Arda Cup Football 2010

[Boromir88]

The matches at Gorgoroth Stadium were completely sold out within an hour. The Mordor teams were playing the outlanders and depending upon certain circumstances 1st place was still anyone's for the taking. Although coming into the day the overall belief was Barad Dur and Barrow-Downs would advance to the playoffs since they would have to have meltdowns against their opponents to not qualify.

Match 5: Barad Dur vs. Breeland
In the afternoon match, the Orcs and sinister creatures, who packed the stadium and easily outnumbered the Bree supporters. The orcs were rowdy, loud, and extremely arrogant since Barad Dur had tied Barrow-Downs, and Barrow Downs took care of Bree 3-1. In fact, Breeland has looked lost, and out of place, on the pitch. "This is in the bag, as a win for the Great Eye" rumbled the crowd.

However, as it often is with Bree teams, once you overlook them and think the unathletic bums will be a cake walk they will give you a bunch of fits. It's frustratingly difficult to figure out Bree, because the team complains how they always rely too much on Bombadil. But when Bombadil does show up to play the rest of the team does nothing and expect Bombadil to win it all alone. It was much of the same story today.

In the first period the Bombadil and Barrow-wight duo dominated the playing field. In fact, as we were mere minutes from the half-time whistle the crowd was pleasantly surprised to see the score was tied 1-1. They couldn't remember Barad Dur ever gaining possession let alone scoring a goal, that is how dominating the B & B Bree Boys had been. The orcs actually became a bit hopeful, if Barad-Dur could withstand that onslaught and still leave the first period tied they could easily win with a well-played 2nd period.

However, with mere minutes remaining to break, Bree would grab the lead again, driving a dagger into the hopes of Barad Dur fans. Who other than Bombadil and the B-W striking again to put Bree up by 1-goal right as the half whistle blew. Now the mood in the stadium wasn't about surviving the 1st tied and winning it in the 2nd, but hoping for a draw or at least a 1-goal loss, since Bree would need to win by 2 goals to knock Barad Dur out.

When the teams were heading to the locker room, the reporters flocked to Bombadil as no one had seen him for weeks.
"Tell us how big that last goal was for your team Tom?"
"Hey ho. Merry Dol! Talk to el Capitan-o!"
"That was spectacular footwork. We have never seen anyone handle the ball with such skill and ease before. Will we see more of that in the 2nd?"
"Hey-do. Razzly-Dazzly Tom. Game over Bombadillo! Merry dol."
"Are you guaranteeing a Bree victory!?"
But Bombadil did not answer, he just walked away. The reporters tried to follow, but the Barrow-Wight who had been at Tom's side the entire time gave an icy-cold stare, and the flock of reporters dropped to the ground in terror. That did not prevent the Gorgoroth score-board operators from flashing on the board "Bombadil guarantees it's game over for Barad Dur!" The Barad Dur friendly crowd was worked into a frenzy because of that message, when in all likelyhood Tom just meant that the game was over for him!

It didn't matter to them what Bombadil actually meant by "Game Over," when Bree stepped onto the field at the start of the 2nd the stadium shook with anger. Bottles and scraps of meat were thrown at them. Jeers of "Arrogant pigs!" were shouted and "What is Bree but a place for the ignorant round men to lie in the mud with dogs!" Stadium crew were finding it very difficult to try and keep the field clear of trash and other objects. The situation was getting dangerous and the head ref was threatening to cancel the match which would disqualify Barad Dur. It wasn't necessary as when Sauron walked onto the pitch, the place fell silent.

He walked towards the side line and picked up a bottle which was still half-full of orc-draught. Sauron handed it to an orc in the front row saying: "What a waste of your $5 drink." The horde of Orcs burst out in wicked laughter and Sauron gave the officials enough time to clear off the field, so they could actually begin play. Instead of spending their energy hurting Barad Dur by rioting, they focused on helping their team in traditional orc fashion - mocking and taunting the opponent.

Captain Strider would try to make you believe that his team's performance wasn't effected by the constant taunting of the crowd, but it probably was. At least on offense they were unable to do anything. And it certainly effected the Barad Dur defenses who began playing inspired and fed off the crowd's energy. Roheryn kept Bree's defense together much better than their previous match, but in the end without Bree being able to muster quality attacks, their defense had no hope. They could not hold out indefinitely against a team which had several 2nd age heroes AND Sauron on offense.

When Sauron got the go-ahead goal in the 81st minute the crowd went berserk. They knew right then Barad Dur was going to win. And how fitting it was that Sauron would score the final goal for his team in group play. Barad Dur might have been fortunate to survive the B&B onslaught in the first, but they certainly deserved this win by how they came out and played in the 2nd. One Mordor team was in, now for the other.

Barad-Dur 3-2 Breeland
tot shots 16-15
on target 8-8
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Bombadil (Barrow-Wight)
*36, 1-1 Gil-Galad (Naz #7)
*44, 1-2 Bombadil (Barrow-Wight)
*69, 2-2 Isildur (Sauron)
*81, 3-2 Sauron (Isildur)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Isildur, Elendil, Fellbeast
*Breeland- Lumpkin, Roheryn

Match 6: Barrow-Downs vs. Gorgoroth
Coming after Barad Dur's win, the Gorgoroth crowd was confident (and drunk). They would point out how they tied this team during the friendlies, and Castamir would continue to win as he did for Minas Morgul and Umbar in the previous tournaments. However, the thing about this other BD team, is it just seems like nothing gets under their skin. Even in a hostile land, and wondering where the hazy brown overcast suddenly came from, they were not dismayed. They could draw or afford to lose by 1-goal and still advance, but something tells me 2nd place wouldn't be good enough for the Barrow Downs. They wanted blood tonight.

It didn't take long for Barrow-Downs to jump out to a lead, but it did come from an unlikely player. Usually preferring to play balanced and not the hyper-aggressive style they did as wolves the defenders don't venture too far up field. However, BD had an early corner, and since they were playing for the win, wanted to take advantage. Phantom would take the corner, but he did not launch it into the box, instead he just passed it on to sally, who quickly sent it to Skip who was about 10 meters outside the penalty area. What were they doing? It looked like Skip was trying to find the tall form of Nogrod, but Gorgoroth's defense looked just as confused, as they packed the box. But Skip had a lane to shoot the ball through, and since no one came out to challenge, he had the time to get off a great shot, putting it just beyond the reach of Shelob. The giant spider may have reacted a bit slowly, not picking up the ball well, and not expecting the shot, but it was still a fine piece of striking, squeezing the ball through an open lane and into the back of the net.

The Gorgoroth crowd was stunned, they didn't seem to realize how or what just happened. All they knew is their team was already down 1-0 within the first 15 minutes. Even up 1-0 Barrow-Downs did not stop pressing the attack. They wanted 1st place, which meant they needed a 2-goal victory or they needed to score more goals. Besides their defense had been suffocating Gorgoroth's attack all day so far. Although, this rather new aggressive style from the Barrow-Downs cost them mere minutes before the break.

All day BD was trying to take advantage of Nogrod's height over the smaller orc defenders for Gorgoroth. However, this time Nazgul #1 anticipated the pass and quickly delivered the ball up-field to King Dead. Gorgoroth was on the counter, and it was finished by none other than Castamir, who had his 3rd goal in as many matches. Eomerwarg didn't have a chance, but BD's defense would not be dis-heartened.

They had only allowed Gorgoroth 2 shots on target in the 1st. Their defense was completely suffocating, but in the attempt to actually finish at the top of the group, they were out of formation and out-manned. Or to put it in yeomen terms for the readers who don't closely follow football, they got caught with their pants down. It wouldn't happen again.

In the 2nd Barrow-Downs began taking it to Gorgoroth, but also Skip kept his defense back to make sure Gorgoroth couldn't start another counter, which they were so proficient at creating. Also, the true ingenuinty of the 'Downers was clearly seen in the 2nd period. It was as if the entire 1st half was to make Nogrod a diversion. The orc-loaded defense of Gorgoroth, were primed to believe BD would continue trying to take advantage of Nogrod's height. So, they focused on stopping him, but completely forgot that wilwa was just as dangerous, because of her elegant and graceful footwork with the ball.

Before Gorgoroth could make the adjustment wilwa banged a shot off the post, and Nogrod was able to clean up the rebound putting Barrow-Downs back on top by a goal. Then in the 70th minute, she's involved again, only this time wilwa broke past 2 defenders. Phantom delivered a sharp pass, and it was perfectly placed for her. Wilwa didn't have to make any uncomfortable adjustment to try to get off an awkward shot, she just had to re-direct the ball's path, knocking it past Shelob. And again 5 minutes later, wilwa nearly got a 2nd goal, but Shelob made a good save and gobbled the shot up.

They were so prepared in the 2nd to stop Nogrod, before Gorgoroth knew it, wilwa beat them with a pass and a goal, and they the home crowd was now down 3-1, and could have easily been 4-1.

With the 2-goal lead, and with around 15 minutes of game left, the Barrow-Downs focused on protecting their lead, as it would mean they clinch 1st in Group B. Yet again another display of wise strategy, because as seen in the 1st, Gorgoroth's are experts at counter-attacks. However they couldn't just turn on the burners like Dol Guldur or Gondolin could. They needed to build pressure and tire out the opposing defense, before being able to take advantage. With how well-rested, and prepared BD's defense was from having an easy 2nd period (courtesy of wilwa and company), they easily rose to the challenge; getting a solid 3-1 victory as well as 1st place.

Fortunately one team from Mordor advanced, or I doubt even Sauron would have the control to calm the whole anger of Mordor, like he did in the afternoon match. The 'Downers were confident, because group winners hold big rewards. They could now return to Tyrn Gorthad Stadium and play in front of a friendly, passionate home crowd for their first playoff match. Also, this means they get the 2nd place finisher of Group G, which is yet to be determined, but most experts say it will be Gondor and not the feared juggernauts of Gondolin.

Barrow-Downs 3-1 Gorgoroth
tot shots 12-8
on target 6-4
GOALS:
*13, 1-0 Skip (Sally)
*42, 1-1 Castamir (Angamaite)
*55, 2-1 Nogrod (Wilwa)
*70, 3-1 Wilwa (Phantom)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barrow-Downs- Nerwen, Sally
*Gorgoroth- Gollum, Gorbag, Earnur, Grishnakh

Group B Standings
Barrow-Downs 2-1-0, 7, (+4) Q
Barad Dur 2-1-0, 7, (+3) Q
Breeland 0-1-2, 1, (-3)
Gorgoroth 0-1-2, 1, (-4)

[the phantom]

Tensions between the Thangorodrim players and the players and fans of the other teams were high headed into the final pair of games. With none of their fans being allowed to attend, and alleged incidents of their fans actually being slain, Thangorodrim definitely had the “us against the world” attitude going, and the paranoia to go along with it.

“It wouldn’t surprise me at all if Lorien threw their match against Bywater, losing purposefully by as large a margin as possible so as to force us out,” said Durin’s Bane before Thangorodrim’s final practice before the big match against the host, Valimar. His teammates agreed wholeheartedly, and expressed their belief that the only way into the playoffs was to defeat Valimar and take the top spot, or at the worst tie Valimar.

“We have to take this into our own hands!” roared Ancalagon. “If our fate is left to others, we will surely be cheated! With Lorien already eliminated, surely they will conspire against us and roll over for Bywater.”

As the opening game kicked off, the Thangorodrim players watched as they were seemingly proved right. In only the 11th minute Galadriel let one past and it was 1-0 Bywater. To be fair it was a tough shot from an extremely close position, so if anyone from the Lorien side was to blame, it would be the defenders for being disorganized and not accounting properly for Bandobras.

For a time Lorien showed some life on offense and made a go of attacking, but Bywater disrupted time and time again and soon had it down on the other end. At minute 28 Lorien tried to get a quick counter going, but Fatty got a foot on the outlet pass, sending it over to Maggot, who immediately sent a ball high at the far corner over a napping Galadriel who had not recovered in time from the possession change, and it was 2-0.

The hobbits and Nazgul-supporting orcs in the crowd began singing. This was the start they were looking for! If Bywater could just keep it up, surely they would advance, as Thangorodrim would find it tough to defeat the mighty home team! But Bywater did not keep it up, as for the rest of the half they looked rather spent and pulled back and defended, conserving energy for the second half push.

And the push came indeed. The opening 20 minutes of the second half was frantic, as Bywater gave it their all to push the goal margin, but Lorien betrayed no sign of giving up and pushed back wave after wave of attackers. Finally the Bywater attack started losing steam and the game moved to the midfield, and eventually to Bywater’s half. Lorien saw their best chances yet in the final 15, but Cotton turned them away and the match ended at 2-0. A couple of the Thangorodrim players interviewed before leaving to prepare for their match thought that perhaps they had misjudged the depths of the conspiracy, but the dragons remained adamant. “That was a nice little charade we just witnessed,” commented Scatha. “They played just enough to avoid looking suspicious. But no matter- we’re about to take care of business.”

Bywater 2-0 Lorien
tot shots 10-7
on target 5-3
GOALS:
*11, 1-0 Bandobras (Maggot)
*28, 2-0 Maggot (Fatty)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Bywater- Saruman, Ferny
*Lorien- Celeborn, Rumil, Orophin

The final match between Thangorodrim and Valimar was one of the most highly anticipated group play matches in recent history. It was receiving quite a lot of discussion even around other hosting sites. Heroes versus villains, beauty versus horror, defense and execution versus attack and fury!

There was no question that Thangorodrim would be bringing their top game, as they were tied in points with Bywater and their playoff berth was not secured. But everyone wondered how Valimar would play. They were already guaranteed to advance, so would they truly go all out at this stage? Why not hold energy and strategy back for the playoffs?

On the other hand, perhaps they wished to stick it to their old foes and eliminate Thangorodrim? And maybe it was worth the extra effort to secure the top seed and thus avoid going on the road to play an extremely impressive Mithrim squad? But gaining the top spot would also put them on the same half of the bracket as Utumno, Gondolin, and Tirion. Was that a factor? Soon enough though, all the questions were answered.

When they made their entrance, Thangorodrim was met with booing the likes of which had never been heard before in the blessed realm. It actually seemed to cause an earthquake. Even the dragons looked somewhat intimidated, as they skipped their usual taunting of the crowd, perhaps fearing that the 100,000 plus spectators would rush them, and even dragons can’t overcome numbers like that, particularly with such a great number of Ainu included in the crowd.

But the booing disappeared instantly when Manwe marched out at the head of his team. The crowd screamed and rang their handheld bells in union with the giant stadium bells as the home team encouraged the clamor with great vigor. Eonwe pumped his fists, Tulkas leaped up and down, Alatar and Pallando removed their jerseys and waved them, and Arien climbed the goalposts and burst into glorious flames! Even Manwe and Varda motioned to the crowd to increase the volume! This was not the typical Vala-led team of years past.

The game kicked off and it was clear that the energy and enthusiasm from Valimar had not been a mere show. They took it to Thangorodrim with speed and energy that stunned the evil men and monsters, and before ten minutes was up Valimar scored on a ringing header by Arien off of a Varda corner. But rather than frighten them, the early deficit seemed to wake Thangorodrim up, perhaps reminding them of the odds stacked against them and arousing their wrath.

The baddies stormed back with all their might and it was the host’s turn to be put on the heels. Valimar had certainly not seen anything like this attack before. Manwe and the defenders battled desperately, and Namo twice made spectacular saves when the defense failed, but Thangorodrim was not to be denied forever. At minute 20 the two dragons up front created a lot of contact and put several defenders on the ground and managed a free shot at the goal which there was no hope of saving. Scatha lifted up his head and sent a plume of flame into the air to celebrate his score, while the spectators booed more loudly than ever, thinking that at least one of the dragons should have been carded.

But Thangorodrim, perhaps realizing they had pushed their luck with the violent play, settled down into a more cunning game, and for the rest of the half they had the mastery, playing intelligently on defense and executing on offense, culminating in a strike by the other dragon forward, Ancalagon, off of a nice assist by Durin’s Bane. Thangorodrim made their way to halftime with their heads high while Valimar looked a bit shocked and tired. The crowd was completely out of it.

When the teams trotted out for the second half, Thangorodrim looked the same, but Valimar now looked grim and determined. Word was that Gandalf and Saruman from the Bywater team (who had tied Thangorodrim in the opening round) had been in the locker room and had spoken passionately, encouraging Valimar to not only win for themselves, but win for Bywater so that they could get into the playoffs.

Whatever the truth of it was, Valimar looked to be a different team from the very start. There was no panic in their steps, nor did they try to force the action. They now kicked with purpose and confidence, and Thangorodrim was unable to counter this new level of execution and concentration. Only 8 minutes into the new half the herald Eonwe announced Valimar’s return with the equalizer off a nice feed from Arien, and the crowd was back in it.

Again and again Thangorodrim tried to mount a charge, but now Valimar was meeting them head on and attacking in turn, and the baddies reverted to their earlier more violent methods. In minute 62 the decision was proved to be bad indeed as Ulwarth was caught tossing in punches to the back while bodying up on defense against Tulkas. He and nearby Durin’s Bane complained loudly that Tulkas had been throwing elbows back at Ulwarth and that he was only retaliating, but this had not been seen by the ref.

The crowd sang and rang their bells, seeing this send-off as a possible death-blow to Thangorodrim. Unlike the last time they had been presented with a challenge, Thangorodrim did not rise to the challenge, but rather looked panicky. Valimar built up the attack against them little by little. Tulkas and Eonwe were looking quite mighty, and Varda was completely in control of things and looking sharp, but the best in this match was Arien, who seemed out to prove that she was the true flame on this field, not the Balrog nor the dragons. And in minute 74 Arien was proved the best as she let loose a booming kick that actually caught fire and burned a hole right through the net!

Carcharoth howled his protest to the refs, saying that he couldn’t attempt to save it due to the fire, and that such things were clearly outlawed, but the refs took one look at Arien (she was perched on the posts yet again, shining brightly and sending spouts of flame into the sky) and didn’t dare rule against her revealed in all her fearful splendour.

Livid about the ruling, Glaurung made it his job to shut Arien down at that point, but when he got over and tried to defend she charged straight into his tail and went flipping into the air as if she’d been launched by a trebuchet. The refs immediately showed Glaurung a red card, and the bells of Valimar rang more loudly than ever, and the crowds broke out in singing. Scatha nearly got sent off too as he heatedly took issue with Arien’s trickery. But it was pointless to protest. With the whole stadium and the refs on the side of Valimar, plus missing Glaurung and Ulwarth- the match was over.

To the delight of the fans Valimar was not content to hold their one goal lead, but continued attacking, and in minute 84 Arien got on the scoring sheet yet again as she sent a perfect ball to Tulkas who beat the undermanned defense for a 4-2 lead. Amid the roar that arose from the stadium in that moment, the hollering of the hobbit section could be picked out, as Bywater now had a better goal differential than Thangorodrim to clinch the second playoff spot! Thangorodrim tried to reclaim the lost goal in the final seconds, but Valimar was far too solid and the game ended at 4-2 in favor of the hosts. Thangorodrim was eliminated!

Thangorodrim 2-4 Valimar
tot shots 14-15
on target 7-8
GOALS:
*7, 0-1 Arien (Varda)
*20, 1-1 Scatha (Ancalagon)
*39, 2-1 Ancalagon (Durin’s Bane)
*53, 2-2 Eonwe (Arien)
*74, 2-3 Arien (Eonwe)
*84, 2-4 Tulkas (Arien)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Thangorodrim- Scatha, Ulwarth, Gorlim, Ulfang
*Valimar- Pallando, Tulkas, Yavanna, Vana
RED CARDS:
*Thangorodrim- Ulwarth (62, second yellow) Glaurung (78, straight red)

GROUP F FINAL STANDINGS
Valimar (9 pts, +5, 7-2)
Bywater (4 pts, +1, 4-3)
Thangorodrim (4 pts, +0, 7-7)
Lorien (0 pts, -6, 1-7)

[skip spence]

While the other group H match between Dol Guldur and the Havens was highly anticipated, the encounter between goal-hungry Tirion out of Aman and Minas Anor attracted less hype. After all, Tirion was already qualified for the second round, and Minas Anor had been eliminated. Many people, orcs, spiders and elves showed up nonetheless, and they were treated to a fine game of football.

Minas Anor was made up of proud Men who’d fight until the bitter to contain their illustrious opponents, but still it was plain to see that they lacked the motivation required to give Tirion a real challenge. The Aman side’s quick passing, flawless technique and flowing movement made the Gondorians chase shadows for the most part of the first half and the two goals Tirion did score was less than what the team deserved.

In the second half the Elves relaxed and became rather nonchalant, which could have cost them dearly against a better team. Minas Anor did pull one goal back as Feanor messed up an extravagant but completely needless spinning move just outside his own penalty area and gave Boromir a gift, but the Fiery one responded with a goal of his own later on, a nice solo effort which surely will feature in the Palantiri highlights of the Arda Cup. Tirion had made it into the second round with ease.

Minas Anor 1-3 Tirion
tot shots 8-17
on target 4-8
GOALS:
*5, 0-1 Finwe (Feanor)
*24, 0-2 Nerdanel (Miriel)
*51, 1-2 Boromir I (Naz #4)
*72, 1-3 Feanor (Nerdanel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Minas Anor- Siriondil, Dervorin
*Tirion- Amrod, Amras

After the host team’s dramatic comeback win in the previous round the scene was set for a showdown against their age-old rivals from the Western Havens. Football fever had a firm grip on every resident of the Mirkwood stronghold, from the deepest dungeon under the hill to the loftiest tower overlooking the wide lands of Middle Earth. As kick-off approached, all and sundry showed up to support their team, sundry referring to the ticket-less spiders who had climbed the façade of the stadium and hung down from a piece of sting and to the countless vampire-bats fluttering high above this field of dreams. Each of them was donning the home team’s black and green colours and making a noise that made and earthquake seem timid.

Into this melting pot came the Havens but they looked undeterred and confident, joking and goofing around as if it were a training session. The Dol Guldur players, led by the imposing Witch-King, did not laugh. They knew that they could not afford to fall behind again and were determined not to let that happen this time around.

Yet so it did. Early on and completely out of the blue Havens took the lead, when the Numenorian seafarer Tar-Minastir struck a volley from way out that Oropher in the Dol Guldur goal could only watch as it looped over him and dipped under the crossbar.

Not much later it got even worse for the home team. Cirdan made space for himself on the left, tunneled each one of Attercop’s eight legs and whipped a cross into the box where Eärendil met the ball with an audacious flying header. Oropher did not even move as the ball whistled past him and into the top corner. The whole stadium fell silent, apart from the spirited but respectfully demure clapping of a small section of travelling Havens fan out of Lindon.

“Not again…” was written across the face of all the home supporters. Their beloved team had come back from the dead in the second round. But surely lightning cannot strike twice?

At this point some of the Dol Guldur players started to hang their heads low, but as soon as the Witch-King spotted weakness he gave the player in question an icy stare that came with a promise of something much worse after the game. Thus, Dol Guldur soldiered on, scrapping for every ball and finally getting the crowd behind them again.

However, goals weren’t forthcoming. All the attacking, apart from the occasional counter-attack, was now done by Dol Guldur. But the Havens was a weathered side of professionals who wasn’t going to make it easy for the Mirkwooders, and each time Dol Guldur came forward they were thwarted. As three quarters of the game had passed the crowd had all but resigned.

But just like in the previous game Dol Guldur were given a life-line when all seemed lost. Khamul advanced with the ball and the Havens defenders backed off, rather giving the Nazgul a chance to shoot from distance than passing the ball to a fellow. And what a mistake that was! Khamul drilled a rocket past Olwe from well over 35 yards out that got the crowd right back on its feet.

