Arda Cup Football 2013

[Boromir88]

The Special Edition!

-Boro88

Our final installment of the team previews and offseason moves will cover FC Valinor, Barad-dur, and Gondor. We'll make a quick note that the Tol-in-Gaurhoth roster has been completed and so stay tuned in the coming days for an in-depth report on TIG, once we get the chance to interview their players.

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Let's start with FC Valinor, who seemed to breeze through the friendlies and their group last year. However, they stumbled in the quarter-finals, losing to Erebor in amazing shootout fashion. To most clubs and fans, a quarter-finals appearance would be positive, but for FC Valinor you couldn't help but get the feeling it was the Arda Cup or bust for them. And so last year was a fairly large disappointment. To rub even more salt in the wounds, rivals Real Valinor came away with the title. And in aspects of the sport that don't deal with tactics or on the field performance, but with management and public relations instead...heads start rolling when your rivals finish higher.

So, FC Valinor did scale back their budget slightly, but feeling pressure to keep up with Real Valinor, and energize their own fanbase, they yet again have a pricey salary, in what can only lay the expectations of "Arda Cup or bust" on the club in 2013. The major changes seem likely to be made in the back-field. As Curufin and Celegorm remain together still, and no one expects they will want to leave their positions as the team's strikers.

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Next up, Gondor, who lost in a shooutout in the octo-finals to Shire-Bree United. The higher-ups in the organization felt the team should have handled S-B Utd last year, but since that didn't happen, the Gondor Worker's Union is quite drastically cutting payroll. Interestingly enough, 1/6th of their entire payroll is tied up into one player. Granted, Anarion had a career year in 2012, and he was going to command a hefty price in the free-agent market. It might have even been worse for fans to swallow if ownership let Anarion walk. However, the skeptics will tell you they think Anarion reached his peak last year and to put your money on him having the same (or more) production is money ill-spent.

And here is often times parts of the game fans don't hear about often. With Sauron opening up his pocket-books investing in other clubs, and investing more into his Mordor teams (read more on this below)...there were credible rumors Sauron was making a strong bid for Anarion. Therefor, allowing Anarion to defect to Barad-dur, simply was not going to be an option for Gondor's owners. They had to pay a price to retain their king, and a price he probably deserves based on last year's performance. It means Gondor had to lose some key pieces (GK - Hyarmendacil and MF- Falastur), but formation and tactics are expected to stay the same, so now it's just a matter of seeing if Imrahil and some others can rise to the occassion to support their King.

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Barad-dur: As alluded above Sauron opened up his checkbook and increased the payroll of his Barad-dur club. Last year, Mordorians were perplexed trying to figure out Sauron's plans. Since he clearly had his hand involved in many Arda clubs, why couldn't he just consolidate his influence and focus solely on the Mordor teams for the glory of the Black Land? Both Mordor and Barad-dur were running on a dirt-cheap salary, which did not leave many fans happy, particularly after both Mordor teams failed to qualify in a group with rivals Gondor and Minas Tirith.

Sauron is by no means emptying his piggy-bank but with more money invested in Barad-dur and also with who he's signed, the fanbase is at least more positive with the offseason moves. Whether or not the positive attitude carries into the tournament will of course largely depend on the club's performance. Last year Barad-dur got a bit careless and lax in the back-field and Sauron wanted to address those issues quickly. By replacing the cheap Mumakil in the goal with hopefully the more trustworthy Grishnakh. But the bigger moves happened when Sauron was able to snag Alatar and Pallando away from Wilderland to provide a more stabile and reliable defense.

[the phantom]

MESPN BREAKING NEWS: Official rosters approved by ACC

It's set- the Arda Cup Committee has received and approved the rosters submitted by all 32 teams. Without any commentary or fanfare, here is the official list released by the ACC. (An announcement on groupings will likely be made later in the day.)

Anduin (83)
GK Amroth (4)
DF Minalcar (5)
DF Felarof (5)
DF Celeborn (10)
DF *Fram (10)
MF Lenwe (2)
MF Leod (5)
MF Haldir (8)
MF Boromir II (10)
FW Eorl (14)
FW Grimbeorn (10)

Angband (91)
GK *Carcharoth (9)
DF Ulwarth (4)
DF Umuiyan (5)
DF Balrog #1 (12)
DF *Morgoth (20)
MF Uldor (4)
MF Ulfast (4)
MF Ulfang (5)
MF Oikeroi (5)
FW Telvildo (9)
FW *Ancalagon (14)

Angfauglith (87)
GK *Ungoliant (16)
DF Borlach (3)
DF Gelmir (3)
DF Balrog #2 (12)
DF *Balrog #3 (12)
MF Gorgol (3)
MF Haldir (4)
MF Rian (3)
MF Bor (3)
FW Ecthelion (10)
FW *Gothmog (18)

Armenelos (95)
GK Tar Atanamir (10)
DF Tar Calmacil (7)
DF Tar Palantir (7)
DF Tar Telperien (7)
MF Ar Gimilzor (7)
MF Tar Telemmaite (7)
MF Tar Miriel (7)
MF Tar Ancalimon (7)
MF *Elros (12)
FW Ar Adunakhor (12)
FW Ar Pharazon (12)

Arnor (68)
GK Arvedui (8)
DF Earendur (3)
DF Valandur (3)
DF Malbeth (8)
DF *Elendil (10)
MF Malvegil (3)
MF Argeleb (4)
MF Arassuil (4)
MF Arantar (5)
FW Araphor (7)
FW *Witch King (13)

Barad-Dur (74)
GK Grishnakh (5)
DF Fellbeast #1 (3)
DF Fellbeast #2 (3)
DF Pallando (11)
DF Alatar (11)
MF Sangahyando (3)
MF Herumor (3)
MF Angamaite (3)
MF Beruthiel (5)
FW Castamir (7)
FW *Sauron (20)

AC Beleriand (108)
GK Marach (9)
DF Imlach (4)
DF Rochallor (4)
DF Balrog #4 (12)
DF *Fingolfin (15)
MF Denethor (3)
MF Ulrad (5)
MF Angrod (10)
MF Aegnor (10)
FW Eol (15)
FW **Feanor (21)

Inter Beleriand (81)
GK Turgon (11)
DF Haldad (2)
DF Gorlim (2)
DF Baragund (3)
DF Luthien (13)
MF Forweg (2)
MF Hunthor (2)
MF Haleth (7)
MF *Beren (13)
FW Fingon (13)
FW *Maedhros (13)

Doriath (70)
GK Dior (7)
DF Galathil (2)
DF Nimloth (2)
DF Elwing (6)
DF *Melian (14)
MF Galadhon (2)
MF Nellas (3)
MF Saeros (3)
MF Daeron (7)
MF *Elwe (14)
FW Mablung (10)

Dwarves United (86)
GK Galadriel (14)
DF Azaghal (5)
DF Durin (6)
DF Aule (16)
DF *Celebrimbor (18)
MF Fili (2)
MF Kili (2)
MF Gamil Zirak (4)
MF Telchar (4)
MF Gimli (5)
FW Legolas (10)

