Phantasy Football: Arda Cup 2010

[the phantom]

Welcome to the Phantasy Team Competition!

If you have any questions regarding any of these rules, just ask. I promise you it's not as complicated as it may look at first glance- just ask the players from last year.

You will select your team members from the rosters available in my next post, and will be awarded points according to how your players fare in their tournament games. Please put a bolded -> C after one of your players. That means that player is your team captain, and will gain (or lose) double point value.

You must have one GK (goal keeper) and then you can use one of the following formations found below. (Formations listed as DF-MF-FW)

• 5-4-1
• 4-5-1
• 3-6-1
• 4-4-2
• 4-3-3

In other words, if you choose 4-4-2, then you want to place 4 defenders, 4 midfielders, and 2 fowards on your team along with the goalie of your choice.

In addition, you may not choose more than 3 players from one single team.

Rules for gaining points are as follows.

• Goal by FW- 4 pts
• Goal by MF- 5 pts
• Goal by DF- 6 pts
• Assist- 3 pts
• Shutout, GK- 4 pts
• Shutout, DF- 4 pts
• Shutout, MF- 1 pt
• Allows 1 goal, GK- 2 pts
• Allows 1 goal, DF- 2 pts
• 3 GK saves- 2 pts
• Yellow Card- -1 pts
• Red Card- -3 pts

And just like last time you can gain extra points for pretourney and playoff predictions!

Once again we're going to have a star system for drafting your team. Players with a star are considered by Arda Kicker Magazine to be solid players with a higher liklihood of scoring than other players at that position. Players with 2 stars are the cream of the crop, and are the most likely to gain points at the position. The team an individual plays on and his/her name recognition can contribute slightly to star status. And of course, there is no guarantee that star players will score more. It's just more likely.

The team that you select may not exceed FOUR total stars at this time. (This number will increase as the rounds go by.)

Note on the rosters- If MFs or DFs are listed lower down the roster (towards the FWs), then they are more likely to find themselves involved in the offense than those MFs or DFs listed higher up towards the GK. Of course, there is no guarantee MFs listed closer to FWs will score more, but their chances are generally better.

Note on trades- After the first two rounds of group play, you can draft a completely new team. Unlimited trades. After the third and final round of group play, you are allowed seven trades. After the first playoff round, you are allowed only three trades. After the quarterfinals and semifinals you are allowed only two trades. Do not under any circumstances edit your old teams once play has started. If you want to trade someone, make a new post stating the trade and list your new team.

All right- here are the predictions that can gain you bonus points at the end of the tournament. They can make a huge difference in your point total if you happen to hit them!

10 POINT QUESTIONS

Who will score the most goals in the tournament?

Who will have the most assists in the tournament?

Which team will win the tournament?

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?

GROUP PREDICTIONS

Predict the winner and runner up from each of the eight groups. Predicting the winner is worth 3 points. The runner up is worth 1. If you select the correct two teams but have their positions reversed, you will be awarded 2 points. So that's a possible thirty-two points right there. Don't skip this!

PLAYOFF POINTS

During the playoffs you will be able to gain points for correct predictions, but obviously you can't do anything with that until much later. I'll remind everyone when it is time.

[the phantom]

AMAN
-GK- Nienna
-DF- Vaire
-DF- Este
-DF- Nessa
*DF- Turgon
-MF- Irmo
-MF- Nahar
-MF- Earwen
*MF- Orome
-MF- Finarfin
-FW- Ar Pharazon

A mix of Ainu and Elves here, with a horse and man thrown in. Everyone is interested to see what Ar Pharazon will bring to the blessed realm following his championship success last year. He will be teamed with some good talent up front, but the team focus will be on defense for the most part.

BARAD-DUR
-GK- Mouth
-DF- Ohtar
-DF- Nazgul #5
-DF- Anarion
*DF- Nazgul #6
-MF- Fellbeast
-MF- Nazgul #7
-MF- Elendil
*MF- Gil-Galad
**FW- Sauron
-FW- Isildur

After helping bring the Arda Cup to Numenor last year, Sauron looks to deliver the same for his famed fortress. There to help him are several who fought against him in the second age, along with a few of his loyal minions. An unexpected blend certainly, but Sauron has already demonstrated his willingness to work with others in order to obtain football glory, and his followers will fall in line. Barad-Dur will likely play with a straight-forward style- balanced between offense and defense.

BARROW-DOWNS
-GK- Eomerwarg
-DF- Mira
-DF- Gwath
-DF- Steve
-DF- Skip Spence
-MF- Fea
-MF- Nerwen
-MF- Sally
-MF- The Phantom
-FW- Wilwa
-FW- Nogrod

After strong showings the past two years under the name Tol-In-Gaurhoth, the Barrow-Downs looks to take the next step towards the championship. Since their over-aggressive style got them into trouble in the past, look for them to go with a more balanced approach this time around. Helping this new mindset is the fact that they will not be playing as Werewolves, as well as actually getting in a couple of practices before the tournament begins.