Once again the atmosphere was feverish as the home team now pushed furiously for more goals. And unbelievably an leveller came only a few minutes later, scored from close range by the Witch-King, who had lost his marker Eriol completely.

Dol Guldur had come back once against the odds once again, but a draw would not be enough for them to advance, and Havens knew this also. Now all ten outfielders was in the lap of Oropher, and the seafarers took every chance to waste Dol Guldur’s precious time.

Unfortunately for the Havens Eriol seemed to be suffering from the black breath at this point and could no longer follow the Witch-King as closely as he had done earlier on. And for this failure his team payed the ultimate price. An Attercop cross towards the far post was met unopposed by the chief Nazgul and he headed the ball across goal where Grimbeorn nodded home to complete another unbelievable comeback from Dol Guldur.

The Havens was shell-chocked as the Dol Guldur players celebrated the goal with the ecstatic fans. The stadium was a boiling sea of black and green, and wood-elves, Orcs and Spiders embraced each other as if they were long lost friends.

Now it was suddenly Havens who had to come forward and although they found it hard to change their game-plan at this point Cirdan got a glorious opportunity to put rain on the parade as he was allowed a free header deep into injury time. The crowd gasped for breath as the ball hit the crossbar and bounced down just outside the goal line. That was to be Havens last chance. The referee blew the full time whistle and Dol Guldur was through to the second round.

As the supporters filed out of the stadium they were in dreamland but neutrals agreed that each one of them looked at least five years older from the pain he or she had suffered before finally being delivered. Some of them actually left the stadium with a new hair colour: grey.

Dol Guldur 3-2 Havens
tot shots 12-9
on target 8-5
GOALS:
*7, 0-1 Tar Minastir (Earendil)
*20, 0-2 Earendil (Cirdan)
*70, 1-2 Khamul (Witch King)
*75, 2-2 Witch King (Bolg)
*86, 3-2 Grimbeorn (Witch King)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dol Guldur- Galion, Beorn, Bolg
*Havens- Uinen, Eriol


Final Standings GROUP H:
Tirion 3-0-0 11-5 9pts Q
Dol Guldur 2-0-1 8-8 6pts Q
Havens 1-0-2 7-8 3 pts
Minas Anor 0-0-3 4-9 0pts

[Boromir88]

Despite the qualifiers in this group already being known before the start of the matches, and the host's having been eliminated we are still expecting relatively big crowds for games where there wasn't much at stake. And both matches the crowds were simply desiring to continue seeing good games-manship and good football.

Match 5: Gondolin vs. Gondor
If this was a sign of how the 2nd match would draw than it was a good sign indeed as Menegroth was at near capacity. Tens of thousands of Gondolin fans made the trip to Doriath and were impressed by Gondolin's 2 shut out wins over Doriath and Wold. They were certainly more pleased with their team this year, than the debacle of last year. And while many would admit that Gondor would probably be toughest obstacle, they were expecting a solid victory from their team.

Only around 5,000 from Gondor had come to Doriath, simply because Gondor is such a vast, diverse land, and they have the biggest representation in the tournament (Ithilien, Pelennor, Minas Anor. As well as individual players like Boromir II who some Gondorians wanted to support for Rivendell). Long story short, the Gondor fans were spread to the ends of the Ea for the Arda Cup this year and Doriath was quite a distance. However, despite this, Wold fans came to the first match to support their fellow brothers. Also, the locals who normally were more neutral, vastly supported Gondor now, being fond of the "underdog" story and also hopefully just to stick it to Eol.

So, in truth, fan support was predicted to be heavily in favor for Gondolin, but at the start of the game it was virtually 50/50. In the minds of many in Doriath, Gondor had played well and earned their support. And if they could upset Gondolin the Great that would almost make up for Doriath's elimination.

The match seemed to be played more like one you would see from the Group A teams, which was kind of unexpected, but it was by no means boring. Gondolin fans were getting upset with their team through the first 30 minutes, as it seemed like they were trying to play a defensive-minded game today. Since, all they had to do was not lose and they'd remain in 1st place.

Gondor on the other hand had nothing to lose. It was simple for them, win and they take 1st, lose and they remain at 2nd. Since it was simpler, they were pushing the attack more than usual, and as much as Gondolin fans were grumbling about putting Gondor out of the match early before you give them opportunities to beat you, the fact is Gondor was forcing Gondolin to play good defense.

Good defense is something that isn't foreign to Gondolin, because that is exactly what they played. The great eagle and horses were on top form tonight, rarely letting anything passed them, and the playoff experienced goalie in Huor continued to be a wise signing for Gondolin. Their strategy also became clear during the later half of the 1st period. Win the battle of attrition by having the defense wear down Gondor's attackers and then allow the skill of their FWs to take over. For as worthy as Gondor's defenders were, I think everyone would agree Gondolin's skill at FW is going to be too difficult of a challenge for most defenses. However, Gondor was not an easy one to break, particularly Romendacil who seems to be a man on a mission to not let anything passed him after giving up that goal to Wold.

However, in the 41st minute he did not get help from Ondoher who made a regrettable mistake. Gondor's defense was finally starting to show signs of tiring. Eol chipped the ball beautifully over the defense and Fingolfin broke towards the goal. Ondoher was beat, and did what most anyone does after getting beat, react late and commit a foul. It wasn't a dirty foul and everyone was surprised to see the ref pull out a yellow, as Ondoher helped Fingolfin up and shook hands to assure there was no malicious intent. It was a foul nonetheless and having occurred inside the penalty box, Fingolfin was going to get a free penalty kick.

Romendacil did not look intimidated but he definitely looked puzzled, trying to figure out how Fingolfin was going to utilize this opportunity. Would he go for the risky blast to one of the corners or something safer? A free kick at this close of a range, not only must the goalie react quickly but guess correctly. Romendacil reacted fine, and while Fingolfin struck the ball well it wasn't at all placed beyond the GK's reach. Had Romendacil dove right he probably would have saved it, but he guessed wrong and dove left. It was 1-0 Gondolin.

Both teams went to break rather pleased with the effort so far. Gondolin had the lead, and Gondor wasn't being embarrassed by any means. There was still an entire 2nd to play, they just needed to find a way to beat Gondolin's roc[sic]-solid defense. Easier said then done, but perhaps resting and regrouping would provide the answers.

With the lead now, Gondolin seemed even less interested in pressing the attack than at the start of the game. Or maybe they were just trying to stick to what worked in the 1st. Play shut out defense, wear out Gondor's attackers, and then put the game in the hands of Maeglin and their FWs. This time though, Huor and the defense could not keep Gondor off the board. As proven time and again if you allow Gondor to keep pressing, they will find a way passed your defenses. In the 75th Eldacar did just that getting his 2nd goal of the tournament and assisted by the Good Steward.

Half the stadium gave a standing ovation for the goal. They couldn't believe Gondor just pulled even with the favorites and there was still over 20 minutes of play remaining! The other half, looked a combination of worried and frustrated. Worried because Gondor seemed to have the stronger will to win and frustrated that Gondolin did not. The fans might be expecting too much from their team though, because it's not like Gondolin was playing lazy and trying to lose. They wanted to win the group and bring at least one playoff game home to their fans. Gondor was truly and all around competitive opponent.

Also, their strategy to win the battle of attrition was working, Gondor had to work themselves to exhaustion just to get that equalizer, trying to get a 2nd against this defense was too difficult of a challenge. For the last 15 minutes, yet again, Gondolin's skill players took over and pressed into Gondor's half the field trying to take the lead again. Only this time, they couldn't get a 2nd against Romendacil who just continued to be stellar at saving goals. You could see too he was even frustrating Gondolin towards the end, as their shots became more wild and desperate. In fact, had it not been for Fingolfin's penalty kick, Gondor very well might have pulled off the upset in this one.

But as it stands, the draw means Gondolin gets to go home to play Barad Dur and Gondor would be heading to Tyrn Gorthad to face those dynamite 'Downers.

Gondolin 1-1 Gondor
tot shots 13-11
on target 6-5
GOALS:
*41, 1-0 Fingolfin
*75, 1-1 Eldacar (Mardil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondolin- Thorondor
*Gondor- Beruthiel, Ondoher

Match 6: Doriath vs. Wold
Pretty much everyone from the first match stayed in Menegroth to watch Doriath and Wold play. The Gondor fans departed with much thanks to Doriath's hospitality and support, but since they trekked out to Doriath only to now have to head almost the entire way back to follow their team to the Barrow-Downs they decided to leave. Wold fans travelled just as far as Gondor, and since there was still a game to be played, they figured to make the best out of a long trip. And even though this game was meaningless, Melian still had a lot of sway over her realm. She guaranteed the Doriath fans they were going to see a spectacular performance and they would not be disappointed by the match tonight. She also allowed the Gondolin fans from the first match to stay at half-price. But some who didn't want to do that reported that Melian then made threats about her girdle still being up until the games were completely finished and forbade them from leaving.

Melian guaranteed and delivered, as the game could simply be called "The Melian show." Doriath could not get much accomplished offensively the entire game. It was actually Wold who went into the all out attack mode, outshooting Doriath by quite a bit. The Gondolin crowd which was forced to say grumbled about how Melian staged it this way just so she could show off and put on a performance for her admirers. With each save the Doriath fans went nuts, but her critics would roll their eyes because she was obviously reacting late on purpose to try and make the saves look more spectacular than what they really were. Whatever the case, you have to congradulate Melian on being able to fire up her fanbase in a game that meant nothing. (And when they had plenty of reason to be upset with the team's bad performance in the tournament!)

After getting up 2-0 early in the 2nd, none of the past performances seemed to matter to the Doriath crowd. This was great, just being ahead and on the winning side for once! Hama seemed to still be troubled by the loss to Gondor, because his defense played strong for him, but he was now really struggling. He had to stop a mere 4 shots on target, but only managed to come up with 2 of them.

When he gave up the 2nd, Quickbeam tried to lift his team up with a consolation goal, because his blast was a screaming liner. I think Quickbeam put all of built up rage from the 3 games into that one shot, because judging by the defeaning boom of the ball ripping through the air and tearing straight through the net, I think it broke the sound barrier. If you blinked, you missed it and Melian didn't even have time to stick up a hand. Not that Melian wanted to get in the way of that one anyway.

Doriath 2-1 Wold
tot shots 9-13
on target 4-7
GOALS:
*26, 1-0 Haldir (Nellas)
*52, 2-0 Haleth (Thingol)
*61, 2-1 Quickbeam (Eomund)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Doriath- Saeros, Haldir, Elurin
*Wold- Elfwine, Grima, Quickbeam

Group B Standings
Gondolin 2-1-0, 7 pts, (+5) Q
Gondor 2-1-0, 7 pts, (+2) Q
Doriath 1-0-2, 3 pts, (-2)
Wold 0-0-3, 0 pts, (-5)

[Nogrod]

So here we go with the AKM stars from round three of the group-phase.

Three stars

Arien of Valimar
Arien’s stunning performance against Thangorodrim outshines the performances seen thus far in the tournament. Thangorodrim put Valimar into a tight spot and Arien can be said to be more than a key to Valimar beating Thangorodrim out of the tournament being involved in all of Valimar’s goals.

Two stars

The Witch King of Dol Guldur
He was the soul of his team bringing them back from 0-2 to Havens and qualifying. He really showed his leadership qualities this round.

Cotton of Bywater
She had to pick only three shots in the match against Lorien, but catching them all made it possible for Bywater to qualify. So even if she hadn’t have to face that many shots her saves were probably making the most difference on this round.

One star

Tom Bombadill of Bree
He showed once again that when he is interested in playing he’s stil one of the best players there are. His two goals were a sovereign performance. Sadly he can’t be made interested against his will to do more for his team.

Túrin of Mithrim
Túrin is getting into shape. His two goals sank Nargothrond and his self-confidence is clearly gearing up.

Melian of Doriath
The best goalie of the round with a very good 85,7%. Sadly her efforts were in vain in regards to qualifying. But she showed what the concept honour is about.


The AKM stars after the group phase:

Three stars
Arien of Valimar
Elrond of Rivendell
Tilion of Utumno

Two stars
Cotton of Bywater
Eorl of Rohan
Finwë of Tirion
Miriel of Tirion
The Witch King of Dol Guldur

One star
Ancalagon the Black of Thangoodrim
Arvedui of Norbury
Curufin of Mithrim
Celegorm of Mithrim
Melian of Doriath
Romendacil of Gondor
Tar Minastir of Havens
Tom Bombadill of Bree
Túrin of Mithrim


Some special stars to come in the next edition of the AKM stars. Stay online!

[the phantom]

PHANTASY POINTS
22

• MF *Nerdanel (Tirion)

19

• FW Tar Minastir (Havens)

18

• MF Arien (Valimar)
• FW **Turin (Mithrim)
• FW *Witch King (Dol Guldur)
• FW *Miriel (Tirion)
• FW Finwe (Tirion)
• FW Tilion (Utumno)

16

• GK *Ungoliant (Utumno)

15

• DF *Celegorm (Mithrim)
• FW Nogrod (Barrow-Downs)
• FW Ancalagon (Thangorodrim)
• FW Eonwe (Valimar)

14

• GK **Elrond (Rivendell)
• GK Nienna (Aman)
• GK Cotton (Bywater)
• GK Maglor (Eithel Sirion)
• GK Huor (Gondolin)
• GK Romendacil (Gondor)
• MF **Durin’s Bane (Thangorodrim)
• MF *Hador (Eithel Sirion)
• FW **Sauron (Barad-Dur)
• FW **Feanor (Tirion)
• FW *Maedhros (Eithel Sirion)
• FW *Earendil (Havens)
• FW Wilwa (Barrow-Downs)

13

• DF **Curufin (Mithrim)
• FW *Scatha (Thangorodrim)
• FW Fingon (Eithel Sirion)

12

• GK **Huan (Mithrim)
• GK *Melian (Doriath)
• GK *Tar Atanamir (Numenor)
• GK *Namo (Valimar)
• GK Dior (Gelion)
• GK Arvedui (Norbury)
• GK Rog (Vinyamar)
• DF **Balrog #4 (Utumno)
• DF *Thorondor (Gondolin)
• DF Aegnor (Eithel Sirion)
• MF **Melkor (Utumno)
• FW *Bombadil (Breeland)

11

• DF **Tar Telperien (Numenor)
• DF **Manwe (Valimar)
• DF Balrog #1 (Utumno)
• DF Balrog #3 (Utumno)
• MF Nazgul #7 (Barad-Dur)
• MF Phantom (Barrow-Downs)
• FW Ar Pharazon (Aman)
• FW Eldacar (Gondor)
• FW Castamir (Gorgoroth)
• FW Boromir I (Minas Anor)

10

• GK Mouth (Barad-Dur)
• GK Eomerwarg (Barrow-Downs)
• GK Halmir (Beleriand)
• GK Brand (Dale)
• GK Oropher (Dol Guldur)
• GK Olwe (Havens)
• GK Mumakil (Ithilien)
• GK Aule (Tirion)
• DF **Ulmo (Vinyamar)
• DF Skip (Barrow-Downs)
• DF Asfaloth (Gondolin)
• DF Balrog #2 (Utumno)
• DF Galdor (Vinyamar)
• DF Salmar (Vinyamar)
• MF *Orome (Aman)
• MF Glorfindel (Gondolin)
• MF Tulkas (Valimar)
• MF Idril (Vinyamar)
• FW Isildur (Barad-Dur)
• FW Bolg (Barad-Dur)
• FW Hurin (Mithrim)
• FW Beleg (Mithrim)

GOALS
4

• FW **Turin (Mithrim)
• FW Tilion (Utumno)
• FW Tar Minastir (Havens)

3

• FW *Bombadil (Breeland)
• FW *Maedhros (Eithel Sirion)
• FW *Scatha (Thangorodrim)
• FW *Witch King (Dol Guldur)
• FW *Miriel (Tirion)
• FW Nogrod (Barrow-Downs)
• FW Eonwe (Valimar)
• FW Ancalagon (Thangorodrim)
• FW Finwe (Tirion)

ASSISTS
4

• MF *Nerdanel (Tirion)

3

• MF **Melkor (Utumno)
• MF **Durin’s Bane (Thangorodrim)
• FW Fingon (Eithel Sirion)

[Nogrod]

Reading instruction into the stats: After the team's name there are:
* the goal difference (scored - allowed)
* points gathered from the group phase
* total shots made (on target) - total shots allowed (on target)
* the goalie's saving percentage

A1 Vinyamar – H2 Dol Guldur
Vinyamar 5-1 7 33(16) – 19(8) 87,5%
Dol Guldur 8-8 6 43(25) – 45(24) 66,7%

Dol Guldur, one of the most attacking and most efficient teams of the tournament is facing Vinyamar which has the best defence with Rôg, one of the best goalies so far. So a thriller? It is clear Vinyamar hasn’t yet faced a team of Dol Guldur’s caliber and thus the stats might be a bit misleading. But sure it will not be a walk in the park to Dol Guldur either. The longer the Ulmo led defences can hold against the tidalwave (sic!) of the Witch King, Bolg and Khamûl the better chances they will have. Even if Dol Guldur defences have been quite vulnerable when looked at the statistics (actually one of the worst) one needs to remember they have been playing against teams like Tirion and Havens (compared to Ithilien and Beleriand faced by Vinyamar). So especially Penlod and Tuor need to step up their game if they wish to score. A big question also is whether Oropher can rise to the occasion. Thus far he has been a bit insecure and has the worst saving percentage of the qualified teams.

The AKM odds: Vinyamar 40% - Dol Guldur 60%

B1 BarrowDowns – G2 Gondor
B-Downs 8-4 7 41(21) – 25(14) 71,4%
Gondor 4-2 7 33(15) – 36(15) 86,7%

The Barrow-Downs really knows how to score and Romendacil of Gondor how to deny the efforts of the opposing team. So on the first look it seems like a game of BD forwards (and attacking midfield) against Romendacil. And a lot will depend on the outcome of that fight. Thus far Romendacil has let in one shot from 7-8 shots against him (Gondor has allowed five shots on target per game thus far), but the BD has needed less than three shots on target to score (and they’ve produced seven shots on goal per game on average). A factor against Gondor might be that they have gained their defensive stats against teams like Wold and Doriath, but to be fair one needs to add that BD’s former opposition of Breeland and Gorgoroth aren’t exactly the prime defending teams either. So there clearly is some air in both stats. Gondor’s draw with Gondolin (even if the outcome of the match was insignificant to both teams) is something on behalf of Gondor defences though. Eomerwarg’s mood is also a factor: when he plays it cool he can take practically every shot but when he has a bad day even easy shots may go in. On the other side Eldacar and Mardil need to find a new gear if Gondor wishes to win for one doesn’t win BD with one goal and it’s hard to see the BD to settle with anything less than two…

The AKM odds: BarrowDowns 70% - Gondor 30%



C1 Mithrim – F2 Bywater
Mithrim 8-1 9 45(25) – 21(8) 87,5%
Bywater 4-3 4 25(13) – 32(15) 80%

Unless Gandalf and Saruman start to use magic – and are allowed to do that – there should be no question about the winner of this match. The cynics say Bywater got this far only with the help of team Valimar who decided to win them only 1-0 and who then outscored Thangorodrim just enough to kick them out of the tournament and thus made Bywater to qualify. But in a game against Mithrim the Valar have no say – and Mithrim clearly is one of the safest bets to reach the finals (playing in this easier side as they are). Bywater is not a bad team and Cotton has stepped up her level as the tournament has gotten further. But looking at the power in the front of Mithrim’s attack with Húrin, Beleg and Túrin, or the defence organised by brothers Curufin and Celegorm, or the goal tended by Huan… it’s hard to see Bywater shaking the odds. And as said earlier, it’s also hard to see team Mithrim falling victim to vanity or pride, especially in a play-off situation.

The AKM odds: Mithrim 95% - Bywater 5%

D1 Eithel Sirion – E2 Numenor
Eithel Sirion 7-1 9 42(22) – 22(10) 90%
Numenor 3-2 4 39(19) – 26(11) 81,8%

This is one of the hardest matches to predict. Eithel Sirion was impressive in the friendlies (they beat Mithrim and Barad Dûr!) and they simply packed their group. But what is the worth of those friendlies now as the teams play it for real? How much does it tell of a team that they can beat teams like Dale, Rohan and Gelion? On the other hand it is clear Numenor has a scoring problem and enough has been talked about it. But they have been getting into shape during the tournament and their last game against the tough Utumno team coud be said to have given one a glimpse of what the team is cabable of, not to say that experience says one should never underestimate a Numenorian team as they seem to rise their level the higher the stakes are. Balancing the stats somewhat actually makes the quite even stats to look almost better for Numenor, except for the scoring-issue. But the great friendlies for Eithel Sirion also do count even if one can’t take them just like they are.

The AKM odds: Eithel Sirion 60% - Numenor 40%




E1 Utumno – D2 Gelion
Utumno 6-0 9 45(21) – 27(10) 100%
Gelion 3-3 4 24(11) – 30(13) 76,9%

Utumno boasts one of the most aggressive offence of the tournament and possibly the best goalie so far, not to mention that their defences have been one of the best overall to keep the shots out of the mark. And on top of mighty Melkor they have the sensational Tilion up front. Gelion in it’s part has won Rohan 1-0 and drawn with Dale 1-1. Gelion’s most remarkable feat has thus far being losing only 1-2 to Eithel Sirion, but that in the end reveals the whole problem with Gelion: they don’t score. Beren has scored twice but he carries the burden too much alone. Not that Utumno would have the most spread out scorer-line either, but as long as Tilion keeps up scoring more than one goal per game there should be no problem – and many commentators feel it’s just a question of time when Melkor, Gothmog, Tevildo and Thuringwethil start delivering alongside Tilion. If that was to happen Gelion would not have even a theoretical chance. And even without a massive awakening Utumno has good chances to score as Dior actually isn’t even near the best goalies around (76,9%). But the ball is round and if Gelion manages to frustrate Utumno’s game – and Tilion doesn’t deliver while no one else is able to jump into his shoes… well then Gelion has a chance. But it is a slight one.

The AKM odds: Utumno 90% - Gelion 10%

F1 Valimar – C2 Norbury
Valimar 7-2 9 39(20) – 27(13) 84,6%
Norbury 4-4 4 28(13) – 35(18) 77,8%

If the Mithrim – Bywater game seems like a predetermined one, then here is the second one where the outcome looks like more or less decided already. It could be said that group F probably wasn’t that tough a group some thought beforehand and thus Valimar wouldn’t be that sovereign a team, but then again Norbury’s barely leaving Nargothrond and Pelennor behind is not such a feat either. And looking at the possibilities to score: Norbury seems to have their game more or less solely in the feet of Araphor (2+0) and Malbeth (1+1), whereas Valimar has on top Eönwe (3+1), Arien (2+2), Tulkas (2+0), Varda (0+2) … Now the only chance Norbury could have is the much speculated possibility that Valimar is playing something like “a nice game” against all teams whose players they appreciate (and Norbury could be one of those) while playing with full swing against baddies. Now if it where that way there is a minuscule chance they let Norbury play even or just one goal behind to the late stages and then Norbury could capitalise. But it looks like a far-fetched scenario indeed. Being considerate to goodies is one thing and playing stupidly is another.