Erebor (94)
GK *Beorn (12)
DF Thorin (5)
DF Meneldor (8)
DF Landroval (8)
DF Girion (8)
MF Dain (5)
MF Brand (3)
MF Bolg (9)
FW Bard (8)
FW Nazgul #7 (10)
FW *Smaug (18)

Eriador (103)
GK *Elrond (20)
DF Asfaloth (4)
DF Arwen (10)
DF Aragorn (10)
DF *Gil-galad (13)
MF Araphant (5)
MF Arador (4)
MF NogWight (6)
MF Arveleg (8)
MF *Glorfindel (13)
FW Isildur (10)

Gondolin (84)
GK Rog (8)
DF Penlod (7)
DF Aranwe (3)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Egalmoth (7)
MF Salgant (4)
MF Elemmakil (4)
MF Duilin (8)
MF Idril (10)
FW Tuor (10)
FW *Maeglin (18)

Gondor (70)
GK Imrahil (5)
DF Galadil (4)
DF Earnil I (6)
DF Eldarion (5)
MF Calimehtar (5)
MF Ciryandil (5)
MF Turambar (6)
MF Meneldil (6)
MF Romendacil (7)
MF *Anarion (12)
FW Eldacar (9)

Hithlum (101)
GK Huor (8)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Arroch (2)
DF Gundor (5)
DF Balrog #5 (13)
MF Aradan (3)
MF Morwen (6)
MF Hador (12)
MF *Beleg (13)
FW Hurin (14)
FW **Turin (20)

Imladris (69)
GK Valandil (6)
DF Celebrian (5)
DF Galdor (4)
DF Erestor (9)
DF *Varda (14)
MF Gilraen (2)
MF Figwit (2)
MF Lindir (2)
MF Arahael (5)
FW Elladan (10)
FW Elrohir (10)

Isengard (66)
GK Ugluk (5)
DF Mauhur (3)
DF Beechbone (3)
DF Treebeard (10)
MF Lurtz (3)
MF Wulf (2)
MF Lugdush (3)
MF Nazgul #5 (8)
MF Wormtongue (4)
MF *Saruman (15)
FW Quickbeam (10)

Minas Tirith (76)
GK Denethor II (7)
DF Earnur (7)
DF Ecthelion II (7)
DF Firefoot (3)
DF Cirion (7)
MF Earnil II (7)
MF Tarandor (7)
MF Telumehtar (7)
MF Mardil (7)
MF *Eomer (10)
FW Boromir I (7)

Misty Mts (76)
GK Chief Wolf (3)
DF Caradhras (7)
DF William (4)
DF Watcher (5)
DF *Gwaihir (11)
MF Great Goblin (5)
MF Orophin (6)
MF Rumil (6)
MF Narvi (6)
MF Azog (8)
FW *Durin’s Bane (15)

Mordor (51)
GK Silent Watcher (1)
DF Fellbeast #3 (3)
DF Mumakil (1)
DF Fellbeast #4 (3)
DF Gothmog II (5)
MF Gorbag (3)
MF Shagrat (3)
MF Nazgul #1 (7)
MF Nazgul #2 (7)
MF *Mouth (8)
FW Shelob (10)

Nargothrond (89)
GK Orodreth (10)
DF Guillen (4)
DF Baran (3)
DF Arminas (4)
DF Barahir (7)
MF Beor (7)
MF Nienor (6)
MF Finduilas (9)
FW Gwindor (10)
FW Finrod (14)
FW *Glaurung (15)

Rohan (66)
GK Theoden (7)
DF Windfola (3)
DF Snowmane (3)
DF Hama (3)
DF Erkenbrand (3)
MF Aldor (6)
MF King Dead (10)
MF Eowyn (9)
MF Brytta (5)
MF *Faramir (9)
FW Helm (8)

Shire-Bree United (68)
GK Halbarad (5)
DF Fellbeast (2)
DF Nazgul #4 (8)
DF Gildor (7)
DF *Shadowfax (5)
MF Butterbur (2)
MF Bandobras (4)
MF Ferny (2)
MF Nazgul #6 (8)
MF *Gandalf (14)
FW Khamul (11)

The Havens (79)
GK Amandil (6)
DF Annael (5)
DF Imrazor (5)
DF Ar Zimrathan (8)
DF Olwe (10)
MF Eriol (5)
MF Mithrellas (3)
MF Earwen (3)
MF Falastur (9)
MF Cirdan (10)
FW *Earendil (15)

The Sea (100)
GK Hyarmendacil (8)
DF Osse (9)
DF Salmar (9)
DF Uinen (9)
DF *Ulmo (17)
MF Tar Cirytan (7)
MF Voronwe (7)
MF Tar Meneldur (7)
MF Veantur (7)
MF Tar Aldarion (8)
FW Tar Minastir (12)

Tirion (83)
GK Finarfin (8)
DF Irime (3)
DF Amrod (9)
DF Amras (9)
DF *Caranthir (11)
MF Anaire (3)
MF Eldalote (2)
MF Rumil (4)
MF Mahtan (9)
FW Aredhel (12)
FW Finwe (13)

Valimar (102)
GK *Manwe (14)
DF Amarie (4)
DF Este (8)
DF Vana (8)
DF *Namo (14)
MF Elenwe (3)
MF Ilmare (8)
MF Vaire (8)
MF Irmo (9)
MF Ingwe (11)
FW *Arien (15)

FC Valinor (107)
GK *Huan (15)
DF Thorondor (13)
DF Indis (7)
DF Maglor (10)
DF *Eonwe (12)
MF Elemmire (4)
MF Findis (4)
MF Argon (7)
MF *Yavanna (10)
FW Celegorm (11)
FW *Curufin (14)

Real Valinor (101)
GK *Tulkas (12)
DF Nienna (10)
DF Nahar (5)
DF Ingwion (5)
DF *Tilion (12)
MF Quennar (3)
MF Enerdhil (4)
MF Nessa (10)
FW Nerdanel (12)
FW *Miriel (14)
FW Orome (14)

Wilderland (75)
GK Great Warg (5)
DF Finglas (3)
DF Skinbark (3)
DF Oropher (5)
DF Radagast (11)
MF Fimbrethil (3)
MF Iminye (4)
MF Imin (5)
MF Nazgul #3 (8)
FW Thranduil (14)
FW *Scatha (14)

The Barrow-Downs (50)
GK Alien (2)
DF Lumpkin (2)
DF GwathWight (3)
DF River Woman (3)
DF Barrow-Wight (11)
MF WilWight (3)
MF Lalwende MP (3)
MF Goldberry (3)
MF Hookbill (6)
FW Saucepan Man (6)
FW *Bombadil (8)

Tol In Gaurhoth (84)
GK *ShastaWolf (10)
DF Drauglin (8)
DF GaladriWight (3)
DF BoroWolf (8)
DF *NilpWolf (10)
MF LegateWight (3)
MF SallyWight (4)
MF NerWight (5)
MF *PhantomWolf (10)
FW Thuringwethil (13)
FW *InzilWolf (10)

[the phantom]

MESPN BREAKING NEWS: Groupings released by ACC

With the official rosters released, you can imagine that our writers and prognosticators are typing up a storm. Well, now they have one more huge bit of info to process- the groupings.