BELERIAND
-GK- Halmir
-DF- Mim
-DF- Handir
-DF- Baragund
-DF- Belegund
-MF- Magor
-MF- Hathol
-MF- Manthor
-MF- Imlach
-MF- Bregolas
-FW- Marach

Coming from various teams throughout Beleriand, this group primarily from the ruling houses of the Edain has come together as one. Beleriand will lean on a quality possession game, and Captain Marach says that when they don’t have the ball their lockdown defensive style will be tough to handle.

BREELAND
-GK- Old Man Willow
-DF- Butterbur
-DF- Lumpkin
-DF- River-Woman
-DF- Roheryn
-MF- Harry
-MF- Goldberry
-MF- Halbarad
-FW- Barrow-Wight
*FW- Bombadil
-FW- Strider

Breeland is hoping to break through this year after adding a couple of rangers to their offense and a horse and pony to their back line. Also, naming Strider as the new captain will probably improve their preseason training, as old captain Bombadil was rather absent minded about that sort of thing. Look for them to employ their tactic of attacking at all times, with Strider likely to make the Bombadil-BW duo more potent by drawing some attention onto himself, or scoring himself if he is ignored.

BYWATER
-GK- Cotton
-DF- Nazgul #3
-DF- Ferny
-DF- Nazgul #2
**DF- Shadowfax
-MF- Fatty
-MF- Maggot
-MF- Gildor
**MF- Gandalf
-FW- Saruman
-FW- Bandobras

Don’t overlook the Shire this year, as the team they’re sending from Bywater features two wizards, two Nazgul, Shadowfax, and an assortment of sturdy hobbits. As usual, hobbits are legally allowed a maximum of two liters of ent-draught leading up to the Arda Cup, and Gandalf has been warned that using fireworks to blind opponents will get him carded immediately this year. Owing to the combined wisdom and experience of their players, Bywater will play a flexible style, locking down when ahead and attacking when behind.

DALE
-GK- Brand
-DF- Roac
-DF- Nain
-DF- Carc
-DF- Thror
-MF- Moneybags
-MF- Bard
-MF- Dain
-MF- Girion
-FW- Thranduil
-FW- Smaug

Many fans are concerned that old Mayor Moneybags will abandon the team mid-game and make off with all of the ticket sale profits, but team captain Smaug assured everyone that Moneybags will behave perfectly for fear of being roasted alive. Dale will be playing a straightforward game and banking on the skill of their forwards to win the day. Smaug is always dangerous, and Thranduil showed great promise last year as part of Mirkwood’s surprise run to the semis.

DOL GULDUR
-GK- Oropher
-DF- Tomnoddy
-DF- Thrain
-DF- Attercop
-MF- Galion
-MF- Grimbeorn
*MF- Beorn
*MF- Khamul
-FW- Radagast
-FW- Bolg
*FW- Witch King

With the group of FWs and MFs that Dol Guldur has, it isn’t surprising that they’ll be attacking every minute of each match. At the back they’re hoping that the addition of two spiders will give them enough stopping power to get the job done, allowing them to simply outscore the opposition. Some are concerned though that Tomnoddy and Attercop may be easily distracted by “Bilboish tactics”, such as opponents repeatedly calling their names, particularly when paired with dancing and throwing rocks.

DORIATH
*GK- Melian
-DF- Elured
-DF- Nimloth
-DF- Elurin
-DF- Algund
-MF- Saeros
-MF- Nellas
-MF- Daeron
-MF- Haldir
-FW- Haleth
-FW- Thingol

In order to fill the spots on his roster, Thingol has allowed several “baseborn mortals” from the forest next door to join his team, though he denied requests from a couple of talented dwarves. It looks like this small influx of differing characters and styles will allow Doriath to be more flexible rather than being a strictly defensive team, and relying completely upon the highly skilled Melian to turn aside the opposition.

EITHEL SIRION
-GK- Maglor
-DF- Gundor
-DF- Aegnor
-DF- Galdor
*DF- Angrod
-MF- Bregor
-MF- Nienor
-MF- Gwindor
*MF- Hador
-FW- Fingon
*FW- Maedhros

The northern fortress is back and looking to make a splash with a more than solid assembly of Elves and Men. With no known quarrels existing between the players and much experience between them, Eithel Sirion ought to feature good team play on top of their excellent talent. Look for balance from them at all times.

GELION
-GK- Dior
-DF- Haldar
-DF- Azaghal
-DF- Caranthir
*DF- Luthien
-MF- Denethor
-MF- Bereg
-MF- Lenwe
-MF- Haldad
-MF- Amlach
-FW- Beren

For a first-time team Gelion has managed to attract several quality players who usually play for other squads in Beleriand. Though Beren and Luthien have had their troubles with Celegorm and Curufin, it appears that they are getting on well with Caranthir, and thus their back line is looking particularly good. Besides the talent present there the overall mindset is quite defensive as well, so that’s definitely where they will try and gain their wins.

GONDOLIN
-GK- Huor
-DF- Salgant
-DF- Asfaloth
-DF- Rochallor
*DF- Thorondor
-MF- Ecthelion
-MF- Glorfindel
*MF- Eol
-FW- Fingolfin
-FW- Aredhel
*FW- Maeglin

Gondolin has strong talent and playoff experience across the board, so opponents had better come prepared to play all phases of the game. With their wide distribution of talent, Gondolin will play extremely balanced football, though if they fall behind they have a higher offensive gear to shift into.

