Sindarin elf, and Mirkwood better hope he doesn't remember he is merely a Sindar before the match. Sauron has that type of effect on opponents though, he has a tendancy to show people who they really are...and this time Thranduil doesn't have Galadriel or Celeborn to go begging to for assistance.

Defensively edge goes to Armenolos. How Mirkwood's defense has held up these last two matches is anyone's guess. I sure could not tell you, but it's hard to go against a team that has merely given up 3 goals all tournament, where Mirkwood usually gives up 2 a match. So far Mirkwood's been able to outscore their opponent, they actually are like the Tuna of last year, but no one has put up more than 2 goals against Armenolos this year. However, there's always a first.

But these daunting, almost impossible, odds are not scaring old Bilbo Baggins. Earlier in the week, MESN (Middle-Earth Soccer Network), hired Boromir II to come on as a player analyst for the games, and he had some harsh words for Bilbo: "When's this old Bag going to give it up already? He should have quit playing in the World Cup years ago...hell he should have never been able to pass the physical! I mean just look at him! He's a 3 foot tall shrivelled Halfling! They already make horrible athletes, and I know from my days on the Rivendell team. You know I constantly had Aragorn and Gandalf on my back about giving the ball to Bilbo and Frodo. Oh, they will dribble in undetected and able to sneak past all the defenders, they would say to me. You want to know what happened? You guessed it...they got steamrolled, or well I should give Bilbo credit for taking a hit on occasion, Frodo just fell down for everyone. Ugh...it was pathetic. Sauron will school Bilbo Baggins! You better bring your bag and be ready, Bilbo, because Sauron is about to take you to school!"

Bilbo would not respond directly to Boromir II, showing why he is so well respected not only be the fans, but other members of the media. All Bilbo would say was about the larger conspiracy by Tournament officials, and now I guess the media, in wanting a Melkor-Sauron final for ratings. Surely a Melkor-Sauron final would be a match worthy of rememberance, but no one should be turning off Armenolos v. Mirkwood. In what could be his last World Cup, the x-factor is Bilbo. TIE 2-2. (Armenolos wins in a shootout)

By: Jim "Scoop" Johnstone
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Old 07-01-2009, 01:45 AM   #114
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Arda Kicker Magazine's official reply

Taking into account the charges that were directly or indirectly (through the words of Mr. Bilbo Baggins esq.) pointed towards the policies of Arda Kicker Magazine the paper wishes to announce the following.

The AKM has but the good of the game in it's view. And looking at it, the dream final would be Armenelos vs. Hithlum. On the football point of view. Two best teams with no cheap tricks or powers from outside this world coming to intervene. And thus resulting bronze-medal game between Angband and Mirkwood would be a football fan's favourite as well with all the tensions there.

If Mr. Baggins is having a problem with being an underdog facing a defeat that's his problem. The trick with Treebeard was fun but it's not football.

The AKM is not "turning off" Armenelos vs. Mirkwood, it just warns people who are investing real money or personal glory into this tournament to think again if they're going for Mirkwood on that one.

Boro-blog has credentials and the AKM is first to aknowledge it. AKM just looks forwards not being forced to read these abrasive and conspiratory comments from the pages of the Boro-Blog...
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Old 07-01-2009, 12:19 PM   #115
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My response to AKM

Well apparently my decision to publish Bilbo's thoughts on a conspiracy has ruffled the feathers of more than just a few. It makes one wonder if there is any truth in what Bilbo says?

Ahh, but from a personal standpoint, I will just say AKM is the top-magazine you will ever find on world Cup soccer. Their statistical analysis, and breakdown of head-to-head matchups is the best quality, bar none. If they asked me to be a contributor for them, I would do it in half a heart beat. But I can not deny being aggrieved by their insinuation I am attempting to reach a larger fan base in publishing "abrasive and conspiratory comments."

The thoughts and actions expressed by the players whom I quote are only the players, not mine. I am simply trying to fairly report and predict the outcomes of the matches. I was doing my job as a journalist to report a story. Now of course the sources I decide to choose, will automatically have some sort of slant to it, as it is impossible to quote every different source on every story. I thought those 'intelligent' writers over at AKM would be able to realize I was obviously not in support of Bilbo's claim, seeing as I have picked Hithlum to win...thus no Melkor-Sauron final. (But they probably wouldn't know that I meant 'intelligent' writers sarcastically, until they read what's in parenthesis.)