The AKM odds: Valimar 95% - Norbury 5%



G1 Gondolin – B2 Barad Dûr
Gondolin 6-1 7 41(20) – 23(9) 88,9%
Barad Dur 8-5 7 39(21) – 40(20) 75%

This must be one of the highlights of the first qualifying round – and one of the hardest to assess. The problem with Barad Dûr is clearly the defence: they let the opponents to shoot a lot (twice as many shots in the group-phase than Gondolin) and the Mouth isn’t at the level of a final-winning goalie unlike Huor who could be even that. But Barad Dûr counts on overscoring their opponents, and they sure have scored! Even if BD and Gondolin have shot more or less the equal numbers (both overall and on target) in the first three matches Barad Dûr’s efficiency in scoring is just on a class of it’s own. Their shooting efficiency is the only one over 20% in the whole tournament. The attacking quartet Elendil, Gil-Galad, Isildur and Sauron are a force in their own right and a nightmare to any defence. Also group B was a shooting gallery only topped by group H, so BD’s defensive stats may appear worse than they actually are. But then again Gondolin has been a solid side throughout the tournament: the defence led by Thorondor is one of the tightest of the whole tournament, especially when it comes to allowing shots on goal, Glorfindel and Echtelion can both defend and score, and the trio Fingolfin, Aredhel and Maeglin is a threat to any defence (although one must admit especially Maeglin has underperformed thus far), not to re-mention the grand goal-keeping by Huor. It is basically too hard to call.

The AKM odds: Gondolin 50% - Barad Dûr 50%

H1 Tirion – A2 Aman
Tirion 11-5 9 56(29) – 37(19) 73,7%
Aman 4-2 7 31(17) – 27(12) 83,3%

Unless Ar Pharazôn really starts performing miracles, maybe bringing Oromë and Finarfin with him, then it will be good-bye to the Aman team. And even in that case Nienna and her Turgon led Valier defence will face the fiercest hurricane they have met thus far. Playing against Ithilien, Beleriand and Vinyamar and getting through as the second team with 4-2 goal difference is from such a different planet than winning sovereignly a group with Dol Guldur, Havens and Minas Anor and ending up with a goal difference of 11-5! In Aman’s group A the total number of shots made in all six games was 113. In group H of Tirion it was 171! So Tirion has been in tight games, in the “group of death” so to speak, and brought it home securely, Aman has been in the probably weakest group of all and survived the second. And the greatest fear for Aman sure is the offensive line up of Tirion: Nerdanel (2+4), Miriel (3+2), Finwë (3+2), Fëanor (2+2) … beat that! Aman will sure give a fight and one never knows about the Valar so therefore the AKM will not offer 100-0 odds.

The AKM odds: Tirion 95% - Aman 5%


An AKM disclaimer.

The stats only tell how a team has fared against the teams in it’s group and the groups might have been very different in stature compared to each other. But it is also noteworthy that all the specualtion over the relative merits of different groups over each other really are just speculation. The AKM has tried to take that into account but will not compensate to any gambler betting on the games following the AKM’s analysis.

[the phantom]

Each sports paper or magazine has a certain lense that they view things through, and thus there are many differing opinions to be found as to which teams will be moving on into the Arda Cup quarterfinals. Here are a couple of those views...

Monster Magazine
Ruharg the Red, dragon of the Withered Heath

Once you're at this stage it's obvious all the teams are quality, but who will have that extra something to push on towards a title? If you ask me, competitive fire and an extra bit of power will be the difference. Titles are won by those with no mercy who are willing to use the full scope of abilites to get a win. Two years ago it was the hound in goal, Huan, and a determined Feanor up front that led the way. Last year Armenelos would never have won without the ruthlessness and cunning of Sauron and Ar Pharazon.

What I'm saying is, you can write off the teams filled up with nice guys. Who made the Cinderella run last year, eh? It was Mirkwood, featuring a Nazgul and Scatha the dragon on the attack, and a defense led by the gritty Grimbeorn. If there's such a run this year, it will be made by a similar team.

Dol Guldur over Vinyamar

Are you kidding me? No way will Vinyamar be able to match the killer instinct of The Witch King, Bolg, Khamul, and the Bear-men.

Barrow-Downs over Gondor

I don't think either of these teams can go all the way. Barrow-Downs lost their chances of that when they decided not to be Werewolves. But a couple of them have at least carried over their flair, and the Warg keeper will come through for them.

Mithrim over Bywater

Saruman and the Nazgul have been kept on too short a leash by Gandalf to carry the day, while on the other side Huan is always solid in goal and Celegorm and Curufin know how to get things done on defense. And up front, who can deny that Turin has the attitude it takes to pull their team through?

Numenor over Eithel Sirion

The side from Numenor has certainly lost a lot of their swagger, sacrificing those go-getters Sauron, Ar Pharazon, and Tar Minastir for replacements that are high quality but lack that extra oomph and fire (Tar Palantir, Elros, Tar Miriel). But if you ask me, they have just enough of the old flame left in the form of Ar Adunakhor, Ar Zimrathan, and a couple others to get them through.

Utumno over Gelion

Surely I don't need to explain this. Balrogs, vampire, spider-queen, Melkor...

Valimar over Norbury

Neither of these teams is going to get past Utumno should they advance, but despite the presence of the annoyingly kind Manwe I think Arien, Tulkas, and the blue wizards bring enough passion to beat those ranger boys.

Gondolin over Barad-Dur

Now this may seem like a pick against my science, but let's look closer here. Sauron should never be doubted, and Isildur certainly has a bit of fire in him, but Gil-Galad and Elendil are bound to be dead weights to be pulled. On the other side, Maeglin is quite a schemer and was just clutch in last year's playoffs. Aredhel is strong willed and has an attitude certainly (as well as two years consecutive in the finals), and Fingolfin obviously has what it takes, riding alone to challenge Morgoth to a duel. And Eol- like father like son. Barad-Dur has more baddies, but not as big difference makers.

Tirion over Aman

Neither of these teams are to my liking, but I think in the end Feanor has just a bit more "it" quality than Ar Pharazon, and a supporting cast more likely to back him up and do what it takes to win. Whoever advances I'd take Barad-Dur or Gondolin over them.

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

Westernesse Weekly
Ar-Tar-Aradil of Numenor

The age of men has come, and the playoffs are bound to reflect that. Last year's win by Armenelos should be a hint to everyone- the younger race playing a beautiful team game will triumph over others. The elves can't take as much of a beating and rely too much on individuals, the monsters aren't strategic enough, and the dwarves and hobbits aren't big enough. The most serious threat would probably be from the Ainu, if they weren't stuck in their outdated ways. The only teams that can stand up to the top mortal talent are teams featuring Edain with other races mixed in here and there for situational flexibility.

Vinyamar over Dol Duldur

Dol Guldur is too uncontrolled and undisciplined to make it against Vinyamar, which features Tuor, Elves, and Ainu playing a very Westernesse style game.

Barrow-Downs over Gondor

Now this one is very tough to call, as both teams play the right way. I'll give the nod to Barrow-Downs due to past experience.

Mithrim over Bywater

This one won't be close, as the heroic men of the north playing alongside some good supporting Elves should be able to beat the hobbits in the air again and again.

Numenor over Eithel Sirion

This one has the makings of a great match, but I think the Numenoreans will be tougher down the stretch, and that their defense will be a touch more flawless. Combined with their experience from last year's title, this team will be difficult to knock out.

Utumno over Gelion

A tough one to call here, as I love the way Gelion plays, but the monsters of Utumno seem to be held in check by Melkor and made to play properly, and given that line of talent I think Gelion isn't quite up to the task, though I think they'll play them tougher than people give them credit for.

Norbury over Valimar

Some of team Valimar is too passive and polite (Manwe, Ilmare, Vana, Namo, Eonwe), while others have a habit of losing focus when they get overheated (Arien, Tulkas, Pallando, Alatar). Norbury on the other hand has the habit of playing to the level of opposing talent, minimizes mistakes, capitalizes on opponent mistakes, and just plays a fabulous team game. Look out for the upset here.

Barad-Dur over Gondolin

Sauron is willing to work with anyone to get the victory, and his minions will follow suit, so what we'll have is ten players playing a beautiful Numenorean style assisted by the air attack of a Fellbeast. Now, Gondolin has Huor and quite a collection of talent, so this one isn't in the bag, but Barad-Dur has to be the favorite here.

Tirion over Aman

Sort of a toss up here between two teams I'm not fond of. Aman plays solid team defense for the most part, but lacks the initiative or skill often to get it up to their scorers. Ar Pharazon can't both score plus get himself the ball. Tirion on the other hand can score a ton, but too many of their skill players don't have the physique necessary to last a whole tournament of tough play. I figure they have enough gas to get through this one, but they'll flame out soon after.

[Nogrod]

The AKM wishes to deal out some additional stars after the group-phase for players who have shown consistent performance that is possibly not so flashing in an individual game but put together really makes a difference.

Three stars

Ungoliant of Utumno
Picking up three shots in a game and not letting any in is nice but not heroic. After three games Ungoliant has faced 10 shots and still has kept her goal untouched. Now that is a feat. She's by far being the best goalie of the tournament and deserves the stars from the AKM.

Two stars

Túrin of Mithrim
Tilion of Utumno
Tar Minastir of Havens
These guys scored consistently in every game they played and once made two goals in a same match. The highest level of performance from these forwards and worth recognition.

Elendil, Sauron and Isildur of Barad Dûr
The plain deadliest attack of the whole tournament thus far scoring with over 20% of their shots - and they shoot.

Nerdanel, Finwë, Fëanor and Miriel of Tirion
Ten goals and ten assist for the quartet in three games. It's hard to imagine a more effective attack. This quartet just rocks!

One star

Maglor of Eithel Sirion
The second best goalie of the tournament so far. With a beautiful saving percentage of 90% he's the backbone of Eithel Sirion's success-story.

Ossë, Galdor, Salmar and Ulmo of Vinyamar
The toughest defence of the tournament so far. Has allowed only 19 shots in three games - and only 8 on target.

Annael, Gelmir, Celegorm and Curufin of Mithrim
Second best defence of the tournament thus far (21-8) but has faced more attacking teams than the Vinyamar defence.


The AKM stars after the group-phase are the following (those not playing any more are italicized):

Five stars
Tilion of Utumno

Four stars
Finwë of Tirion
Miriel of Tirion

Three stars
Arien of Valimar
Elrond of Rivendell
Tar Minastir of Havens
Túrin of Mithrim
Ungoliant of Utumno

Two stars
Celegorm of Mithrim
Cotton of Bywater
Curufin of Mithrim
Elendil of Barad Dûr
Eorl of Rohan
Fëanor of Tirion
Isildur of Barad Dûr
Nerdanel of Tirion
Sauron of Barad Dûr
The Witch King of Dol Guldur

One star
Ancalagon the Black of Thangoodrim
Annael of Mithrim
Arvedui of Norbury
Galdor of Vinyamar
Gelmir of Mithrim
Maglor of Eithel Sirion
Melian of Doriath
Ossë of Vinyamar
Romendacil of Gondor
Salmar of Vinyamar
Tom Bombadill of Bree
Ulmo of Vinyamar

[Nogrod]

The star reporter Ugr Nogrendale is back! He has settled any financial issues there could have been and continues now with a highly special report direct from Utumnno.


I must say I was a bit nervous waiting for Melkor himself in His personal lobby of the newly dug stronghold of Utumno. Getting in was already quite intimidating and my head was turning a somersault every second whether to leave or stay. In the dimly lit hall only the cracks of fire soothed me as the special orc-guards twice the height and triple the strength of me stood grimly at the shadows around the exits and the strong Utumno-gin I had been left with burned my innards. I have been in tough places but this truly was one I would remember as an old man - if there was to be such longevity for me. It was creepy.

Finally the great doors opened pulled by two giant trolls and Morgoth himself entered the hall. How was he? I can't say. He was big and commanding, he was overpowering but yet smiling. With his orders a great jug of gin was brought to me while he sat down opposite of me and called for some mead.

Suddenly there was a beat of wings and a current of air nailed me to the red-leather comfychair I was sitting in. Thuringwethil appeared from nowhere, it seemed to me, and landed on Melkor's knee turning her seducing but dreadful eyes on me. I almost wetted myself.

Melkor: So Mr. Nogrendale, you represent the AKM and had some questions for me, right?

I nodded in haste but couldn't keep my eyes away from the vampire seduceress.

Melkor: Does it bother you if my aid Thurinwethil will stand by me during the interview?

My brain yelled that she did but how could I say that aloud? A salty drop of sweat dropped from my nose to my lip and I bit it. I could see Thuringwethil becoming aware of the blood and gazing at me even more intensively... It was a nightmare. I had no other chance but to shook my head,. What would have followed if I'd said her presence killed me? So I took a deep breath.

Melkor: Let's go on with it then Mr. N.?

U.N.: Oh yes... let's... Well... erm...

Thuringwethil: Speak now Mr. Handsome, speak...

I was totally panicking. This was not good. It was terrifying but also enticing. Her soft voice lured me totally while I realised her tone of voice was ice cold.

U.N.: Congratulations for the newly built stronghold master Melkor. Did you do this all because of football?

Melkor: *laughs from the belly* Heh, I thought you were afraid little-one but it seems you have a head that still works... Well now as you ask it, I can not but say yes. It is all for the football. My efforts to reawaken the age old fortification of Utumno, building it all over again, digging deeper we ever did before, is only for the football fans of Arda to enjoy.

U.N.: Great... But well... there have been some concerns about the safety of the visitors...

Thuringwethil: Safety?! Where was the safety of those dragons calculatedly killed by Valimar organisers? Or the fairness of all those restrictions of attendance? You know these Vala try to boast they're nice and what not, but they are calculating bastards who rather see their friends going through instead of playing it fair.

Melkor hushed his pet, who to me was the goddess. I was so freaked out that I had to fill my glass and empty it immediately.

Melkor: There will be no safety problems, let me assure you. I brought order into the games at Misty Mountains and I sure am cabable of securing my own dwelling.

I had to pull myself together and luckily I had thought of a few questions beforehand.

U.N.: Some media are advertising this game as the one where Beren and Luthien will re-visit your fortress... and they predict success, especially now that you don't have Carcaroth in your team. How would you comment on that?

Melkor: *bellows with laughter* Oh, the petty youngsters! Had I lived here in Utumno instead of Angband their destiny would have been completely different. It was sad I had only a second class fortress by then. But I do welcome them both to Utumno. Let's see who gets the last word now shall we?

U.N.: Is that a threat?

Thuringwethil rose up to her wings and screamed revealing her vampire teeth. I was stuck in my chair and my heart-rate was above all the recommendations for a healthy life. I took a deep draught of the gin and filled the goblet just to stay in my senses.

Melkor: Oh no. *laughter* Let's say it's an invitation to a rematch between us, shall we?

I had to nod only as the Utumno-Gin burned my throat. There were tears in my eyes, for several reasons, but I had to concentrate.

U.N.: So what would you say about your opponents, the team Gelion?

Melkor: Like ever before, the're worthy adversaries. I will admit that much. But then again we will just outpower them and our real goal is the game against Valimar. We have quite a few things to settle with them, especially after the games at their homeside and all that happened there, and on that road Gelion is a mouthpiece we just have to do away with.

U.N.: So you don't think Gelion has a chance?

Melkor: None whatsoever! They can defend against poorly attacking sides but we shall show them the tempest!

U.N.: Tilion has been responsible of two thirds of your goals. What if Tilion has a bad day?

This time it was Melkor who clearly grew in size and stature. I had to swallow the drink I was just sipping and went lame back in my chair.

Melkor: We are a team! I know you media-guys like to rip-off things from our past but Tilion works for me and for the team now. And mind you, we have others to decide the games as well; like Gothmog the slayer of Fëanor, Fingon and Ecthelion; we haveTevildo and my dear Thuringwethil here. What chance you think those runaways and misfits have against us, especially in here, in front of our homecrowds?

I had to concentrate on sweet-talkin' but with Melkor in fury and Thuringwethil piercing my eyes with her stare it was harder I could have imagined.

U.N.: Yes, thanks Master Melkor... thanks for the interview.

I will not describe my exit from Utumno as that would be too embarrassing. But I got out of there alive and that is a feat.

[Boromir88]

The playoffs are now here, is there anything better? Round 3 was rather a tale of two stories for me. The first story, for groups A-D I was dead on about 13 of the 16 team goals! Then comes groups E-H, which was an utter mess, especially due to Thangorodrim and Havens being eliminated. What can ya do?

What TTN is bringing to their loyal followers this week...power rankings for the 16 playoff teams, as well as a preview and predictions for all the matches. We also have a new "Giants" and "slayers" feature. Lot to do, let's get to it!

Giants (G)- It was rather easy picking the giants out. To qualify you had to be a group winner, but simply being a group winner does not make you a Giant. TTN thinks there are 6 Giants (the 5 teams who picked up the full 9 points in their respective groups, plus the best ranked 7 point team). You might argue this is too many, as afterall only 4 teams make it to the semis, so how are there 6 Giants? There are legitimately 6 teams which impressed us so much, we would not be shocked if any combination of 4 got to the semis.

Slayers (s) - These were a little harder to identify. The basic qualification was you had to be a 2nd place finisher. However, just like with the giants, we would not identify all teams who finished 2nd as a potential slayer. We gathered all possible statistics to figure out which of the "little guys" had good potential to knock down a Goliath. We found 5.

Now for the power rankings, which is simply a way to look at how the 16 playoff teams stack up against eachother. But before the actual rankings, here are the details to the method.

Teams were rated on a scale of 1-5 in these 3 categories:
1. Offense: a combination of goals, total shots, shots on target, and scoring percentage.
2. Defense: total shots a defense allowed, and shots on target allowed
3. Goal keeping: Keepers save percentage.

Goal keeping was a late factor added, because when looking at all the statistics, we noticed some teams had great defenses that allowed a low amount of shots, but had an average GK, and other defenses gave up a lot of shots but had GK who were saving everything! The fact is, great (or poor) goal keepers can have a major impact on the outcome of games, so we thought it needed to be a separate category from defense.

Having made this decision, when crunching all the numbers, they favored the defensive teams. I believed this formula:

Offense + Defense + Goal keeping = overall

Skewed the results too much and created an unfair bias. So instead I went with this formula:

Offense + ((Defense + Goal keeping) / 2) = overall

Thus the Power Rankings still favor teams oriented on good defense, but not nearly as skewed as the first formula. And honestly, I am fine with this bias towards good defense, you know the saying...Great defense wins championships.

POWER RANKINGS

16. Gelion
-OFF: 1.5 / FW- Beren (8)
-DEF: 3 / *DF- Luthien (9)
-GK: 3 / Dior- 76.9%
-OVR: 4.5
Gelion's feel good story about making the playoffs will quickly come crashing to an end. They didn't get here by luck, it was good team defense and work ethic, but you can see from the stats just look quite average compared to the 15 remaining teams. Utumno should get an easy victory, but even if Gelion was playing someone else they'd still be heavy underdogs.

15. Norbury (s)
-OFF: 2.5 / FW- Araphor, *MF- Malbeth (8)
-DEF: 2 / DF- Amlaith (6)
-GK: 3 / Arvedui- 77.9%
-OVR: 5
The biggest argument I found for Norbury being a slayer is their match against Mithrim. They did lose that match 2-1, but if you have to like their consistancy. They ranged from 8 to 11 scoring opportunities in their 3 matches, and got a goal in each. This includes a goal against Mithrim who is without question a Top 3 defense (Valimar is good but not one of the other 2). They will get their 8-11 chances again. And do you really think Valimar will go on a 4-goal rampage against Norbury? I don't, not only because Valimar won't be inspired to destroy them like Thangorodrim, but Norbury is simply a better defense. This is why they're in and Thangorodrim's not.

14. Gondor (s)
-OFF: 2 / FW- Eldacar (11)
-DEF: 2.5 / DF- Folcred, Fastred (8)
-GK: 4 / Romendacil- 87.8%
-OVR: 5.25
When you have a GK performing like Romendacil and a team that every game, no matter the foe, matches their opponents numbers, there is no question you're a slayer. The biggest weakness is the defense does allow quite a few too many shots, and so if Romendacil doesn't keep up his stellar save % any game could turn into a route. However, as stated previously for as many shots as their defense allows, their offense matches in production. This means they keep games close and can easily win. They face the Barrow-Downs in Round 1, who has not been identified as a Giant, but all I mean is IF Gondor were to face one of the Giants they would have a good chance at getting the upset.

13. Numenor (s)
-OFF: 1.5 / FW- Ar Adunakhor (7)
-DEF: 4 / **DF- Tar Telperien (11)
-GK: 3.5 / *Tar Atanamir- 81.8%
-OVR: 5.25
Of all the slayers Numenor probably has the best potential. Tar Telperien's got that defense working just as effective as last year, there is a slight drop in Tar Atanamir's saves, but he's a playoff experienced championship GK, end of story. They were only able to get 3 goals in 3 games, and have a terrible scoring percentage of 7.7%. But not so hasty I say! They still put together and impressive 39 shots, and look at the other GK's in their group. Ungoliant (who has been THE best up to this point) and Elrond who just ridiculously saved everything. It's a great sign they are still getting a high amount of shots, so perhaps facing a different GK is just what the doctor ordered. Now, Maglor for Eithel Sirion saved 9/10, but can he keep that up against the mighty Numenoreans?

12. Aman
-OFF: 2 / FW- Ar Pharazon (11)
-DEF: 3.5 / *DF- Turgon (8)
-GK: 4 / Nienna- 83.3%
-OVR: 5.75
Aman's got a good defense, but to be honest it's not great and to stop Tirion you have to be great. I, unlike AKMs major lovefest with Tirion, think their offense can be stopped, but it won't be by Aman. Here's what I mean by good but not great. Vinyamar played in the same group, their defense allowed 19 shots (8 on target), how did Aman's compare? 27(12), That's a significant difference and they played the same teams. Aman also doesn't have the fire power to get into a scoring match with Tirion, slayers Aman are not.

11. Dol Guldur
-OFF: 4.5 / *FW- Witch King (18)
-DEF: 1 / DF- Thrain (0)
-GK: 1.5 / Oropher- 66.7%
-OVR: 5.75
Not slayers either and opposite of the reasons Aman are not. Dol Guldur's defense is just too bad, and I'm not understanding AKM's boy crush on these types of teams. Attercop and Tomnoddy picked up 2 yellows each, they can't stop anyone from shooting. When they actually do a half-way decent job Oropher only saves 2/3rds! If you notice too, in their matches, they usually wind up behind and the Witch-King has to come storming back. Vinyamar managed a respectable 5 goals in a very tough defensive group. If they get down a few goals again, do you really think the Witch-King can storm back against one of the Top 3 defensive teams? Answer is no.

10. Bywater (s)
-OFF: 2.5 / **MF- Gandalf, Maggot (9)
-DEF: 3 / **DF- Shadowfax (6)
-GK: 3.5 / Cotton- 80.0%
-OVR: 5.75
Bywater is one of the slayers, just too bad their playoff match is against the best team of the first 3 rounds. Mithrim's defense is virtually identical to Vinyamar's. We're not going to argue which one is actually better, but whoever you put at #1 the other is #2. Bywater only mustered 4 goals but have a high scoring percentage of 16%, backed by a solid defense and a surprisingly good GK. People might whine they are lucky to be here and it should be Thangorodrim if it wasn't for Valimar's deus ex vendetta. The facts are these though, Bywater got the draw against Thangorodrim. If Thangorodrim wants to complain about being cheated they should have taken care of business against Bywater, they did not. It's just very unfortunate Bywater's got to take on Mithrim. If they were actually against one of the other giants, I'd like their chances better.
09. Barad-Dur (s)
-OFF: 5 / **FW- Sauron (14)
-DEF: 1.5 / DF- Anarion (5)
-GK: 2.5 / The Mouth- 75.0%
-OVR: 7
I questioned whether Barad-dur should qualify as a slayer, because their numbers are near even with the Barrow-Downs. I mean you could seriously flip-flop the #8 and #9 teams, the reason Barrow-Downs were group winners is they gave up 1 fewer goal. However, Barad Dur fit the qualifications, they finished 2nd, and are not seen as a semi-finalist. You'll notice I gave a 5 to both Tirion and Barad-dur in offense. How can this be when Tirion scored 3 more goals? Barad-Dur's 20.5% scoring is how, that's the best percentage. With Sauron these bad boys can't be counted out, and with their leaky defense the match against Gondolin should be a high scoring thriller.