The Arda Cup Committee was serious about getting their job done this year, and met in an intensive closed session immediately following the approval of all team rosters. A couple hours later they emerged with the groupings- evidently they already had most of their ideas in mind, and just needed to finalize them.

And without further ado, here they are!
(Note: Primary host site listed first, followed by the secondary site which is used to host one of the third round games so that final round games can be played simultaneously.)

GROUP A at Valimar & Taniquetil
Armenelos
The Barrow-Downs
The Havens
Valimar

GROUP B at Gondolin & Tumladen
AC Beleriand
Inter Beleriand
Dwarves United
Gondolin

GROUP C at Menegroth & Neldoreth
Doriath
Hithlum
Shire-Bree United
Real Valinor

GROUP D at Dol Amroth & Pelargir
Barad-Dur
Gondor
Isengard
FC Valinor

GROUP E at Erebor & Mirkwood
Erebor
Eriador
Misty Mts
Wilderland

GROUP F at Tol Eressea Mobile & Pelargir/Balar/Alqualonde
Minas Tirith
Nargothrond
The Sea
Tirion

GROUP G at Anfauglith & Tol-In-Gaurhoth
Angband
Angfauglith
Imladris
Tol-In-Gaurhoth

GROUP H at Rauros
Anduin
Arnor
Mordor
Rohan

[the phantom]

First Look at the Host Sites
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

We've been given a lot to process today, so first things first- I'm going to give my initial reactions to the selected host sites.

1) Nicely done, Ulmo and company. We know long ago that the sea-going Ainu used an island to ferry Elves to Valinor, so why not do something similar again? It will be a lot of work and required much preparation obviously, so much applause for that. Ulmo and friends have made Tol Eressea Stadium and the pubs and lodgings immediately around it into a sort of cruise ship. Their plans are to be at Gondor for the first round to share games with Pelargir, at Balar for the second game, and at Alqualonde for the final round. This allows a reasonable trip for fans of every squad in the group- Minas Tirith, Nargothrond, and Tirion (and of course The Sea).

2) The ban on games in Valinor is officially over, as Valimar Coliseum is slated to host five games, Taniquetil will host one, and Seaside Stadium in Alqualonde will host one. Here's hoping that they handle things better this time around. It was a shame not to have any games there last year- there is so much tradition and multiple quality venues.

3) Well done Gondor spreading games around a bit. Instead of opting for the oft-used Minas Tirith or Osgiliath, which obviously have great stadiums (The White Stadium and Osgiliath Royal Arena), they opted to put in a bid for Dol Amroth. Their stadium isn't quite so grand or famous, but it's certainly on level with other past host sites, and the Gondor teams have a lot of supporting fans living in that region.

4) It's nice to see the Dwarves and Elves working together in the Northeast once again, as Erebor will be the primary site and Thranduil's forest stadium will host the second game in the final round.

5) Looks like the finals indeed won't be at Amon Hen Coliseum this year since they are hosting a group. A few might complain that they're getting to host anything this year after hosting the biggest games the past few years, but the thing is- Amon Hen is simply too great not to use every year. The various folks that partnered to make it were very serious about creating football heaven.

6) It's interesting that Anfauglith and Tol-In-Gaurhoth will not be sharing just the final round of group play, but both sites are being used in all three rounds. Will this be the beginning of a trend (since Tol Eressea is also doing it, sort of), or is this a special case?

[the phantom]

MESPN Take on Off-season Losses and Acquisitions
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

Everyone's heard that they shouldn't second-guess themselves, or that their first instinct is often correct. Well, after seeing the official rosters, this is the first reaction our panel had to each squad and whether or not they improved from last season. (Note: Below each squad next to the dollar signs is how this year's payroll compares to last year.)

Anduin (83)
GK Amroth (4)
DF Minalcar (5)
DF Felarof (5)
DF Celeborn (10)
DF *Fram (10)
MF Lenwe (2)
MF Leod (5)
MF Haldir (8)
MF Boromir II (10)
FW Eorl (14)
FW Grimbeorn (10)

$$: +3
Verdict: They managed to hold onto their more important pieces from last year (Grimbeorn, Fram, Celeborn, Haldir, Boromir), and added Eorl to the front and Felarof to the back, so they’ve definitely taken a step forward on both ends of the pitch.

Angband (91)
GK *Carcharoth (9)
DF Ulwarth (4)
DF Umuiyan (5)
DF Balrog #1 (12)
DF *Morgoth (20)
MF Uldor (4)
MF Ulfast (4)
MF Ulfang (5)
MF Oikeroi (5)
FW Telvildo (9)
FW *Ancalagon (14)

$$$: -10
Verdict: After last year’s disappointment Morgoth skimmed a hair from salaries, but he didn’t lose talent. In fact Angband may be better now after plugging in Umuiyan and Oikeroi at the front and back, as they are a notch quicker and more dexterous than their predecessors.

Angfauglith (87)
GK *Ungoliant (16)
DF Borlach (3)
DF Gelmir (3)
DF Balrog #2 (12)
DF *Balrog #3 (12)
MF Gorgol (3)
MF Haldir (4)
MF Rian (3)
MF Bor (3)
FW Ecthelion (10)
FW *Gothmog (18)

$$$: -6
Verdict: They lost a Balrog at the back and their big-scorer at the front (Thuringwethil), but they replaced her with one of the greatest in the game- Gothmog, and added Ecthelion to compliment him. That means they probably broke even, only with slightly less defensive emphasis and more on offense.

Armenelos (95)
GK Tar Atanamir (10)
DF Tar Calmacil (7)
DF Tar Palantir (7)
DF Tar Telperien (7)
MF Ar Gimilzor (7)
MF Tar Telemmaite (7)
MF Tar Miriel (7)
MF Tar Ancalimon (7)
MF *Elros (12)
FW Ar Adunakhor (12)
FW Ar Pharazon (12)

$$$: -13
Verdict: Last year’s group-of-death resulted in underachievement, so salaries were cut a bit. The only roster difference is the addition of Elros, and he’s obviously high quality, so they’ll be as good as or slightly better than last year, and doubtless in a kinder grouping.

Arnor (68)
GK Arvedui (8)
DF Earendur (3)
DF Valandur (3)
DF Malbeth (8)
DF *Elendil (10)
MF Malvegil (3)
MF Argeleb (4)
MF Arassuil (4)
MF Arantar (5)
FW Araphor (7)
FW *Witch King (13)

$$$: -3
Verdict: They lost Isildur to the highly successful Eriador squad, but they’ve added the Witch King and Malbeth from Eriador (thanks to partnerships with Elrond and Norbury Sport). Thus it seems they’ve managed to step up a bit with talent without having to pay out, which is the ultimate ideal.

