Arda Cup Football 2013

[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.

[the phantom]

Teams Preparing With Friendlies
Philip McPhantom, MESPN News

In order to ensure that their players are prepared to compete at the highest level, all Arda Cup teams will be playing two friendlies before heading to their sites for group play. With only two games to prepare, it can be assumed that the teams will be fairly focused and playing to the best of their abilities.

No one will be playing friendlies against a team from their group, so there shouldn't be any worry about holding back in anticipation of a repeat game (unless they meet them again in the playoffs, of course).

The slate of games for the first round of friendlies features many contests to look forward to, among them-

Angband vs Hithlum- Turin, Hurin and friends go into battle against Morgoth himself. Talk about a grudge-match.

The Sea vs Valimar- Ulmo and his water-loving pals will engage some of his Vala brethren, in what should be a showcase in mistake-free execution and tactics.

Doriath vs Tol-In-Gaurhoth- A rematch of the championship game two seasons ago, Tol In Gaurhoth will be out for revenge, and Doriath will be keen to deny them.

Shire-Bree United vs The Barrow-Downs- The new look squad from the Downs wants to prove they're a serious team now, while their Gandalf-led neighbors look to duplicate last year's playoff form.

Imladris vs Misty Mts- These two neighbors will again strive to claim regional dominance, in a feud that is certain to bring out a bit of bad blood.

Isengard vs Rohan- Speaking of bad blood, surely there will be great incentive to claim victory here for these two neighbors.

FC Valinor vs Real Valinor- In what is surely the most anticipated match, these two squads will meet for the third time in less than a year. FC gave Real more than they could handle in their previous meetings, but Real got the last laugh by winning last year's championship trophy.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Elenrod: Good evening, and welcome to The Matchday, the show for discerning football fans. Normally we cover the Elvish Premier League, but it’s about time we have a go at the Arda Cup. I’m your host, Elenrod of TENT, and with me today is our resident tactics expert, Maikalomion.

Maikalomion: Mae govannen.

Elenrod: And ArdaCup.com’s columnist on disclaimers, Adam Smith.

Adam : Hi. Not the economist.

Elenrod: Not the economist. Blogger and hostage Felagundion is also here.

Felagundion: I’ve yet to decide if this is better than paying the damages.

Elenrod: It’s $60 million for hijacking our Group G matchday 2 broadcast last year, by the way.

Adam: Oof. I hope you have a Gondolin bank account.

Elenrod: Indeed. So, where do we start, then?

Adam: Gondolin-Tirion at Tumladen Park.

Gondolin 0-2 Tirion
on target 3-7
tot shots 12-15
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Mahtan (Finwë)
*37, 0-2 Aredhel (Finwë)
YELLOW CARDS:
*GDN- Galdor, Salgant
*TIR- Caranthir

Elenrod: So, they held the game at Tumladen Park because the Song of Stone Stadium—

Felagundion: Stadium on the Rock.

Elenrod: Pardon?

Felagundion: Song of Stone Insurance is a Premier League sponsor, but not an Arda Cup one. So we should call it ‘Stadium on the Rock’.

Elenrod: Oh, okay. So, they held it at Tumladen Park because Stadium on the Rock will be used for most of Group B’s games.

Adam: Except one of the last group stage games, to comply with the Arda Cup rule on games on the last day being played simultaneously. That’s when they’ll use Tumladen Park again.

Elenrod: Right. So, Maika, what went wrong for Gondolin? Many have said that Gondolin lost because they sat back and preferred to play on the break instead of taking the game to Tirion. They do have the better midfielders, after all.

Maika : But it was the right tactic for Gondolin. Salgant and Duilin might be better passers, better at going forward, but they can’t shield their defenders well. And Gondolin’s back four aren’t really that good, and the only one who’s quality, Penlod, isn’t suited to playing a high line. He’s better off with his back to the goal where he can see the play before him, so his positional intelligence, his intercepting, and his aerial prowess can be brought to bear. But he’s not comfortable when he’s forced to turn and run after attackers.

Elenrod: So how did Tirion score twice against a Gondolin side that set out to defend?

Adam: I noticed how Aredhel pinned back Penlod, leaving Aranwë to deal with Finwë. And he just dominated the poor father of Voronwë in the air.