GONDOR
-GK- Romendacil
-DF- Fastred
-DF- Ondoher
-DF- Folcred
-MF- Meneldil
-MF- Ostoher
-MF- Narmacil
-MF- Hyarmendacil
*MF- Beruthiel
-FW- Eldacar
-FW- Mardil

Gondor has tweaked their line and brought back the unpopular Beruthiel in hopes that her solid experience with other teams the past two seasons can benefit them. She will not be in a position to run wild, however, as Gondor is committed to defense first.

GORGOROTH
-GK- Shelob
-DF- Gorbag
-DF- Grishnakh
-DF- Shagrat
*DF- Nazgul #1
-MF- Angamaite
-MF- Gollum
-MF- Sangahyando
*MF- King of the Dead
-FW- Earnur
-FW- Castamir

The “other” Mordor team is not one to overlook, featuring a blend of crafty orcs, powerful men, and a couple of skilled undead. And of course there’s the fearsome Shelob in the goal, whose defensive webs are not easily pierced (not a literal phrase of course- the Arda Cup committee has banned players from covering the goal with any sort of obstacle, such as spider-webs). Look for the team to support her as their strategy.

HAVENS
-GK- Olwe
-DF- Lindo
-DF- Amandil
-DF- Eriol
-MF- Ar Gimilzor
-MF- Tar Aldarion
-MF- Elwing
-MF- Uinen
*MF- Cirdan
*FW- Earendil
-FW- Tar Minastir

Havens is a very diverse team, featuring all sorts of sea-faring individuals, including Tar Minastir, whose goal-scoring was an important part of Armenelos’s championship last season. Expect them to push the ball upfield aggressively at nearly every opportunity, where the proven hammers at the front will look to rack up the goals.

ITHILIEN
-GK- Mumakil
-DF- Samwise
-DF- Adrahil
-DF- Bergil
-DF- Mablung
-MF- Elboron
-MF- Damrod
-MF- Frodo
-MF- Anborn
-MF- Beregond
-FW- Faramir

Ithilien’s team is well versed in tactics of stealth and secrecy (though they have been banned from wearing camouflage on the pitch). Look for them to plan their rare attacks carefully while playing a frustrating defensive game. Mumakil in goal is an unknown, but Captain Faramir hopes the sheer girth of the beast will make things difficult on the opposition.

LORIEN
*GK- Galadriel
-DF- Finglas
-DF- Nimrodel
-DF- Orophin
-DF- Amroth
-MF- Fimbrethil
-MF- Rumil
-MF- Fladrif
-MF- Haldir
-MF- Amdir
-FW- Celeborn

Lorien looks to be a strong and wise team overall after adding a few ents to the roster, and the ents ought to be extremely comfortable playing alongside Elves. As usual Lorien will be dedicated to defense, and with their line-tweaks Galadriel hopes that she’ll get some help this year.

MINAS ANOR
-GK- Ecthelion II
-DF- Golasgil
-DF- Dervorin
-DF- Calimehtar
*DF- Pippin
-MF- Siriondil
-MF- Denethor II
-MF- Earnil II
*MF- Nazgul #4
-FW- Falastur
-FW- Boromir I

The tower of guard is back under its old name, Minas Anor, and hoping that the name change signifies brighter days. To help they have recalled the ever likable Pippin and others to service, and with this array of talent and no clear strength, expect a flexible style suited to all foes.

MISTY MOUNTAINS
-GK- Watcher
-DF- Tom
-DF- Landroval
-DF- Meneldor
-DF- Durin
-MF- Bert
-MF- Great Goblin
-MF- William
-MF- Narvi
-MF- Gwaihir
-FW- Azog

Eagles, dwarves, trolls, and orcs come together to make a brutish looking team. Their defensive play is likely to be bruising, and in fact overall they will look for their size and strength to make up for strategy. Their most calculating players they have placed at the front in recognition of the fact that it often takes some guile to change the scoreboard.

MITHRIM
**GK- Huan
-DF- Annael
-DF- Gelmir
*DF- Celegorm
**DF- Curufin
-MF- Androg
-MF- Morwen
-MF- Aradan
-FW- Hurin
-FW- Beleg
**FW- Turin

Together again- the dynamic duo of Turin and Beleg are back, but this time joined by the steadfast Hurin up front. At the back the sons of Feanor and their old pal Huan will make their presence known to opposing forwards. This team looks to have the talent to challenge teams defensively and offensively without having to emphasize either one, though they have that extra offensive gear to use should they fall behind. Given the skill of their defense, the forwards will be freed up to do as they please.

NARGOTHROND
-GK- Beor
-DF- Baran
-DF- Arminas
-DF- Baranor
*DF- Celebrimbor
-MF- Guillen
-MF- Boron
-MF- Finduilas
-MF- Barahir
**MF- Finrod
-FW- Mablung

Sporting a solid line punctuated by a couple exceptional talents, Nargothrond will be tough to crack. As expected under Finrod’s leadership, Nargothrond will be careful and guarded with their play, and tough as nails defensively. And should they encounter a team featuring a dragon, Finrod swears that they will not use the ill-fated “bridge maneuver” this time around.