Barad-Dur (74)
GK Grishnakh (5)
DF Fellbeast #1 (3)
DF Fellbeast #2 (3)
DF Pallando (11)
DF Alatar (11)
MF Sangahyando (3)
MF Herumor (3)
MF Angamaite (3)
MF Beruthiel (5)
FW Castamir (7)
FW *Sauron (20)

$$$: +8
Verdict: After being one of the few not to overpay last year Sauron was poised to spend more this season rather than less, and he did so by acquiring the Blue Wizards and a second airborne defender, which is an improvement over last year’s defense. Given the offense is identical, the team overall ought to be better.

AC Beleriand (108)
GK Marach (9)
DF Imlach (4)
DF Rochallor (4)
DF Balrog #4 (12)
DF *Fingolfin (15)
MF Denethor (3)
MF Ulrad (5)
MF Angrod (10)
MF Aegnor (10)
FW Eol (15)
FW **Feanor (21)

$$$: +12
Verdict: The success of most AC Beleriand investors allowed them to spend heavier this year. They’ve replaced Ecthelion with a Balrog, so lost and gained quality there. In the midfield they’ve replaced Bregolas & Beren with Angrod & Aegnor. Individually they may not quite match Beren, but in tandem they’re potentially a step up.

Inter Beleriand (81)
GK Turgon (11)
DF Haldad (2)
DF Gorlim (2)
DF Baragund (3)
DF Luthien (13)
MF Forweg (2)
MF Hunthor (2)
MF Haleth (7)
MF *Beren (13)
FW Fingon (13)
FW *Maedhros (13)

$$$: +11
Verdict: At the back they replaced a Balrog and Brandir with Luthien and a shifted Baragund, so possibly a wash there. At the front they’ve added Beren to the Maedhros/Fingon attack, so a step forward there. Overall then, they’ve improved the squad.

Doriath (70)
GK Dior (7)
DF Galathil (2)
DF Nimloth (2)
DF Elwing (6)
DF *Melian (14)
MF Galadhon (2)
MF Nellas (3)
MF Saeros (3)
MF Daeron (7)
MF *Elwe (14)
FW Mablung (10)

$$$: -14
Verdict: Luthien and Beleg are no longer at the front, but Elwing has been added to the defense and Elwe to the offense. This does not look to be an improvement in overall talent, but shifting Daeron and Saeros forward to assist Elwe and Mablung may help maintain scoring somewhat, while the back end is at least on par with last year.

Dwarves United (86)
GK Galadriel (14)
DF Azaghal (5)
DF Durin (6)
DF Aule (16)
DF *Celebrimbor (18)
MF Fili (2)
MF Kili (2)
MF Gamil Zirak (4)
MF Telchar (4)
MF Gimli (5)
FW Legolas (10)

$$$: -3
Verdict: Fili and Kili have stepped in to replace Thorin and Thror, but it remains to be seen whether their youthful quickness can replace the hardiness and experience. The crafty Telchar and Gamil Zirak have been shifted forward, which may help, while Galadriel has a replaced Bombur between the posts- a definite improvement.

Erebor (94)
GK *Beorn (12)
DF Thorin (5)
DF Meneldor (8)
DF Landroval (8)
DF Girion (8)
MF Dain (5)
MF Brand (3)
MF Bolg (9)
FW Bard (8)
FW Nazgul #7 (10)
FW *Smaug (18)

$$$: -9
Verdict: They lost Gwaihir, but they still have two eagles at the back. In front Thranduil is gone, but everyone else is back (Smaug, Bard, etc.). The new faces, Brand and Thorin, aren’t quite an athletic match for Thranduil and Gwaihir, so it appears their lower salary results in a lower ceiling.

Eriador (103)
GK *Elrond (20)
DF Asfaloth (4)
DF Arwen (10)
DF Aragorn (10)
DF *Gil-galad (13)
MF Araphant (5)
MF Arador (4)
MF NogWight (6)
MF Arveleg (8)
MF *Glorfindel (13)
FW Isildur (10)

$$$: +4
Verdict: After a very successful season Eriador has bumped up the payroll. Malbeth is gone to Arnor, but joining the defense is Aragorn and Arwen. The Witch King is gone from the forward position, but Isildur has replaced him and NogWight has signed on to help the attack, so scoring shouldn’t suffer. Overall Eriador looks to have stepped forward.

Gondolin (84)
GK Rog (8)
DF Penlod (7)
DF Aranwe (3)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Egalmoth (7)
MF Salgant (4)
MF Elemmakil (4)
MF Duilin (8)
MF Idril (10)
FW Tuor (10)
FW *Maeglin (18)

$$$: +1
Verdict: Pengolodh has been replaced by Penlod at the rear. Gothmog is gone from the attack and Meleth from the midfield, but Tuor and Idril have both joined the offense so the scoring shouldn’t suffer. Overall it looks like Gondolin took a little step forward.

Gondor (70)
GK Imrahil (5)
DF Galadil (4)
DF Earnil I (6)
DF Eldarion (5)
MF Calimehtar (5)
MF Ciryandil (5)
MF Turambar (6)
MF Meneldil (6)
MF Romendacil (7)
MF *Anarion (12)
FW Eldacar (9)

$$$: -14
Verdict: After a respectable season everyone’s taken a tiny cut to help the team manage its budget. They lost some quality in Hyarmendacil and Falastur, but their replacements, Meneldil and Galadil, aren’t a significant step back. So perhaps a lower ceiling for Gondor, but a smarter budget.

Hithlum (101)
GK Huor (8)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Arroch (2)
DF Gundor (5)
DF Balrog #5 (13)
MF Aradan (3)
MF Morwen (6)
MF Hador (12)
MF *Beleg (13)
FW Hurin (14)
FW **Turin (20)

$$$: +15
Verdict: New investors Feanor & company have bailed out Hador House after last year’s losses, and they’ve really gone for it. Galdor, Gundor, and a Balrog improve the defense, while Turin’s buddy Beleg will improve the offense. A significant salary-bump, but an equally nice talent-bump here.

Imladris (69)
GK Valandil (6)
DF Celebrian (5)
DF Galdor (4)
DF Erestor (9)
DF *Varda (14)
MF Gilraen (2)
MF Figwit (2)
MF Lindir (2)
MF Arahael (5)
FW Elladan (10)
FW Elrohir (10)

$$$: -19
Verdict: After gaining more sway Elrond has made this squad much more economical. Big pieces Elros and Arwen are gone, and replacing them are Valandil, Celebrian, and Arahael. This is a lowering of talent for the squad, but possibly less than the value of the salary they saved.