Maika: That’s the advantage of having two genuine centre forwards up top. You can dictate the match-up to the opposing centre-backs. A lot of two-forward formations last year had only one centre forward who’s paired with a second striker who usually started from the wings and roamed around looking for space. You had Glorfindel, Eöl, Bombadil, and Maeglin playing that way. Anyway, Finwë was clearly Tirion’s avenue of attack. Rúmil and Caranthir peppered the box with crosses for him.

Adam: And their strategy was successful—two of his knock-downs were converted by Mahtan and Aredhel.

Elenrod: And then during the second half, I saw Penlod and Aranwë switch marking duties, and Finwë was silenced. Is that right?

Felagundion: That’s right. Finwë couldn’t win in an aerial battle with Penlod the Tall—at least, not comfortably.

Elenrod: So Gondolin were able to blunt Tirion’s attack. But how come they couldn’t get back into the game? What was the problem with their offence?

Maika: The defenders and Rog were terrible in their distribution, and Mahtan and Rúmil marked Idril and Elemmakil well. Remember, counterattacking depends on getting the ball as quickly as possible to the forwards, usually via long balls from the defence or wingers who scamper quickly up the pitch. Often Tuor had to win long balls on the flanks, where he was then trapped by the full-back, the wide midfielder, and the centre-back on that side of the pitch. He’s not bad with the ball on the ground, but he can’t dribble past three markers; that’s Maeglin’s specialty. But Maeglin can’t win long balls like Tuor can.

Elenrod: I guess that’s it for Gondolin-Tirion. How about Dagor Bragollach? Anfauglith vs AC Beleriand at Mithrim’s Lakeside Arena.

AC Beleriand 2-1 Anfauglith
on target 7-3
tot shots 17-10
GOALS:
*19, 0-1 Gothmog (Balrog #3)
*64, 1-1 Angrod (Eöl)
*78, 2-1 Aegnor (Fëanor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ACB- Imlach, Ulrad
*ANF- Haldir, Balrog #2, Gelmir

Adam: The opener for that game was fantastic! Balrog #3 breaks up an AC Bel attack and sends a long ball forward. Then Gothmog and Ecthelion, both aerial experts, confuse Imlach and Rochallor by switching positions. Poor Rochallor ends up getting matched against the Lord of the Balrogs, who predictably wins the header. He turns on Fingolfin’s horse and slams a piledriver home. Poor Marach at the AC Bel goal never stood a chance.

Elenrod: But then AC Bel mounts a comeback in the second half.

Maika: Yes, and they also showed that they don’t miss Beren that much on offence. They fielded a 4-2-3-1, with Fëanor just behind Eöl up top, instead of the other way around as you’d expect. Anfauglith’s defence didn’t know what to do, especially with Eöl still running all over the pitch as usual. And Angrod and Aegnor were brilliant—they started out wide, as expected, but their runs were direct, goalward, like what Beleg and Lúthien did for Doriath last year. That front four just played their first real game—well, it’s a friendly, but at least it’s not a practise match—and they were already combining excellently. They’d be a handful for any defence in the tournament.

Elenrod: All right. Now, let’s indulge one of our guests here and move on to Nargothrond-Armenelos at the High Faroth Arena.

Armenelos 3-3 Nargothrond
on target 9-7
tot shots 21-17
GOALS:
*7, 0-1 Nienor (Gwindor)
*28, 1-1 Elros (Ar-Adûnakhôr)
*42, 1-2 Finduilas (Finrod)
*59, 2-2 Ar-Pharazôn (Tar-Míriel)
*72, 3-2 Ar-Pharazôn (Tar-Ancalimon)
*85, 3-3 Glaurung (Nienor)
YELLOW CARDS:
*ARM- Ar-Gimilzôr, Tar-Calmacil
*NGR- Arminas, Guilin

Felagundion: Finally!

Elenrod: So, Felagundion, tell me about what Nargothrond are doing just outside their gates.

Felagundion: Don’t mind if I do. They’re building a second stadium, Narog Bridge, in order to comply with Arda Cup’s new group stage hosting rules. They’re trying to win a hosting bid for the quarterfinals this year, but they want to host a group again sometime in the future.