08. Barrow-Downs
-OFF: 4.5 / FW- Nogrod (15)
-DEF: 3.5 / DF- Skip (10)
-GK: 2 / Eomerwarg- 71.4%
-OVR: 7.25
In one of the best offensive groups Barrow-Downs defense performend leagues ahead of the other teams in their group. I mean take a look at Barad Dur's numbers giving up 40(20), compared to the Barrow Downs' 25(14). That's a staggering difference, as this defense is just chokes off all space. The big problem...Eomerwarg who out of the 16 goal keepers, ranks 15th. With how the defense in front of him is playing, he's got to start saving more. If he does The Barrow-Downs are capable of beating anyone.

07. Tirion (G)
-OFF: 5 / *MF- Nerdanel (21)
-DEF: 2 / DF- Indis (2)
-GK: 2.5 / Aule- 73.7%
-OVR: 7.25
By far the best offensive team and there are 4 or 5 different players who can score a goal at any minute. However, when you crunch all their numbers, we see the same problem from previous years, defense is just not good enough, and Aule hasn't been anything to brag about either. This Aman match will be interesting, for while I don't think Aman's defense is good enough to shut down Tirion, they certainly are better than any of the ones Tirion faced in Group H. I'll say this, if Tirion scores 4 goals, I will admit to under-valueing their offensive power, but if they get 2, I want AKM to print I'm 100% correct about how Tirion's attack can be slowed down, and even stopped if, up against a quality defense. (If they score 3, I'll consider it a push and the jury will still be out )

06. Vinyamar
-OFF: 3 / MF- Idril (10)
-DEF: 5 / **DF- Ulmo (12)
-GK: 4.5 / Rog- 87.5%
-OVR: 7.75
A respectively efficient offense, that scored 5 goals in a defensive group, add to that the best defense and you have a very dangerous and very strong team. This is something I will agree with AKM about, if you start diving into arguments over which groups tougher than others and trying to factor that into evaluating the stats, you will just drive yourself crazy. Here's the deal, Vinyamar's defense was by far the best of Group A, and thus arguably the best in the tournament. And they averaged 1.67 goals in that group, 'nuff said. Do not underestimate them.

05. Gondolin (G)
-OFF: 3.5 / MF- Glorfindel (10)
-DEF: 4.5 / *Thorondor (12)
-GK: 4.5 / Huor- 88.9%
-OVR: 8
Before anyone goes up in arms over how can Gondolin be a giant when they didn't even sweep their group and how can they be above Tirion, here's how. Every single player on Gondolin is just as good on offense as they are on defense, they play both extremely well. Defensively they were right behind Vinyamar and Mithrim, allowing 23 (9) shots. Huor is a proven playoff GK, making big saves to get Dor Lomin to the quater-final round last year. And they are similar to Tirion offensively, that is you see a great spread of production from top to bottom. At some point every FW or MF contributed with a goal or assist.

04. Valimar (G)
-OFF: 4 / MF- Arien (18)
-DEF: 4 / **DF- Manwe (11)
-GK: 4 / *Namo- 86.7%
-OVR: 8
Biggest weakness is they are goal bingers. They want to annhilate the baddies, but against goodies they aren't inspired. The game against Norbury will be tight, and because of that they could very well lose, because Norbury will not play intimidated against the Valar. It's interesting that the potential to face Utumno in the next round might provide Valimar with enough umph to want to beat Norbury in Round 1. Then they can knock out the only remaining evil-doers of Utumno and blow their semi-final match. However their laissez-faire attitude to let the good guys defeat big bad evil on their own may just provide the Norbury slayers an opportunity at the upset.

03. Utumno (G)
-OFF: 3.5 / FW- Tilion (18)
-DEF: 4.5 / **DF- Balrog 4 (12)
-GK: 5 / *Ungoliant- 100%
-OVR: 8.25
An intimidatingly strong Balrog defense, plus the best goalie thus far, Utumno looks like they will be one of the teams to beat. And don't worry too much about that small scoring % of 13.3%. They were up against 2 great goal keepers in that group, as well as some tough defenses. And despite that they managed 45 total shots, that was only behind Tirion's 56. With how many chances they create, the goals will come a plenty.

02. Eithel Sirion (G)
-OFF: 4 / *FW- Maedhros (15)
-DEF: 4.5 / DF- Aegnor (12)
-GK: 4.5 / Maglor- 90%
-OVR: 8.5
I was surprised that Eithel Sirion, statistically ended up as the 2nd best team. But here's the deal, they scored 7 goals and only allowed 1. They were a top-5 defense and Maglor was the 2nd best GK. We'll see if he can keep that up against sturdier FWs. He did great against the 'lesser' Men and Elves that he saw in Group D, the greater Numenoreans should be a stiffer test. Also, their scoring is not as spread out as other teams. You have Maedhras, Fingon, and Hador doing the brunt of the work on offense. Can't find too much to complain when you have 3 players like that who can score, but past them, there's not much.

01. Mithrim (G)
-OFF: 4 / **FW- Turin (18)
-DEF: 5 / *DF- Celegorm (15)
-GK: 4.5 / **Huan- 87.5%
-OVR: 8.75
Above and beyond the best team, and the clear favorites to win it all right now. All around they played leagues above everyone else. Of all the stats I factored into the power rankings, Mithrim was the only team who was Top 5 in ALL OF THEM...oh wait, they ranked 6th best in scoring percentage, my mistake on that one. One potential problem I see, and this is why they only rate a 4 in offense (despite being tied for 2nd most goals). They scored 4 of those goals against Pelennor, while only 2-each against the much better organized defenses of Nargothrond and Norbury. However, winning every match 2-0, 2-1 is still winning.

PREDICTIONS:

Vinyamar 2 - 1 Dol Guldur
Barrow Downs 2 - 2 Gondor (BD wins in shoot out. This is purely to brag if I get it right )
Mithrim 2 - 0 Bywater
Eithel Sirion 1 - 2 Numenor
Utumno 2 - 0 Gelion
Valimar 1 - 2 Norbury (Norbury wins in overtime)
Gondolin 4 - 2 Barad Dur
Tirion 2 - 1 Aman

[skip spence]

You Americans really are crazy about the sports stats, aren't you?

*shakes head*

[Nogrod]

Originally Posted by skip spence

You Americans really are crazy about the sports stats, aren't you?

And a Finn...

Heh, I totally understand Boro! When I was a kid I just made stats after stats. It's nice to have a reason to continue that 40+.

*shuts his mouth for unrelated comments*

[the phantom]

Vinyamar was a hive of activity leading up to the first round of the playoffs. Many of the fans who had made the trip for group play from Ithilien, Aman, and Beleriand had remained in the city, hoping to nab a ticket for the playoff match. And true to their word, all of the dwarf renovation crews were still there, and could be seen strolling the streets in the evenings draped in banners supporting the home team.

During the days they were quite busy however, as they had been hired for new building projects- mostly home rebuildings, though in a few cases the construction of brand new dwellings upon the slopes of Mount Taras. Men, Elves, and Dwarves who had visited the abandoned city had simply fallen in love with it- the beautiful stone-work of the Noldor set upon the side of picturesque Mount Taras overlooking magnificent rocky shores. With so much already prepared and excellent starting material, it was the perfect spot for a “new” city.

But despite all of the development, talk of football still reigned supreme leading up to the match against Dol Guldur. The Mirkwood fortress had only a very small following that made the trip to the far northwest, but they were loud and boisterous- a smattering of Beornings, Orcs, Elves, and spiders. The fans of Dol Guldur and the team itself seemed to have a higher level of confidence than one would expect from a group runner-up on the road facing a group winner. Part of this was certainly derived from the fine run made by Mirkwood in last year’s tournament. Four of the players on this team were on that side, and most all of the supporters in attendance were huge supporters of Mirkwood.

Another reason for the confidence was perhaps the number of publications and sports bloggers who had chosen them to advance in this match- understandable perhaps due to Dol Guldur being the “sexier” team. Khamul, Beorn, Bolg son of Azog, and Radagast the wizard have a lot of appeal, and of course The Witch King is one of the biggest stars of football. And topping it off, Dol Guldur played an aggressive game, and liked getting into exciting scoring contests.

Vinyamar was the opposite. They played a controlled game, and preferred to keep the scoring low and not leave themselves open to counters. When interviewed before the match, Dol Guldur midfielder Beorn had this to say. “Vinyamar doesn’t press their advantage ruthlessly, so I don’t think they will be able to score a ton on us. They depend on winning games 1-0 or 2-1, but they won’t be able to hold us under two. We have some great individual offensive talents, and especially Witch King always comes through for us!”

When presented with Beorn’s quote, Vinyamar defender Ulmo conceded the point to an extent, but begged to differ on the result. “It’s quite true that Witch King can’t be held off the scoreboard individually. I will be marking him personally, but I can guarantee he will get the better of me at least a time or two. What is key at those moments is that all the rest of my teammates are not beat at the same time. If you take away WK’s support, keep players from delivering the ball to him, cut off his passing lanes, and hold the ball efficiently with your own offense, he can be taken out of the game. It’s not about the individual- it’s about the team!”

And as the opening minutes of the game ticked past, Ulmo looked to be an expert prognosticator, for his words were proving to be right on the money. From the word go the midfielders and forwards of Vinyamar played a brilliant possession game. Egalmoth to Duilin, up to Tuor, back to Idril, expertly sent over to Voronwe, quickly up to Penlod, touched back to Idril... It was an absolute clinic on intelligent spacing and precision passing!

The home side ever so slowly built up the pressure, refusing to overreach, but always on the lookout for an opening. Just inside of twenty minutes they had their best chance yet and Tuor took the shot, but Oropher tipped it away. Soon after Dol Guldur made their first successful journey into Vinayamar territory, but found it impossible to get a decent try. Khamul for the first time tested Rog around minute 27, but it was a distant and rushed effort and Rog had no problems, and soon the ball was back on the other side, and the chanting of the crowd began to grow.

In minute 32 there was mass rejoicing in the stands as the Lord of the Waters himself punched in the rebound following a corner! Dol Guldur looked frankly overwhelmed, and they went to the half lucky to be down only one. And when the second half started things didn’t get any better. Witch King and company looked focused and reenergized, but all of their fire and effort was totally in vain as Vinyamar again was flawless on offense and suffocating on defense. Barely ten minutes into play Tuor managed to get the ball away from Attercop, who had unwisely chosen to hold the ball and fend Tuor off, and with the players from Dol Guldur already running the other way hoping for a quick strike Vinyamar caught the opposition with their pants down and Penlod slotted it to Idril for the 2-0 lead!

Celebration broke out all throughout the arena! In seven games played (four friendlies and three group games), no opponent had managed to score more than one goal on Vinyamar, and only three of seven teams had managed the single goal. Except for a complete breakdown, this match was in the bag!

The Witch King attempted to breathe new life into his side, pointing out that they had in both of their previous two matches stormed back from a 2-0 deficit with three goals in the final 20 minutes. Beorn, Grimbeorn, Oropher, and Radagast stood with their captain, looking defiant and determined, but the rest of the team looked unconvinced. Never before had they encountered such a perfect storm of talent, execution, and teamwork, with the crowd on top of it working their magic for the home team.

With around 20 minutes left Witch King finally broke loose, making a highlight reel solo run all the way from midfield. At the last he beat Osse and got his shot off, but Osse had forced him over just enough and delayed him so that Rog would have a prayer at the save, and the valiant Noldo came through, deflecting the thunderous effort away. It bounded away in front of the exposed net, but Ulmo was first to it, and he wasted no time in booting it far downfield, and the crowd simply exploded! They had taken Dol Guldur’s best shot and turned it away! This match was over.

There was still some time to burn through, but the wind was completely out of the sails for the visitors. Even Witch King looked resigned, and Vinyamar had no problems finishing the contest off. The refs signaled the game over and the players climbed up into the stands and joined in the merry making. They were through to the quarterfinals!

Dol Guldur 0-2 Vinyamar
tot shots 8-12
on target 3-6
GOALS:
*32, 0-1 Ulmo (Duilin)
*56, 0-2 Idril (Penlod)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Dol Guldur- Grimbeorn, Thrain
*Vinyamar- Galdor, Idril

[Nogrod]

There was no question about Arda’s footballing centre as the qualifiers started. It was Beleriand. Four of the eight matches were hosted by Beleriand teams – and one could count Utumno as the fifth – and even BarrowDowns’ initial hometown was here at Tol-In-Gaurhoth. The most enthusiasted Belerianders talked about Beleriand beating Valimar thus far 6-2 in the group winner counts (with the rest of the ME at zero). But be that reckless boasting or not, it was clear the eyes of the footballing community were fixed mainly in Beleriand for the time being.


A long-expected party

Unlike Gondolin who were experienced hosts team Mithrim was hosting games the first time. They had built a nice stadium to west-Mithrim, in between the lake and the mountains near old outposts of High-King Fingolfin. It wasn’t the grandest stadium in scale but it was elegantly crafted and took in comfortably some 40000 spectators. More would have wished to see the great heroes of Mithrim face the wizards of Bywater but happily there were other matches nearby at Eithel Sirion and Gondolin to ease the pressure at ticket offices.

In the press conference before the game the representatives of both teams were smooth and amiable towards each other. Even when the press tried to make Beleg admit that Bywater had been qualified without their own merit and that they would have an easy evening out, he only pointed out at the level of play of the wizards, the constantly upgrading performances of Rosie Cotton, the threat Shadofax and the Nazguls would pose them in their defence, the unexpectedness of the Hobbits…

The game itself turned out to be exactly as anticipated by the experts on ME football. Bywater was not such a bad team some had thought after the manner they qualified, but there was a difference in the level the two teams played from the very beginning. And so, clearly enjoying playing at the familiar surroundings, Aradan scored after only 8 minutes of the game. Fifteen minutes after the first goal Mithrim doubled their lead with Húrin putting in a nice header from a nice pass given by Beleg. It was 2-0 after less than twenty-five minutes of play and the tension kind of waned.

Come second half the Bywater team really made an effort and more or less got Mithrim by the tail as they were clearly not anticipating such an offensive stance from their opponent. And even if Mithrim managed to contain the steam from Bywater offence after the first ten minutes of the second half, the game was played on much more even ground now. And lo and behold! At 67th minute Mithrim was building an attack when Ferny tackled the ball away from Morwen. Shadowfax was the first to reach the ball and sent it flying far behind the Mithrim defences parked more or less at the middle of the field following the offence… and it was Saruman who suddenly was reaching for the ball first! No one quite realised where did he materialise behind the defenders who tried frantically to reach him, but he was on his way and dribbled Huan himself like he was a mere pet doggy.

It took more or less the whole Mithrim team and Gandalf to cool Huan down after the goal as he tried to go after Saruman who decided to vanish from sight with some magic just to be safe. No one knew what Saruman had done either to deceive the defence or to fool Huan but there sure would be something to speculate after the game.

The vivid feeling of being wrongly scored against made Mithrim more energetic and the rest of the game was basically playing for one goal, that of Bywater. With basically all of Mithrim players attacking it was finally Curufin who made the third goal with a trademark kind of a powerful shot from 25 meters thus finally ending Bywater’s resistance. Two goals behind with ten minutes left in a stadium that frantically supported the hometeam which felt wronged by the visitors was not exactly the easiest place to make a comeback to the game…

But even if Saruman’s trickery caused a lot of discussion after the game even more talk was made about Túrin and his disappearance. No, it was not like with Bombadill. He didn’t leave the field to gather flowers or anything, but he was somehow anemic, not taking part in the attack with full throttle but passing the ball from him. Beleg defended his friend in the after-match press conference saying that Túrin doesn’t have to score ten goals in every game and he has the right to let the others play every now and then. But few in the press took that explanation without a fair pinch of salt. Was there something wrong with Túrin, had he being offended with the speculation that he was too selfish?

The Mithrim fans were upbeat because of their win and place in the semifinals, but there was a small shadow there, the unpredictability of Túrin. It seems that follows him everywhere he goes.


Bywater 1-3 Mithrim
tot shots 7-18
on target 3-9
GOALS:
*8, 0-1 Aradan (Androg)
*23, 0-2 Hurin (Beleg)
*67, 1-2 Saruman (Shadowfax)
*80, 1-3 Curufin (Morwen)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Bywater- Saruman, Ferny, Nazgul #3
*Mithrim- Aradan

[skip spence]

The stands in the great stadium of Either Sirion was a sea of silver and blue as the teams made it out on the pitch and the two captains, Elros and Maedhros, exchanged gifts and shook hands. On certain sections in the stands brass bands of Noldorian musicians were set up and they played triumphant songs out of Aman, adding that special touch of magic we’ve come to expect at this Northern stronghold. The Exiles felt no homesickness tonight. They were exactly where they wanted to be.

Numenor also had a fair number of travelling fans present, many of them with golden replicas of the Arda Cup trophy that they proudly hoisted in the air to demonstrate that they in fact were reining champions, but the Kings of Men were not favourites to win tonight. Eithel Sirion had impressed so far in the tournament, winning all three matches thus far and cruising through Group D. The Northerners were certainly in for a stiffer challenge tonight, yet without star players such as former Golden Boot winner Ar-Pharazon in Numenor, a balanced Eithel Sirion side was tipped to win tonight by most pundits, and the home crowd was hungry for glory and joy.

As play got underway, it quickly became apparent that Numenor had laid up a defensive game plan and were quite happy to let their opponents keep the lion’s share of ball possession, only striking out with quick counter attacks when given the chance. Yet quickly this plan backfired. In the 11th minute Fingon won a corner kick, and Gwindors delivery was perfect, whipping in a devilish cross into the box where Maedhros the tall rose above his marker and headed the ball past Tar-Atanamir and into the back of the net. The crowd was in seventh heaven and the trumpets rang out loud and clear.

This early goal was a real boost for the home side who grew in confidence and played some very neat football. Numenor struggled to get a hold of the ball and could have fallen behind even further if it wasn’t for a couple of good stops from Tar-Atanamir, first denying Maedhros and then Fingon. Yet right before the half time break Numenor was level against the run of play. It was a pretty scrappy goal as Elros bundled home on his second attempt but they all count and Numenor could now go into the recess on level terms with their opponent despite being on the back foot for most parts of the game thus far.

The second half was very competitive and roughly followed the same pattern as the first, but Numenor was getting into the match more now, and the impressive Elros really started to make his presence felt in the centre of the field, getting some crunching tackles in and distributing the ball well to his teammates. Eithel Sirion continued to attack, and the crowd got behind their heroes, but the break-though goal proved hard indeed to find, as Numenor defended with skill and numbers.

Both teams struggled to create clear goal-scoring opportunities and as the clock ticked in Eithel Sirion pushed more and more men forward looking for that illusive winner. They pumped ball after ball into the Numenor box but there the tall and kingly central defenders dealt with most of the crosses fairly comfortably.

The match looked set to go into overtime when out of the blue, Numenor scored again and put a big dent in the home team’s plan. Fingon will feel desperately disappointed because it was his mistake that led to the goal, as his sloppy pass in the centre of the field was intercepted by Elros when the Eithel Sirion players were all set on getting forward. The Numenor captain spotted Tar-Miriel rushing forward , and picked her out with a lovely sweeping ball and the midfielder in turn spotted Ar-Adunakhor's strong run and timed her through ball to perfection, thus releasing the striker on a one on one with Maglor. Ar-Adunakhor took one touch before lashing an unstoppable shot into the far corner, his third goal of the tournament. That finish would have made the Golden Boy himself proud.

Eithel Sirion tried to rally, but Numenor was not giving them an inch now, and what time there was left, quickly ran out. Even goalkeeper Maglor came forward on a corner kick late in the game, and there was a frantic finale to the game as Numenor was desperately hanging on with teeth and nails but Eithel Sirion could not find the goal needed to stay in the match, despite a few late half-chances.

The full time whistle sounded and Numenor could celebrate a place in the last eight with their travelling supporters. The home crowd applauded the winners respectfully but they were bitterly disappointed. What had just happened? The evening had started so well. Now all that was left to them was memories.

Eithel Sirion 1-2 Numenor
tot shots 14-11
on target 6-5
GOALS:
*11, 1-0 Maedhros (Gwindor)
*43, 1-1 Elros (Tar Palantir)
*85, 1-2 Ar Adunakhor (Tar Miriel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Eithel Sirion- Fingon, Aegnor
*Numenor- Tar Miriel, Tar Meneldur, Ar Zimrathan

[the phantom]

Fresh off of their dismantling of Thangorodrim, Valimar was riding high heading into the playoffs. “I think we’ve finally got it right this year,” commented Eonwe after group play was wrapped up. “We’ve got a great mix of talent and attitudes. Some of us fire up the guys who are too passive, while they in turn calm down the hot-headed ones. Our balance is right where it needs to be.”

The home favorites were matched up against the grizzled veterans from Norbury, who had managed to advance out of a tough Group C after a close loss to the dominating Mithrim (2-1), a tie with annual competitor Nargothrond (1-1), and finally a victory over the new but dangerous team from Pelennor (2-1). In an effort to make the match more interesting, many columnists attempted to point out the tough road Norbury had navigated, but it was not holding water with most of the populace, as Valimar’s competition wasn’t exactly easy (Bywater and Thangorodrim), and they had been much more impressive in friendlies.

And in the build up to the match, the guys from Norbury didn’t seem to disagree in the least, showering the Valar and company with an obscene number of compliments. Goal-keeper Arvedui, for instance: “I’m not looking forward to facing Valimar. They have so much talent, and stay on their game so well. Naturally I’m going to compete as hard as I can in an honorable fashion, but I’m not expecting to be around for the quarterfinals.”

Some version of “We’re going to try darn hard but probably lose” seemed to be the lone sentiment the Kings and Rangers of the North wished to express. Most fans and pundits thought the whole thing rather ridiculous and shameful, but a couple sports writers had a different view.

“This is brilliant gamesmanship by Norbury,” said one columnist yesterday in the Arnor Sun. “Valimar is a team that plays better when inspired. Just look at how they played against Thangorodrim. You don’t want to do anything to stir them up. Norbury is doing a great job of making sure they won’t be playing a ramped up opponent.”

No one knew for certain what the facts were behind Norbury’s behavior, but the time for pre-game strategy was over. It was time to play the game.

The stadium in Valimar offered plenty of support as the home team trotted out, but it was noticeably calmer than it was for the match against their hated foes from Thangorodrim. When Norbury entered there was not the roar of boos, but rather polite applause. If Norbury’s aim had indeed been to appease team Valimar and their supporters, their efforts seemed to have worked.

As the match began the home side looked a step slow where as Norbury took off like a rocket, giving it all they had. Before Valimar could recover Araphor and Aranarth busted the offsides trap and put the ball in for the 1-0 lead, and the crowd was silenced in only the sixth minute! But at the least the team on the field was shaken, and Valimar got serious after that. Manwe and the defense stopped everything before it started, and the midfield worked it up to Arien and Eonwe and let them go to work.