NORBURY
-GK- Arvedui
-DF- Valandur
-DF- Arveleg
-DF- Malvegil
-DF- Amlaith
-MF- Argeleb
-MF- Tarcil
-MF- Valandil
*MF- Malbeth
-FW- Aranarth
-FW- Araphor

The northern descendants of the Numenoreans have shown some good talent in the past, but this time they think they have their team tweaked just right for a deeper run in the tournament. They will play their usual style, flexible and minimizing errors, ready to capitalize on those made by their opponents.

NUMENOR
*GK- Tar Atanamir
-DF- Tar Meneldur
-DF- Ar Zimrathan
-DF- Tar Cirytan
**DF- Tar Telperien
-MF- Tar Calmacil
-MF- Tar Ancalimon
-MF- Tar Miriel
**MF- Elros
-FW- Tar Palantir
-FW- Ar Adunakhor

The defending champs are back, this time playing as Numenor rather than Armenelos. The team looks a bit different, however, losing all three of their forwards (Ar Pharazon to Aman, Sauron to Barad-Dur, Tar Minastir to Havens). Losing three players of that caliber is certainly a blow, but replacing them are the three best players from last year’s solid Romenna squad, and the talent already present is certainly nothing to take lightly. Thus Numenor expects to fare well yet again with their balanced style.

PELENNOR
-GK- Theoden
-DF- Forlong
-DF- Windfola
-DF- Snowmane
-DF- Gothmog II
-MF- Gimli
-MF- Grimbold
-MF- Duinhir
-FW- Eowyn
-FW- Legolas
-FW- Imrahil

Teams spring up in all sorts of unexpected places, including this one which sprang from the fields before the gates of Minas Tirith. They feature quality talent and have a good team spirit, and will attack without hesitation at all times. Not surprisingly, their team motto is, “Leave it all out on the field!” Of course, players like Theoden hope that the fate that awaits him on the field is one other than the one he found upon Pelennor.

RIVENDELL
**GK- Elrond
-DF- Thorin
-DF- Galdor
-DF- Celebrian
*DF- Erestor
-MF- Bilbo
-MF- Elrohir
-MF- Elladen
*MF- Arwen
-MF- Arahael
-FW- Boromir II

Rivendell teams have always shown great unity and a flare for defense, and Elrond says that this year’s team is no different. They will try to lock down from beginning to end and score when an opportunity presents itself, simple as that.

ROHAN
-GK- Fram
-DF- Stybba
-DF- Firefoot
*DF- Felarof
-MF- Merry
-MF- Hallas
-MF- Frumgar
-MF- Cirion
-MF- Helm
-FW- Eomer
-FW- Eorl

Last year’s Edoras team put on an amazing defensive show through group play, but the goalkeeper (Theoden) and one of the defensive stars (Shadowfax) have departed, and so has the valuable Eowyn. But Eorl has found quality players to plug the holes, including a couple of solid additions from nearby Helm’s Deep. He also feels that the steed Firefoot is ready to step up and fill the void left by Shadowfax, and has recalled Merry Brandybuck, knight of the Mark, to serve the kingdom.

THANGORODRIM
-GK- Carcharoth
-DF- Gorlim
-DF- Drauglin
-DF- Uldor
*DF- Glaurung
-MF- Ulfang
-MF- Ulwarth
-MF- Ulfast
**MF- Durin’s Bane
*FW- Scatha
-FW- Ancalagon

Many Angband fans put up quite a fit when Melkor departed to sign with Valinor last year, and more still grumbled this year upon hearing that he intended to restart his old Utumno squad, and to make matters worse he stole many players which looked like they might play for Thangorodrim- Telvildo, Thuringwethil, Gothmog, and several Balrogs. In addition Hurin has gone back to Mithrim, Maeglin to Gondolin, and Gwindor to Eithel Sirion. But just when things looked hopeless, it was announced that there would be a dragon reunion! Scatha came from Mirkwood and Glaurung from Nargothrond to join with Ancalagon, and the next announcement- Durin’s Bane was at last coming back from Moria! Now Angband fans can look forward to seeing a quality side which will attack and attack again without mercy.

TIRION
-GK- Aule
-DF- Amras
-DF- Indis
-DF- Amrod
-MF- Orodreth
-MF- Mahtan
-MF- Ingwe
*MF- Nerdanel
-FW- Finwe
**FW- Feanor
*FW- Miriel

When a team has a prolific offense but still is unable to advance, the normal strategy would be to shore up the defense or revise to a less risky playing style. But Tirion (formerly Tuna) has taken the opposite route, attempting to add to their already top-tier offense in the form of Feanor. Will he be like throwing wood on a fire and smothering it, or will he be like adding gasoline? Fans can’t wait to find out. In the meantime, Tirion appears to be just as attack heavy as ever, except perhaps that Feanor has brought with him the mindset of locking down after building a lead.