I do agree with AKM about Bilbo's press conference. He probably should have directed his anger at the one color-analyst who is clearly in favor of seeing Melkor vs. Sauron in the final, and not blown it up into a big conspiracy by the Cup officials, and other members in the media. However, AKM's own response, to not only disregard Bilbo's statement (which makes it clear that the AKM writer did not do any research into Bilbo's accusations at all, but predetermined that Bilbo is off his rocker), but then to even insinuate that I hold the same views as Bilbo, makes you wonder, doesn't it? It makes you wonder if Bilbo is right afterall.

By: Jim "Scoop" Johnstone
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Old 07-01-2009, 12:38 PM   #116
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Eye

A statement has been issued by the head Arda Cup referee regarding the "Melkor versus Sauron Conspiracy".

"I can most definitely tell you that wishing to see one match-up or another will certainly not interfere with the calling of a fair game- particularly the stated Melkor and Sauron pairing. I can say this quite safely not due to my lack of personal bias, but due to the fact that there is nothing I can do even if I wanted to. Melkor played for Valimar this year, and not Angband. Therefore Sauron and Melkor will not be meeting in the finals. No matter what. Melkor has been eliminated, in a match that was, by the way, called by yours truly. Put that in your pipe and smoke it."
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Old 07-03-2009, 11:18 AM   #117
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Semifinal at Rivendell, pre-game news

The AFA decision that the semifinals would be held in the same locations as the quarterfinals was met with great pride and joy by the organisers and with enthusiasm by the gathered crowds as well. Some Minas Morgul and Valimar fans headed back home but an astonishingly large number of them changed their original plans and stayed to have a chance at looking at the best football Arda had to offer. And more people were pouring in. More Númenóreans, more hobbits, more men and elves especially from the north-east, more goblins from the mountains but from the south as well… The dwarves hewed more rows of benches into the mountainside and taller huorns and even some ents were hired to grow the other side of the stand respectively higher. After the renewal the stadium took in 52 000 spectators. And it was to be full.

“The Elvenhome Chronicle” of Rivendell reported largely on the row that had risen from Boromir’s harsh language at the earlier press conference – and Bilbo’s hinting about a conspiracy by the tournament officials and the media, organised behind the curtains by the nerwendis. The newspaper was clearly trying to be correct and respectful with Bilbo, but the editor of the magazine couldn’t help pointing out that Bilbo was perhaps finally getting old and dementia was possibly catching up on him as he had himself played in the game where Mirkwood had beaten Valimar and thrown Melkor out of the tournament. Boromir’s arrogant comments were on the other hand judged with quite a strong language – and not only in the media. Boromir had never been the favourite person in Imladris and it looked like the gap was widening between the son of the steward and the Rivendell elves.


In a pre-match press conference the representatives of the both teams gave their views of the oncoming match.

Oropher: “We’ve beaten the odds given to us by the nerwendis already a couple of times and we’re positive we can do that again today. Our team exemplifies the spirit of the new Middle-Earth bringing together elves, men living or spirits, Maiar, hobbits and even dragons to play for the honour of our shared and sacred homegrounds – whatever our differences might have been in the past. This far I can see our new hope to all nations in the Middle-Earth has been carried forward with the blessing of Ilúvatar and I hope those blessings will carry us today to the finals and hopefully to the victory there.

Ar Pharazôn: Well, I hope Ilúvatar stays out of this game and minds his own business. This is football and not any multicultural “be happy –campaign”. We are the torch-carriers of the humankind, the Dunédain. We brought humankind into perfection – and now we’ll bring football into perfection…We do congratulate our opponents for bringing down the “mighty” Valimar but by beating the Mirkwood team we’ll show the world we would have done that too if given a second chance. Armenelos will rule once again.

Reporter (from “The Elvenhome Chronicle”): Now mr. Pharazôn, how about Gorthaur’s status in your team? How does he exemplify the perfection of humanity as you say?

Ar Pharazôn: I’m not answering to ridicule or biased questions…

Reporter (from “Romenna Daily”): But aren’t you afraid he betrays you once again? How can you trust that lord of evil he is?

Ar Pharazôn: Now look, Sauron has proved to be the best of teamplayers on the pitch and his unselfish and gallant game has bought our confidence with him. We had our differences in the past but those things are now history… and his choice to play for Armenelos and not for example Mordor or Angband speaks for his alignment for itself. Now thank you, we have a game to play and honour to defend.
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Old 07-03-2009, 05:11 PM   #118
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Semifinal at Rivendell

Armenelos vs. Mirkwood

All the minor things aside, the match was coming and that was what everyone was looking for. And this time the loyalties were so much clearer they had been in the quarterfinals. The “good” audiences (men from M-E, elves, hobbits, ents, Valar, Maiar…) were clearly on the side of Mirkwood while the “evils” were a bit undecided but leaning towards Armenelos just because the good crowds were so clearly on the side of Mirkwood: and sure there was Sauron – although he didn’t look like the Sauron they knew – being gracious, beautiful, noble… There was also a remarkable contingent of Númenórians from both Númenóre itself and from the south to keep up the spirit for the Armenelos team.