Isengard (66)
GK Ugluk (5)
DF Mauhur (3)
DF Beechbone (3)
DF Treebeard (10)
MF Lurtz (3)
MF Wulf (2)
MF Lugdush (3)
MF Nazgul #5 (8)
MF Wormtongue (4)
MF *Saruman (15)
FW Quickbeam (10)

$$$: -8
Verdict: Caradhras’s blinding snow and wind has been replaced by the ent Beechbone at the rear, while in the midfield Freca is gone in favor of a Nazgul. It looks like they’ve managed to improve in skill while decreasing payroll.

Minas Tirith (76)
GK Denethor II (7)
DF Earnur (7)
DF Ecthelion II (7)
DF Firefoot (3)
DF Cirion (7)
MF Earnil II (7)
MF Tarandor (7)
MF Telumehtar (7)
MF Mardil (7)
MF *Eomer (10)
FW Boromir I (7)

$$$: -12
Verdict: Everyone took a slight paycut here. Faramir and Ostoher are gone, replaced by Eomer and Firefoot, which is possibly a little bit of an advancement, which is particularly good in light of the lower salary.

Misty Mts (76)
GK Chief Wolf (3)
DF Caradhras (7)
DF William (4)
DF Watcher (5)
DF *Gwaihir (11)
MF Great Goblin (5)
MF Orophin (6)
MF Rumil (6)
MF Narvi (6)
MF Azog (8)
FW *Durin’s Bane (15)

$$$: +9
Verdict: They booted Bert and Tom in favor of Caradhras and Gwaihir, which combined with shifting a couple players to more sensible positions ought to have them improved at least as much as they upped salary.

Mordor (51)
GK Silent Watcher (1)
DF Fellbeast #3 (3)
DF Mumakil (1)
DF Fellbeast #4 (3)
DF Gothmog II (5)
MF Gorbag (3)
MF Shagrat (3)
MF Nazgul #1 (7)
MF Nazgul #2 (7)
MF *Mouth (8)
FW Shelob (10)

$$$: -7
Verdict: Sauron kept Mordor even lower-cost this year, but perhaps they haven’t lost ground competitively. Three Nazgul are gone, but Gothmog II, the Mouth, and a Fellbeast defender are three capable replacements.

Nargothrond (89)
GK Orodreth (10)
DF Guillen (4)
DF Baran (3)
DF Arminas (4)
DF Barahir (7)
MF Beor (7)
MF Nienor (6)
MF Finduilas (9)
FW Gwindor (10)
FW Finrod (14)
FW *Glaurung (15)

$$$: -6
Verdict: Nargothrond had a disappointing year, but did not overhaul their roster. Instead they replaced Mim with Nienor and shifted a few midfielders and defenders around, including moving Orodreth to goal. Perhaps those players will perform better in different positions, but Nienor is an improvement over Mim anyway.

Rohan (66)
GK Theoden (7)
DF Windfola (3)
DF Snowmane (3)
DF Hama (3)
DF Erkenbrand (3)
MF Aldor (6)
MF King Dead (10)
MF Eowyn (9)
MF Brytta (5)
MF *Faramir (9)
FW Helm (8)

$$$: -28
Verdict: After a nice quarterfinal run, Rohan is shockingly low-budget this year, but not by design. Gandalf is notorious for wandering and he left with Shadowfax, while Eorl and his steed were wooed by team Anduin. At the back end they’ve brought in Windfola to fill the horse gap, while on the other end they’ve added Faramir and Eowyn- good replacements, but it doesn’t quite make up for what they lost.

Shire-Bree United (68)
GK Halbarad (5)
DF Fellbeast (2)
DF Nazgul #4 (8)
DF Gildor (7)
DF *Shadowfax (5)
MF Butterbur (2)
MF Bandobras (4)
MF Ferny (2)
MF Nazgul #6 (8)
MF *Gandalf (14)
FW Khamul (11)

$$$: -4
Verdict: Aragorn, Bombadil, and Barrow-Wight are gone from the productive offense, but Gandalf and a Nazgul have been brought in to compliment Khamul, so the drop-off should be blunted. At the back they’ve brought in a Fellbeast and of course Shadowfax, so it seems they’ve lost on offense and gained on defense.

The Havens (79)
GK Amandil (6)
DF Annael (5)
DF Imrazor (5)
DF Ar Zimrathan (8)
DF Olwe (10)
MF Eriol (5)
MF Mithrellas (3)
MF Earwen (3)
MF Falastur (9)
MF Cirdan (10)
FW *Earendil (15)

$$$: -5
Verdict: Angrod, Aegnor, and Tuor are gone, but Cirdan has gone forward to fill the gap along with bringing in Falastur. At the back Lindo and Elwing are gone, but Ar-Zimrathan and Imrazor are quality replacements, and Amandil has filled the goal vacated by Cirdan. In the middle Earwen and Andreth are gone, replace by Mithrellas and Eriol. The Havens probably took a little step back, as their defensive improvement probably does not equal their scoring lost.

The Sea (100)
GK Hyarmendacil (8)
DF Osse (9)
DF Salmar (9)
DF Uinen (9)
DF *Ulmo (17)
MF Tar Cirytan (7)
MF Voronwe (7)
MF Tar Meneldur (7)
MF Veantur (7)
MF Tar Aldarion (8)
FW Tar Minastir (12)

$$$: -8
Verdict: Still an expensive squad, with nearly everyone back from last year. Voronwe has taken the departed Eriol’s position in the midfield, while Hyarmendacil was signed to fill the gap between the posts. Hyarmendacil has more talent than Eriol, thus the squad as a whole is slightly better.

Tirion (83)
GK Finarfin (8)
DF Irime (3)
DF Amrod (9)
DF Amras (9)
DF *Caranthir (11)
MF Anaire (3)
MF Eldalote (2)
MF Rumil (4)
MF Mahtan (9)
FW Aredhel (12)
FW Finwe (13)

$$$: 0
Verdict: They broke dead even in salary despite changes. Elenwe and Thorondor are gone from the defense in favor of Caranthir, Amrod, and Amras. Eonwe and Ingwe are gone from the front end, replaced by Rumil and Eldalote, and with Mahtan moving forward. Their salary seems to have it right- they’re built different, but overall they’re probably even.

Valimar (102)
GK *Manwe (14)
DF Amarie (4)
DF Este (8)
DF Vana (8)
DF *Namo (14)
MF Elenwe (3)
MF Ilmare (8)
MF Vaire (8)
MF Irmo (9)
MF Ingwe (11)
FW *Arien (15)

$$$: -15
Verdict: The inflated payroll is under control now, and they have perhaps improved despite the cuts. Amrod and Amras have been replaced with Este and Amarie at the rear, while Ilmare and the Blue Wizard attack is now Irmo, Ingwe, and Arien. Their level is comparable to last year- probably higher due to improved scoring spark.