UTUMNO
*GK- Ungoliant
-DF- Balrog #1
-DF- Balrog #2
-DF- Balrog #3
**DF- Balrog #4
-MF- Balrog #5
-MF- Telvildo
-MF- Thuringwethil
**MF- Melkor
-FW- Tilion
-FW- Gothmog

After a spectacular performance for Valimar that in the end proved fruitless, Melkor has decided to form a team of his own, and many have flocked to his call, including a couple of his teammates from last year. Also rejoining him is his chief balrog and several of his brothers, as well as Telvildo and Thuringwethil. This team is loaded top to bottom, and will follow the strategy of getting a lead and then shutting down the opponent.

VALIMAR
*GK- Namo
-DF- Vana
-DF- Pallando
-DF- Alatar
**DF- Manwe
-MF- Ilmare
-MF- Yavanna
-MF- Tulkas
**MF- Varda
-MF- Arien
-FW- Eonwe

Despite losing some heavy hitters, the Valimar squad doesn’t look likely to take a step back after adding the best of Taniquetil to their side. As with most Manwe-led teams, Valimar will be fairly defensive minded, though this time around due to the influence of last year’s holdovers the team will be better suited to come back from a deficit when necessary.

VINYAMAR
-GK- Rog
-DF- Osse
-DF- Galdor
-DF- Salmar
**DF- Ulmo
-MF- Voronwe
-MF- Egalmoth
-MF- Idril
-MF- Duilin
-FW- Tuor
-FW- Penlod

A great many lords of Gondolin have returned to their original home by the sea, and as he did of old, Ulmo has joined them there once again. And as an extra benefit, the lord of the waters has been joined by two of his vassals, Osse and Salmar, making the defense look quite formidable indeed. Vinyamar, while capable up and down the line, will look first to their defense to win matches.

WOLD
-GK- Hama
-DF- Elfwine
-DF- Beechbone
-DF- Lightfoot
*DF- Treebeard
-MF- Aldor
-MF- Grima
-MF- Theodred
-MF- Ugluk
*MF- Quickbeam
-FW- Eomund

The denizens of Isengard, Fangorn, and Rohan have met out upon the Wold and melded into a single team. They hope to be as crafty as orcs, as hardy and strong as ents, and as forward and dashing as the men of Rohan. Captain Treebeard has made defense the focus of this squad, and has instituted a policy of not being hasty, but rather careful and opportunistic.

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

GROUP A
Aman
Beleriand
Ithilien
Vinyamar

GROUP B
Barad-Dur
Barrow-Downs
Breeland
Gorgoroth

GROUP C
Mithrim
Nargothrond
Norbury
Pelennor

GROUP D
Dale
Eithel Sirion
Gelion
Rohan

GROUP E
Misty Mountains
Numenor
Rivendell
Utumno

GROUP F
Bywater
Lorien
Thangorodrim
Valimar

GROUP G
Doriath
Gondolin
Gondor
Wold

GROUP H
Dol Guldur
Havens
Minas Anor
Tirion

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

For those who do not know the way this tournament works, the teams within a group play each other (3 points for a win, 1 for a draw), and the two teams that finish atop the group advance to the playoffs (16 teams, single elimination).

[Boromir88]

I'm about to put up a pleasant little piece on the 32 teams. It's merely for entertainment, and hopefully it's enjoyable. I completed half in Microsoft word prior, and the other half will come some time later.

The reason I'm saying this though, is because creating stories and write-ups...etc adds to the spirit and fun of the whole thing. You honestly don't have to know about soccer at all...create stories about teams jerseys, make-up, shoes for all I care. Create interviews with players, rivalries...etc. It's not required but everyone's welcome!

[Nogrod]

Originally Posted by tp

You will select your team members from the rosters available in my next post, and will be awarded points according to how your players fare in their tournament games. Please put a bolded -> C after one of your players. That means that player is your team captain, and will gain (or lose) double point value.

ETC...

Remember, you have no hurry at this stage!

No one is calling you to make a team tomorrow or the day after that. Just enjoy the pre-tournament friendly matches published on the coming weeks, look at the rosters and the different analysis by the media for your fun and entertainment etc.

The Arda Cup will start later on - and you will be encouraged to make your choices nearer the DL for the games to begin...

[Boromir88]

Some of the first friendlies are up...I think more are coming later. The phantasy scoring is pretty straight forward, but as an example for the new ones...This would have been the phantasy points for if you had any of these players from Gorgoroth on your team:

GORGOROTH
-GK- Shelob (6) - [shutout (4), 3 saves (2)]
-DF- Gorbag (4) - [shutout for DF]
-DF- Grishnakh (3) - [shutout, yellow card (-1)]
-DF- Shagrat (3) - [shutout, YC]
*DF- Nazgul #1 (6) - [shutout (4), assist (3), YC (-1)]
-MF- Angamaite (1) - [shutout for MF]
-MF- Gollum (1) - [shutout]
-MF- Sangahyando (0) - [shutout, YC]
*MF- King of the Dead (1) - [shutout]
-FW- Earnur (-1) - [YC]
-FW- Castamir (4) - [goal for FW]

[Eomer of the Rohirrim]

Do we post our teams/predictions on this thread?

[the phantom]

Yes sir! This is the thread for all team-managing posts and official predictions for points. Basically, anything Phantasy related goes here.