But Norbury was battle-tested and saavy, and Arvedui was a rock between the posts, and so despite their best efforts Valimar could not grab the equalizer. By the time the half arrived, the crowd was feeling better about their chances and they were starting to get back into it. Norbury was playing well, but they couldn’t keep Valimar off the board forever.

Only twelve minutes into the new half, it was the hero of the Thangorodrim game, Arien, who put the home team on the board. For the first time the stadium bells were struck and the crowd started to make some serious noise, though the length of the celebratory cheering was cut short by the antics of Norbury. Following the goal, all the lads from Norbury trotted over and patted Arien on the back, or shook her hand, congratulating her on the effort. The keeper, Arvedui, actually waved to get her attention and made a show of clapping, to all eyes quite sincerely impressed by her goal.

Some fans expressed shock while others laughed, but it certainly threw them off rhythm of their cheers and the stadium grew a bit quieter. It seemed to impact the Valimar players as well, as they seemed just a touch less aggressive when play started again. Norbury continued to defend doggedly, but any time there was extra contact they apologized. The combination of fine team defense and attitude totally sucked the air out of the Valimar attack, and the game settled into the midfield, and the minutes ticked away with neither side gaining a decent chance for the winner.

With less than ten minutes to go, Arien and the Blue Wizards tried to pep things up and put the match away, but the rest of the team didn’t have it in them or simply wouldn’t follow their lead, and quite soon time was out and it was overtime!

As extra time began the crowd seemed to finally wake up to reality- this was the PLAYOFFS and it was win or go home! Their team just had to win, at all costs! As the crowd support kicked in the team on the field looked to have new life and came forward with new resolve, building up the attack. Less than ten minutes in Tulkas was barely denied off a header rebound, and the crowd groaned. Five minutes later Eonwe went up high on a corner and put it into the corner of the posts, only to have Arvedui tip it up and over. The Norbury keeper was really on his game much to the dismay of the crowd.

In the 18th minute it looked like Valimar was set to break through at last, when off a counter there was only Valandur left to face a charging Eonwe and Arien, but Valandur faked his commitment brilliantly and managed to toe away Arien’s pass to Eonwe. Quickly to the loose ball was Malvegil, who whirled and sent it deep down the right side with no hesitation, catching everyone going the wrong direction- except Malbeth. The famed Seer was already breaking (perhaps aided by his gift of sight?), and he controlled it and broke in from the corner towards the goal. He dribbled right past Manwe and Pallando, and put on the brakes to let Vana rush past, then sent it perfectly over to Araphor who was just an inch ahead of Alatar. The inch was all he need, as he deflected it perfectly back across to the far post, catching the keeper Namo diving the opposite way to cover the near post.

Team Norbury’s small section of fans went completely nuts, but the team on the field restrained any celebration and merely took their spots. Team Valimar tried desperately for the equalizer in the final minutes, but they just didn’t have their edge, while Norbury’s defense was better than ever, buoyed up by the success they were having against the vaunted Ainu. At last when the final second disappeared from the clock, Norbury let loose and celebrated like they had won the Cup. They knew going in that the only way they could win was to suck the competitive juices out of their opponents, quiet the crowd, and play a near flawless game, and they had done all three! Improbable as it was, they were through to the quarterfinals!

Norbury 2-1 Valimar (OVERTIME)
tot shots 7-13
on target 3-6
GOALS:
*6, 1-0 Araphor (Aranarth)
*57, 1-1 Arien (Varda)
*18, 2-1 Araphor (Malbeth)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Norbury- Argeleb
*Valimar- Arien, Vana, Pallando, Yavanna

[Nogrod]

So it was true. Behind all the general buzz around the Arda Cup and all the renovation going on Utumno had been rebuilt! Or re-dug. And like before, Melkor had managed to do it without the other Valar having the faintest idea what he was up to.

The Barren wasteland was reforested but it was growing more of moss and swamp than any of Yavanna’s beautiful creation.

Despite the intimidating journey to Utumno, the scary entry into the fortress and the bone-chilling architecture more than twenty-thousand diehard football fans and Gelion supporters braved the journey through the gates of Utumno and into the stadium a mile under the mountains. There were more than sixty-thousand orcs and other creatures of darkness there filling the rest of the seats cheering for the home team with drums, horns, fireworks, chants in dark language, screams, roars, fire and smoke…

Gelion showed respectful courage in the game and during the first half-hour they managed to freeze the game completely. Despite the efforts of Tilion and Gothmog Gelion defences held. Some Gelion supporters even started to hope that the growing frustration of the home team might after all lead them to pick cards and thus there opening chances for team Gelion to score. And like an answer to their prayers Melkor took a card from roughing. Beren had stolen the ball from him just as he was about to shoot, and when he caught the man there was Luthien running away with the ball. Melkor snapped taking Beren from his legs more or less intending to rip him in pieces. But the referee saw it all and happily for Beren blew his whistle in time.

But as soon as the hope had been kindled it was mercilessly killed. Tilion sent an angry shot towards the goal and hit the post only to be picked by Gothmog who just threw the defenders away from him and rammed the ball into the net with such might that Dior had no wish to stand in between the ball and the goal.

The second half was more or less the same. Gelion played bravely but it was clear which team controlled the ball and the game. Gelion had a few nice build-ups on the second half but in the end they only managed one shot towards Utumno’s goal and Ungoliant had no problems whatsoever to keep her goal untouched. On the other end of the pitch Melkor made it 2-0 on sixty minutes with a nice header from around the penalty-spot. Scoring despite Luthien trying to stop him seemed to make Melkor quite happy indeed.

So the game ended quite the way it had been anticipated. Gelion stood bravely but fell in the end to a superior team. No has yet scored a goal against Utumno.

Gelion 0-2 Utumno
tot shots 4-12
on target 1-6
GOALS:
*34, 0-1 Gothmog (Tilion)
*61, 0-2 Melkor (Gothmog)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gelion- Bereg, Azaghal, Haldad
*Utumno- Balrog #2, Melkor

[skip spence]

The fair city of Tirion upon Tuna was the venue for this highly anticipated derby of the Undying Realm, a real prestige-match between the Ainur and the Noldor. This was also a clash of contrasting styles. Whereas hosts Tirion had a tradition of playing very offensive and attractive football, sometimes to the point of recklessness, their opponents Aman usually relied on a slow-paced and cautious game of possession football and on a miserly defence.

Too often in the past this strategy had made the Valar-led team vulnerable however, as they've struggled to change game-plan and really threaten in attack if their opponents had managed to score first. After a fair amount of criticism team captain Orome had addressed this issue by making the concessions necessary to sign Ar-Pharazon, one of the most feared strikers in the game. This came as a surprise to many fans and pundits as the Numenorian hit-man had been one of the most outspoken critics of how the game was played by the Valar, but his arrival had certainly added a well needed edge to Aman’s game in the Round Robin. At the pre-match press-conference many questions were thus directed at the striker and he was asked why he had signed for Aman and what his expectations were of the tournament. He answered:

”Simple question. I’m here to win the Arda Cup. No player has won back-to-back championships. If we win this year I will become immortal.” At this point Aman captain Orome looked rather uneasy. “You mean legendary, right?”, he said. “Quite so, quite so”, replied Ar-Pharazon with a rather annoyed look on his face.

Tirion however were tipped to win here at their home field where conditions favoured their highly technical and attacking approach to game. Every single strand of green grass on the pitch was in mint condition to avoid the risk that the ball might take an irregular bounce and ruin it for the home-team, and the stadium was filled to the brim with enthusiastic supporters. Prior to the match some pundits had pointed out that the Aman defence was not quite as solid as it used to be this year after the departure of Manwe, but then again, their offence had also improved. With Tirion being the top scorers of the tournament this affair therefore promised lots of goals, and the crowd was not disappointed in this respect.

As the match got underway Tirion immediately went on the attack, and Feanor had a good early effort palmed away by Nienna. But the defensive shortcomings of the home team once again became apparent as Turgon was allowed to challenge the ball almost unopposed on a corner-kick, and his header towards the far post was flicked in by Nahar from two yards out. The home fans shook their heads in disbelief. In three of the four matches so far they had fallen behind early on to rather preventable goals. For how long would they remain unpunished by this negligence?

Any such question-marks were quickly forgotten as the home team soon overwhelmed the Aman defence, attacking with all ten outfielders on the pitch with great movement and pin-point passing accuracy. And only minutes after falling behind Tirion was level again. A breathtaking move where Tirion made more than 40 uninterrupted passes was capped off by a well taken finish from Finwe, the Tirion captain, assisted by his extraordinary son Feanor.

Tirion kept on attacking furiously, but then Orodreth made a mistake turning the ball over to Finarfin and Aman was suddenly on a break four against two. The Elf advanced with the ball straight down the centre towards in the gap between the two remaining defenders, and when Amras finally felt he had to step in to interfere with the run, Finarfin simply played the ball out wide where Ar-Pharazon came storming forward. The striker took a great first touch and with a delightful chip he beat the onrushing Aule in goal. Aman was into the lead once again and the numerous Ainur fans present celebrated wildly.

But Tirion just kept at it, losing none of its composure. Few has seen a side this confident going forward, and with the breathtaking skill of Feanor, Miriel, Finwe, Nerdanel among others Aman were soon defending desperately again, falling back almost into the lap of Nienna. And this proved costly as Feanor was allowed space to get a shot in from distance, and he hit it with such venom that not even the cat-like reflexes and agility of Nienna was enough to stop the ball from hitting the back of the net. But Aman was not out of it and Ar-Pharazon had a great chance to score again just before the break, but the Numenorian saw his shot drift just wide of the left hand post.

In the second half Tirion played somewhat more conservatively, with Finwe operating a little bit deeper in midfield and with one wing-back staying back if the other one rushed forward. Perhaps Finwe had told his team that they could simply not afford to concede any more goals if they wanted to win this match? But with players like Feanor on the pitch they remained a potent offensive threat, and not far into the second half, the Fiery Boot scored again. Orodreth got to the by-line and hit a low cross into the box which Nerdanel stepped over, and Feanor following up behind hit the ball crisp and clean straight into the roof of the net from 20 yards. The crowd was ecstatic to finally see their heroes taking the lead.

Aman still had chances to come back but when Miriel scored Tirions forth with less than 20 minutes less to play the match was over. It was an easy finish in the end for the nimble striker, as Nienna had spilled Finwe’s shot right at her feet in front of goal, but that effort will boost the confidence of Miriel, who has been accused of failing to perform in the big matches when it really matters, despite scoring for fun in the group-stage matches.

And so it was. Another 4-2 win for Tirion meant that the Noldor side was qualified for the quarter finals. That night the silver lantern of Ingwe’s lofty tower Mindon Eldaliéva seemed to burn with an added vigour, shining like a bright star far out to sea.

Aman 2-4 Tirion
tot shots 13-18
on target 6-9
GOALS:
*10, 1-0 Nahar (Turgon)
*16, 1-1 Finwe (Feanor)
*24, 2-1 Ar Pharazon (Finarfin)
*38, 2-2 Feanor (Ingwe)
*54, 2-3 Feanor (Orodreth)
*72, 2-4 Miriel (Finwe)
YELLOW CARDS:
Aman- Este, Turgon
Tirion- Indis, Amrod, Feanor

[the phantom]

Doubtless there was no other playoff location that featured such confidence from both sides entering the first round match. Barad-Dur had great talent and was led by a champ from the year before, Sauron, while Gondolin had looked nearly flawless at times this tournament (against Dale, Dol Guldur, and Wold especially).

Barad-Dur supporters were quick to point out that at other times Gondolin hadn't looked so good, but Gondolin fans countered that it hadn't been necessary to go full bore every game and that would leave them better rested for a playoff run. Gondolin also had the advantage of their beautiful home field, but a much larger than expected party from Mordor was there, and a surprising number of them had tickets- certainly more than the original percentage allotment given to the away side. Many of the locals were very upset by this, but there was no foul play involved- simply the very deep pockets of Sauron's kingdom offering too many gold pieces for many ticket holders to resist.

And so it was that the stadium was split only about 60-40 when the highly anticipated match kicked off, and the group of men from Gondor and orcs and trolls from Mordor were making as much noise as the elves. But only for a very short while.

Gondolin came right out of the gate charging hard and looking dangerous, and the players from Barad-Dur and their fans were taken aback. The speed, the precision, the flare- it was simply too much. At eleven minutes Gondolin went up on the scoreboard thanks to Maeglin and Fingoflin and they pressed for more. Just before the half hour mark Aredhel was assisted by her husband, now working together again, and doing so beautifully. Just to make the point, they reversed their order and scored another goal before the half, and it turned into a party in the stands! This was what the elves had come to see!

After the half Barad-Dur made their best push yet, but time and again it was only Sauron who was able to make any progress against the defenders and Huor. In minute 58 he managed with a brilliant long run to save Barad-Dur from the embarrassment of getting shut out, but the three goal margin was quickly reclaimed by the Gondolin midfield tandem of Ecthelion and Glorfindel and Gondolin joyfully and skillfully kicked it around the rest of the game, with Barad-Dur unable to do a thing about it. They were simply outclassed here, and Sauron was sent home to dream up new schemes of claiming another Arda Cup, while Gondolin would advance to face Tirion in what was certain to be one of the most anticipated quarterfinal matches ever in Arda Cup.

Barad-Dur 1-4 Gondolin
tot shots 8-19
on target 4-10
GOALS:
*11, 0-1 Maeglin (Fingolfin)
*29, 0-2 Eol (Aredhel)
*43, 0-3 Aredhel (Eol)
*58, 1-3 Sauron (Isildur)
*65, 1-4 Ecthelion (Glorfindel)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barad-Dur- Nazgul #7, Isildur
*Gondolin- Eol, Maeglin

[the phantom]

It was no surprise to Barrow-Downs supporters when their team earned the right to host a first round match. They were a contender every year, after all- one of the elite. But not a dynasty. For that, they had to win some titles first.

Nearly every Downs dwellers could be seen wearing green and gold upon black in the days leading up to the match. The words on their shirts read everything from "Go Downs!" to "This is our year!" to "Hail King Nog!" Gondor was well respresented, but they kept to themselves, wary of the extremely odd population of the Downs. It was a well known fact that many of the Downers changed into werewolves on a regular basis, and the Gondorians weren't anxious to rub elbows with such dangerous folk.

The stadium filled early the day of the match, and an exhibition match was played between many of the Downers who were not on the actual squad. The people of Gondor were astounded by what they saw, as the players on the pitch looked good indeed- good enough to compete in the Arda Cup surely. And these were the back-ups? As the match finished up the sky clouded over and it began to drizzle. The Downers laughed and spread out their arms, clearly enjoying themselves, while the men and women of the south huddled beneath their robes and eyed the Downers, thinking them weirder than ever.

Soon the stadium was filled to the brim and the two playoff squads made their way onto the field, while at the same time the rain really began to pour, and rolling thunder began to be heard in the distance. The home supporters screamed, shouted, blew horns, shook bells, clanged weapons, and beat drums. The noise was just deafening. Team Gondor did their best to take no notice of it, but it was clear that they were a bit taken aback, and were concerned by some of the more insane looking Downers waving huge Barrow-blades around in the air. Captain Nogrod approached the Gondor side and kindly informed them that the Downs crowd, while noisy, was never the sort to do physical violence to the opposition, but right after he left Phantom swept past and added, "Unless you tackle me or Sally too roughly, of course. Then you're all kinds of dead. The crowd really loves us, you see. Especially that group over there with the long bows."

It was almost certainly an idle threat, but as the match began Gondor did look extremely uncomfortable defending against the pair of midfielders, clearly afraid of getting too close. And they paid for the space they allowed 25 minutes in when Sally was allowed to run free down the right side and sent one at the goal. The effort was deflected away by a defender, but Nogrod mopped up the loose ball and the home team was up by one! The rest of the half Gondor did their best to push back, and gained a couple of solid efforts, but the great warg in goal was on guard and in position each time.

During the halftime break the winds picked up and the lightning and thunder increased to a near constant flash and boom. A handful of Gondor fans left their seats for shelter, but the Downs fans stuck around and were not dismayed. As the second half kicked off things got worse, as decent sized pieces of ice began falling from the sky. The players from Gondor looked pleadingly at the refs, but the match went on and soon Gondor was in a two goal hole as Phantom was allowed a lane to approach and sent it off to Wilwa for an easy header.

The crowd grew louder and louder and the hail got larger, and lightning actually struck the Downs goal! The keeper, Eomerwarg, laughed heartily and leaped to the top of the net, waving his hands in a welcoming fashion towards the sky. He wanted another strike! The crowd began chanting, ""Tor-na-do! Tor-na-do!" and as if they were one single force they began running in giant circles around the arena, leaping from chair to chair in their respective rows. The Gondor fans cowered in their seats as the Downs fans whirled over them, stepping on the backs of their seats, armrests, and occasionally their heads. Upon reaching their original seats, the Downers stopped and began chanting again, clearly building up to another rush around the stadium. Gondor supporters turned tail and left- every last one. The conditions were insane, and the players and supporters of the Barrow-Downs were even more insane! They had not signed up for this.

The players from Gondor still tried to fight it out, but after Nogrod scored his second goal (again assisted by a free-roaming Phantom), the fight was out of them. Mercifully the refs called the game early, though it's possible they did not know what the actual time was, as the stadium's clock and scoreboard had been struck by another bolt of lightning and was no longer functioning, and the personal watches of the refs had been battered by hail and invaded by rain. It goes without saying that there was a party of epic proportions that night upon The Barrow-Downs. The people of the realm were crazy to be certain, but the happy sort of crazy.

Barrow-Downs 3-0 Gondor
tot shots 15-8
on target 8-3
GOALS:
*25, 1-0 Nogrod (Sally)
*49, 2-0 Wilwa (Phantom)
*64, 3-0 Nogrod (Phantom)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barrow-Downs- Wilwa, Steve
*Gondor- Eldacar, Fastred

[the phantom]

THE GAME WITHIN THE GAME
The Phantom, "The Downer" Sports News

We all know what is going on in the Arda Cup, so I won't waste any time writing about that. It's only the biggest sporting event in Middle Earth! It's receiving plenty of coverage. What I want to talk about is a game withing the game that has been going on here on the Downs. I'm talking about the Arda Cup Phantasy Competition.

If you haven't checked the standings lately, guess who's back on top? None other than the winner from two years ago- Gwathagor. He vowed that he would be back with a vengeance this season, armed with new info and new stats and more dedicated than ever. But while he has been impressive, he has by no means run away from the field.

Only two points behind him is the early round leader and perennial competitor Nogrod. He had a bit of a down round in the playoffs (by his standards), but if that's the only bump in the road he experiences he'll be tough to beat.

Another player behind by mere single digits is none other than the Prince of Predictions- Boromir88. He gained more points than anyone in the first playoff round, thanks in part to his perfect predictions, and opponents fear him getting on a roll. If you'll recall, last year he was just ridiculous at this stage, predicting the exact scores of 7 of the 8 quarterfinal teams correctly! If he catches fire again- look out.

Lurking a dozen points off the leader is Skip Spence, and many think that he is still the favorite at this stage. He's the defending champ, and he loves to wait in the wings and storm to the lead in the final rounds, so he is exactly where he wants to be right now.

Just two points under is the extremely sneaky Nerwen- you don't want to overlook her! With the two former champs plus the co-mods in the front four, it'll be easy for them to focus on each other a bit too much and forget the very real threat of the lady down under.

Now those are the Downers who currently look to be in the best shape right now, but the next ones down- Shasta, McCaber, Sally, and others are technically within striking distance if the leaders mirror each other too much and run into bad luck, while those behind hit their predictions and pick up a few pre-tourney prediction points to put them over the top. Teams Magnum and Ben Jonson however need a downright miracle, as their owners have chosen the odd strategy of leaving disqualified players on the roster rather than replacing them. Perhaps it's a clever ploy of some sort?

But anyway, it looks to be an exciting race to the finish in the game within the game, and it is difficult to say who holds the advantage at this stage. We'll just have to watch and see.

[Nogrod]

We here at the AKM have been looking through different stats and considering the fitness of the key players now as the stakes get higher. Especially we have been looking at the difference between the overall stats versus those of playing against sturdier opponents (the difference between the overall stats vs. the stats from the first play-off round & against the other team going through from the group phase).


Vinyamar – Barrow Downs

The AKM truly acknowledges the criticism made by the Two Towers Network for not taking Vinyamar’s defence seriously enough thus far. It is a solid one and a touch tougher than the BarrowDowns defence. Even if their stats do fall considerably when counting only the tougher matches they are the top of the tournament in defence save for Utumno.

But if Vinyamar looks better in defence then they have little to boast on offence. With Wilwa (3+2) aiding the veterans the phantom (1+4) and Nogrod (5+1) the BD looks clearly the more dangerous side. Their efficiency in scoring is one of the best in the tournament – but they should create more chances to score; only Norbury, Vinyamar and Numenor create less chances! To their relief Vinyamar creates even less scoring opportunities though.

An interesting question also is will Ulmo step up his game when it matters, like he did in the game against Dol Guldur – or can he outscore Nogrod who seems to be in flames scoring twice against Gondor in the first play-off round? And how many reserves the teams have to step in in time of need? On Vinyamar side Idril can surely perform, but especially Tuor and Penlod have been disappointments thus far. How will Fea perform? Or Nerwen? Will Sally find her gusto? Wilwa? the phantom?

Summa summarum: It is a tough game to call. The stats give the BD a slight edge but there are great chances the game ends 1-1 and then it will be a question of individual merit (or failure) to decide the game. Also on that the AKM turns towards the BD as slight favourites – unless the game is decided by a failure in goalkeeping, for there Rôg surely has shown much better quality than Eomerwarg.


Mithrim – Numenor

It is clear Mithrim is the favourite of this game as they tend to score twice the goals Numenor does while letting in the same amount. But there are a few ”buts” one should consider before making any bigger bets on the game.

First of all there is a surprising weakness in the Mithrim team and that is indeed Huan! He has more or less respectable overall saving percentage of 81,8%, but when looking at the tougher matches only the number comes quickly down to 71,4%!

Secondly there is the question of Turín. He has made 4+1 thus far but can be moody as was seen in the last game. So a lot depends on the humour of Turín no one can predict for certain in advance.

But then there is the fact that the Mithrim defence led by Curufin and Celegorm is just a superb one – and add to that the fact that Numenor is the worst offencive team still in the competition and you could start seeing why the scales will turn into Mithrim’s favour. And whatever the problems Mithrim might have with Turín, they have still Beleg and Hurín who can turn games themselves without the unfortunate son.

Summa summarum: Even if Numenor has stepped up their performance as the games have grown older it looks it would take a miracle for them to beat Mithrim. Numenor has a tough defence but it is far from the quality of last year whereas Mithrim boasts a wide range of scoring talent. So in the end it’s more or less maths… Numenor wil not create the chances to test the possibly unsecure Huan but Mithrim wil have chances enough to score once or twice. Mithrim wins 2-0 or 2-1.



Utumno -Norbury

It is clear that Norbury is the number one surprise this year: throwing Valimar out from the games is just a rare treat. It was talked before the tournament that Norbury might get better with their opponents being the sturdy northeners they are, but few would have guessed they would end up in the quarterfinals. So next target Utumno?

Without downplaying the great descendants of even greater men it is hard to see them beating Utumno. They will force Utumno to play it for real and Melkor will not have it easy this time. Gothmog’s waking-up in the last game promises good for the Utumno team – and if Tilion can come back with the drive he had in the first games… well then it is goodbye to Norbury how brave they ever are.

