ARDA CUP Football 2012

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Right, the sportswriters are nowhere to be seen, so the editor was left with no choice but to let me, a statistician, write the report. So this won't be pretty, but considering how well we did in the last round of sixteen prediction, we're still worth reading.


A1 Angband vs H2 Minas Tirith

Minas Tirith has done well to limit the above-average offences of the teams in Group H to two goals per game, so it's a safe bet that, even with Ancalagon (leading scorer of the moment) and Tevildo (assists leader), Angband would score that much. However, Minas Tirith has been scoring against only lousy defences so far (except Gondor, which, however, is still a fair-to-middling defensive team). How well do you think would the Stewards fare against Morgoth, a Balrog, and Carcaroth? (They might score one, but that's the most I expect they'll get.)

Angband 2:0 Minas Tirith

B1 Eriador vs G2 Doriath

Elrond's no longer the ridiculous clean-sheet machine that he was last season, but he's allowed all teams against him (ranging from mediocre Arnor to fearsome Gondolin) only one goal. So expect Doriath's free-flowing offence to score that much. On the other end, Melian and company would be hard-pressed to stop two fleet-footed strikers who play well off each other complemented by midfield runs from Arveleg.

Eriador 2:1 Doriath

C1 Erebor vs F2 Imladris

Imladris had a tough time scoring in the group stage. Erebor conceded just one to Wilderland's First Age offence.

Erebor 1:0 Imladris

D1 FC Valinor vs E2 The Havens

FC Valinor conceded only to Tirion in a game that no longer counted. They bludgeoned Real Valinor, their putative rivals, as well as perennial Cup contender Armenelos. The Havens has a mediocre defence and a good offence. That won't be enough even to slow FC Valinor down.

FC Valinor 4:0 The Havens

E1 The Sea vs D2 Real Valinor

The Sea scored one against Valimar, and conceded just two to Hithlum. Real Valinor is about Hithlum's level in offence, and just a notch below Valimar in defence--they did concede three to FC Valinor, but only one each to Tirion and Armenelos. Fortunately for them, Tar-Minastir and Tar-Aldarion aren't Curufin and Celegorm.

The Sea 1:2 Real Valinor

F1 Rohan vs C2 Dwarves United

This is one of the better match-ups for the Eorlingas. They can play their slow-paced possession game, starve Dwarves United of the ball, and build up safely for their winner.

Rohan 1:0 Dwarves United

G1 AC Beleriand vs B2 Gondolin

Expect Gondolin to score even against AC Beleriand's defence. Expect AC Beleriand to score more against Gondolin's so-so defence.

AC Beleriand 4:2 Gondolin

H1 Gondor vs A2 Shire-Bree United

Shire-Bree United held Angband and Tol-in-Gaurhoth to two goals, and Gondor, with their offence, is expected to get as much. But SBU also got two past the same teams, who had better defensive personnel than Gondor has (although TiG's sudden dip in form is puzzling.) They'd probably need extra-time to do so, but expect the stronger attack of SBU to prevail.

Gondor 2:3 Shire-Bree United

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Eriador vs Doriath


[Projected formation. Eriador in white and black; Doriath in silver and blue.]

Formation:

Doriath would most likely use the same lopsided 4-4-1-1 they used to great effect against Nargothrond, with Beleg the link between the two defensive banks of four and Mablung. Melian’s three straight starts at central defence would be extended for at least one more game, matching her and Galathil against the strong and agile Witch-king, leaving Nimloth to counter Glorfindel’s pace and intelligent positioning. But one problem with Doriath’s 4-4-1-1 is that it leaves at least one fullback free. Against Nargothrond that was no problem, since their defenders rarely press downfield, but against Eriador, Lúthien’s deep position would leave Gil-galad with space to push down the pitch. If Arveleg timed his run perfectly against Saeros on the right (which we know he can do), then Gil-galad would have space to take on the distracted Doriath left back.

Eriador has been using the same 4-1-3-2 for three group stage games with great results, and would not likely change it.

Tactics:

Doriath has been one of the most tactically interesting teams of the tournament, neutralising teams deemed to be stronger than them by having the right players in the right places. Fielding Beleg and Lúthien as defensive wingers against the offensive fullbacks Fingolfin and Ecthelion of AC Beleriand, and then arraying two rows of four defensive players to contain the powerful and versatile attacking line-up of Nargothrond, they got a draw against one of the Cup contenders and a win against the team most expected to advance second in their group. Along the way the Fenced Realm had greater success as a counter-attacking team, losing the only game where they tried to take the initiative, so expect them to use the same strategy against a superior Eriador side.

Eriador’s defence is bound to get more attention due to the presence of star shotstopper Elrond, but credit must also be given to their offence, scoring more than two goals per game in a group containing decent defences. Wiki and Glorfindel have great synergy—their off-the-ball movements create enough space for each other—and Arveleg’s intelligent runs from midfield has proven to be the extra punch Eriador needs to break through stubborn defences.

AC Beleriand vs Gondolin


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

Formation:

The formation battle promises to be interesting, with the two teams fielding different interpretations of the venerable 4-4-2: AC Beleriand’s wingless 4-4-2 diamond vs Gondolin’s skewed 4-2-2-2. Meleth, despite not being in the stat sheet, has been a quietly effective distributor, having initiated many of the Hidden Realm’s chances from deep in the midfield. Gondolin’s attacking width comes from Maeglin working the channels between central and right defenders and Elemmakil looking to find space to cross on the left of the box. Duilin provides the midfield runs that break down defences paying too much attention to the powerful Gothmog and the crafty Maeglin.

AC Beleriand, as stated by MESPN, have natural markers for the Gondolin striker duo—left back Fingolfin against Maeglin and Ecthelion (who would have to move to centre back, perhaps in place of Imlach) against Gothmog. And when AC Beleriand is in possession, Maeglin must not be lax in marking Fingolfin; Gondolin’s back four would already have a handful in Fëanor and Eöl, and letting Fingolfin make his way downfield would push them past the breaking point.

Tactics:

It would be a close battle in the midfield, with four central midfielders from each side. AC Beleriand’s Beren is without a doubt one of the best attacking midfielders in the tournament, and his teammate Bregolas and Gondolin’s Salgant are adequate holding midfielders, but overall Gondolin have slightly better passers: Duilin and Elemmakil have a combined nine assists (including friendlies), and Meleth, as has been mentioned earlier, has been an efficient deep-lying playmaker. However, considering the two squads’ last group games, AC Beleriand would have more energy to press than Gondolin, and that might tilt the possession stat in favour of Fëanor’s side.

Looking at their projected formations, the players who would have the most amount of space play on the same side of the pitch: Denethor and Imlach (or perhaps Ecthelion) on AC Beleriand’s right, and Elemmakil and Galdor on Gondolin’s left. It looks like the natural tendency would be for the free fullbacks to mark the free midfielders, but moving higher up the pitch would leave their respective sides with only a back three. Doing so might leave high work-rate strikers, especially those who move around looking for space (AC Beleriand’s Eöl and Gondolin’s Maeglin) with a lot of room.