It had been cloudy already from the morning of the match day and a few hours before the game, as the crowds were gathering into the stadium, it started raining. And it rained heavily. The living roof consisting of the branches and leaves of the huorns and ents did protect parts of the stand pretty well but especially at the highest rows on the mountainside the spectators got pretty much soaked.


The game itself started up quite evenly. On a slippery field both teams went first carefully not willing to give the opponent a cheap lead with a careless mistake on the slippery arena.

Mirkwood played well and earned the support of the “good” crowds. Although there were downsides to it. When Treebeard was making a fine header following a corner kick the huorns and ents went just wild from suspense and cheered loudly waving their branches – resulting in hundreds of liters of water pouring down on the spectators and players under them, and a few spectators did actually fall down from their branches and received injuries that required medical attention. The header itself went wide the post.

But the team Armenelos proved to be just solid steel – and a Team with a capital letter. As in their earlier games, there were no particular players by whom they would pull their act together or to whom they would every time try to give the ball to make a difference. Everyone stood for his or her place and when someone was marked there was always someone else to pick up the duties and play the ball forwards in relentless waves of attack one after another.

In last year’s tournament Armenelos fell into self-indulgence giving the opponents basically a two goal lead before they started playing in earnest. This year they had learned.

At 30th minute due to a minor marking-mistake by Grimbeorn “the Lord of the West” performed a beautiful bicycle-kick from Sauron’s fine high pass and took the Kings to the lead they held onto to the half-time with relative ease.

On the second half much of the same followed. Armenelos wasn’t exactly running over the Mirkwod team but it made no mistakes and it always seemed to have more of the edge when it either attacked or defended; they were sharper, more determined, more alert at everything they did.

And so on 68th minute Armenelos scored again. And what an execution it was!

It actually began by a counter-attack when Sauron took the ball away from Bilbo (heh, as Boromir had predicted) and went forwards with Ar Pharazôn at his side. The two outwitted the Mirkwood defences and finally Sauron passed the ball to the center for Ar Pharazôn to score – but he hit the crossbar! Meanwhile those nearest following the two forwards had reached the area and it was getting packed inside the box. Tar Minastir won a fight over the rebound at the right corner of the box and chipped it to the center to Ar Pharazôn still waiting there – and Ar Pharazôn made a follow-up shot towards the lower left corner…making Oropher dive there… but no! It was indeed a powerful pass as he had seen from the corner of his eye that Tar Telperien was running there with all she got – and she dived to the ball feet on changing the ball’s trajectory from a meter away from Oropher sending the ball into the middle of the goal just past diving Oropher.

Once again Tar Telperien had showed why she was called the queen of football in Armenelos. As a defender she was probably less visible than her fellows Aredhel, Miriel or Nerdanel – but she sure knew how to score or pass a goal when needed. Those remembering last year’s tournament know that well. In a sudden act of decency Sauron took her to his shoulders and carried her around the pitch when she was just about to pull off her shirt to celebrate the goal…

Mirkwood tried it’s best to narrow the 2-0 lead but Armenelos played it securely and confidently the last twenty minutes giving Mirkwood no actual chance to score. Then the referee whistled the game over.

The Armenelos team maybe arrogant and full of pride but they are thus far the most solid team there is. It has won all its matches with a safe two goals difference (either 2-0 or 3-1). And they have allowed the opponents only three goals in six games – partly due to Tar Atanamir’s incredible 86% saves ratio as well. Whichever team will meet them in the final will have to really exceed in their game to beat team Armenelos. Fitting for the rulers of old they were, they just looked sovereign…


Armenelos 2-0 Mirkwood

shots 13-13
on target 7-5
GOALS:
*30, Armenelos (Ar Adunakhor, Sauron)
*68, Armenelos (Tar Telperien, Ar Pharazon)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Armenelos- Ar Zimrathan, Ar Gimilzor, Tar Ancalimon
*Mirkwood- Bilbo, Treebeard, Fram
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Old 07-04-2009, 03:11 AM   #119
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At Gondolin: Angband vs. Hithlum

When the sun rose on the day appointed and all the eastern lands lay bathing in morning glory, full daylight was still hours away on the plains of Tumladen within the encircling mountains. But finally, when the wait was almost unbearable, the emergent glow on the jagged peaks of the Crissaegrim exploded into a blinding white light and the shadows fled westwards or skulked underneath the sheer rock walls for a temporary respite. At the moment the sunbeams reached 0the king’s lofty tower, hundreds of trumpets greeted the new day. From the white, shiny walls of the city the banners of Turgon the King and Hithlum were unfurled, but also that of Angband, black as the pits of hell in mockery of the promises of such a fair morning. The day of the semi-final had come, with Hithlum facing off against Angband, and everyone was up and about, preparing for a choice feast.