FC Valinor (107)
GK *Huan (15)
DF Thorondor (13)
DF Indis (7)
DF Maglor (10)
DF *Eonwe (12)
MF Elemmire (4)
MF Findis (4)
MF Argon (7)
MF *Yavanna (10)
FW Celegorm (11)
FW *Curufin (14)

$$$: -6
Verdict: Their front four is back intact, but there are small changes elsewhere. Idril and Irmo are out of the midfield, replaced by Elemmire and Findis. At the back end Penlod and Nahar are out, replaced by Thorondor and Eonwe. So, it is a weaker middle balanced with a stronger back, thus they probably broke even.

Real Valinor (101)
GK *Tulkas (12)
DF Nienna (10)
DF Nahar (5)
DF Ingwion (5)
DF *Tilion (12)
MF Quennar (3)
MF Enerdhil (4)
MF Nessa (10)
FW Nerdanel (12)
FW *Miriel (14)
FW Orome (14)

$$$: +3
Verdict: The defending champs had to spend a bit more this time, and didn’t retain all their pieces, but they found good replacements. Orome has replaced Arien up front, Quennar has replaced Elemmire in the midfield, and Nahar and Ingwion have replaced Rumil and Caranthir at the rear. Most likely they’ve broken even- stepping back every so slightly up front while improving a bit at the rear.

Wilderland (75)
GK Great Warg (5)
DF Finglas (3)
DF Skinbark (3)
DF Oropher (5)
DF Radagast (11)
MF Fimbrethil (3)
MF Iminye (4)
MF Imin (5)
MF Nazgul #3 (8)
FW Thranduil (14)
FW *Scatha (14)

$$$: -10
Verdict: The ent Beechbone is out in favor of the wizard Radagast, but the major changes are up front, where Orome, Galadriel, and Elwe have all ditched. Imin and Iminye will attempt to bridge the gap in the midfield, while Thranduil and a Nazgul will help Scatha with the attack. They’ve lost scoring power, but they’re better behind them, thus the step back perhaps is perhaps not as large as the payroll drop.

The Barrow-Downs (50)
GK Alien (2)
DF Lumpkin (2)
DF GwathWight (3)
DF River Woman (3)
DF Barrow-Wight (11)
MF WilWight (3)
MF Lalwende MP (3)
MF Goldberry (3)
MF Hookbill (6)
FW Saucepan Man (6)
FW *Bombadil (8)

$$$: +13
Verdict: Thanks to a new league minimum and the “Tolkien mandate”, this squad formerly known as “The Downer” will be much improved. Goldberry, River Woman, WilWight and GwathWight are more dependable than some of the old crowd, while adding Bombadil to the front definitely improves scoring potential.

Tol In Gaurhoth (84)
GK *ShastaWolf (10)
DF Draugluin (8)
DF GaladriWight (3)
DF BoroWolf (8)
DF *NilpWolf (10)
MF LegateWight (3)
MF SallyWight (4)
MF NerWight (5)
MF *PhantomWolf (10)
FW Thuringwethil (13)
FW *InzilWolf (10)

$$$: +16
Verdict: Their payroll has gone up more than any squad, and predictably there’s a rise in talent. InzilWight is rumored to be a quality replacement Werewolf up front, and bringing Thuringwethil in on the attack and Draugluin on the defense certainly raises the bar on expectations.

[Nogrod]

Here is the AKMs first analysis on groups C and E which the AKM will be watching really close this year according to the new pact made between the big media-houses. But don't you worry: the AKM will not forget the other groups either. It is just that groups C and E will be our main focus this season.

So without further ado...


Group C, Doriath

Doriath
2012: budget 84 million, qualified to 1st round / earned 80mil. (-4)
2013 budget 70 million (-14): slightly weaker offence.

Hithlum
2012: budget 86 million, left in the group phase / earned 60 mil. (-26)
2013 budget 101 million (+15): clearly stronger and more balanced.

Real Valinor
2012: budget 104 million, Champions / earned 140 mil. (+36)
2013 budget 101 million (-3): two huge losses (1xDF & 1xFW).

Shire-Bree United
2012: budget 72 million, made it to the quarterfinals / earned 95 mil. (+23)
2013 budget 68 million (-4): defence slightly better, offence lost.


Last year’s champions, Real Valinor, meets a bunch or weaker sides? It would be quite bold to predict the last season’s winners to be left in the group-phase, but to think they would win it left-handedly would be as stupid – and the AKM thinks they have to perform pretty solidly to advance in the first place (which the AKM thinks they will do though).

Whichever way one looks at different groups, this is one of the tough ones and surviving it will be an achievement in it’s own right.


Hithlum – Hithlum’s last season was a big disappointment. Their group was by consent of many commentators the second toughest of all and with all the teams drawing their games they were left to the group stage with the number of goals scored – something that should never happen to a team where Túrin plays.

But many commentators also agreed that Túrin didn’t have the support he’d need – even if his father and Hador Lórindol himself, both remarkable players, were there behind him. He needed one man… well, an elf to help him – and now he’s back! With Beleg Cuthalion (2+3 / 4 games in Doriath last season) by his side once more there might be no easy way, well no way, to stop Túrin Turambar this season.

Hithlum has also toughened their downstairs by replacing in many ways valiant escorts Grithnir and Gethron by a bit tougher sons of Hador, lord Galdor the Tall (Túrin’s grandpa) and his brother Gundor. And to top that, they have also recruited a Balrog in their defence.

In an interesting move, Hithlum has signed Galdor’s son Huor – who passed the last season – to the goal. And with that one can see that team Hithlum is coming more and more a family affair. And with a family like that one can only predict problems for those opposing it.

And they are investing it big time this year! It’s a kind of flourish or perish -game for them now. That sounds like their family as well.

The AKM prediction: will qualify


Real Valinor – It is a total mystery why Real Valinor would give up Arien. It was not only that she was the clutch-player of the team, it’s biting teeth – and one of the best forwards in the whole Arda to begin with – but also that she formed a beautifully working trio with Miriel and Nerdanel. Replacing Arien (6+1 in six games last year) with Oromë (0+1 in three) doesn’t sound like a good deal whatever way you look at it, even if you liked Oromë very much.

But they also let Caranthir go away. On top of the intelligence and skilfulness of Rumil, Nienna and Tilion, Caranthir brought backbone and strength (and brutality to scare the opponents) to the defence. Now replacing him and Rumil with Ingwë’s son Ingwion and Nahar from FC Valinor could be seen as bringing forth some toughness, but it is clear the two won’t replace Caranthir as a threat to the offensive players of the opposing team.

That said, Real Valinor looks still a quality team and one that should qualify from group C. But it would be a miracle should they find themselves in the final this year. So did someone just cash in or what happened? They weren’t lacking in cash and their deals look like bad ones.

The AKM prediction: qualifies more probably than not


Doriath – Now Doriath could be said to be the real black horse of the group. It is a team of quality and they could have gone further in the tournament last season hadn’t they met a team as strong as Eriador on the first round of the play-offs. On the group-stage they only lost to Anfaughlith just so, draw with the mighty AC Beleriand and beat Nargothrond. That is a remarkable statistic.