[the phantom]

@ Erebor

The Dwarves of the Lonely Mountain and men of Dale were nearly giddy with excitement leading up to their first round playoff match against Imladris. Team Erebor had been quite impressive thus far- they defeated the playoff-bound Dwarves United in the friendlies and in group play, split with an impressive Wilderland squad, earned a friendly win over Group B winner Eriador, and came out on top in Group C with room to spare.

Smaug and company had been efficient on the attack, and Beorn and his eagle defenders had done a nice job at keeping the opposition off the scoreboard. Erebor fans felt they had a right to be confident.

But their foes from Imladris had some confidence as well- having Erestor and Varda herself protecting Elros’s goal was nothing to sneeze at, and the children of Elrond certainly had some skill on the attack. But they were a bit concerned about the midfield game. Lindir, Figwit, and Gilraen weren’t ones to exactly strike fear into the hearts of opponents, while Erebor boasted King Dain, the merciless Orc-King Bolg, and the grim sniper Bard in the midfield.

It was this advantage that had most of the betting agencies leaning in Erebor’s direction, as well as many football experts on MESPN and other networks. But the game, as always, would be decided on the grass and not on paper.

Or not on grass, actually, but the grass-like carpet covering the Stadium Under the Mountain at Erebor. When Erebor won the right to host the contest, many thought they would opt to host the game in the stadium down in Dale, as it was more convenient for folks staying there and at Lake Town, but the Lonely Mountain ownership wanted the game at their own stadium- which to be fair was slightly larger, and certainly noisier.

As evening approached a steady stream of football fans flowed to the gates of Erebor, though far more were filling the seats from inside the mountain. There were small pockets of Imladris fans, but the crowd was as lopsided as could be in favor of the home side.

By the time the teams entered the field of play the audience was in an absolute fever, chanting and waving flags with confidence. The game started and their volume increased, and the team on the field didn’t let them down. Erebor controlled things from the word go, and Imladris was defending. Erebor possessed well, and made trial of Imladris’s defense from every angle.

But fortunately for Imladris, team defense was their specialty, and Varda and company did their job well enough to keep Erebor off the board, bothering and rushing the shots just enough, and just generally getting in the way. Twice in the opening 20 Imladris couldn’t keep the ball away from Elros, but their keeper showed his mettle and rose to the challenge.

As the half wore towards its end, things started swinging the way of Imladris, and the somewhat tired Erebor side had trouble getting the ball away. Twice Imladris earned corners and twice they got the ball between the posts off of it, but Beorn batted away both attempts and Erebor breathed a sigh of relief.

In the midst of holding off yet another Imladris attack in the closing seconds of the half, Erebor at last gave their fans something to celebrate. Gwaihir got in the way of a pass and Bolg cleaned up the loose ball, sending it forward to the dashing Thranduil. The Elven King hauled it in and sent it to the wing for Nazgul #7 who immediately recognized the opportunity as it arrived- Imladris’s back line held up to force the offside ruling, but the heady Nazgul immediately sent it into the box before Smaug crossed through. The dragon was perfectly level as it was sent, and no one had a hope of challenging his thunderous header. It was 1-0 to the home team!

The atmosphere at the half was festive. The fans were confident that Erebor had weathered the storm and the opposition would fold. Some of the cooler heads reminded their fellows that things rarely prove so easy in the playoffs of Arda Cup, but on this day there was no need for caution, as team Erebor busted out of the gates in the second half with a withering assault, and after but a few minutes it was 2-0 Erebor, with the previous distributor Nazgul #7 smartly volleying in a rebound!

King Dain and King Thranduil agreed to pull back and rest up for a bit, confident that their defense would hold, and hold it did. Erebor was not as gassed as they were towards the end of the first half, and so Erebor found little success with the ball on their feet. And many remembered well the words of the MESPN analyst who pointed out that Imladris was in fact more comfortable playing defense and counter-attacking.

As the minutes slipped past the Kings ordered Erebor back on the attack- but more reserved than before. There would be no aggressive runs, but rather careful trial of the Imladris back. Imladris took to the task with enthusiasm, thinking this was more suited to their style, but they felt foolish indeed at minute 69. Smaug was simply too large and physical to handle on the ground and too fast when in flight and he proved it with his second goal of the contest, this time off a feed from Thranduil.

With a 3-0 lead and 20 minutes left the crowd began celebrating in earnest. Imladris was not an offensive power, and the home defense was quality. It was in the bag. The more cautious among them perhaps thought of warning of early celebration, but remembering how Erebor had proved them wrong after the half they gave themselves over to blind optimism and joined in the party!

And that was the wise decision, as Erebor simply didn’t allow Imladris an inch. They played keep-away to force Imladris to pressure the ball, and when Imladris had it the eagles and Smaug swooped down at every opportunity, harrying the possession game.

Imladris kept trying doggedly until the very end and perhaps they felt they earned respect in that, but all praise was aimed squarely at Erebor. In dominating fashion they were through to the quarterfinals!

Erebor 3-0 Imladris
on target 8-2
tot shots 19-7
GOALS:
*43, 1-0 Smaug (Nazgul #7)
*52, 2-0 Nazgul #7 (Bolg)
*69, 3-0 Smaug (Thranduil)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Erebor- Landroval
*Imladris- Galdor, Gilraen

[Nogrod]

Arda Cup 12, play offs round 1 @ The Grey Havens, a preview


Now because of the ban of the undying lands to host any matches this year the AFA was in dire need of venues the Valimar-based teams could play their first games at. And a solution did present itself – although it would be clear not all footballing sides would be too happy about it. The Havens was the only team still on from groups D and E, and it had hosted the group E and several friendlies with success: and they had a new and shining arena, Lhûnarena, to hold the games in – and with all this buzz, there were some signs the Havens might just bring about a spreading of football-culture in that corner of Arda normally not referred to as “footballing country”. So there was a lot to win in giving the games in there.

The AFA had one requirement though: entertaining the folks outside the arena with just audio-broadcasting the events was not going to be enough. The waterpark and the riverside gardens outside the wall were a great place to bring around an all-folks football-jubilee for those who had not been able to purchase a ticket, and the parks could easily take in even a hundred- to two hundred-thousand crowd. So there had to be giant screens broadcasting the games live from inside the stadium, and some other conveniences offered to the people outside the arena if the Grey Havens was willing to hold the two matches. Cirdan had easy time promising them as the tourists would bring in such quantities of revenue that those investments would be a fly’s buzz in their coffers.

And it really was a boost to the Grey Havens! On top of luring even more of the elves, men and hobbits from the surrounding lands, the Grey Havens draw crowds especially from Valimar, Númenor and Beleriand – and there were many football cognoscenti from all around the ME who reserved their tickets asap as they heard about this double-game evening. It was something a football fan would not let slip from his or her hands. Some media might have been over the top though, like the local tabloid The Lhûnandarwinian which screamed on it’s frontpage: “See the finalists of the AC 12!”, but no one could deny that there would be some real quality football on offer and a dashing display of players.