The residents of the city rued the elimination of the proud Gondolin team, but were well pleased that they could support their kinsmen and friends from Hithlum, who also brought plenty of supporters with them from their Western highlands. Although former Gondolin-player Maeglin still had a few supporters in the city, most Elves here considered him to be treacherous scum signing for their most bitter rivals. Therefore, although this year’s Angband team was less hated than previous incarnations, there was no doubt that Hithlum had the support of the crowd, although a smaller group of travelling fans from Angband also remained in the city, mostly consisting of Easterlings, as few Orcs braved facing the mid-day sun. Here were also the black figures clad in hooded robes, looming over the Angband subs bench. Up in the VIP sky boxes luminaries such as Turgon, Tuor, Idril the king’s daughter and Eömwë, herald of Manwë, were seated. Alsp present were the eagles of Thorondor, sitting on the upper rim of the oval stadium with a great overview of the action down below utilizing their sharp eye-sight. Among the organizers there was a discussion about expelling them from the stadium lest they pay for tickets, but since no one knew how this could be done in practice, the officials thought better of it.

The stadium was full of light and colour and noise as the referee blew his whistle and Fëanor kicked off. The match was underway and to the joy of the supporters it was Hithlum who had the upper hand early on. In the fifth minute Maedhros got past Drauglin and found his father Fëanor, who burst into the penalty area. The angle was tight but he tried a shot nevertheless, and it was a swirling ball that Carcaroth had trouble with. First it looked like he’d claimed the ball, but then he yelped as it was suddenly behind him, rolling towards the line. Fëanor and the Hithlum players celebrated a goal, as they though it had crossed the line before the wolf got it again, but the referee waved play on. Fëanor was furious, insisting they’d look at a Palantiri replay of the event, but the ref had none of it and booked the Hithlum captain for protesting.

This incident only seemed to motivate Hithlum, and they continued to create plenty of headaches for the Angband defence, while Ancalagon and Maeglin (who got booed every time he touched the ball) had a difficult time with the Noldor back line. 17 minutes into the game Hithlum also took the lead as Gondolin favourite Aredhel made a great run and crossed the ball for Maedhros, who volleyed home from 10 metres. The stadium exploded in a great roar and trumpets blew triumphantly. But Hithlum did not rest on their laurels and went on the hunt for a second. A few minutes before the break it also came when Fingolfin’s deep run was spotted by Fëanor, whose perfect though-ball gave his half brother a one-on-one opportunity with Carcaroth, and although the great wolf came charging out from his line with a dreadful roar, the brave High King showed perfect composure and rolled the ball past him into the net. There was a warm applause as the two siblings embraced each other celebrating the goal they made together. Team sports can truly unite. Hithlum was two up at halftime and they had played wonderful football, perhaps the best the spectators had seen so far here in Gondolin.

During the recess, the black figures in the stands left their seats and came to the Angband dressing room. What was said is not known but there was an altogether new Angband team emerging in the second half. Suddenly the tackles were hard and fierce and the runs determined and fast. Hithlum still played out of their skins, and now the match reached epic proportions. The ref had to book several players, and the temperamental Fëanor should perhaps consider himself lucky not to receive a second yellow card when he went into a challenge with great zest, sending Uldor spinning in the air in great pain. Hurin, Maeglin and Gwindor in particular were fast becoming the main threat for Angband, perhaps motivated by the convincing arguments of the black hooded figures. Midway through the half Hurin almost reduced the Hithlum lead when his banana shot clipped the top of the bar behind a beaten Huan, but the Hitlum defence still held tight, much thanks to the impressive Caranthir the Dark and the Balrog who just about nullified the threat of the disappointing Ancalagon the Black.

But in the 73rd minute the goal came for Angband. Gwindor lifted a cross over the Hithlum box where Maeglin chested the ball down on the left. Challenging Ulmo he made a few quick step-overs before taking it past the Vala and unleashing a surprising snap shot that beat Huan on his near post. That was a fantastic individual effort from “the sharp boot” and he celebrated the goal with a swagger by hushing the crowd with a finger to his mouth. Angband were right back in it now and the crowd grew increasingly nervous, expecting a tense finale.