Really. No one thought they would beat Valimar but it was a possibility. But by all means Utumno looks ten times sharper this year than Valimar. Ungoliant has a clean sheet thus far and it remains to be seen whether Araphor can break that spell, but it looks clear he cannot score two goals which Utumno will probably make.

Summa summarum: Norbury gave spice to these games and they really made a difference but Utumno is just too big and ugly for them.


Gondolin – Tirion

Had it been any other team facing them on the quarterfinals the AKM would have wished team Tirion the best luck to the final. But of all teams Gondolin will be the nightmare to Tirion and the game will be a real treat. There’s no saying who will win this one.

Tirion’s weaknesses can be summed up in three words: defence, defence, defence. Thus far they have outscored all their opponents, but now they face a team that can both defend and score. Tirion’s strength can be summed up in four words: Feänor (4+3), Finwë (4+3), Miriel (4+2) and Nerdanel (2+4).

Meanwhile back in the jungle Gondolin beat Barad Dûr 4-1 in the first play-off match coming back to their astonishing performances they made during the friendlies. So they too can score four goals in a game but unlike Tirion they always defend effectively: the difference in goals allowed between the two teams is astonishing indeed. But to be frank, it is also true that looking at Gondolin’s games against tougher teams Huor’s performance isn’t that spectacular anymore (even if it’s still better than Aulë’s).

Summa summarum: The AKM thinks both the teams should be in the semifinals but now it clearly is impossible: a great team will be relinguished after this game. The game will end either 1-1 or 2-2 and it will go on overtime. On overtime either team can win, but if it goes to the penalties the AKM predicts that Tirion’s phenomenal shooting capability will outdo any defect in Aulë’s goalkeeping. But it will be anybody’s call.

[the phantom]

There are a lot of competitive juices flowing regarding the Downs Phantasy Challenge. Here are just a few quotes from some of the participants taken from their weekly media meeting.

Boromir88- Highest point output last round, baby! I'm on a roll. Come next round, that point lead is MINE!

Magnum- Well, darn it! Why didn't anyone tell me my players were out of the tournament!

Shasta- I'm going to come back and win this thing. I have forseen it.

Eonwe- I'm totally going to win the award for coolest team name. And I'm going to beat Morm, if it's the last thing I do.

Morm- I'm going to stomp Steve into the ground. Heck- I'll use my modding skills and edit his posts to give him a really garbage squad.

Fea/Nienna- Great performance last round from us. We're totally going to pass Eomer, Morm, and Steve. And this is our first time! We're just naturals at this.

McCaber- The Next-to-Last Alliance is determined not to live up to their name and finish next to last.

Wilwa- Muffins smash cupcakes any day of the week! Muffins don't need frosting to be awesome. Muffins have substance!

Sally- Muffins are for every day. Cupcakes are super special, for special stuff, and they get decorated cool. Muffins can go jump in the blender for all I care.

Eomer- Is there seriously only one Warg in this tournament? Ridiculous. They're clearly the best footballers in Middle-Earth.

Gwath- Guess who's back on top, people! Um, no, not Nog. Nope, not Boro eith- NO not Skip. I was trying to imply that- NOOO, it's NOT Saucepan Man. IT'S ME!!! ME!!!

Skip- I'm right where I want to be- comfortably within striking distance, and strike I will! Remember, the Phantasy trophy is sitting in my living room. I'm still the champ.

Lari- I know you people think I'm crazy for leaving "dead" players on my team, but when all the current playoff squads get disqualified for using banned substances, their points will be voided out and the teams will be replaced with teams featuring MY players. Ha! Crazy like a fox.

Nogrod- I've been leading the whole way, and it took a terrible round for me to drop into second. No worries. I'll be back on top in no time.

Nerwen- Let those boys think they've got this thing. It'll only make it hurt worse when I slip past them at the end. Mwu ha ha ha ha!!!

[the phantom]

Monster Magazine
Ruharg the Red, dragon of the Withered Heath

Well, I managed to go 6 out of 8 in the first round folks. Not terrible, but I hope to do better this time around. But really- who could have fortold that Norbury victory over Valimar? And as far as Vinyamar over Dol Guldur, well- I'll admit when I'm wrong. I undersold the tenacity of Mount Taras. Ulmo definitely has it going more than some of his passive cousins in Valinor, and Osse and Rog definitely have the fire and swagger. But-

Barrow-Downs 2-1 Vinyamar (overtime)

Though I admit I undersold the defense, I don't think Vinyamar has what it takes up front to score on the Warg keeper from the Downs and the experienced defense in front of him. Though they aren't Werewolves this year, I think they still have some of the same attitude and aggression, and I trust they'll get the job done. And even the Vinyamar defense won't be able to stop the scorers from the Downs forever.

Mithrim 3-0 Numenor

Numenor is the defending champ, has great team work, blah blah blah- they don't have that extra something! But Mithrim does. Turin has the will and rage that it takes to dominate in the playoffs, and so does daddy Hurin. Celegorm and Curufin are underhanded schemers and know how to make things move, one way or another. And the reaction and speed of Huan in goal is just unmatched.

Utumno 3-0 Norbury

Don't make me laugh. Melkor has one of the baddest collection of monsters ever, and he's got them under just enough control where they don't make silly mistakes. This team is going all the way.

Gondolin 3-2 Tirion

This is the match that everyone is looking forward too, and I can see the appeal (two teams very capable of scoring), but I think this match is ultimately pointless. The winner isn't going to get past Utumno. But for what it's worth, I think Gondolin comes out on top here due to them being overall the hardier, more fiery, and more competitive squad. Maeglin isn't afraid to betray a kingdom for his wants, and Eol will go to extreme lengths to take what is his. Ecthelion has guts certainly- the guy stabbed a balrog with his head! And Glorfindel dueled one on a peak. Fingolfin demanded a one-on-one with the most powerful being in Arda. Feanor can't overcome all of that surely.

Westernesse Weekly
Ar-Tar-Aradil of Numenor

Seven out of eight matches right last round! Looks like my theory about playing "mannish" football was correct. Let's see if I can keep it going.

Vinyamar 1-0 Barrow-Downs

It's a shame these two have to meet here, as I think both have the potential to go all the way. Vinyamar has played things properly ever since the friendlies, and the Downers have been winning me over as of late, proving that their reckless Werewolf days are behind them, and that they are dedicated to playing a mistake-free team based game. This game will be a beauty to watch (for those who truly appreciate the game), and in the end I think Vinyamar will be able to protect their goal by holding the ball for large portions of the game, and that their defense will be up for the challenge when they are tested.

Numenor 2-1 Mithrim

Now this one is really tough to call. I think Mithrim has the edge when it comes to talent, but Numenor has the champ attitude and the experience edge. Tar Telperien and friends should be able to slow down Turin and friends enough for Tar Atanamir to hold their score down, and I believe that Ar Adunakhor, Elros, and company at the other end can get one past Huan with their execution and saavy. The question is, who gets the deciding goal? I give the edge to Numenor, but it could go either way.

Norbury 2-1 Utumno

They shocked the world once. Why not twice? Remember two years ago Araphor, Arvedui, and others were playing for Annuminas and were placed in a group with Valimar and Angband, and they unexpectedly tied them both. This is a chance to repeat history, only replacing the ties with wins. These guys play well together and aren't intimidated by anyone, and won't give Utumno anything easy. I believe Norbury will frustrate Melkor's squad and cause them to make mistakes- pressing too hard, getting carded, etc.

Gondolin 3-2 Tirion

Both of these teams have talent coming out of the ears, and so in the end I think the team that wins is the squad that plays entirely together and stays in control of things. Feanor is notoriously streaky, and Miriel tends to fade away when things get tough, and the defense tends to focus on offense too much unless they have the lead. Now- if Tirion goes up by two early, then the game is over, but it's the same for Gondolin, and I like their chances better in a tie game going down to the wire, as Tirion's pushing tends to get them in trouble.

[the phantom]

The great arena by the docks of Eglarest was filled to the brim and even a bit beyond for the highly anticipated match between Mithrim and Numenor. The team from Numenor was largely the same team that had won the title the year before, while Mithrim was perhaps the most statistically dominant squad in this year’s tournament thus far.

Men and Elves had flocked down from the north to support the house of Hurin and the sons of Feanor, while an equal sized armada from Numenor streamed in from the west. Locals wished to see the contest, but there were very few willing to hold onto their tickets in the face of the prices they were being offered. In the end there were equal numbers of fans from both sides (around 35,000 each), and about 5,000 Elves from the Havens mixed in (and that isn’t counting the individuals who snuck in to stand in the aisles, or somehow managed to climb to the top of the walls surrounding the stadium).

Everyone was looking forward to seeing a hard fought game, but in the early minutes it looked as if they’d be disappointed. Mithrim came out extremely flat and Numenor owned the ball for the first 20-plus minutes, earning a couple of great opportunities that were barely turned aside by the great hound of Valinor, Huan. The valiant hound barked at his defense to get it together, and as time neared half an hour Mithrim finally got things on course and started shutting down the Numenor attack, and soon had the ball on the attack.

In minute 32 the deadlock was finally broken thanks to a brilliant run by Turin and Beleg. The best buds worked together as one entity, taking it right down the middle on the counter and putting it in for the lead. Numenor tried to swing things back their direction by upping the effort, but the sons of Feanor were by this point fully on top of things and Numenor simply did not have the speed or energy to attack them, and the half ended 1-0.

In the second half it was clear from the start that Mithrim was only getting better, while Numenor did not have that higher gear to kick it into. After building several nice attacks, fifteen minutes in Mithrim struck again, this time on a long-range thundering strike from Hurin, who, as usual, shouted “Day shall come again!” as he drove it home.

For the final half hour Mithrim went into a more conservative mode, holding the ball brilliantly and stopping every attack cold. Numenor simply did not have a player with the game-breaking ability necessary to kick the door down and storm the castle. As the final minutes ran off the clock the Numenor fans filed out, knowing the defeat was inevitable. The loss of Tar Minastir, Ar Pharazon, and Sauron was just too much to make up, or at least it was when playing a highly skilled and on fire team like Mithrim.

Mithrim was through to the semis!

Mithrim 2-0 Numenor
tot shots 12-8
on target 6-4
GOALS:
*32, 1-0 Beleg (Turin)
*60, 2-0 Hurin (Morwen)
YELLOW CARDS:
Mithrim- Hurin, Celegorm, Gelmir
Numenor- Tar Meneldur, Ar Zimrathan, Ar Adunakhor

[Nogrod]

There were some eyebrows raised when the MEFA authorities announced that the quarterfinal between Utumno and Norbury would be played at Utumno. The official explanation was that there were more seats available in Utumno than in Amon Sûl and all the other venues around were either taken (for pop-concerts, chivalry-games or horse-shows) or not allowing in a high-enough number of spectators.

The cynics were fast to make their points on various websites about MEFA paying back Melkor’s help in dealing with the problems at Goblin Town or then being pressured by him to stage the game at his own pit through any imaginable way of blackmail, corruption or threat; but the given reasons seemed to hold most of the criticism at bay. Still most of the “goodie” print-media thought of it as an outrage, even if Melkor promised a third of the seats to be reserved for those calling themselves goodies.


Prime time interview with Melkor, exclusive for the AKM.

The AKM: Anything you’d want to say about the MEFA decision to let you host this game?

Melkor: Actually no. The hosting of the games is the business of the MEFA and not me. I’m here to discuss about the game, not the location.

AKM: But don’t you think the location affects the game as well? It would be differen….

Melkor: Don’t you understand basic Westron? If you have something to ask about the game then get on with it, if not, then hush!

AKM: Well, okay… You are meeting the wonderboys of this year’s tournament. Do you feel they can threat you and your team?

Melkor: I’ve lived long enough not to underestimate anyone – what happened to my servant Sauron and so forth – but this time? No I don’t think so.

AKM: But they did beat Valimar? I would bet you were counting on meeting Valar in this game instead of the northern Dunedain. Don’t you give them credit for that?

Melkor: Yeah, they beat the blah-blahs… no big deal. Valimar looked decisive and whatever but they were playing a sissy game and it was just right they got beaten… although you seem to imply that I would have liked to drop them off the tournament personally?

AKM: Erm… well, kind of… So you’re mad at the Norbury team and will play rough on them?

Melkor: Hah, just wait and see. Football is more sophisticated than that.

AKM: So what is your sophisticated plan for the game then?

Melkor: Quite simple, really. First of all, once again we start from the defence and will not let them score, and that means taking Araphor out. Tilion will have a special duty today. Secondly we will overwhelm them in the mid-field; that is their weakest part and there we will strike turning the possession of the field to us. And thirdly, we’ll put some pressure on their defences, especially on Arveleg and Amlaith who seem to be their weakest links. We’ll score a few goals and give Ungoliant one more shut-out without stressing our players too much so that we’ll all be fit for the semis.

AKM: You seem confident enough…

Melkor: Naturally.

AKM: But you're wasting your best scorer Tilion into a guard-role? How will he take it?

Melkor: It's none of your bussiness. The interview is over.


Reasonable evil tops lame-duck goodies

Melkor’s plan seemed to bite to the detail. Tilion took Araphor under personal guardship following him everywhere he went and blocking all the lines of passing the ball for him. It was clear Araphor was getting frustrated of his personal guard but as that guard was of the quality he was, there was little he could do about it as long as Tilion didn’t break the rules… and he didn’t. Tilion played it super-cool. Araphor tried his best to upset him - some say he even tried to nauseate him with references to the role he had been given - but Tilion stayed calm all the game following Araphor the whole 90 minutes. No goals to Araphor and he didn't get to touch the ball but a few times, mainly ending up losing it to Tilion.

In the post-game press conference Tilion was quite careful with his words: "As the steersman of the Moon I'm used to following a premeditated path and not claiming individual freedom. It was no problem to me."

It was also pretty clear from the beginning that the mid-field of Argeleb, Tarcil, Valandil and Malbeth were no match for the opposing quartet of Balrog #5, Tevildo, Thuringwethil and Melkor. So the possession of the ball stayed with Utumno most of the time as the Norburyans just had difficulties to advance over the mid-field.

And laying pressure on Arveleg and Amlaith seemed to be pure genius. Already on the 18th minute Thuringwethil - in her vampire-mode - was breaking free just from beside Arveleg and being late he was forced to tackle him down against the rules just a few meters from the box.

It was actually one of the nicest goals in the tournament thus far. Tilion made a fake run to the ball jumping over it and Tevildo ran behind taking the shot – but it was not a shot but a quick diagonal pass to the left where Gothmog had advanced behind the defenders and had an easy job to put the ball in.

When Thuringwethil added the hometeam’s lead to 2-0 before the halftime it seemed the fighting spirit of the dunedain was lost.

They tried to make a comeback on the second half but the tough midfield shut away the passes and without Araphor the dunedain seemed weaponless. And that they were. Utumno played it easy the whole second half, saving the energy of their players but still keeping the Norbury attacks at bay. In the end Norbury only managed two shots on goal and those were easy for Ungoliant to catch. She is still keeping her goal untouched!

The homecrowds were pleased althoughthey would have loved a parade of goals. But as Melkor said - and which sounds reasonable - Utumno was clearly holding back and saving energy to the semifinal where they would meet either Gondolin or Tirion.

The critics say that will be the first real match Utumno has to play. Be what it may, Ungoliant has been just stupefying thus far - with the aid if the tight Utumno defence in front of her not allowing the opponents to shoot too much in the first place.

Norbury 0-2 Utumno
tot shots 5-14
on target 2-7
GOALS:
*18, 0-1 Gothmog (Telvildo)
*33, 0-2 Thuringwethil (Balrog #3)
YELLOW CARDS:
Norbury- Amlaith, Arveleg
Utumno- Telvildo, Balrog #1

[the phantom]

The old Michel Delving stadium had been selected as the neutral site for the showdown between The Barrow-Downs and Vinyamar, and the hobbits were pleased indeed. Hobbits in general have never been invested in football to the same degree as Men, Elves, and Orcs, but they simply love big events- anything that provides an excuse for feasting and drinking.

As expected it was the fans from Vinyamar arriving first- an enthusiastic mix of Noldor, Teleri, Edain, and Dwarves. Many of them had little experience with hobbits and were keen on enjoying the trip and the hosts to the fullest extent. The Downer supporters, a smaller but extremely wild bunch, arrived the night before the match. Rather than stay in the inns, for the most part the Downers camped in tents in the hills surrounding Michel Delving, though they did at the least purchase a large amount of food and ale from the local merchants.

The stadium at Michel Delving was not large or modern, but the visitors from Vinyamar enjoyed it despite that, as it had a lovely comfortable flavor to it. There was something appealing about the way the aisles creaked, and the feel of the polished wooden seats, and the closeness of the field.

Many fans ended up stuck with smaller hobbit-sized seats, but as they planned on standing for most of the contest, it wasn’t really a problem. The north and west sides were filled up with Vinyamar supporters, while the east was owned by The Downs. The south was largely local hobbits, and it was unclear which team they were in favor of. The Barrow-Downs was more their neighbor, but they had very little in common, and in fact many Downs residents had been quite critical of the hobbits in the days leading up to the match, as they felt the hosts were favoring Vinyamar by holding the game during the day (at 1 in the afternoon, to be precise).

It was no secret that Barrow-Downs residents were night owls, and historically their team played much better in matches under the lights, even when they weren’t Werewolves. This worked well in the playoffs, as most every big-time game had a late kickoff time in order to occupy the primetime slot on the Palantir viewing networks. But the host committee had decided to go against the norm and have a game with the sun at its zenith, and most Barrow-Downs fans were quite certain that the decision was nothing more than an attempt to thwart their playoff run. Perhaps the hobbits had never forgiven them for the incident between Frodo and The Barrow-Wight?

But reasoning aside, it was a fact that in warm ups the Downs side looked a bit sluggish. Two seasons ago in the bronze match they had managed to delay the game long enough for the moon to rise, but with such an early start there was no way such a tactic would be possible this time.

As the ref made ready to start the game, it was clear that there were not enough players on the field. When the ref questioned nearby bleary-eyed Phantom about it, Phantom merely shrugged and replied, “Um, I guess we’re ready”, but defender Skip Spence, who had actually gotten a full night of sleep, cut in and pointed out that Sally, Mira, and captain Nogrod were nowhere to be seen. They were soon found however- asleep on the bench! Yawning they stumbled out to join their teammates, and the match began.

Not surprisingly it was Vinyamar who took the initiative early, working it in with great efficiency against the muddled Downers. Fortunately for the Downers, Steve and Gwath had woken up, and along with Skip they managed to do enough to keep Vinyamar from getting easy looks. When Eomerwarg was tested for the first time at the ten minute mark he looked bad indeed, nearly fumbling away an easy save into the goal, and a few minutes later he nearly mishandled a pass from his own teammate.

Skip and Fea in particular attempted to galvanize the squad, but they remained a step slow, and just before the half hour mark they finally paid the price as Duilin beat his mark and Tuor hit him with a pinpoint pass and the ball was nudged past the poorly positioned keeper. The Vinyamar fans and most of the hobbits cheered loudly. There was little reaction from the Downer section, as about half of them were passed out due largely to their extreme merry-making the night before.

The score did at the least seem to bring the Downs keeper and defense into full wakefulness, and Vinyamar was only able to gain one quality look the rest of the half, which was smothered by the warg. On the other side of the pitch though Sally, Nog, and Phantom were still not into the match and were being completely silenced by Ulmo and friends.

When the Downs returned for the second half, they looked much more awake, and they started hurling things into the crowd. The refs sprinted over to reprimand the team, but stopped when they realized that they were throwing things not at opposing fans, but rather throwing things to their own fans. In order to wake themselves and the crowd up the Downers had brewed some sort of drink in the locker rooms and were flinging water-skins filled with the substance. Head official Boromir88 wisely asked for a sample and sent it upstairs to be tested (it turned out to be primarily sugar and caffeine), but other than that he did not interfere.

As the minutes went by in the second half The Barrow-Downs began looking sharper and more energetic, and their section really began making some noise. Around minute 65 they gained their best chance yet off of a corner. Fea hit the side post on a header, and Nogrod smacked the rebound back at the goal, but Rog made a brilliant bat-away to preserve the one goal lead. The Downs supporters were quite let down by the two near scores, but captain Nogrod wouldn’t allow the team to droop their heads. “They can’t hold us off forever!” he shouted.

And he was right. Despite the individual skill of the Ainu from the sea and their flawless teamwork defense for the entire game, perfection was not quite good enough to combat the will and skill of the Downs scorers. With just under ten minutes left Wilwa broke in from the top of the box, completely wrong-footing Salmar and Galdor, and getting Osse and Rog to move to stop her, at which point she sent it high towards Ulmo and Phantom on the other side- too high. The ball was up over the towering Ulmo’s head. But there was a blur of motion, and next thing the onlookers knew the ball was in the net!

Replay clearly showed Phantom leaping, placing a foot on Ulmo’s back, and using that to propel himself up into the air to meet the ball at around the twelve foot mark. The Vinyamar fans protested loudly about Phantom’s methods, but the score was tied.

As overtime began the Downers were looking to put an early end to things. Only five minutes in Wilwa hit Nogrod with a perfect cross, but Rog guessed right and gathered it in. The hobbits, elves, and dwarves sighed, while the wights groaned. Vinyamar took their turn in the offensive zone, but were unable to work it in against Skip and friends, and had to send it back to their rear line again and again to maintain possession. Halfway through the overtime the Downs took control again, and they gained a great opportunity at 24 minutes. Sally beat her mark and made a nice run into the box from the left, but as she sent her shot off Osse took her out from behind with a brutal tackle. He was judged to have gotten the ball first, but replay showed clearly he had gotten nothing except Sally’s ankles. It should have been a short-range penalty kick to the Downs!

The Downers in the stands got very hostile and started throwing things, and the refs stopped the game and sent security in to find the offenders. But the bombardment didn’t stop in the least, and instead the security guards (mostly hobbit shirriffs) were picked up and tossed onto the field. Shasta pulled out wads of fireworks from a bag and passed them around, and soon the field crews were kept busy stamping fires out all over the pitch. In the row behind Shasta, Nienna was passing around various paints and brushes and encouraging everyone to write profane messages upon the seats and walls. Lommy and Greenie, under cover of the chaos, made their way onto the field and attempted to stab Osse from behind. Thankfully they were spotted just before they pulled it off and the players from Vinyamar were rushed to safety into the tunnel beneath the hobbit section.

Head official Boromir88 finally declared via messages on the scoreboard that Vinyamar would be awarded a free kick from the top of the box if the Downer fans did not cease and desist immediately. This put a stop to the carnage, as none of the Downer fans wished to hurt their team. But just as play was about to begin again, a knife came spinning out of the Downer seats, accompanied by the cry, “For Lalaith!!” The knife stuck straight into the ball resting in Boromir88’s hands, and he immediately declared a short-range free kick for Vinyamar.

The Downs fans turned and in fury rushed the culprit- known Lalaith extremist Urwen, who likely saw the game as simply an opportunity to gain some media coverage for her Lalaith-centric agenda. But while they were busy committing various atrocities in the stands, Idril lined up for the kick. The Downs defense wasn’t completely set (understandably due to their emotional state), and Vinyamar took advantage by taking the free kick as quickly as possible and running a play rather than kicking it directly at the goal. Idril booted it with perfect pace past the left side of the wall and Egalmoth timed his run perfectly to not be offsides and beat everyone to the ball and thus was granted a free shot at the goal from point blank. Eomerwarg dove and took away the near post, but Egalmoth went the other way and Vinyamar had the lead with less than five minutes left.