~*~

The teams did give a short pre-game press audition from where the AKM brings its readers just few clips to give you an idea how things were forming before the games.

The AKM: With the breaking news just in we hear that Imladris lost to Erebor 3-0, any comments on the performance of your son and grandchildren?

Eärendil: That’s the final result? Uhh… I would have hoped Elros and the young-ones to fare better, but this certainly is no surprise either. I mean if you want to go far in a tournament like this you need more stars in your team.

The AKM: But they did have Varda?

Eärendil: Haha. I’m afraid she’s not able to create the kind of stars I’m referring to...

The Lhûnandarwinian: How do you see our chances of qualifying?

Eärendil: Well, FC Valinor surely are the favourites this evening, but if the crowds come to support us, they might become the infamous twelwth player on the pitch and who knows what might ensue? So I hope everyone turns out to cheer for us. We'll make it a game to remember!

The Armenelos Times: Many say Real Valinor hasn’t quite lived up to the expectations, so how do you see our… erm… your chances this evening against The Sea?

Tar Minastir: That’s media-talk, statistician’s pillow-stories, you know. Real Valinor has lost two games, but both those games were against FC Valinor, and they have won all the other matches they’ve played – and against some pretty good teams. So I think there is no reason to think they’re not as tough a team as their opening line-up tells. That said, we’re going to challenge them securing our own end first and trying to imbalance them when or if they get too greedy coming forwards.

The Númenorian: Counter-attacking tactics that is?

Tar Minastir: One doesn’t simply go attacking full force against a team with such skill, experience and talent as Real Valinor. We don’t want to be 0-4 behind at the half-time.

The AKM: Taking an earlier question as a lead, how do you think your team has fared thus far and how do you think your opponents of this evening, The Sea?

Arien: I do agree with wise Tar Minastir about the statisticians “not seeing the forest from the trees”. FC Valinor has been a too tough a nut for us to crack, but hopefully we meet in the finals where we might finally know how to do it. What comes to the Sea, well, Ulmo and his minions will be tough in defence and the great Numenorian talent will surely be a constant threath to our defences. I mean I’m one of those who didn’t think it a surprise they qualified as number one from that tough group they played in: they are both a well balanced team unlike hithlum fex., and they are not as conservative as Manwë’s Valimar so they have what it takes to produce results as well.

The Lhûnandarwinian: How will you plan to bring down The Havens this evening?

Maglor: I see the pointy end of that question of yours. So I’ll answer in kind: I’ve done it once so why not another time? Let me put it this way: how many players do you think we would like to change with the Havens if we had chance?

The Lhûnandarwinian: Well, Eärendil surely would fit any team, and Tuor, and Cirdan is a quality keeper, and Olwë sure brings some backbone into the defence…

Maglor: Heh. The white-haired king of Alqualonde is probably the only one we would even consider… Would you change Huan to Cirdan at the goal? Or my brothers Curufin and Celegorm to Eärendil and Tuor? No offence intended, but don’t make me laugh. You see, the Havens has some pretty good players, but they wouldn’t even fit our opening line-up. That I think tells enough.


~*~

A full match report from both games will appear on this channel as soon as the games are played...

[Nogrod]

Play-offs round 1, two games @ The Grey Havens

So it was to be quite an evening with football at the shining new Lhûnarena sold full already days before. The full capacity of the stadium was “only” some fifty-five thousand, but the surrounding Riverside Gardens and the park were hosting some two hundred to two and half hundred thousand fans and enthusiasts around the eight giant screens brought up around the stadium. Elves, the men of all ages and races, hobbits and even some dwarves were having an evening of fun and excitement ahead of them and many fast improvised stands were offering snacks, beverages, team-merchadise, pic-nic accessories, what have you.

One of the most popular entertainments aside with heavy speculation between friends and strangers and the general merry-making was the betting for the results: from small-scale betting between friends or newly-found acquintances over a pint to serious betting through both minor and major betting-agencies who had their own stands at the park as well. Interestingly enough the odds to win for both games were about even as the great number of homeside supporters evened out the betting of the game between the Havens and FC Valinor, whereas Real Valinor’s not that impressive tournament-trail clearly evened the bets between them and the strong-looking The Sea the locals seemed to favour as kind of a second “home team” anyway.


~*~

At 7pm the sun was still shining from the clear evening sky when the players from teams The Sea and Real Valinor ran to the field creating enthusiastic cheers from the crowds both inside and outside the stadium. The first game was about to begin and one could see the importance of it in the faces of the players while the official Arda Cup Anthem was played live by the Grey Havens Symphony Orchestra in the middle of the pitch.

After the necessary ceremonies the game was finally on. It was clear from the first minute that both teams had decided to start very carefully feeling for the opponent and their game. But with neither team willing to take a real offensive initiative or any risks whatsoever, the first half an hour of the game was actually a bit boring.

Towards the end of the first period both teams finally started to press on with their attacks a little more daringly creating a few nice chances to both ends. But with both teams really keeping their defences solid the few actual shots made were going wide because of the strict defending forcing the shots from bad positions or from too far away.

While the football enthusiasts had enjoyed the first half immensly as very skilled game from both sides and a remarkable tactical play, the less educated homeside fans were actually booing and whistling when the teams retreated to their lockers for the half-time. The Maiar-defence led by Ulmo had managed to make the feared Real Valinor attack quite armless but the Númenorians hadn’t been given any room at the other end of the pitch either.

But come the second half it was like a totally different game. Real Valinor had had it’s “scouting” done and was now pressing on for real into any weaknesses they had found on the first half. After some ten minutes of probing different variations Real Valinor started a full attacking phase. They seemed to avoid the center where Ulmo and Ossë were keeping their ground and came from both left (playing for Nerdanel) and right (playing for Miriel) while Arien made Ulmo and Ossë busy with her dangerous cross-runs in the middle giving them no pause to go and help the defenders on the sides.

And suddenly there were sparks all around when Real Valinor went on offence. The home-crowds were totally amazed by what they saw as no team had forced The Sea they had seen playing many games at their stadium into that kind of trouble. The attacks rained in both right and left: the saying that a “goal hangs in the air” was looking more and more true – untill it became a fact.

Tilion had caused a lot of trouble to the Sea’s defences with his aggressive runs deep into their defensive territory but at the 66th minute he managed to fool The Sea’s defences big time. Running deep into the left side of The Sea’s half he draw Uinen to come and challenge him. Getting rid of her with a neat trick he forced Ossë to rush down on him to prevent him from openly challenging Voronwë. With Arien making a steep run inside the box Ulmo had no chance but to follow her leaving Nerdanel open rushing in the second wave – and Tilion passed the ball neatly to her feet inside the box. Nerdanel scored booting the ball with a one-timer from the bottom of her heart making her first goal of the tournament.