Elenrod: Best of luck, then. So, the game. Six goals, thirty-eight shots—this was an open game.

Felagundion: A frantic one. Finrod said afterwards that they deliberately played that way—they wanted to test their attack-to-defence transition. It was still poor, but you can see some improvements—the previous Nargothrond back line would have conceded four or more to Armenelos.

Adam: And Armenelos look like a mess because they’re testing a back three, with Tar-Míriel and Tar-Ancalimon as wing-backs.
 
Maika: Wing-back is one of the most demanding positions in football. They’re listed as midfielders, but they have to help out both in attack and defence. That’s especially true in a 3-5-2, since the back three are all central defenders and the front two are both centre forwards. All of a team’s width, both at the front and the back, comes from the wing-backs.

Adam: That position requires a crazy amount of stamina to go up and down the pitch for ninety minutes, as well as crossing ability and positional sense to know when to go forward and when to stay back.

Maika: They’d probably try all their midfielders to see which pair works best. Except Elros; he’s their number ten, just behind Ar-Pharazôn and Ar-Adûnakhôr.

Elenrod: That’s enlightening stuff. But I hear Finrod also fielded an unusual shape.

Felagundion: Yes, he did. Finrod and Gwindor started as a front two, with Glaurung just behind them, so that the Father of Dragons could start in his preferred spot between the lines of opposition defence and midfield.

Maika: He’s their number ten, though he’s not much of a playmaker like a traditional number ten is. He’s playing more of a Bard role in last year’s Erebor, playing between the lines, then making sudden runs against overloaded defences.

Felagundion: And it worked, at least at first. Finrod went deep and Gwindor went right, to their preferred positions, dragging Tar-Palantir and Tar-Calmacil with them. Poor Tar-Telperiën was all alone dealing with runs from Glaurung, Nienor, and Finduilas.

Maika: Those two ladies are an excellent fit to Nargothrond’s system. They’re decent tacklers so they can help on the defence, and they have an instinct for making those sudden explosive runs at the right time.

Elenrod: But in the second half, Armenelos make their comeback with a Golden double.

Maika: Yes. Ar-Gimilzôr and Tar-Telemmaitë in the Armenelos midfield sat deeper to contain Nargothrond’s midfield runs. This defensive shift gave the wing-backs greater license to push forward, and they crossed for both of Ar-Pharazôn’s goals.

Elenrod: Then Glaurung’s equaliser happened.

Felagundion: Nienor sends a hasty cross right in the space between the triangle of Tar-Telperiën and the Armenelos midfielders. Tar-Telperiën moves forward to clear it, but on comes Glaurung, seemingly out of nowhere, to claim it. He flicks it upward a little, just beyond the Queen’s reach, turns on her, and then tails home a screamer. The stadium went wild.

Elenrod: I’m sure they did. Well, we’re almost out of time, so on to the last game: Inter Beleriand vs The Havens at Himring’s Ever-Cold Arena, another game of six goals.

Inter Beleriand 3-3 The Havens
on target 8-9
tot shots 17-18
GOALS:
*17, 1-0 Beren (Maedhros)
*31, 1-1 Eärendil (Eärwen)
*42, 1-2 Eärendil (Falastur)
*58, 2-2 Maedhros (Fingon)
*68, 2-3 Círdan (Olwë)
*79, 3-3 Fingon (Haleth)
YELLOW CARDS:
*INB- Forweg
*HAV- Mithrellas

Elenrod: If you squint hard enough you’ll see that it’s almost like the previous game we discussed. A striker scores a brace, but his team concedes a late equaliser.

Adam: Except the brace was completed in the first half. But yeah, Eärendil. He’s at the tip of the Haven’s 4-2-3-1/4-4-1-1- hybrid, with Círdan just behind him and Falastur and Eärwen taking the place of wide midfielders Angrod and Aegnor. And they’re almost as good as the ones they replaced, at least in this game. It was their crosses that Eärendil converted for his double.

Maika: And the combination between Inter’s front two and Beren was about as seamless as those of their rivals AC Bel. Well, the partnership between Maedhros and Fingon is almost telepathic by now—no surprise, as they’ve been playing for more than four years now.