In any other game the team from the Downs would have been provoked into a state of beautiful rage (especially in Werewolf form) and ended with a flurry of shot attempts, but the way this game had gone they pretty well went out without a fight. They felt in their hearts that this was just one of those things that was not meant to be, from the early kickoff time all the way to the misbehaving Urwen. Some days you don’t catch the right breaks at the right times, and so it was on this day.

On the other side the Elves and Dwarves celebrated wildly. This was beyond all of their hopes! In the words of one dwarf- “When we were contracted to expand and refurnish Vinyamar’s stadium, we were thrilled to have work, but if we would’ve known then what would happen… It’s incredible. We really fell in love with the original stonework of the Noldor, and the fine bones of Mount Taras, and then the actual team- the team! We dwarves are not as into football as Elves and Men for the most part, but we have certainly fallen in love with this squad. It really is inspiring to watch them play! I never imagined I’d end up adopting Vinyamar as my new home and following this team all the way to the semifinals.”

Barrow-Downs 1-2 Vinyamar (OVERTIME)
tot shots 12-12
on target 6-6
GOALS:
*29, 0-1 Duilin (Tuor)
*81, 1-1 Phantom (Wilwa)
*24, 1-2 Egalmoth (Idril)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Barrow-Downs- Nerwen, Fea
*Vinyamar- Duilin, Osse

[skip spence]

The atmosphere was electric as Tirion and Gondolin, mightiest of Elven teams, made it out on the pitch here in the grand Tol Eressea Stadium, always green as if it were the first days of spring in the Elder Days. Of course no one knew about electricity at that time, but some it has been said it was this night the idea first arose. Gondolin, the Hidden Rock, was of old fashioned as an image of Tirion upon Tuna, and most of its residents came out of that fair city, so the two teams had an intimate knowledge of each other; they knew exactly how their opponents played, their strength and weaknesses, each player’s personal quirks and habits.

Most pundits also agreed that the two teams were evenly matched. Tirion had had some defensive issues, but their offence was unmatched by any other team in the past or present. Gondolin, under the new leadership of Fingolfin, also had a new-found attacking flair but without losing the defensive solidity his son Turgon had built up. But would it be enough to stop the lethal quartet of Feanor, Finwe, Nerdanel and Miriel? Everyone was dying to find out.

There was fire in the eyes of Feanor as he and Finwe kicked off, and the Noldor superstar was lucky not to get booked as he went in heavy and hard on his brother Fingolfin when he first got the ball at his feet. Or “half-brother” as the Fiery Boot was keen to point out in the pre-match press conference.

The high expectations ahead of the game were not betrayed. The match was played at a break-neck pace and the crowd gasped for breath time and time again as the players were outdoing each other in individual brilliance. And they were not denied goals for long. In the 12th minute Gondolin won a corner-kick. Captain Fingolfin took it and Aredhel, the White Lady, shook off her marker and made perfect contact with her forehead, sending the ball crashing off the crossbar and into the net, past a furious Aule in the Tirion goal. He was not at all happy with the defending.

Tirion was behind once again and once again they came roaring back. The Gondolin goalkeeper Huor was twice forced to palm behind in the 10 minutes following the goal, firstly from Miriel’s curling effort from the edge of the area and then later from Feanor's speculative but fiercely-struck 35-yard dipping drive. But suddenly Tirion was caught out on the break and Aredhel showed wonderful awareness by spotting Maeglin and lifting a perfectly timed ball over the Tirion back-line, releasing the Sharp Boot one-on-one with Aule, and he made no mistake, rounding the Vala and slotting the ball into the open net. The Gondolin players and fans celebrated wildly now, feeling they had a solid grip on the match, and they remained on top of things for the remainder of the first half.

In the second half Tirion came out like a team possessed, determined to make a match out of this. But Gondolin defended with applause, and remained dangerous on the break. In the 60th minute Eöl came inches from making it three as he hit the outside of the post with a header from a Fingolfin free kick. Seeing the hope of his team shattering, Feanor took it upon himself to make a difference, and the game looked set for a frantic finale when The Fiery Boot latched on to a knockdown by Nerdanel and let fly with a low shot that fizzed past Huor and into the bottom corner of the net.

Now Tirion was all over Gondolin like a rash, and they created chance after chance, despite some heroic defending by the Gondolin team. And with 15 minutes left of the clock the Tirion fans could celebrate the equalizer and once again, almost inevitably, it was Feanor who scored the goal, sliding in to finish a flowing move that had the Gondolin defender’s heads spinning.

Now the momentum was with Tirion who pushed furiously for a winner. In the 80th minute Huor made a great save, denying Feanor a hat-trick, and moments later, Mahtan headed just over from a corner kick. But there was to be heartbreak for the brave Tirion players. With only minutes left, Gondolin made a rare attacking move, and Maeglin whipped in a cross towards Glorfindel in the area, who was all alone against five Tirion defenders. There appeared to be no danger whatsoever, but inexplicably Aule, coming out to gather the ball, fumbled and spilled it right in front of the Gondolin midfielder, who had an easy task of putting the ball into the open net.

A shell-chocked Tirion could not believe their eyes. Feanor did not look happy, not happy at all. A Vala had let him down once again. The superstar tried to take matters into his own hands again, but he was now desperate, and trying to dribble past the entire Gondolin defense was too tough a task even for him. 3-2 to Gondolin it finished, and the Hidden Rock players celebrated as it they had won the final already. Aule however left the stadium with his head bent down, a sad sight for any lover of the beautiful game.

Gondolin 3-2 Tirion
tot shots 14-15
on target 8-7
GOALS:
*13, 1-0 Aredhel (Fingolfin)
*27, 2-0 Maeglin (Aredhel)
*62, 2-1 Feanor (Nerdanel)
*75, 2-2 Feanor (Miriel)
*86, 3-2 Glorfindel (Maeglin)
YELLOW CARDS:
Gondolin- Thorondor, Salgant, Ecthelion, Glorfindel
Tirion- Finwe, Amrod

[the phantom]

Many grand arenas love to boast of being “the greatest”, “the biggest”, and “the most beautiful”, but it is possible that such claims will soon come to an end.

Three years ago in a backroom deal Gondor was awarded the opportunity to host the semis and finals of the 2010 and 2011 Arda Cups, with the possibility of an extension. The Cup Committee was tightlipped on the specifics of the plan, but inside sources managed to confirm that Gondor had promised the construction of a new and glorious stadium to host the event.

Even more tightlipped was the Gondor Cup Planning Committee however, and as the months passed no one was able to get a bead on any plans for a new arena, and there were certainly no obvious signs of construction around Minas Tirith (at least on the scale of a stadium).

And then came the announcement this past March- the new stadium was complete! An extremely surprised populace asked the obvious question- where? The answer- Amon Hen.

Some ingenious chap had been struck with the idea that the magic of “The Hill of Seeing” would be perfect for a stadium. Tests were conducted, and the results were fantastic! Even though the full magic of the hill only worked at the very top, there was a sort of trickle effect down the rest of the slope, and the farther up the hill a spectator was the greater ability he had to surpass his natural visionary abilities.

And so it was that the stadium was built in a rather lopsided fashion into the northeast slope of the hill. At the top of the eastern end of the arena guests could look directly down upon the falls of Rauros, while the northern edge of the arena was lapped by the waves of the lake. That half of the arena was of more average size, seating around 40,000. But as the stadium circled towards the southwest, the top rose higher and higher up Amon Hen, thus the seating capacity of that half of the stadium was a whopping 100,000, making the arena by far the largest ever constructed.

But the planning committee had not been content to merely toss up a large stadium- it was beautiful and interesting to boot. The stadium acted as a tribute to football throughout Middle-Earth, with each section featuring the architecture, décor, and adornments favored by a group of football fans from a different location in Arda. The walkways, restrooms, eateries, and entrances beneath the sections also reflected the theme, and thus one could experience a part of what it was like to attend a football match in Angband, Mirkwood, Mordor, Gondolin, etc all in one stadium.

In the final month before the Cup workers labored night and day to finish work on the inns, rentable homes, and pubs around the shores of the lake, as well as the dock at the foot of Rauros and the cunning lifts that had been constructed to quickly take guests up through the cliffs from the docks to the lake.

On a less football related note, the investors on the planning committee were hoping to permanently develop the area in order to come out ahead on the venture, and given the lovely setting they seemed likely to succeed, as the lake promised summer boating and swimming, and soon after the cup rafting trips on the Anduin and rock climbing ventures into the Emyn Muil were scheduled to commence. In addition, ski runs were said to be in the works on some of the higher hills for attracting winter tourists.

[the phantom]

Nearly all the prognosticators were backing Mithrim and nearly all the money was moving in that direction, so oddsmakers were offering excellent numbers for Vinyamar in the lead up to the first semifinal, and the supporters of Vinyamar were more than happy to oblige by placing all their pocket change on their team. And why not? They were after all the only team left in the tournament that had not suffered a single loss in friendlies, group play, or the playoffs.

The supporters of Mithrim seemed to give little respect to this stat however, and could be heard far and wide guaranteeing a beat-down. After all, since group play started their defense, led by the sons of Feanor and Huan, had looked just as formidable as Vinyamar’s, while their feared trio of Turin, Hurin, and Beleg up front had put up four more goals than the team they now faced. This combination of defense and offense had boosted them to the best goal differential in the tournament- an excellent +11 through five matches.

When presented with this stat in interviews, players from Vinyamar seemed unmoved. Typifying their responses was captain Ulmo yesterday. “At this stage a one-goal victory counts for just as much as a two-goal victory. We do what is necessary to advance and that is all one can ask of a team. Not to mention the stat is slanted due to different competition faced. I think our first round opponent was just a bit tougher, and so was our quarterfinal match. And in group play, we were definitely facing stouter defenses overall.”

The Elves that showed up to watch the match were divided in loyalties between the sides, with Beleg drawing most of the woodland Elves while the Noldor of Vinyamar along with Ulmo and his Maia helpers drew slightly more Noldor than the sons of Feanor. The men and women however were more on the side of Mithrim, as Tuor was the lone man for Vinyamar while Mithrim featured Turin, Hurin, Morwen, Aradan, and Androg. And as expected a large group of dwarves had turned out to join their relatives in rooting for Vinyamar.

But not all the crowd had a preference, as there were several thousand “baddies” there to enjoy the match- orcs, trolls, werewolves, and even a few dragons. There were also many attendees from Gondor that did not have a strong rooting interest and thus could be won over through the course of the match.

And early on it was Vinyamar that looked set to win them over, as their movement was just beyond skilful. They gained only one quality look in the opening minutes, but they held the ball with relative ease, shortening the game and making Mithrim chase the ball around the pitch. The only thing that saved Mithrim early on was Celegorm and Curufin completely denying any sort of action in the corners, forcing Vinyamar to try and take it up the more muddled middle.

In the 25th minute Morwen deflected a risky pass towards the front and on the bounce Gelmir sent it immediately towards the right corner where Hurin tracked it down with a great first touch and dashed in leaving Salmar in his dust. The hero of Arnoediad then sent the ball skidding right across the face of the goal out of the reach of Rog, hoping a charging Turin or Beleg could deflect it in. Turin got a foot on it, but Osse came sliding in from the left and managed to deflect the shot and it bounced just a couple feet wide of the post.

On the corner sent in by Beleg Turin again had a shot at it, but Rog read it well and gathered in the header and the threat was over. It was then Vinyamar’s turn to go on the attack, and as usual they built it up slowly and carefully, until minute 33. The up front players for Vinyamar had been passing it back swiftly on nearly every touch, but Idril managed to surprise the defense and catch them flat footed when instead she took it and immediately made a run down the middle. The sons of Feanor came from the sides to cut her off, but she had broken through too quickly and they didn’t have the angle, giving her a clean shot at the keeper. She sent a drive low to the right, and Huan dove for it, barely tipping it with the tips of his claws, deflecting it just enough to hit the inside of the post and careen away to the left of the goal. Unfortunately for Huan, Celegorm had just vacated this area to try and contest or rush Idril’s shot and Tuor was first to it and wasted no time in sending it into the left side for the 1-0 lead!

Mithrim’s forwards looked determined to strike back, but the defense of Vinyamar maneuvered with skill and experience and turned aside every attack and the half arrived with the score still at 1-0.

The second half was much the same, with Vinyamar holding possession for frustrating amounts of time while not allowing Mithrim much in the way of scoring chances. Morwen and Curufin both forced Rog to make a save, but both shots were rather distant speculations and not enough to challenge a goalie as hot as Rog.

When the clock showed under twenty minutes to play the Mithrim supporters started getting extremely nervous, but they soon found relief. No surprise it was Turin, one of the most feared strikers in the game, who broke through. The goal was set up much the way their last serious threat had been- Hurin made a nice move from the corner and sent it into the box. Turin won position and used his height and strength to rise clear of the defense and nod the ball beautifully down onto the right side of the line and in.

Vinyamar surprisingly showed little disappointment, and Ulmo could be heard encouraging his squad. “They’re a great team. We knew they’d fight back. Now we just have to throw the final punch. We’re still okay. We can win this!” And the team obviously bought into his words, as they showed just as much confidence as ever in the final minutes of the half, forcing overtime to the delight of the impartial observers. Happy shouts of “Extra football!” could be heard throughout the arena.

During the overtime Mithrim looked a step slower. Perhaps they had tired themselves out in their efforts to gain the equalizer? Whatever the cause, Vinyamar looked extra sharp to begin the period and steadily built the attack. They gained a corner at minute 7, but it was just out of reach of Ulmo who came forward to use his height on the play. Minutes later Vinyamar had another nice look off a longball won by Duilin and sent swiftly out front to Penlod, but his quality header was grasped by Huan in a great save by the hound.

But at minute 16 the squad from Mount Taras could be denied no longer, as Penlod got his head on yet another Duilin cross. He placed it expertly into the near top corner and soon found himself mobbed by teammates. It was Vinyamar out front once again, and Mithrim had less than 14 minutes to score against one of the stingiest defenses in the tournament.

The ending was less than dramatic, as Mithrim never seriously threatened to equalize. Turin’s turn and power drive from 35 yards that zipped past the right side of the goal was as close as they managed, and Vinyamar and their fans were soon free to celebrate this unexpected and well-fought victory. They were through to play for the Arda Cup championship!

Mithrim 1-2 Vinyamar (OVERTIME)
tot shots 13-9
on target 6-5
GOALS:
*33, 0-1 Tuor (Idril)
*72, 1-1 Turin (Hurin)
*16, 1-2 Penlod (Duilin)
YELLOW CARDS:
Mithrim- Morwen, Beleg, Hurin
Vinyamar- Tuor, Galdor

[the phantom]

After the hard-fought surprise result of the first match, the crowds were mighty pleased and looking at the evening match as the cherry on top, and Gondolin and Utumno were keen not to disappoint. Gondolin came in with a hot offense, while Utumno had been just dominant on defense, and everyone wondered who would give way to the other.

Surprisingly it turned out to be the Angband offense looking the best in the opening minutes as the horses and great eagle of Gondolin were outwitted by the clever attacks led by Melkor and Thuringwethil, and the forwards Tilion and Gothmog were both set up nicely inside the opening 15, though they did not crack the scoreboard sending one over the top and the other wide.

But just a few minutes later Melkor again sent a floater to the opposite side for Gothmog and this time he made sure and got it down and Huor had no chance and it was 1-0 Utumno! The big bads then settled into a hold pattern for the next several minutes. Some fans even thought that they planned on doing it through the rest of the match. “After all,” they remarked, “They haven’t surrendered a goal yet this tournament. A one goal lead could be enough!”

But it was soon evident that the optimism was likely overdone, as Gondolin truly threatened Utumno in the minutes that followed. First there was a flurry of brilliant passes up and back through the middle that resulted in an uncontested Fingolfin shot from the top of the box, forcing Ungoliant to make her best save yet. Then there was a long ball controlled by Aredhel and sent over to a dashing Ecthelion who blasted a wicked bender from range that glanced off the outside of the crossbar. And finally there was Maeglin making the Balrogs look a bit clumsy as he dribbled all the way from midfield, weaving and ducking displaying excellent ball control, culminating in a drive that surely would have beaten Ungoliant if the final Balrog had not managed to get part of his foot on it and send it wide.

But just as the crowd grew certain that the equalizer was coming, Telvildo outfought his man for the ball and sent it back to a free Balrog (#5 to be specific) who immediately sent it high up the middle for a sprinting Melkor. Melkor had timed his run perfectly and brought the ball down on the first bounce with a perfectly in-stride touch and even the horses and Thorondor could not catch him before he gained a one-on-one with the goalie and put it in for the 2-0 lead!

The Gondolin supporters groaned and cradled their heads in their hands. This was not how this match was supposed to unfold! They had just spotted the defense with the most sparkling numbers in the tournament a two goal lead and had but one half left to make it up! And of course on the other hand the supporters of Utumno were singing and drinking with delight. For many the cup was already won, for they doubted seriously the ability of Vinyamar to challenge them in the finals.

The opening minutes of the second half did nothing to change the moods, as it was Utumno on the attack once again. But if the Gondolin fans were paying attention closely they noticed that at the least the attacks were no longer as threatening. Huor was ordering the defense in front of him with great passion, and they responded with full effort and heady play. Finally after the 60 minute mark possession started swinging back the way of Gondolin, and the Balrogs were made to sweat just as in the first half.

And then in minute 68 a shot in the arm for Gondolin- a goal! Eol gained the ball in the left corner and spun around his man, dribbled past another, then sent the ball whistling at the near post. Ungoliant got her claws on it but could not hold onto it, and the ball spilled right in front of Maeglin who wasted no time in burying the shot.

Gondolin was still down by a goal, but the fans and players all believed the equalizer could be had after the confidence boost from the first goal, and the shifting spirit within the stadium seemed to impact the players from Utumno, and they now looked to be playing not to lose rather than to win. Gondolin was less tentative and showed no fear and in minute 82 they celebrated wildly after Fingolfin pulled them level off an unsuccessfully cleared free kick from Rochallor.

Utumno looked stunned while all the players from Gondolin looked to be bubbling over with energy and confidence. Even the unshakable Melkor was visibly off his game. Fingolfin’s blazing eyes, clear powerful voice, and valiant bearing were just as they had been the night he had ridden to the doors of Angband and wounded the dark lord in combat, and Thorondor swooping about made the memory even more real to Melkor.

Utumno barely made it to overtime with the tie still intact, and it was obvious they were time-wasting and hoping to settle things in an end-game shoot-out. But Gondolin would not be denied, and 11 minutes into overtime Balrog #2 committed a desperate foul against Maeglin in the midst of a dangerous attack, and the “sharp boot” was awarded a free kick.

Utumno set their wall and Ungoliant waited grimly for whatever was to come, but she was hardly allowed a chance to move as Maeglin went direct at the goal and managed to put the ball right over the top of the wall and speeding into the very top corner for the lead!

The rest of the way Utumno did push for an equalizer, but their confidence had suffered such a gut-punch that they simply could not muster enough to challenge to gallant squad from Gondolin, and soon Utumno found themselves numbly exiting the stadium with the singing of the Gondolin fans ringing in their ears.

Gondolin 3-2 Utumno (OVERTIME)
tot shots 19-14
on target 9-6
GOALS:
*21, 0-1 Gothmog (Melkor)
*40, 0-2 Melkor (Balrog #5)
*68, 1-2 Maeglin (Eol)
*82, 2-2 Fingolfin (Rochallor)
*11, 3-2 Maeglin
YELLOW CARDS:
Gondolin- Eol, Asfaloth
Utumno- Balrog #3, Gothmog, Balrog #2

[the phantom]

After Utumno lost to Gondolin the orcs, trolls, and other typical supporters of evil vanished from Amon Hen as if by magic. Obviously they were not interested in anything less than a title, and seeing their team battle for third place meant nothing.

A couple of sports journalists wrote articles about how quickly this could change if Melkor simply gave the word and ordered support for his team, but these articles were swiftly crushed by a press conference at which Lord Melkor clearly echoed the supporters, seeming entirely unenthused about the upcoming match against Mithrim.

On the flip side of the coin was Vinyamar, the old extinct city that had in one year had life breathed into it and made it all the way to the finals. Under usual circumstances Gondolin would have received great support from the masses, but as Vinyamar was such a feel-good story and seemed to have a foot in every camp, their support in the newly constructed inns and pubs around Rauros was overwhelming.

Due to all of the construction dwarves that had been hired to rebuild Vinyamar and had fallen in love with the city and team, the dwarf population was nearly all behind them. The elves had representatives on both sides, but thanks to Ulmo and the Cinderella story Vinyamar boasted at least 80% of them. And the Gondorians and other men liked the story as well, along with Vinyamar actually featuring one of their own on the team in the form of Tuor.

Since the stadium was so incredibly large tickets for the event were cheaper than they had been in years past, and on top of that there were thousands who hoped to gain a "free seat", which meant simply that they would find someplace on Amon Hen, in a tree or in a clearing, where they could see the pitch down along the shores of the lake. Under normal circumstances such a seat would be useless for viewing, but with the magic of the "Hill of Seeing" in operation the pitch could be seen as if through a spyglass if the fan concentrated carefully, and so without a doubt a record breaking number of people were going to be viewing the final live.

Obviously everyone was very much looking forward to the final, but no one was keen to skip the lead-up match, Mithrim versus Utumno, as both teams had been just spectacular all the way to the semifinals. What's better than a championship match? A third place match plus a championship match! The more football the better.

[the phantom]

It was a capacity crowd of 140,000 that had gathered to see the afternoon match for third place between Mithrim and Utumno. The football fans were hoping to see two teams with a chip on the shoulder. Before the semifinals these two sides had been the most statistically dominant, and both had lost only in overtime. Both of these teams easily could’ve been playing in the night match for the Arda Cup Trophy.

But of course they were not, a fact that quite obviously bothered star forward Turin based upon his comments ahead of the match. “We were so good match after match, and then we really let ourselves down. Vinyamar out-efforted us, and even then we should’ve won that match. Our middle defenders fell asleep on that regular time goal of theirs, and one of us should’ve capitalized on another one of our chances in regular time. We shouldn’t have let it go to extra time, and we feel we really let our fans down. This was a championship caliber squad.”

The team that took the field reflected this attitude, as they looked quite grim and perhaps a bit angry to be playing in the first match of the day. Across on the other side Utumno looked down as well, but they looked more resigned and depressed rather than determined to prove themselves. Melkor and his minions obviously had not taken their semifinal loss to Gondolin well. Before that match they had not surrendered a single goal since group play began, and they were up 2-0 with little more than 20 minutes left, but Gondolin shockingly stormed back to tie the match and won it in overtime.

But when the match kicked off Utumno did not look completely apathetic. Their talent was undeniable and their experience was long, and so perhaps out of mere habit they fell right into their usual style and quality of play, keeping the determined Mithrim offense from having an easy time of it. But there was no denying that Mithrim controlled the play overall, holding possession and not allowing any good looks from Utumno.

In the opening half hour the keepers were only challenged once, and neither challenge was stiff. But shortly before the half ended Mithrim’s determination at last payed dividends when Beleg sent a corner into the box. The ball came down a bit sooner than the defense expected, but Curufin was placed well to rise up and flick it on across the face of the goal where Hurin met it leaving Ungoliant with no hope of making the save, sending Mithrim into halftime with the 1-0 lead.

When the second half began Utumno looked to have hardened their will a bit during the break, as they started off on the attack and controlling the action. The sons of Feanor were shutting down attacks from the corners per usual, but Utumno managed to work it up to the top of the box several times with effectiveness thanks to the large bodies and good passing of Gothmog and Tilion. Five minutes in Gothmog made a brilliant turn and sent a hard curler at the right side, but Huan made a great leaping save. Just a few minutes after Tilion did nearly the same thing, sending a rocket at the goal.