That wasn’t to be though. Only a few minutes later as Angband pushed for an equalizer, Fingolfin stole the ball and released a rampant Fëanor down the middle. Thuringwethil was forced to commit a cynical foul to stop the forward, and was rather lucky not to get sent off. Angband was punished none the less, as Fëanor got back on his feet, dusted himself off, and bended an unstoppable projectile over the wall and into Carcaroth’s the upper right corner for his fourth goal of the tournament. The crowd was ecstatic, knowing that a two goal deficit would be very difficult for Angband to overcome. Nor could they, and time quickly ran out for them. Hithlum was thought to the final, and very deservedly too, as they’d really razed their game when it mattered the most. The buoyant players were making lap after lap around the stadium soaking in the glory, fully expectant to win the final too regardless of who they’d have to face. Meanwhile the Angband players left the field dejected. They would not be received well back home now.

Angband 1-3 Hithlum
shots 10-18
on target 3-9
GOALS:
*17, Hithlum (Maedhros, Aredhel)
*42, Hithlum (Fingolfin, Feanor)
*73, Angband (Maeglin, Gwindor)
*79, Hithlum (Feanor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Angband- Thuringwethil, Balrog #5, Gwindor
*Hithlum- Fingon, Aredhel, Feanor
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Old 07-05-2009, 07:36 PM   #120
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11-3 in the playoffs and 2 more matches to go. Angband v. Mirkwood for 3rd place, and Armenolos v. Hithlum for the Championship.

We can just forget about that mistake in reporting Bilbo's press conference. I was suffering under temporary dementia, but sadly Bilbo's dementia seems more permanent. That was a minor lapse, the bigger story being continuing this impressive string of calling matches correctly.

Let us start with the game for 3rd place: Angband v. Mirkwood.

This will be an exciting one, and a good warm-up game for the championship. Mirkwood being the surprise team this Cup and Angband being pretty much in the position most experts expected. Because of that, Angband will be the favourite, but Mirkwood has room left for one more surprise.

We will see who will take the title the "Lord" of the Dragons. You might say it should be Ancalagon the Black, but his fire has been sputtering throughout the tournament. Scatha has fit much better into the Mirkwood team than Ancalagon has in Angband. You even had Treebeard singing praises for Scatha, and it's showing up in the phantasy points as well. I don't know how Mirkwood has managed with their conglomeration of races, but whatever they have been doing it's been working. The Arda Kicker Magazine would tell you they must have the favour of Eru...bogus I tell you.

Angband hasn't had any major internal blow-ups, but you can tell in their team play something has been off. Hurin was near the top in assists last year, and with his new team he just hasn't been doing it. You can tell he hasn't been feeling comfortable distributing the ball to Angband's forwards. He is far to honourable to cause a ruckus about not completely gelling in the Angband team, but supressing your dissatisfaction is sometimes more harmful to your team than simply spouting off your mind. It has been showing in Hurin's play, and it's not helping Angband. I told you weeks ago Hurin had to get evil if Angband wanted to get to the next level.

Angband's got the better talent, but Mirkwood's got enough talent to be competitive, and their teamwork will put them over the edge. Mirkwood wins 3-2.

THE CHAMPIONSHIP! Armenolos v. Hithlum

That Bilbo truly had to be nuts, because I can't think of two better teams to fight for the cup than these two, and I doubt the Arda Cup officials would have wanted any one, besides these two, representing honest, fair, and flat out great soccer skill. Theez boyz can play and they will show it in a Final that will not only be recorded for the soccer archives, but will forever be remembered by anyone lucky enough to experience it.

Feanor is the best player on the field, but the technique and team strategy of Armenolos has not been bested by anyone. I would argue that Tar-Atanamir has been the best goalie all tournament, however, because of his ridiculous save percentage he has made Armenolos' overall defense look better than it actually is. If you want to see the best overall team defense, look no further than Hithlum, who just does not allow their opponents many scoring opportunities, and when they do get opportunities they usually aren't good.

Armenolos has not faced any threat like Feanor, and their defense will finally give up 2 goals. Feanor continues to prove why he is the best, with his innate ability to recognize when he has to take control and when he has to distribute crisp passes to teammates. He will do it again in this match. As impressive as Sauron has been, stripping the ball from old senile hobbits like Bilbo is one thing, try doing that to anyone on Hithlum, and Sauron will be looking up from the flat of his back, wishing there was another Ring Frodo could destroy, because as painful as that might of been, it was quick and it will be nothing to the 90 minute beating he will take on the soccer field. Hithlum wins 2-1.

By: Jim "Scoop" Johnstone
The Boro-Blog
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