The other thread (Arda Cup 2010) is going to be strictly match-based posts- game summaries, team stories, interviews, pre-match breakdowns, etc. That does not mean that you aren't allowed to post on it. Feel free, so long as you are posting in the spirit of the thread.

[Feanor of the Peredhil]

-GK- Nienna
*DF- Glaurung
DF- Balrog #1
-DF- Snowmane
-DF- Thrain
-MF- Fimbrethil
-MF- Thuringwethil
*MF- Cirdan
**FW- Feanor
FW- Imrahil
FW- Fingolfin

Predictions to follow.

[Eomer of the Rohirrim]

GK - Hama (Wold)

DF - Nimrodel (Lorien)
DF - Balrog #1 (Utumno)
DF - Gothmog II (Pelennor)
DF - Treebeard (Wold)*

MF - Goldberry (Breeland)
MF - Glorfindel (Gondolin)
MF - Eol (Gondolin)*
MF - Melkor (Utumno)** C

FW - Isildur (Barad-Dur)
FW- Mablung (Nargothrond)

[Eomer of the Rohirrim]

Most goals: Feanor (Tirion)

Most assists: Melkor (Utumno)

Winning team: Utumno


Best Keeper: Melian (Doriath)

Best Defender: Balrog #4 (Utumno)

Best Midfielder: Melkor (Utumno)

Best Forward: Feanor (Tirion)


Group Predictions (1st place, 2nd place)


A: Aman, Vinyamar

B: Barrow-Downs, Barad-Dur

C: Nargothrond, Pelennor

D: Eithel Sirion, Gelion

E: Utumno, Numenor

F: Valimar, Bywater

G: Gondolin, Wold

H: Tirion, Grey Havens

[mormegil]

My Roster is a 4-3-3

Eomerwarg of the Donwers as GK

DF:
Mablung of Ithilien
Amroth of Lorien
Thror of Dale
Skip Spence of the Downers

MF:
Haldir of Doriath
*Beruthiel of Gondor
*King of the Dead of Gorgoroth

FW:
Smaug of Dale
*Bombadil of Breeland
*Witch King of Dol Guldur (C)

Predicitons:

Most goals is Turin

Most assists is Beorn

Teams the will win is Mithrim

Goalkeeper with most points is Huan

Defender with most points is Curufin

Midfielder with most points is Melkor

Forward with most points is Turin

Group Predictions (first team listed is first and second is second)

Group A:
Vinyamar
Ithilien

Group B:
Barad-Dur
Gorgoroth

Group C:
Mirthrim
Nargothrond

Group D:
Eithel Sirion
Dale

Group E:
Numenor
Utunmo

Group F:
Thangorodrim
Bywater

Group G:
Gondolin
Wold

Group H:
Tirion
Dol Guldur

[Gwathagor]

Glad to see I made it onto the Barrow-downs team.

[Gwathagor]

This year's Lynch Mob will use a 4-3-3 formation.

GK: Rog (Vinyamar)

DF: Amrod (Tirion)
DF: Thorin (Rivendell)
DF: Tar Meneldur (Numenor)
DF: Finglas (Lorien)

MF: Gil-Galad * (Barad-dur)
MF: Gwindor (Eithel Sirion)
MF: Hador * (Eithel Sirion)

FW: Miriel * (Tirion) (C)
FW: Eorl (Rohan)
FW: Earendil * (Havens)

PREDICTIONS:

10 POINTS QUESTIONS
Who will score the most goals in the tournament?
-Sauron

Who will have the most assists in the tournament?
-Nerdanel

Which team will win the tournament?
-Utumno

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
-Huan

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
-Curufin

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
-Melkor

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
-Feanor

GROUP PREDICTIONS

GROUP A - Vinyamar, Aman
GROUP B - Barad-dur, Barrowdowns
GROUP C - Mithrim, Nargothrond
GROUP D - Eithel Sirion, Gelion
GROUP E - Utumno, Numenor
GROUP F - Valimar, Thangorodrim
GROUP G - Gondolin, Wold
GROUP H - Tirion, Dol Guldur

[Shastanis Althreduin]

The Howls of Raven's Run - Shasta's team

GK - Shelob (Gorgoroth)

DF - Shadowfax (Bywater) **
DF - Orophin (Lorien)
DF - Celegorm (Mithrim) *
DF - Firefoot (Rohan)

MF - Mahtan (Tirion)
MF - Thuringwethil (Utumno)
MF - Nerwen (Barrow-Downs)

FW - Maedhros (Eithel Sirion) *
FW - Tar Minastir (Havens) (C)
FW - Ancalagon (Thangorodrim)

10 POINT QUESTIONS

Who will score the most goals in the tournament? - Tar Minastir

Who will have the most assists in the tournament? - Nerdanel

Which team will win the tournament? - Mithrim

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? - Shelob

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? - Shadowfax

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? - Elros

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? - Miriel

GROUP PREDICTIONS

Group A - Vinyamar, followed by Ithilien.
Group B - Barrow-Downs, followed by Gorgoroth.
Group C - Mithrim, followed by Pelennor.
Group D - Eithel Sirion, followed by Rohan.
Group E - Numenor, followed by Utumno.
Group F - Thangorodrim, followed by Lorien.
Group G - Gondolin, followed by Doriath.
Group H - Havens, followed by Tirion.