The Sea tried to come aggressively forwards after being put one down to even the score as soon as possible, but Real Valinor was not yielding an inch and on the contrary gained more chances the more The Sea put an effort on offence. And with a nice counter-attack Caranthir sent the ball far forwards, after ripping it away from Andreth, and Miriel was suddenly in a running competition with Salmar going after the ball. Voronwë hesitated a moment at the goal as to whether to run for the ball or stay back ready for a shot, but as it instantly seemed Miriel was outpacing Salmar, he rushed for the ball as well.

Salmar was losing the fight and Miriel reached for the ball while Voronwë closed in from ahead… and it was close one! But Miriel did get the first touch chipping it with an elegant touch over the diving Voronwë. Avoiding a collision with the sliding keeper Miriel jumped up and waved her hand in the air while wittnessing the ball bounce into the goal. It was just such a cool finish!

With two goals down and only twenty minutes left The Sea faced a dilemma: go forwards with all you have and dare more goals by the Valinor team, or take it more carefully not opening your defences but still try to press for two goals. It seemed like an impossible equation.

The Sea fought bravely and even managed to create some pressure to the Real Valinor defences at times, but with the dangerous counter-runs the Valinor forwards kept The Sea at the bay.

Interestingly enough, the game ended with both teams shooting quite evenly (The Sea had 3 shots on goal vs. Real Valinor 4 shots on goal – overall 10 vs. 13), but Real Valinor won the game quite confidently 2-0. And there was no doubt as to which was the better team – even if the local supporters were not too happy about their favourites ending up as the losing side.

But whichever side, Rohan or Dwarves Utd., is coming to face them on the next round Real Valinor sent a message that they are on the top of their form and play intelligently for the result. Or who knows how they will play the next time, but this time it was a pure victory of tactics and great performance of some shining stars.

The Sea 0-2 Real Valinor
on target 3-4
tot shots 10-13
GOALS:
*66, 0-1 Nerdanel (Tilion)
*69, 0-2 Miriel (Caranthir)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Sea- Tar Aldarion
*Real- Nessa, Tilion



So all was set for the The Game in The Lhûnarena. At 9.30 pm the teams finally jogged into the field facing a mighty roar of the crowds. The sun was slowly setting and the lights had been lit over the stadium producing an awesome turqoish-white light over the pitch. Now the feeling was really up – and anyone questioning The Grey Havens’ lack of footballing culture was at least temporarily put to a shame.

There was a touching episode before the game began when after the official Arda Cup anthem Idril went to embrace her husband Tuor and their son Eärendil, and her daughter-in-law Elwing. In the spirit of football Maglor also shook hands with Cirdan and Elwing, and both Curufin and Celegorm were seen to exchange a few polite greetings with Olwë and Eärwen. The past was present and absent at the same time, but tonight they would be first of all playing football.

And it was a game to remember!

The home team started with flare and gusto making the crowds their twelwth player Eärendil had hoped for and they forced the game into FC Valinor’s side of the field. Idril came down to help the defences against the rolling attacks of her husband and son but it was not enough, as after seventeen minutes into the game the Havens scored! Eärendil put a nice pass from between Nahar’s hooves and Tuor managed to get rid of his wife to score a goal behind Huan from around the penalty spot! The crowds were going mad!

The Havens were causing the first serious upset of the tournament! They were leading the general favourites to win the whole tournament, the winners of the notorious group D – and they were not backing down after their goal either. On the contrary. With the crowds getting wild with their support they pressed on. But slowly their attacks wore down one after another and FC Valinor started keeping the ball more and more… and like a flash from the sky, at half an hour’s mark, Idril released Celegorm into a solo run and he basically ran over Cirdan just putting the ball into the goal after running Cirdan down.

After the equaliser the game went into a bit subdued mode as both teams were clearly looking for the half-time and neither wished to go there trailing the other team. So the first half ended with extremely sharp defending by both sides – and even if the crowds woke up every now and then after some nice performances of their homeside players and tried their best to beat their team into scoring, FC Valinor seemed to have no trouble keeping Tuor and Eärendil at bay the last fifteen minutes of the first half.

The shadow of all those drawn games played on the Lhûnarena at the group stage loomed heavily over the stadium during the half-time, but when the second half started those clouds of doubt were cleared for good.

The Havens started with even more fervor they started the first period and took the crowds along them. But after the few first minutes FC Valinor was coming back with even more stamina. Well, with more The Havens could handle it seemed. The game started to turn into a nightmare to the homecrowds as FC Valinor finally unleashed their offence full scale.

Olwë and Elwing were more busy than ever before trying to contain Curufin’s and Celegorm’s aggressive moves in the center, and Annael and Lindo ran their breath away trying to denounce the background runs by Argon and Yavanna at the sides – and Idril and Lórien were always dangerously looking on making sudden dashes forwards when FC Valinor was attacking keeping also The Havens midfield away from any offencive ideas. And Maglor could just make a dash from nowhere to penetrate The Havens’ defences. It was a nail-biting time for the home team fans – and a jubilee of offencive football.

Maglor made a dash and shot the ball with power into the post from thirty meters. The crowds sighed in relief, fearing the worst.

With Elwing’s one second error of judgement Curufin was released from her hold by a perfect pass by Yavanna, but Cirdan tipped the ball just inches away from the low-right corner of the goal with a wonderful dive. From the ensuing corner-kick Celegorm rose the highest and headed the ball just off the mark.

At hour’s mark FC Valinor had played the ball to and fro at The Havens’ side of the field for a few minutes searching for a route inside the box when Annael managed to cut a pass by Celegorm around the corner of the box and footed it away as far as he could – and seeing him kicking the ball with all he had to put in all the defenders dashed forwards to bring in the offside-trap.

But Curufin managed to stretch his boot in the way and instead of flying to the other end of the field the ball went high and towards the left. The havens regrouped as soon as they could with Lindo and Eärwen going for the high ball and Annael, Elwing and Olwë closing the center from the brothers and Idril who was dashing in with force.

Yavanna got the first touch of the ball from in front of Lindo and Eärwen and volleyed the ball diagonally forwards far over the heads of the players concetrated in the the middle of the edge of the box – and Argon was making a run for it behind the backs of the defenders on the right side – and he volleyed the ball as well, straight in to the roof of the net, leaving Cirdan no chance whatsoever letting the shot ring from some ten meters away from the goal.

It was just such an amazing feat the crowds fell totally silent for a fleeting moment before they all applauded it with it’s due – even if the home team supporters weren’t actually delighted of the goal. But it was just so great they just instinctually cheered for it after they reaised what they had seen.

The Havens was trying to fight back and put all it had on offence but FC Valinor was now on charge of the game and pushed them back time after time. And they were not sitting idle on their lead either, but went for offence almost as hard they did before their last goal – and little by little the balance was yet again turned towards the Havens’ side of the pitch.

The defences of The Havens were now more or less scitzophrenic about whether to especially guard Celegorm and Curufin or Yavanna and Argon, or the constantly running Idril, the unpredictable Lórien, the crafty Maglor… and while trying to make some forwards play themselves they soon realised they were going nowhere. And FC Valinor did hit into that confusion.