But… and then there is the “but”. From last year they have lost two key players Beleg (2+3 / 4 games) and Lúthien (1+1) from their midfield. Now getting Elwë Singollo to play with his wife Melian sure is a boost to the moral of the team – and signing Elwing from the Havens to the defence is a strengthening move – but somehow it feels it just doesn’t do the trick – especially in a group as tough as this one.

In a way Doriath looks more solid than last year but it just lacks certain flare. Can Thingol fill in for both Beleg and Lúthien? Are their defences solid enough to take on both Hithlum and Real Valinor? They have to beat at least one of the two to qualify…

The AKM prediction: has a chance to qualify if plays superbly


Shire-Bree United – Many were surprised with how far the Shire-Bree went last year, but then again the teams they faced were total jokes (The Downer), were just playing much poorer most anticipated (Angband and T-I-G) or got through because of a lousy group (Gondor). AC Beleriand nailed them 3-0 and that kind of tells everything about their quality last season.

Well, not all. There was actually a reason for them to succeed as far as they did, and it was that they were scoring heavily the last year – until they met with a quality defence aka. AC Beleriand who just shut them out. But with The Barrow-Wight, Strider and especially Tom Bombadill now gone they have suddenly lost 75% of their goals – and at the same time the only weapon they had last year.

Now they have improved their defence considerably with Fellbeast and a Nazgul from Mordor and Shadowfax – who came with Gandalf, who is in turn trying to take care of the scoring with the only scorer from the last season remaining, Khamûl.

So they have a better defence this time around – but they are going to need it as this year they’re facing offensive powers gazillion times better they met last year in the group phase. Their midfield is mostly crap (Butterbur & Ferny!), but can they score to stay on with the games? Many have waited for Gandalf’s magic to materialize on the football field in vain for years – will it emerge from somewhere this year? Probably not.

The AKM prediction: most likely stays in the group phase




Group E / Erebor


Erebor
2012: budget 103 million, 4th place / earned 115 mil. (+12)
2013 budget 94 million (-9): two big losses (1xDF & 1xFW).

Eriador
2012: budget 99 million, 2nd place / earned 130 mil. (+31)
2013: budget 103 million (+4): defence changed - a questionmark, offence slightly weaker.

Misty Mountains
2012: budget 62 million, left in the group phase / earned 60 mil. (-2)
2013 budget 76 million (+14): stronger defence.

Wilderland
2012: budget 85 million, left in the group phase / earned 60 mil. (-25)
2013 budget 75 million (-10): weaker MF, stronger DF & FW.


Two semifinalists from the last season take up two teams that were left into the group-phase. So with the overwhelming odds the two great teams fly forwards leaving the other two once again to struggle? Well, not so fast here either. The history or the budgets don’t predict success that well and bad drafts can change things.

Especially Wilderland has a chance to beat teams with superior budgets – if Scatha and Thranduil find a common tune…


Eriador – Last year’s silver medalists have spent 4 million more to their team this year but it is an open question whether they are a better team now. And the questionmarks (two questions basically) are clear.

First: changing the Witch King (4+1 / 6 games last season) for Isildur (0+2 / 3 games) might be a righteous move to build up moral integrity, but is it a good deal gamewise? They did lose a third of their goals with the Witch King anyway. Now Glorfindel is a quality forward and Arveleg proved his worth the last season – and the surprise signing NogWight (2+0 / 3 games – as a NogWolf) might prove valuable or then not – but the question remains, can they fill the void the Witch King leaves?

Secondly: they say “don’t change a winning team”. Now what was the key to their succes the last year was that they didn’t let the other teams to score. Most of the glory here surely goes to Elrond keeping the goal safe. But surely the defence had their part in it – and now it has been turned around. Malbeth the Seer has been sold away, Araphant has been moved to the middlefield, and defending midfielder Valandil has been sold as well. What they got in their place is Arwen (former MF) and Aragorn (former FW, as Strider) in defence with hefty 10 million deals each – now one might make a question about nepotism. Well the fans should pray they can indeed defend…

Will Eriador play for the Cup this year? They have it what it takes to win a lot of tough adversaries – if their downstairs work as well as it did the previous years and Elrond’s magic endures. But will they reach the finals – and turn their silver into gold? Probably not.

The AKM prediction: qualifies


Erebor – Erebor’s success last year was a huge surprise for many. But they did have a solid team – and Beorn broke through as one of the top goalkeepers of the game in Arda. With their success and prize-money one would have thought they would have strengthened their team but it seems they are spending 9 million less this year albeit the money they gathered from the last year. So are they even willing to succeed this year? Are the Dwarves and Mr. Moneybags just piling the money into a treasury or what is it?

Well, what else could be gathered from the fact that they gave away their leading defender Gwaihir (10) and one of the leading scorers Thranduil (13) and replaced them with Thorin (5) and the newcomer Brand (3)? Beorn only got a 2 million raise into his salary but for example Bard plays with the same 8 million contract he played the last year (one could imagine both could have had quite easily better deals from other teams).

If the owners are cynically counting that their team is going to qualify with the lesser budget so as to make nice returns one would hope the team would fail miserably – but it is a good team still and one would hope all the best for the great players in the team.

The AKM prediction: a good chance to qualify


Wilderland – Wilderland is one of those interesting teams you never know what they are capable of. Last year they had quite a strong team on paper but failed to qualify. For this season they have changed quite a lot (almost half of the team has changed) and they have used 10 million less into their team… but once again it looks like they have their chances to qualify, at least on paper.

They have lost three 15 million players up front: Elwë and Galadriel from the midfield and Oromë from the attack. But they still have Scatha and they have somehow acquired Thranduil from Erebor (2+3 / 6 games) to replace the two elves – and a Nazgul from Mordor to play the MF number 10-place. So suddenly their much less costly offence starts to look quite a threat with a formidable pairing of Scatha and Thranduil backed by a Nazgul.

Also on defence they have made a positive-looking change getting rid of Beechbone and replacing him with Radagast.

So Wilderland is making a better-looking team with less money, but will it be enough? A lot depends on how Scatha is playing (last year was a slight disappointment) and will Thranduil deliver in his new environment.

The AKM prediction: could qualify indeed (stress on the word “could”)


Misty Mountains – The Misty Mountains didn’t exactly impress one the last season. Durin’s Bane is a quality striker and Azog & Narvi are not bad players, but they failed to deliver as a team last year. They jut weren’t good enough.

This time around it might be a bit different though as they are spending a little bit more – and into the area that will make the opposition’s game just that inch harder… so it might even pay off. Kicking the stupid trolls Tom and Bert out from their defence and replacing them with none less than Gwaihir the lord of the eagles and Caradhras itself could be called a serious improvement.

They gave also changed their goalkeeper from the Great Goblin (now MF) to the Chief Wolf (former DF). Only time will tell whether that is a good or a bad move. But overall, even if they would not be the top scoring team of the Arda Cup 13, it will be harder to score against them this year. And let’s not forget that both Eriador and Erebor have given away their best scorers…

But will that be enough to qualify against last season’s 2nd, 4th andWilderland?