Felagundion: The only time they weren’t teammates was the very first Arda Cup. That’s just… wow.

Elenrod: I agree. How’s that for commitment? I also saw that both teams’ supporting cast aren’t bad.

Adam: Yeah, Inter’s Haleth is a handful down the flanks; he’s just crazy fast in a straight-line dash. And Havens full-back Olwë times his forward surges well, so he doesn’t leave space behind him often and he with his daughter can overload the opposing right-back to get crosses in for Eärendil and Círdan.

Elenrod: Marvellous stuff. And with that we come to the end of our program. Tune in again next time for another Matchday analysis of the friendlies, as well as our team previews and tournament prediction. Many thanks to Maika, to Adam, and to Felagundion. From all of us here: namárië for now.

[the phantom]

With only two rounds of friendlies this year, and a promise of no rematches in groups, the practice games have seen excellent attendance and viewership- not to mention a slightly higher level of play. Checking in on the most recent round of games, first at Taniquetil...

The Sea 1-0 Valimar
on target 5-2
tot shots 13-9
GOALS:
*38, 1-0 Tar Minastir (Tar Meneldur)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Sea- Voronwe, Osse
*Valimar- Este

A low-scoring affair here, but not bad to watch. Both squads showed respectable offensive chops, but the defenses were generally more than a match for them, and there was no rhythm to be found. Arien seemed a bit frustrated, perpetually shadowed by Osse or Uinen, stuck to her like a wet shirt. And in fact she may have been right to gripe at the officials, as the sea-folk were continually dousing her flames by splashing water on her. In the end The Sea proved stingier, and Amarie and Este got crossed up on assignments leaving Tar Minastir an avenue to the net.

And at Bree...

Shire-Bree United 2-1 The Barrow-Downs
on target 6-4
tot shots 13-13
GOALS:
*39, 1-0 Gandalf (Ferny)
*60, 1-1 Bombadil (Saucepan Man)
*86, 2-1 Khamul (Gandalf)
YELLOW CARDS:
*SBUnt- Nazgul#4, Shadowfax, Bandobras, Ferny
*BDowns- GwathWight, Hookbill, LalwendeMP

Though most of the offense departed, it seems SBree can still score with Gandalf plugged in, and their defense did look more impressive than last season. But The Downs still gave them a game and made them work for the win, highlighted by a brilliant run by Bombadil (who else?).

Meanwhile, at Goblin Town...

Imladris 2-2 Misty Mts
on target 7-6
tot shots 16-16
GOALS:
*16, 1-0 Elladan (Arahael)
*37, 1-1 Orophin (Narvi)
*65, 2-1 Elrohir (Lindir)
*84, 2-2 Azog (Orophin)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Imlad- Galdor, Elladan, Erestor, Celebrian, Arahael, Elrohir
*MMts- Azog, GreatGoblin, William, Rumil, Caradhras, DBane
RED CARDS:
*Imlad- Elladan (29, second yellow)
*MMts- Great Goblin (48, second yellow)

A lot of cards were handed out here, and honestly a couple others should've been booted off if only the refs had spotted what they were doing. Evidently the sons of Elrond haven't forgiven the captivity and torture of their mother, nor have the goblins forgotten the piles of goblins they slew in revenge. Goals were generally scored on account of one player or another getting thrown down or injured (or epically failing to do so to another) leaving an opening for the offense. At the start the game went more the way of Imaldris, but the open field that resulted from the send-offs seemed to favor Misty, and at the finish they were looking less ragged.

And finally at Helm's Deep...

Isengard 1-2 Rohan
on target 5-6
tot shots 13-14
GOALS:
*32, 0-1 Eowyn (Faramir)
*36, 1-1 Saruman (Lugdush)
*63, 1-2 Helm (Faramir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Isen- Mauhur, Wormtongue, Wulf
*Rohan- Erkenbrand, Brytta, Snowmane

Many were expected similar violence in this clash, but with a couple Ents on the Isengard side and Saruman exerting great control over his bunch, it was a rather ordinary match. The Rohan defense did a fine job denying Saruman touches, and in the end Helm himself made the difference, as Faramir and Eowyn sucked in the Ent defenders with some nice ball work then hung it up for Helm and he beat Mauhur and Lugdush for it.