Yavanna was bringing the ball deep into the Havens territory by the left side and made a centering pass over the field. The defenders remembered the volley of Argon while seeing him running for it at the right side trailed by Idril – while Maglor was rushing forwards from left to the center… Yavanna’s pass forced the defence into a fast reaction-mode. Annael and Elwing rushed for Argon, Lindo caught Maglor’s dash from the corner of his eye and went for him and Olwë – as the old fox in the middle – stood firm keeping Curufin at bay and calling Eärwen to come and help in the center.

Annael, Elwing and Argon all jumped for the ball and Argon managed to head it back towards Idril who was running into the place. Without hesitation Idril centered the ball back but now towards the actual center. Maglor made a run turning towards the ball leaving Lindo behind. Seeing that, Eärwen dashed to cut Maglor’s route, but Maglor turned around seeing Celegorm runnning free in the center towards the left corner of the goal. Without a second thought he passed the ball sideways with the first touch. Now Olwë had to run for it and he charged Celegorm. Cirdan had ran forwards to almost reach the ball on Celegorm’s feet and Olwë was coming on him when he just passed the ball sideways again only to reach his brother who booted it in from the center of the field, just five meters away from an empty goal!

It was 3-1!

There were twenty minutes of the game left and The Havens sure gave their best. But slowly their efforts became less and less serious as they realised FC Valinor held them at bay at their will. There was no way for them to score against this team and the last ten minutes both sides more or less just kicked the ball around – even if at times the homecrowds tried to boost their team for an effort once more. But as the result of those efforts were more often than not tight situations at their own goal they finally decided they would not like to lose more than 3-1 and the last minutes went just kicking the ball around. Some people booed but most were just so taken by FC Valinor’s performance they felt wrong to boo on such a side even if their favourites had just lost a game. And FC Valinor had given both the home team and the spectstors a lesson in effective football. And in a beautiful game as well.

The crowds exiting the stadium and the parks were happy with one thing though: even if their team had lost, they had seen the undoubted champions play.


FC Valinor 3-1 The Havens
on target 8-4
tot shots 17-12
GOALS:
*17, 0-1 Tuor (Earendil)
*32, 1-1 Celegorm (Idril)
*58, 2-1 Argon (Yavanna)
*71, 3-1 Curufin (Celegorm)
YELLOW CARDS:
*FCVal- Maglor, Argon
*Havens- Angrod, Aegnor

[the phantom]

@ Osgiliath

The citizens of Gondor were mighty pleased going into the first round of the playoffs. Not only had team Gondor and team Minas Tirith both advanced, but they had done so over the heads of their bitter rivals- Barad-Dur and Mordor.

Though the competition level was set to go up (it was the playoffs after all!) Gondorians were hopeful. The name Angband rightly put fear into the opposition, but with the new salary cap rules the squad from Morgoth's stronghold was not quite the exclusive all-star club it had been in the past. And Shire-Bree United wasn't a perfect squad either, despite the relative ease they seemed to score with. Both of these matches were winnable.

Of the two, team Gondor seemed to be a little more confident- not necessarily based on their opponent, but more upon their own performance in the tournament. Aside from a one-goal setback to Arnor in the friendlies, they were unblemished. They earned draws with the high-quality squads of Armenelos and Rohan, and defeated both of Sauron's squads along the way, and after that they felt they belonged. King Anarion was just on fire this tournament, and the rest of the team was doing the job solidly.

Osgiliath had a couple of quality venues in which to host the contest, but everyone knew the oldest and largest would be chosen. The old coliseum on the banks of the Anduin had been home to many an important contest in the Gondor League through the years, and had certainly hosted an Arda Cup match a time or two through the ages. The traveling Shire-Bree fans certainly had no objection to the site selection. Though one of the smaller and more modern stadiums might have been more comfortable, the original Osgiliath stadium was one of the places a true football fan just had to visit one time.

And speaking of the out-of-towners, Shire-Bree drew a bit better than most believed they would, and their fans were doing anything they could to get their hands on tickets. Orcs of Mordor drifted into town in surprising numbers to cheer on Nazgul #6, Khamul, Barrow-Wight, and Golfimbul- hoping these favorites of theirs would knock their hated Gondor rivals out of the playoffs. And Shire-Bree even received a bit of support from the locals thanks to the presence of Strider, or King Elessar as he was called there.

So it was that when the late afternoon match was ready to begin, the crowd was very nearly a 70-30 split. Something more along the lines of 90-10 had been expected, and so it was strange and a little embarrassing to see for the locals.

But the Gondor supporters were not at all embarrassed by what they saw on the field, as Gondor started strong- passing intelligently, timing runs, breaking up opposing runs with efficiently legal contact and forcing the ball back in the field. They looked the most dangerous without a doubt, and Falastur in minute 18 shaved the top of the crossbar with a header. Certainly a goal was hanging in the air.

And it finally came just before the half-hour mark, and not surprisingly it was thanks to a fine play by Anarion. Gildor was defending him quite well, but Anarion simply made a turn and cross-over that was too good to stay with, gaining himself just enough space and a lane to deftly send it to Eldacar who athletically booted it straight in from 10 meters!

The crowd hollered their approval and squeezed the shoulders of their neighbors in happiness! This was what they had envisioned!

But Strider kept Shire-Bree cool, and they continued to battle on as the first half progressed, and slowly but surely the skilled front of Shire-Bree found their rhythm, putting Hyarmendacil under pressure for the first time. Though Shire-Bree was unable to gain a quality opening to make him handle the ball, it was obvious they were finding their stride and figuring things out, and Gondor needed to do something.

As the final 5 minutes of the first half arrived, Gondor moved back to choke their half of the pitch, but unfortunately the lack of open space really seemed to fully wake up Bombadil. He has always been curiously passive about some things, but on his own land he is powerful, and when his space gets invaded on the football pitch he takes serious notice.

Suddenly he was a blur, and the midfield of Shire-Bree wasted no time in getting it to him. His first possession he crossed up three defenders and shot one which was only barely redirected into the post by a stray shin. His second try he earned himself free for a drive and sniped it accurately forcing Hyarmendacil to make a fantastic save. But the third time is the charm- after running rings around the box and even causing a few defenders to collide, he earned himself an opening in which he shockingly passed it over to the completely ignored Khamul who had an easy time nodding it into the net to equalize!

The Gondor fans weren't so giddy at the half. Things were deadly serious- this Shire-Bree team could play, especially that Bombadil. But they did not panic, for they knew King Anarion and friends were devising something in the locker room. And in fact they were.

When the second half began Gondor decided they would leave Bombadil alone without the ball, and when he got it the would have multiple defenders stay in front of him a few yards back, not pressuring him, but not attacking him either. And much to the frustration of Strider and Khamul the tactic worked quite well, and suddenly their offense was at a halt and things were flowing Gondor's way.