[wilwarin538]

The Muffins of Muchness

GK - Hama of Wold

DF - Nessa of Aman
DF - Amrod of Tirion
DF - Glaurung of Thangorodrim *
DF - Lightfoot of Wold

MF - Durin's Bane of Thangorodrim ** (C)
MF - Gwindor of Eithel Sirion
MF - Merry of Rohan

FW - Miriel of Tirion *
FW - Nogrod of Barrow-Downs
FW - Fingolfin of Gondolin


10 POINT QUESTIONS

Who will score the most goals in the tournament? - Sauron

Who will have the most assists in the tournament? - Ingwe

Which team will win the tournament? - Thangorodrim

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? - Huan

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? - Asfaloth

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? - Hador

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? - Feanor


GROUP PREDICTIONS (1st first, 2nd second)

GROUP A
Aman
Vinyamar

GROUP B
Barad-Dur
Gorgoroth

GROUP C
Pelennor
Mithrim

GROUP D
Eithel Sirion
Rohan

GROUP E
Numenor
Rivendell

GROUP F
Thangorodrim
Valimar

GROUP G
Gondolin
Wold

GROUP H
Tirion
Havens

[Nerwen]

Sorry this is so late– internet's been dying on me!

Nerwen's Noble Achievers

GK - Shelob (Gorgoroth)

DF - Salmar (Vinyamar)
DF - Alatar (Valimar)
DF - Aegnor (Eithel Sirion)
DF - *Glaurung (Thangorodrim)

MF - Ingwë (Tirion)
MF - Idril (Vinyamar)
MF - *Eöl (Gondolin)

FW - Wilwa (Barrow-Downs)
FW - Legolas (Pelennor)
**FW- Feanor (Tirion) (C)



10 POINT QUESTIONS

Who will score the most goals in the tournament? –Feanor

Who will have the most assists in the tournament? –Eowyn

Which team will win the tournament? –Tirion

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? –Huan

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? –Glaurung

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? –Durin's Bane

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? –Feanor (again)

GROUP A
1. Vinyamar
2. Ithilien

GROUP B
1. Barad-Dur
2. Barrow-Downs

GROUP C
1. Pelennor
2. Mithrim

GROUP D
1.Eithel Sirion
2.Rohan

GROUP E
1.Utumno
2.Numenor

GROUP F
1.Thangorodrim
2.Valimar

GROUP G
1.Gondolin
2.Gondor

GROUP H
1.Tirion
2.Havens

[the phantom]

All right, ladies and gents- from this point on, every goal and save is for points. The friendlies are over. All the friendly results can be found on the main thread if you wish to read them. A few of us will be doing friendly reviews or tournament forcasting in the coming days leading up to the start of the tournament, so if you are wanting to give your selections some additional thought, give those a read. Or you can always read just for entertainment purposes. Also, feel free to post your own sports-blog/article style recaps and predictions.

If you haven't drafted your team or made your official point predictions, make sure and get it done. We'll give you a few days so as to max out participants, but the longer you wait the more frequent reminder PMs you'll get from me.

Or perhaps that's a reward more than a punishment?

[skip spence]

Originally Posted by the phantom

Or perhaps that's a reward more than a punishment?

Yes! PM me Mr. Phantom, PM me! I'm not done with my team selections yet!

[Eomer of the Rohirrim]

I'm feeling good about this year's competition. Let battle commence!

[Boromir88]

One thing about your roster wilwa...Sauron is a 2 * player, so you're one over.

Predictions

10 POINT QUESTIONS

Who will score the most goals in the tournament? Maedhros

Who will have the most assists in the tournament? Sauron

Which team will win the tournament? Gondolin

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
Elrond

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
Treebeard

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
Durin's Bane

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
Maedhros

GROUP A
1. Aman
2. Vinyamar

GROUP B
1. Barad Dur
2. Barrow Downs

GROUP C
1. Mithrim
2. Norbury

GROUP D
1.Eithel Sirion
2.Rohan

GROUP E
1.Utumno
2.Rivendell

GROUP F
1.Valimar
2.Thangorodrim

GROUP G
1.Gondolin
2.Wold

GROUP H
1.Tirion
2.Havens

Team - Han says "Come on baby hold together."

-GK- Rog (Vinyamar)

-DF- Alatar (Valimar)
-DF- Balrog #3 (Utumno)
*DF- Turgon (Aman)
*DF- Treebeard (Wold)

-MF- Arien (Valimar)
-MF- Helm (Rohan)
-MF- Gwindor (Eithel Sirion)
**MF- Durin's Bane (Thangorodrim) (C)

-FW- Fingon (Eithel Sirion)
-FW- Tar Minastir (Havens)

[wilwarin538]

Originally Posted by Boro

One thing about your roster wilwa...Sauron is a 2 * player, so you're one over.

*headdesks*

And I thought I could get away with it. haha It's fixed.

[the phantom]

I'd say that your team requires another fix, as I'm fairly certain you won't be gaining any points from "Fingol".