The AKM prediction: will probably not qualify



More pre-season commentary and even some results fro the friendlies to come on the AKM. Stay tuned!

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

It was almost five years ago when the very first match in the inaugural Arda Cup tournament was played between Michel Delving and Rómenna at Rivendell. Since then there have been 320 games of drama, disappointments, and displays of willpower and skill in the premier Cup completion in Arda.

Three of the media partners of the Arda Cup, Tar-Eldar Network Television, Middle Earth Sports Programming Network, and the Two Towers Network, present a look back at the best moments of the five previous Arda Cups.

2008
The first ever edition remained the only Arda Cup tournament Fëanor has ever won thus far. His Formenos squad comprised all his sons, grandson Celebrimbor, niece Aredhel, and Huan at goal. The 2008 Arda Cup also featured the only time Fëanor and Túrin met on the pitch, in the final game no less.

It was, however, the game immediately before that, the third-place tie between Tol-in-Gaurhoth and Armenelos, that became our writers’ pick as the most memorable:

Originally Posted by the phantom

I [. . .] recall the bronze match being a lot of fun, with TIG defeating Armenelos with the storyline that they time-wasted until the moon came out and they became Werewolves, heh heh.

Originally Posted by Boromir88

I agree with [the phantom], the Bronze match between TIG and [Armenelos] was a gem. In how the wolves delayed the game long enough to turn into wolf form and just storm back to bruise up those haughty Numenoreans. Only to make their exit with the Bronze trophy before Mablung's guard arrived.

2009
Our writers agree that the most memorable story from the second Arda Cup was upstarts Mirkwood making it all the way to the semifinals, beating contenders Túna and Valimar along the way.

Originally Posted by Boromir88

[The surprise upset of the tournament] has to be Mirkwood's win against Valimar in the quarter-finals. It was the only game I predicted wrong, and in fact Valimar's score was the only one I got wrong in the quarters that year, of course it's shocking!

The Phantom of MESPN even suggested that Mirkwood’s Cinderella run had an effect on Armenelos’s title chance:

Originally Posted by the phantom

The two teams I remember from this tournament- Mirkwood and Armenelos. The Numenoreans were solid and added the talent of Sauron to the mix so obviously they were good, but if I'm not mistaken I had three or four teams ranked ahead of them in my estimation (Hithlum and Valimar, and some combination of Tuna or Angband or Utumno). And Mirkwood wasn't considered a very realistic title threat at all.

But then Mirkwood pulled an overtime upset over Tuna despite getting beaten in all other stats, and then they upset Valimar in a shootout. It was quite a run, and it also kept Armenelos from having to play one of those other squads in the semis.

2010
There was not much consensus as to what the best moment of the 2010 Arda Cup. Valimar’s shock defeat against Norbury was acknowledged, as well as Vinyamar’s run to the final, and, of course, who could forget Arien’s solo performance (two goals, two assists, and a red card drawn against Glaurung) against Thangorodrim in the last group stage matchday. But there was no single moment that defined that tournament. Here is instead a collection of five games from our three writers:

Originally Posted by the phantom

I seem to remember that the anticipation ahead of the Gondolin vs Tirion quarterfinal was especially big that year- both looked very good going in, and I think maybe Nog called it "what should've been the final". (That was the year that Tirion had Finwe-Feanor-Miriel-Nerdanel, and after group play Nerdanel led the whole field with 22 points).

But my favorite game that year had to be Vinyamar defeating The Barrow-Downs. As sad as the result was, it made for a great story. (That was the game where it was all Urwen's fault that the Downs lost, ha ha.)

Originally Posted by Boromir88

Gondolin - Vinyamar Finals [was the best]. (Even though I think the semi matches were a bit more thrilling) Gondolin's win in the finals clinched my rightful Phantasy title [. . .] [And a surprise upset was] Norbury's defeat of [Valimar] in the Round of 16. Araphor continuing his knack for scoring big goals late, and in pressure situations.

Originally Posted by Nilpaurion Felagund

In the semifinals, Gondolin went two goals behind to an Utumno team that had never yet conceded in five games, but Fingolfin and company would not be denied, forcing extra time and then pinching a winner through Maeglin’s free kick.

2011
It was a rare confluence of dominance and brilliance—the 2011 champions also produced the most memorable moment of the tournament.

Originally Posted by the phantom

Well the biggest standout here is obviously Doriath, putting together the most successful overall tournament of any squad (big surprise, given the roster). It was also cool that the other streaking super-team got to the finals as well (Tol-In-Gaurhoth), so it was a clash of the titans (though the final game didn't turn out as close as I hoped for drama).

Originally Posted by Nilpaurion Felagund

Doriath and Tol-in-Gaurhoth crushed all before them, including an exciting Valinor team featuring the Arien-Míriel-Nerdanel combo up front and an Angband side desperate for the Cup (both falling 3-1 to Doriath), as well as a resurgent team of Númenóreans in Westernesse, and Pelóri, the team where Manwë finally found the balance between defensive solidity and goalscoring (both losing to TiG). It’s fitting that these two juggernauts met in the final, and equally fitting that the only team to win every game by at least a two-goal margin won with a two-goal margin. 2011 Doriath may have been the catalyst for the drastic financial changes to be implemented the very next year, so dominating they were.

2012
The first tournament after the implementation of various reforms brought about an evening of the playing field—and more drama. The pre-tournament favourites FC Valinor toyed around with their rivals Real Valinor with an aggregate score of 5-1, but they were shockingly eliminated in a tense penalty shootout against Erebor. It was, however, the sheer drama of the semifinal ties that year stole our writers’ imaginations.

Originally Posted by Nilpaurion Felagund

The semifinals, wow! Real vs AC Bel: You knew Arien was on-form that day—every decision she made was spot-on. You also expected Fëanor to rally his troops after going two goals behind, but Real showed steel and cunning, holding back AC Bel’s frightening attack and instigating counterattacks to keep Fingolfin and company on their toes.

And the other semifinal, Eriador vs Erebor, was slightly better for drama. Two solid teams from back to front nicking a goal each in ninety minutes, a wonderful goal crafted by the Witch-king and Glorfindel in extra time, and an Elrond penalty save against Smaug just before the final whistle. Just a cracking pair of games.

Originally Posted by Boromir88

The two semi-finals were spectacular and gave a chance to finally insert the TTN - AKM feud somewhat. I'm going to pick the Middle-earth semi though between Erebor and Eriador. Elrond's masterful performance and the Witch-King's OT goal put Eriador into the finals against Real Valinor.

Originally Posted by the phantom

I [. . .] recall that the semis between Real and AC was quite the buildup and match.

And there you have it: the most memorable Arda Cup moments from 2008 to 2012. From all of us at TENT, TTN, and MESPN, happy 5th Anniversary to the Arda Cup, and here’s to five more years of great games.