They earned a couple decent looks that went high, and Anarion bent one in that forced Halbarad to awkwardly smother the ball, and the onlookers knew that Gondor couldn't be held off for another 30 minutes. And in fact they were barely held off for another ten- Barrow-Wight was forced to foul Anarion from behind after he was released exquisitely by Romendacil, and Anarion sent the resulting free kick straight in for the lead!

As Gondor celebrated, Strider and Khamul were near midfield trying to get Bombadil's head in the game. Strider appeared to be telling Bombadil, "If we lose, it's on you! All on you!" But whatever he said, Bombadil certainly was jump-started, and like the wind before a storm the game turned nearly instantly.

Suddenly the offense of Shire-Bree was running through Bombadil and the pieces were rotating around him like a well-oiled machine. The ball was moving quicker than anyone could hope to keep track of- the announcer for the radio broadcast was able to say the names of the players at most as they one-touched it around. Barrow-Wight found an opening for a 25 meter power drive, but it was turned away. Strider gained a header, but the defense slowed him just enough to make the attempt weak enough to be saved.

But at last the net was found- and appropriately it was the spark-plug Bombadil doing the damage. It was 2-2 with under 10 minutes left!

Gondor fans were fearful that Shire-Bree would continue the assault and win without extra time, but predictably Bombadil thought he'd done his job and settled back into his lazier distracted style of play. In no time at all extra time arrived and fans on both sides were buzzing. What would be the strategy? Be aggressive and be left open, or look to counter, or play for a shoot-out?

Shockingly, as extra time rolled along it became obvious that both sides had selected the same strategy- play smart and cautious, and if the opponent doesn't make mistakes to pounce on just win it on penalty kicks.

Gondor felt they had the superior keeper, and they also liked their depth. They didn't really have any weak kickers on their squad, and the idea of PKs appealed to them. Shire-Bree on the other hand felt their top players had the best scoring knack and that they would have the advantage of sure-fire early goals in PKs. And so it was that overtime just turned into an anxious waiting game, with fans hoping for safe play, and nearly covering their eyes any time it looked like an opportunity was there- but both teams did fairly well at preventing openings, and the seconds slid by and indeed- it would be PKs to decide the victor!

First up was Gondor's Eldacar- possibly the best finisher on the squad. Strider knew the Gondor squad fairly well, but he could offer his keeper Halbarad no advice on Eldacar other than to take a guess. And guess he did, but not correctly- Eldacar faked the drive then sent it perfectly to the opposite side after Halbarad jumped.

First up for Shire-Bree was Bombadil, and his teammates looked cool. Though his effort and concentration could be suspect his pure ball-striking was as constant as the flow of a mighty river, and though Hyarmendacil guessed correctly the ball was simply too perfect and too hard to give him a real chance at the save. It was tied!

Next up was Anarion- the man who could not be stopped this tournament, and no surprise he couldn't be stopped this time. But equal to him was Strider, sending it unstoppably into the net to keep things level!

Now it was Romendacil's turn, and taking no time to settle or to allow the crowd to prepare he fired it. Halbarad was caught flat-footed, but the ball was too tall and off the crossbar! The larger part of the stadium groaned and covered their faces. Shire-Bree had an opening!

And making it worse- it was Khamul up next for Shire-Bree. If one of the hated Nazgul were to be instrumental in the defeat of Gondor, it would be just agonizing. Khamul stepped back and kicked it perfectly, but Hyarmendacil was on it perfectly and batted it away! Perhaps the keeper had scouted Khamul particularly well, as he did not want to be beaten by him.

Still level with two kicks remaining, Falastur stepped up and efficiently sent the ball off the inside of the post and into the net, leaving Halbarad with no chance. But then Barrow-Wight did a perfect copy of Falastur, and things were still level headed into kick number five.

The crowds were biting their nails, chewing on their cups, and other such nervous ticks, and it was as silent as it had been all day. Turambar stepped up and placed the ball, took a deep breath, and retreated. He set himself, and Halbarad danced about on the endline. Turambar strode forward and pulled his leg back for the drive, and then hesitated.

Halbarad would leap to one side or the other leaving him free to poke it the opposite way- or at least that was the plan. But Halbarad hadn't budged at all! Turambar gave it as much leg as he could muster from his awkward position, but without the extra impetus after the hesitation move the flight was slow enough for Halbarad to react, and it was a save! Halbarad tipped the ball off course to the left of the goal, and Shire-Bree had a chance to win it!

And it would be Gildor the Elf stepping up to take what could be the winning kick. While he wasn't a good source for advice on PKs (always counseling to kick both left and right), Shire-Bree was confident he could deliver, and the Elf looked confident himself. As he set the ball he asked loudly, "Am I going to be on target?" and as he backed off to strike he asked, "And are you going to save it?"

Then dashing forward he shouted, "YES, and NO!" and sent a drive high and middle, and Hyarmendacil could only flail at it helplessly with his trailing legs as he sailed off in the wrong direction. It was in!

Shire-Bree was through to the quarterfinals!

Gondor 2-2 Shire-Bree United (SB wins on pens. 4-3)
on target 6-8
tot shots 17-18
GOALS:
*28, 1-0 Eldacar (Anarion)
*42, 1-1 Khamul (Bombadil)
*72, 2-1 Anarion
*81, 2-2 Bombadil (Barrow-Wight)
YELLOW CARDS:
*Gondor- Ciryandil
*SBUnt- BWight

PENALTY SHOOT-OUT:

Eldacar (goal)
Anarion (goal)
Romendacil (miss)
Falastur (goal)
Turambar (save)

Bombadil (goal)
Strider (goal)
Khamul (save)
Barrow-Wight (goal)
Gildor (goal)

(Note: MESPN exit interviews with Gondor and Imladris are taking place and will be aired soon.)

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

Eriador vs Minas Tirith

Eriador keeps on conceding one goal to its opponents, it seems. They would pay for it sooner or later, but probably not now.

Eriador 2:1 Minas Tirith

FC Valinor vs Erebor

Against almost any other team we would have fancied Erebor's balance of strong attack and resolute defence. Unfortunately, they're up against a team a tad better than them at both ends of the pitch.

FC Valinor 2:1 Erebor

Real Valinor vs Rohan

Rohan has kept numerous teams from scoring against them, but they have had trouble putting the ball behind the net themselves. Real Valinor, on the other hand, held Tirion and Armenelos to one goal and even shut out the Númenórean forwards of The Sea.

Real Valinor 1:0 Rohan

AC Beleriand vs Shire-Bree United

Despite AC Beleriand having conceded but one goal to Nargothrond, and none to Gondolin, we have a feeling that Shire-Bree would score at least one. With that said, Gildor and company would need a lot of help keeping Fëanor et al. from scoring.

AC Beleriand 3:1 Shire-Bree United

[Nogrod]

The AKM at Lothlórien


As everything starts to gear up towards the quarterfinals, the AKM managed to get the goalies from both FC Valinor and Erebor into a short interview together. And so here it is, unabridged, straight to the readers of the AKM!



The AKM: Great to have you two giving us your time for a moment. So let’s get straight to the bussiness. What are your feelings now at the eve of the quarterfinal?