The shot got past Huan to the post and skipped away to the right side directly to Thuringwethil’s feet. The vampire queen wasted no time at all in sending it back towards the posts, hanging it up for Utumno’s towering strikers to win. And in fact it was the master himself, Melkor, who outfought all comers and struck an irresistible header to forge a tie!

The crowd, while they were not at all supporting of Utumno, applauded, as they were happy to see a true contest made of the match. But the crowd was made uneasy over the next few minutes as Utumno nearly took the lead- once on a blistering effort by Tilion that went just over the post, and again on a free kick from Melkor that Huan heroically batted away.

It was then that the sons of Feanor began jawing at the Utumno squad. It was unclear if this strategy was planned beforehand or thought of spur of the moment, but either way it worked. Both Celegorm and Curufin could be seen running their mouths constantly at the squad from Utumno, and according to all accounts they were primarily tossing out jabs about the fact that Utumno could do no better than third place no matter how well they played, and that all in all their past and present efforts were a waste, and they would not gain any sort of acclaim this year.

Under normal circumstances such words would have aroused the wrath of Melkor, but in this case it seemed to do the opposite, and in no time at all he was just going through the motions, and his fellows at the front followed suit. It wasn’t long before Mithrim had taken over the game again, and at last they took firm command in minute 76 thanks to a dashing counter from Turin and Beleg in which they left the dispirited defense in their dust.

The final minutes of the game were just an exercise, and Utumno looked quite anxious to be off the field and thus seemed content not to threaten sending it into overtime. The crowds applauded Mithrim solidly, and Mithrim accepted it and waved, but their joy was clearly lessened, as it seemed Utumno’s mood had infected them in the end and they were primarily focused on the fact that they had fallen one win short of their true goal.

But one team wouldn’t fall short- either Gondolin or Vinyamar. That match was next, and the throng could hardly contain their excitement.

Mithrim 2-1 Utumno
tot shots 13-13
on target 7-6
GOALS:
*43, 1-0 Hurin (Curufin)
*55, 1-1 Melkor (Thuringwethil)
*76, 2-1 Turin (Beleg)
YELLOW CARDS:
Mithrim- Gelmir, Celegorm
Utumno- Balrog #1, Thuringwethil, Balrog #5

[the phantom]

The stadium was completely packed and there was barely an empty tree upon the slopes of Amon Hen as kickoff time approached for the championship match between Gondolin and Vinyamar. There were quite a few dwarves, and twice as many elves, but most numerous were men for certain- at least half the stadium (mostly from Gondor). There were no trolls or dragons to be seen at all, and only one small section of die-hard orcs had showed up.

All the fans were very much enjoying the architecture of the new stadium, particularly the goodly folk seated in the portions that were built in the image of Angband and Mordor, as they had never ventured to those locations before.

Turgon and his wife Elenwe were pressed upon greatly as they made for their seats. Everyone wanted to know which side they’d be supporting, as Turgon was the founder of both cities. His wife made no secret that she was pulling for her daughter and son-in-law playing for Vinyamar, but Turgon remained noncommittal. “Both teams have proven themselves worthy in this tournament, and I’m fond of a great many players on both sides. How can I be against my trusty generals, Glorfindel and Ecthelion, or my dear sister Aredhel and her family, my valiant father Fingolfin, or Huor who died defending me so long ago? But then how can I be against my own daughter, or her husband Tuor who is dear to me as well, or the great and admirable Ulmo?”

The fans in the stadium and prognosticators from MESPN and Arda Kicker Magazine were not so undecided, however. The support of the masses was firmly behind Vinyamar thanks to their grit and feel good story, while the experts backed Gondolin nearly to a man, as they had the better overall goal margin through what they viewed as stiffer competition. But even so no one was predicting a blowout, as Vinyamar’s defensive prowess and possession game were not doubted.

And when the game began, it certainly did look like the match would be close. In the opening minutes Vinyamar went to work with their careful passing game, but Gondolin was quick and well disciplined, and the probing yielded no results. When Gondolin got their turn they fared no better, as Ulmo and friends were on top of things at the back and Idril and the midfielders were applying good pressure in the center.

It was so slow going that in fact no shots were taken at all until minute 24, when Eol managed to split the midfielders in the center and send a powerful drive at the bars. The distance was great and Rog was not caught off guard and so he caught it easily. At minute 29 Vinyamar finally got off their first effort, a swerving speculation by Duilin. As on the other end the keeper was more than ready and Huor gathered it in quite easily.

Several minutes later the crowd noise increased greatly as Vinyamar finally managed to get it down one of the sides, as Idril managed to draw help away on a nice center run and then sent it over to Tuor who was one on one on the right side with Rochallor. Tuor won possession, but the battle-horse would not at all let him by, and when he tried to hang one up out front for the other attackers Rochallor blocked the effort, and it went out for a corner kick.

The stadium buzzed with excitement, as this was the first real chance of the match, but the excitement was for nothing as Asfaloth rose up and headed it away from the goal, and Fingolfin got to it first and sent it down to the other end. Vinyamar started building the attack again, but soon they gave it over to Gondolin, and the hidden city controlled play for the remainder of the half, though they still could gain nothing more than a couple of distant shots which went wide of the mark.

As the minutes went by in the second half the buzz increased in the stadium little by little. The way this match was going it was likely to be decided by one single moment, and so every little touch gained importance as the seconds ticked away. At minute 53 Vinyamar gained another opportunity, this time from a yellow card given to Aredhel for tripping Egalmoth about 35 yards out and to the left of goal. Duilin took the kick, sending it towards the right post but bending away, precisely as planned. Tuor and Penlod were both in the vicinity surrounded by defenders. Penlod managed to fight through them and rise up to redirect the ball. The crowd yelled as it had clearly gotten into the net, but groaned as they realized it was on the wrong side of the post, having gone just wide.

A few minutes later it was Gondolin’s turn to be disappointed, as Aredhel’s great cross for Ecthelion was only just batted away by Rog. The fans from Gondolin remained hopeful, however, as this marked the second time in just a few minutes that Gondolin had managed to win the ball all the way down into the corner (the first time it was Fingolfin). It looked like perhaps the speed and skill of their wings was at last wearing down the unflappable defense of Vinyamar.

At minute 62 Fingolfin managed to dribble past Voronwe up the side, forcing the defense to shift over to help. Fingolfin continued his run as long as possible to draw them, and then sent it over the top to the more sparse right side. Aredhel beat everyone to it and with an excellent first touch sent it on the ground along the end line past Ulmo while she went around his left to collect the ball on the other side. The defense rushed to meet her but too tight to the goal, leaving her a passing lane to Maeglin who had slipped out away from goal a bit towards the corner of the box.

Maeglin took the shot immediately off the pass, and the “sharp boot” was sharp with his timing and aim indeed, sending it just under the bar and inside the left post to break the scoreless tie! The Gondolin supporters screamed in approval while the Vinyamar fans slumped deeper into their seats. The fans who had no vested interest but hoped for a Vinyamar win clapped with moderate enthusiasm, as it was a well earned goal.

Now it was up to the Gondolin defense and Huor between the posts. They had held firmly the entire game, and Vinyamar was not a quick strike team. Surely they could hold for just a bit longer. It certainly seemed that they would as time went past 70, as Vinyamar was getting nowhere at all. But as time approached 80 minutes Vinyamar sent everyone forward and really got aggressive. They were leaving themselves open to a counter to be sure, but they needed a goal.

Idril had a window from distance, but her shot sailed high. Then it was Egalmoth’s turn, but his effort bent too far left. Time was running out. Then at minute 86 Vinyamar was granted a corner, which was taken by Duilin. His ball made it to the far side where Ulmo met it. His header deflected off a defender and back to the middle, where it was pounced on by Salmar who immediately kicked it out of midair over the defenders at the top bar, but Huor got a fingertip on it, sending it off the top post and back down the middle!

Maeglin was first to it and he immediately sent it all the way down to Rog on the other end, and Gondolin breathed a sigh of relief. They had survived the onslaught! Vinyamar was not finished trying of course, but their efforts yielded nothing so dangerous in the final minutes, and soon head ref Boromir88 blew his whistle and the match was over!

Gondolin had won the Arda Cup Championship!

Gondolin 1-0 Vinyamar
tot shots 9-7
on target 4-2
GOALS:
*63, 1-0 Maeglin (Aredhel)
YELLOW CARDS:
Gondolin- Glorfindel, Aredhel, Salgant
Vinyamar- Osse, Penlod

[the phantom]

AMAN
-GK- Nienna (16)
-DF- Vaire (6)
-DF- Este (6)
-DF- Nessa (7)
-DF- *Turgon (7)
-MF- Irmo (3)
-MF- Nahar (4)
-MF- Earwen (4)
-MF- *Orome (10)
-MF- Finarfin (7)
-FW- Ar Pharazon (15)

BARAD-DUR
-GK- Mouth (14)
-DF- Ohtar (1)
-DF- Nazgul #5 (-1)
-DF- Anarion (5)
-DF- *Nazgul #6 (2)
-MF- Fellbeast (1)
-MF- Nazgul #7 (10)
-MF- Elendil (7)
-MF- *Gil-Galad (8)
-FW- **Sauron (18)
-FW- Isildur (12)

BARROW-DOWNS
-GK- Eomerwarg (18)
-DF- Mira (8)
-DF- Gwath (9)
-DF- Steve (7)
-DF- Skip Spence (14)
-MF- Fea (2)
-MF- Nerwen (4)
-MF- Sally (6)
-MF- The Phantom (23)
-FW- Wilwa (20)
-FW- Nogrod (23)

BELERIAND
-GK- Halmir (10)
-DF- Mim (0)
-DF- Handir (1)
-DF- Baragund (1)
-DF- Belegund (1)
-MF- Magor (-1)
-MF- Hathol (2)
-MF- Manthor (0)
-MF- Imlach (1)
-MF- Bregolas (-1)
-FW- Marach (8)

BREELAND
-GK- Old Man Willow (4)
-DF- Butterbur (0)
-DF- Lumpkin (-2)
-DF- River-Woman (0)
-DF- Roheryn (2)
-MF- Harry (-2)
-MF- Goldberry (3)
-MF- Halbarad (2)
-FW- Barrow-Wight (9)
-FW- *Bombadil (12)
-FW- Strider (3)

BYWATER
-GK- Cotton (18)
-DF- Nazgul #3 (4)
-DF- Ferny (3)
-DF- Nazgul #2 (5)
-DF- **Shadowfax (9)
-MF- Fatty (3)
-MF- Maggot (9)
-MF- Gildor (3)
-MF- **Gandalf (9)
-FW- Saruman (5)
-FW- Bandobras (4)

DALE
-GK- Brand (10)
-DF- Roac (-2)
-DF- Nain (1)
-DF- Carc (4)
-DF- Thror (1)
-MF- Moneybags (-2)
-MF- Bard (-1)
-MF- Dain (-1)
-MF- Girion (3)
-FW- Thranduil (7)
-FW- Smaug (7)

DOL GULDUR
-GK- Oropher (12)
-DF- Tomnoddy (-2)
-DF- Thrain (-1)
-DF- Attercop (-2)
-MF- Galion (2)
-MF- Grimbeorn (7)
-MF- *Beorn (3)
-MF- *Khamul (8)
-FW- Radagast (6)
-FW- Bolg (10)
-FW- *Witch King (18)

DORIATH
-GK- *Melian (12)
-DF- Elured (4)
-DF- Nimloth (3)
-DF- Elurin (3)
-DF- Algund (4)
-MF- Saeros (-3)
-MF- Nellas (3)
-MF- Daeron (-1)
-MF- Haldir (4)
-FW- Haleth (4)
-FW- Thingol (2)

EITHEL SIRION
-GK- Maglor (16)
-DF- Gundor (9)
-DF- Aegnor (11)
-DF- Galdor (8)
-DF- *Angrod (9)
-MF- Bregor (2)
-MF- Nienor (5)
-MF- Gwindor (7)
-MF- *Hador (14)
-FW- Fingon (12)
-FW- *Maedhros (18)

GELION
-GK- Dior (14)
-DF- Haldar (5)
-DF- Azaghal (3)
-DF- Caranthir (6)
-DF- *Luthien (9)
-MF- Denethor (3)
-MF- Bereg (-1)
-MF- Lenwe (0)
-MF- Haldad (5)
-MF- Amlach (2)
-FW- Beren (8)

GONDOLIN
-GK- Huor (26)
-DF- Salgant (13)
-DF- Asfaloth (15)
-DF- Rochallor (18)
-DF- *Thorondor (17)
-MF- Ecthelion (9)
-MF- Glorfindel (17)
-MF- *Eol (19)
-FW- Fingolfin (18)
-FW- Aredhel (23)
-FW- *Maeglin (26)

GONDOR
-GK- Romendacil (16)
-DF- Fastred (7)
-DF- Ondoher (6)
-DF- Folcred (8)
-MF- Meneldil (1)
-MF- Ostoher (0)
-MF- Narmacil (1)
-MF- Hyarmendacil (5)
-MF- *Beruthiel (6)
-FW- Eldacar (10)
-FW- Mardil (7)

GORGOROTH
-GK- Shelob (8)
-DF- Gorbag (-2)
-DF- Grishnakh (-2)
-DF- Shagrat (-1)
-DF- *Nazgul #1 (0)
-MF- Angamaite (1)
-MF- Gollum (1)
-MF- Sangahyando (-1)
-MF- *King of the Dead (8)
-FW- Earnur (1)
-FW- Castamir (11)

HAVENS
-GK- Olwe (10)
-DF- Lindo (1)
-DF- Amandil (1)
-DF- Eriol (0)
-MF- Ar Gimilzor (2)
-MF- Tar Aldarion (-1)
-MF- Elwing (3)
-MF- Uinen (3)
-MF- *Cirdan (6)
-FW- *Earendil (14)
-FW- Tar Minastir (19)

ITHILIEN
-GK- Mumakil (10)
-DF- Samwise (4)
-DF- Adrahil (2)
-DF- Bergil (2)
-DF- Mablung (4)
-MF- Elboron (0)
-MF- Damrod (0)
-MF- Frodo (-1)
-MF- Anborn (-1)
-MF- Beregond (3)
-FW- Faramir (4)

LORIEN
-GK- *Galadriel (8)
-DF- Finglas (0)
-DF- Nimrodel (-1)
-DF- Orophin (-2)
-DF- Amroth (0)
-MF- Fimbrethil (0)
-MF- Rumil (-2)
-MF- Fladrif (-1)
-MF- Haldir (0)
-MF- Amdir (5)
-FW- Celeborn (2)

MINAS ANOR
-GK- Ecthelion II (8)
-DF- Golasgil (0)
-DF- Dervorin (-2)
-DF- Calimehtar (-1)
-DF- *Pippin (0)
-MF- Siriondil (2)
-MF- Denethor II (0)
-MF- Earnil II (2)
-MF- *Nazgul #4 (8)
-FW- Falastur (3)
-FW- Boromir I (11)

MISTY MOUNTAINS
-GK- Watcher (8)
-DF- Tom (1)
-DF- Landroval (0)
-DF- Meneldor (0)
-DF- Durin (1)
-MF- Bert (-2)
-MF- Great Goblin (-1)
-MF- William (-1)
-MF- Narvi (2)
-MF- Gwaihir (-2)
-FW- Azog (4)

MITHRIM
-GK- **Huan (26)
-DF- Annael (17)
-DF- Gelmir (15)
-DF- *Celegorm (21)
-DF- **Curufin (27)
-MF- Androg (8)
-MF- Morwen (11)
-MF- Aradan (10)
-FW- Hurin (23)
-FW- Beleg (19)
-FW- **Turin (29)

NARGOTHROND
-GK- Beor (8)
-DF- Baran (1)
-DF- Arminas (1)
-DF- Baranor (0)
-DF- *Celebrimbor (4)
-MF- Guillen (-1)
-MF- Boron (-1)
-MF- Finduilas (8)
-MF- Barahir (0)
-MF- **Finrod (8)
-FW- Mablung (7)

NORBURY
-GK- Arvedui (18)
-DF- Valandur (6)
-DF- Arveleg (4)
-DF- Malvegil (6)
-DF- Amlaith (7)
-MF- Argeleb (1)
-MF- Tarcil (-1)
-MF- Valandil (4)
-MF- *Malbeth (11)
-FW- Aranarth (5)
-FW- Araphor (16)

NUMENOR
-GK- *Tar Atanamir (18)
-DF- Tar Meneldur (7)
-DF- Ar Zimrathan (6)
-DF- Tar Cirytan (9)
-DF- **Tar Telperien (13)
-MF- Tar Calmacil (1)
-MF- Tar Ancalimon (0)
-MF- Tar Miriel (7)
-MF- **Elros (9)
-FW- Tar Palantir (6)
-FW- Ar Adunakhor (10)

PELENNOR
-GK- Theoden (8)
-DF- Forlong (-1)
-DF- Windfola (-3)
-DF- Snowmane (-2)
-DF- Gothmog II (-1)
-MF- Gimli (-1)
-MF- Grimbold (3)
-MF- Duinhir (2)
-FW- Eowyn (3)
-FW- Legolas (8)
-FW- Imrahil (2)

RIVENDELL
-GK- **Elrond (14)
-DF- Thorin (-1)
-DF- Galdor (4)
-DF- Celebrian (4)
-DF- *Erestor (4)
-MF- Bilbo (-1)
-MF- Elrohir (-2)
-MF- Elladen (0)
-MF- *Arwen (6)
-MF- Arahael (4)
-FW- Boromir II (2)

ROHAN
-GK- Fram (8)
-DF- Stybba (1)
-DF- Firefoot (1)
-DF- *Felarof (2)
-MF- Merry (0)
-MF- Hallas (-2)
-MF- Frumgar (-1)
-MF- Cirion (8)
-MF- Helm (0)
-FW- Eomer (2)
-FW- Eorl (8)

THANGORODRIM
-GK- Carcharoth (6)
-DF- Gorlim (0)
-DF- Drauglin (0)
-DF- Uldor (1)
-DF- *Glaurung (-1)
-MF- Ulfang (0)
-MF- Ulwarth (-4)
-MF- Ulfast (2)
-MF- **Durin’s Bane (14)
-FW- *Scatha (13)
-FW- Ancalagon (15)

TIRION
-GK- Aule (14)
-DF- Amras (0)
-DF- Indis (1)
-DF- Amrod (-2)
-MF- Orodreth (2)
-MF- Mahtan (4)
-MF- Ingwe (6)
-MF- *Nerdanel (25)
-FW- Finwe (24)
-FW- **Feanor (32)
-FW- *Miriel (25)

UTUMNO
-GK- *Ungoliant (30)
-DF- Balrog #1 (17)
-DF- Balrog #2 (16)
-DF- Balrog #3 (21)
-DF- **Balrog #4 (20)
-MF- Balrog #5 (7)
-MF- Telvildo (12)
-MF- Thuringwethil (15)
-MF- **Melkor (31)
-FW- Tilion (21)
-FW- Gothmog (21)

VALIMAR
-GK- *Namo (12)
-DF- Vana (6)
-DF- Pallando (5)
-DF- Alatar (7)
-DF- **Manwe (11)
-MF- Ilmare (2)
-MF- Yavanna (3)
-MF- Tulkas (10)
-MF- **Varda (8)
-MF- Arien (22)
-FW- Eonwe (15)

VINYAMAR
-GK- Rog (30)
-DF- Osse (16)
-DF- Galdor (18)
-DF- Salmar (20)
-DF- **Ulmo (26)
-MF- Voronwe (6)
-MF- Egalmoth (12)
-MF- Idril (21)
-MF- Duilin (19)
-FW- Tuor (13)
-FW- Penlod (15)

WOLD
-GK- Hama (6)
-DF- Elfwine (-2)
-DF- Beechbone (0)
-DF- Lightfoot (-1)
-DF- *Treebeard (0)
-MF- Aldor (-1)
-MF- Grima (2)
-MF- Theodred (0)
-MF- Ugluk (4)
-MF- *Quickbeam (4)
-FW- Eomund (2)

[the phantom]

Every year there are players that rise above the rest when it comes to earning their owners Phantasy points. This year, these are the players that really knew how to light up the score sheet on a per-game basis.

Phantasy All-Star Team

-GK- **Elrond (Rivendell)
-DF- Balrog #3 (Utumno)
-DF- *Celegorm (Mithrim)
-DF- **Ulmo (Vinyamar)
-DF- **Curufin (Mithrim)
-MF- **Durin's Bane (Thangorodrim)
-MF- *Nerdanel (Tirion)
-MF- Arien (Valimar)
-FW- *Miriel (Tirion)
-FW- Tar Minastir (Havens)
-FW- **Feanor (Tirion)

[the phantom]

There were a lot of standout performers in this year's Arda Cup, so the choices were difficult, but in the end we feel we have selected a very worthy collection of players who really produced for their teams and did everything they could to push their sides towards the ultimate prize.

AFA First Team

-GK- Rog (Vinyamar)
-DF- Balrog #3 (Utumno)
-DF- *Celegorm (Mithrim)
-DF- **Curufin (Mithrim)
-DF- **Ulmo (Vinyamar)
-MF- Arien (Valimar)
-MF- *Nerdanel (Tirion)
-MF- **Melkor (Utumno)
-FW- *Maeglin (Gondolin)
-FW- **Turin (Mithrim)
-FW- **Feanor (Tirion)

AFA Second Team

-GK- *Ungoliant (Utumno)
-DF- Skip (Barrow-Downs)
-DF- Salmar (Vinyamar)
-DF- Rochallor (Gondolin)
-DF- **Balrog #4 (Utumno)
-MF- Phantom (Barrow-Downs)
-MF- Idril (Vinyamar)
-MF- *Eol (Gondolin)
-FW- Nogrod (Barrow-Downs)
-FW- Aredhel (Gondolin)
-FW- *Miriel (Tirion)

[the phantom]

It is time for the Arda Football Association to hand out several awards to the participants in the Arda Cup.

ARDA CUP TROPHY for TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS- Gondolin

GOLDEN BOOT AWARD for MOST GOALS- Feanor (Tirion), Turin (Mithrim), Maeglin (Gondolin)

SILVER SNEAKER AWARD for MOST ASSISTS- Nerdanel (Tirion)

PHANTOM MEMORIAL AWARD for MOST PHANTASY POINTS- Feanor

**********

GREATEST SINGLE OFFENSIVE PERFORMANCE- Arien of Valimar receives this awards thanks to her single-handed smashing of Thangorodrim. The sun-lady was on fire indeed, racking up two goals and two assists and a record 16 Phantasy points in a single match, and against a quality rival no less. This one won't be forgotten any time soon.

GREATEST SINGLE DEFENSIVE PERFORMANCE- Since they managed to earn five shutouts, it is fitting that the Utumno defense and keeper receive this award. The best of their individual games was judged to be their first round playoff against Gelion, in which they allowed but one shot on Ungoliant.

GREATEST COMEBACK- No surprise that it's Dol Guldur here, as they twice came back from a two-goal hole. It has been decided to award them for the second of these comebacks, as it was against a very good foe with everything on the line (advancement from the group stage). Down to Havens with only 20 minutes left, The Witch King led his squad back with a goal and two assists in 16 minutes to clinch the final qualifying spot. Quite dramatic!

CLUTCH PERFORMER- This was quite difficult to decide, as both Penlod of Vinyamar and Araphor of Norbury clinched a tie in the group stages with only minutes left, and both scored an overtime winner in the playoffs. In the end we'll give it to Penlod as his overtime winner came in the semifinals. Way to come through!