Huan: I’m both confident and relaxed and so is our team. But sure, there are no walks in the park left in this tournament and every team that comes against you is a top quality one.

Beorn: This sure will be our biggest challenge thus far, but I think we have shown to any doubters out there that Erebor plays very good football this season and we believe in our chances, naturally.

The AKM: What do you think is the most challenging feature in your opponent’s game, and how are you going to deal with it?

Beorn: Well the brothers sure are a nightmare to any goalie or defence with their ruthless scoring – but many people often forget that they have also players like Yavanna and Lórien in the midfield who are an elemental part of their team’s success. And my colleague here sure is one of the very best when it comes to keeping your sheet clean between the posts… so there will be challenges. Well, how to deal with it? We need to go defence first this time. And it’s not only our great eagles, but also our midfield needs to really fly this time, if you forgive me the expression. And Smaug, Bard, the Nazgûl… they have to deliver in this game.

Huan: Well my colleague here is very modest, but he sure is this year’s sensation and the hottest goalie right now – and flying in front of him are three great eagles. So that clearly is the nut for us to crack in this game. And also, even if we’re going to attack fervently like we do in all our games, we shouldn’t forget players like Smaug who can really be deadly if given room to manouver. But what to do about it? We’ll just play our game: pressure, attack, posses the ball, shoot a lot, run fast, keep lines tight, aid the mates, no blunders… yeah, we need to play our game. That’s the answer.

The AKM: Would you be willing to predict or to bet for the outcome?

Huan: Let’s leave the betting to humans, dwarves and orcs. But I do believe that the nice defencive stats of both teams might look a bit worse after this game as you'll be seeing some scoring on both ends of the pitch. But we will outscore Erebor in the end, let's say 4-2, or 3-2 if it gets tight.

Beorn: I would actually disagree here a bit about the nature of the game. Well, surely it won’t be 0-0, but I’d say we win 2-1. There is some real attacking power in both teams but as the game is such an important one neither team won’t be having open doors in defence either.

Huan: Even if you tried to "close the door", Curufin anf Celegorm would just break through it to score... and I don't think Smaug either is one who knocks and waits if someone comes to open.

Beorn: That was only a metaphor my canine friend.

Huan: Sure, but I'm afraid you over-estimate your own powers at the goal - and maybe mine too. You're young and not that experienced in football yet. Let me tell you there will be... more than four goals in the game. There is such a talent and power in the offence that goals just can't be avoided - even if we as the keepers would wish it.

The AKM: Would you like to bet on that?

Beorn: I'll buy you a pint of the best mead there is available in Lothlórien if you guys score three goals.

Huan: That's a fair offer. And to show I'm no less generous I'll offer you a pint of your choice of mead if you score two.

The AKM: That's a bet?

Huan: No. I'm sharing a pint with my colleague here after the match. The outcome only tells which one of us pays.

Beorn: Well put.

The AKM: Okay then. Well, thank you for your time and may the better team win.

[Nogrod]

The AKM @ Lothlórien, part 2

The elves of Lothlórien had a dilemma concerning the game between Erebor and FC Valinor. They would have all cheered for FC Valinor without doubt were there not the three brothers, but even if Erebor had some of their local favourites like Thranduil and Bard the Bowman, and the Great Eagles, the presence of Smaug, Bolg and a Nazgûl kind of made that team even more unbearable. So it seemed the majority of them had in fact turned into supporting the Valinor team.

But but to balance that Erebor had a sturdy bunch of supporters from the north: wood-elves, men from the Laketown-area, Dwarves from the Lonely Mountain and even farther… and beornings and eagles… even a load of orcs from both Misty Mountains and Moria, some from Mordor itself.

There had been a discussion on the general policies concerning the guests for the games as some had maintained that all the traditional “no strangers, especially no dwarves” –rules should apply, football or not. But it was seen as impossible to maintain unless Lothlórien wished to share the fate of the Blessed Realm and not be able to host any games in the future. Most elves seemed not too bothered by the men or even the dwarves as long as they stayed only for the game and were guided in and out via particular paths, but orcs were a tougher deal to sell for the common elves.

Now Galadriel had managed that promising the orcs would be under 24/7 surveillance and from the first provocation or breaking a set of visitor-rules, laid carefully before all the tourists with the ticket, they would be sent off and banned from Lothlórien for eternity – whatever games they would hold in the future. But the case of the Nazgûls was a real challenge.

For the eight had announced they were intent in coming to see their mate play – as their teams had already dropped from the games. The thought of the Nazgûl wandering through the precious Lórien seemed just blasphemy to the elves. Why had they defended their realm for millenia if they then willingly let the ringwraiths come and corrupt the holy forest just like that? Should they invite Sauron and Melkor next, some asked trying to hammer in the point. Even Celeborn was reserved and thought it better the Nazgûl would not step into the precious soil of Lórien.

But Galadriel had her way with this as well. When doesn’t she get it her way?

”If that is the requirement, then so be it: the Nazgûl will not step on Lórien’s soil. I can promise you that. But they will attend. This is PR, you know, and I know how to handle it.”

And so the Nazgûl were told they could come to follow the game with a few conditions. Firstly they would not be allowed to put their feet on Lórien’s soil which meant they would have to fly in. Also, to avoid stepping on Lórien soil, they would need to land on top of the stadium where they could take their seats. And thirdly, they would have to suffer the company of a great fleet of Great Eagles who were going to have their seats up high as well – and if there was any malice or even an intention of breaking any rules of conduct indicated by their tickets, the Eagles would have the authority to get rid of them. If they behaved, they would have a chance to meet their fellow after the game so long as they didn’t exit the stadium. The only exit from the stadium for them was by air and out from Lothlórien.

[the phantom]

MESPN News: Playoff Preview Special

Philip McPhantom: Hello football fans. We're to the quarterfinals now, and I've got the experts back with me again to take a look at things- Ruharg the dragon, sports editor of Monser Magazine, and Ar-Tar-Aradhil from Westernesse Weekly and president of the Numenorean Association for the Advancement of Football (NAAF).

Ar-Tar-Aradhil: You're kind to call me an expert after last round.

Ruharg: Ha ha! Yes, you've had better weeks.

Philip McP: Well let's just take a quick look back, shall we?

Ar-Tar-A: Must we?

Ruharg: Heh heh...

P McP: Let's get those A vs H upsets out of the way first.

ATA: We both missed one there.

Ruharg: Yes- I was a believer in Group A and you in Group H, and they proved us both right, and wrong.

P: Which upset was more impressive?

ATA: Well, I thought Minas Tirith could get it done playing their game, but they straight-up out-shot Angband.

Ruharg: Yes, that definitely came as a surprise. Many people thought Gondor would let Shire-Bree play their game and just play tighter with better execution, so no surprise that SB had a couple stat edges, but really that's more a product of Bombadil.

P: That's what I thought, and that's why Minas Tirith was so impressive- because it was a total team effort.

ATA: Oh, definitely! Ancalagon was a match-up problem for them, but they denied him the ball so well, and just controlled the midfield.

Ruharg: They had about a 65-35 possession edge, didn't they?

P: Let's see... 68-32 actually.

ATA: Angband doesn't need high possession to do damage, but they weren't looking for numbers like that.

R: Yes, all credit to Minas Tirith. They really played well.

P: Aradhil- are you particularly disappointed in Gondor?

ATA: Like we said- Bombadil was the difference. I think they had a good showing, so it's not a total disappointment.

R: They weren't getting past the quarters anyway.

P: Ah, hold on- we're not ready to discuss those match-ups yet.

R: Right, then let's get through these quickly so we can start talking about them.

P: All right- how about the other 2nd place finisher defeating a 1st place finisher, Real Valinor over The Sea?

R: Not really an upset. I think they were both serious contenders at about the same level, but the head-to-head match just favored Real.

ATA: Yes, I should've listened to you last week. I really went back and forth on this one deciding the winner, and in the end I backed the wrong side.

P: Head versus heart problem, perhaps?

ATA: Perhaps.

P: And how about the victories for Eriador, Erebor, FC, Rohan, and AC. Anything stick out?

R: I'll confess to being wrong about Eriador. They showed they could handle themselves.

ATA: And I was horribly wrong about Erebor. They put an absolute beating on Imladris. Seems I didn't respect the way their pieces fit together.

P: Were you impressed with the fight Dwarves United and Gondolin showed in their losses?

ATA: The Dwarves have really impressed me this tournament. Gondolin I knew was good though I thought AC Bel was a bad match for them. I think the lack of margin in that contest despite the red card was more a product of AC Bel being content to sit on their lead.

R: Yes, the Dwarves showed some nice tenacity, but against some of the other teams out there I think the score would've been ugly. Rohan doesn't run it up.

P: And the hottest team- FC Valinor?

ATA: Another two-goal margin. Same old, same old, heh heh.

R: They've definitely executed the best to this point, though Havens wasn't entirely unimpressive.

ATA: Yes, Havens competed well getting the lead initially, but their defense couldn't keep up in the end. With a couple pieces that team could really contend.

**********

P: Well all right- I think we're ready to cover the quarterfinals now!

R: Great!

ATA: Time to redeem myself!

P: Minas Tirith versus Eriador?

R: Eriador. They've got the most dangerous attack with Glorfindel and Witch King, and they've got Elrond at the back.

ATA: I'm rooting for Minas Tirith, but I definitely consider Eriador the favorite.

P: Could this be a blowout?

ATA: No, no- Minas Tirith will at least do that much. They'll play smart and won't give up anything easy, and they'll put enough pressure on Eriador to keep them honest.

R: Plus Elrond will be content to sit on a lead and isn't the sort to try and embarrass anyone even if his team was in the position to do so.

P: So, maybe a 2-1 game here?

ATA: That's what I'm picking.

R: I'm going with 2-0.

P: Now let's talk about Erebor versus FC Valinor.

ATA: Another smooth FC victory I figure, though with your cousin playing there I suppose you'll disagree, Ruharg?

R: Heh- yes yes, Smaug would never forgive me if I picked his squad to flame out like that. I've got to at least pick it to be close!

P: Family aside, what do you guys seriously think here?

R: I do think it will be close. FC won't get easy counters with the three eagles always wining back on defense, and their ability to move forward and help with pressure will be unique. All through Erebor's front they possess well- they just don't have a weak link. They can all move things and attack. And my good cousin Smaug will be the first such striker FC has faced.

ATA: I think Nahar is a decent dragon-stopper though.

R: We'll see.

ATA: I agree with your other praise, though. Though lacking a Feanor or Bombadil, Erebor can throw a lot of quality players at the opposition. Problem is, so can FC, and I think theirs are a bit better. I certainly wouldn't trade their forwards or midfielders for Erebor's anyway.

P: And the defense?

ATA: Erebor's eagles have performed well together, but Maglor is more useful on offense and has the ball skills, and once they're on the ground I wouldn't say the eagles are better than FC's defense.

P: And lastly, the keepers?

R: Beorn's been playing some excellent ball, but Huan is a proven commodity through the years.

ATA: So probably a wash, really.

P: So- final score?

ATA: FC wins 3-1.

R: Hmmm.... I suppose FC, but only by one goal. Perhaps in overtime.

P: And now let's talk about the other Valinor- Real playing Rohan.

ATA: I'm excited about this one! I think it'll be quite a tense contest!

R: Definitely. I really think it will come down to which side shows the most discipline.

P: Explain.

R: Real's triple-threat (Arien, Miriel, Nerdanel) I think will be countered by Felarof, Shadowfax, and Radagast, while on the other end I think Tilion, Caranthir, and Nienna can nullify Gandalf, Eorl, and Helm. Which squad will get frustrated first? Which will task their defenders with helping apply pressure on the other end, and will the double-duty distract them or tire them?

ATA: Indeed- both squads like to feature occasional deep runs from the hard-shooting defenders, but they can't afford to be caught to far upfield on a possession change.

P: Does that favor either side?

R: It's a draw, really. I think the horses are more likely to get in deep and have double-duty, but they can also dash back more quickly.

P: We know they have the speed, but after a long run upfield and a mad dash back, will they still have the legs to handle the agility and direction changes of Real's forwards?

ATA: That's the one thing I've wondered about- whether the terrific trio can misdirect and/or outsmart the athletic back line. That would give Real the definite edge.

R: I don't think they will. I think they'll play fast with good instincts. Plus I think Real will put more mental pressure on themselves to see a result.

P: So what's the verdict?

ATA: I'm taking Real 1-0.

R: Rohan 1-0.

P: And now for the final match- AC Beleriand against Shire-Bree United.

R: I'm betting we'll agree this time.

ATA: Heh, I imagine so.

P: Let me guess- you're going with AC?

ATA: Definitely. No disrespect- Shire-Bree's front four have proved so effective, but they aren't strong enough at the back.

R: Can you imagine Butterbur or Golfimbul trying to stop Feanor or Eol in the open field? Or attempting to outleap Beren for a header?

ATA: Shire-Bree will have to sell out in favor of possession in order to keep the score from being silly, because if AC is allowed to work, they'll get goals.

P: But can that fine front four of Shire-Bree keep them in it with scoring?

R: Bombadil is a genius, but he may not be on his game. And if he is, AC can bracket him with Fingolfin and Rochallor.

ATA: And that will still leave Ecthelion free to take care of Strider or Khamul, and then the rest of the team can surely apply pressure to the others.

R: Indeed. Possession won't be easy.

P: So, how about a score?

ATA: I hesitate to name one too lopsided, as Feanor might not consider it worth the exertion to keep scoring, and Fingoflin will likely encourage them to be sportsmanlike and call off the dogs.

R: I still think they get four.

ATA: I'm going to go with three.

P: And how many for Bombadil and company?

ATA: I suppose I can give the master one.

R: Zero.

P: All right then- there you have it. The experts have made their quarterfinal picks. Enjoy the games, everyone!