[wilwarin538]

Originally Posted by the phantom

I'd say that your team requires another fix, as I'm fairly certain you won't be gaining any points from "Fingol".

*facepalm*

Gah. I fail. Fixed now.

[Nogrod]

A few general questions...

Have you tp an idea when are we going to start: a few days, a week, less than two weeks?

Which will be the opening-round games?

How will the teams proceed after the group stage? A1 vs. B2 etc. (every two consecutive groups forming cross-games), A1 vs. D2 etc. (the first four groups coming together and the last four themselves), or A1 vs. H2 etc. (first and last group, second and second last...), or which system?

[the phantom]

Start time will depend upon the swiftness of response from the participants. If everyone has their teams and predictions ready to go by next week I imagine we will begin unless there are weighty objections from co-mods. But if by delaying it is certain that more players will be participating, I would be in favor of a later start.

Playoffs will be A1 vs H2, B1 vs G2, etc.

I hope to post the opening round of games both here and on the game thread in the next couple days. There are just a couple of loose ends to tie up first, such as site selection. The Arda Cup committee is in the final stages of considering hosting bids for the groups, and the competition is fierce! Rumor is Sauron has threatened to set off Mt Doom and cover all the lands in ash if Mordor isn't selected as a host site, and Manwe has hinted that he'll call upon Eru to open up a chasm in the sea if Valimar doesn't host.

[mormegil]

My team will be named: Insert Clever Name Here

[Feanor of the Peredhil]

Team Captain: Cirdan

Sidenote: Imrahil is our honorary co-captain, though he understands that he will not have the same captain-benefits as Cirdan.


10 POINT QUESTIONS

Who will score the most goals in the tournament? Feanor

Who will have the most assists in the tournament? Nienna

Which team will win the tournament? Barrowdowns

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Nienna

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Nessa

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Sally

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Vanilwa

GROUP PREDICTIONS

GROUP A
1- Ithilien
2- Vinyamar

GROUP B
1- Barrow-Downs
2- Breeland

GROUP C
1- Norbury
2- Mithrim

GROUP D
1- Gelion
2- Eithel Sirion

GROUP E
1- Misty Mountains
2- Utumno

GROUP F
1- Bywater
2- Thangorodrim

GROUP G
1- Gondor
2- Doriath

GROUP H
1- Dol Guldur
2- Minas Anor

[Shastanis Althreduin]

I'm excited for this to start!

[the phantom]

If you're having trouble coming up with your team or making predictions, this may help you.

If you have trouble understanding it, I'd be happy to give a more detailed explanation (unless someone else beats me to it).

[Lariren Shadow]

*GK: Melian
DF: Vána
DF: Firefoot
DF: Mira
DF: Windfola
*MF: Cirdan
MF: Elboron
MF: Morwen
FW: Isildur
FW: Faramir
FW: Éowyn C

Predictions will follow.

[skip spence]

Klong Toey Soi Dogs.

GK Hama of Wold
DF Alatar of Valimar
DF Lightfoot of Wold
DF Aegnor of Eithel Sirion

MF Gwindor of Eithel Sirion
MF The Phantom of B-D's
MF Fea of the Peredhil B-D's
*MF Eöl of Gondolin

FW Fingolfin of Gondolin
**FW Túrin (C) of Mithrim



10 POINT QUESTIONS

Who will score the most goals in the tournament? Túrin

Who will have the most assists in the tournament? The Phantom

Which team will win the tournament? Barrowdowns

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
Maglor
Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
skip spence
Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
Melkor
Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?
Turin

GROUP PREDICTIONS

GROUP A
1- Aman
2- Vinyamar

GROUP B
1- Barad-Dur
2- Barrow-Downs

GROUP C
1- Mithrim
2- Norbury

GROUP D
1- Eithel Sirion
2- Rohan

GROUP E
1- Utumno
2- Numenor

GROUP F
1 - Thangorodrim
2- Valimar

GROUP G
1- Gondolin
2- Wold

GROUP H
1 - Tirion
2 - Dol Guldur

[Nogrod]

I have always had a principle to choose my team with (like beauties and the beasts) but this time I thought I could try a different approach. Well a little different one eg. trying to be flexible in the first rounds but then going more or less solidly towards the principles later on the game.

So here's for it the newly named team of mine for the first round of matches (some might see some patterns there from the earlier years: no Fëanor but Miriel and Nerdanel in - hopefully I have reasons to put Aredhel in later as well, and Tar Telperien, and Huan... - they have been the backbone of my teams everytime).



Team Noggportunistics

GK – Nienna of Aman

D – Tar Meneldur of Numenor
D – Asfaloth of Gondolin
D – Galdor of Eithel Sirion
D – * Turgon of Aman

MF – Hyermendacil of Gondor
MF – Gwindor of Eithel Sirion
MF – * Nerdanel of Tirion

FW – * Miriel of Tirion (C)
FW – * Scatha of Thangorodrim
FW – Tar Minastir of Havens



The other pre-tournament predictions:

10 point questions.

Most goals:
Scatha of Thangorodrim

Most assists:
Eöl of Gondolin

Team to win the tournament:
Tirion


5 point questions.

Keeper with most phantasy points:
Huan of Mithrim

Defender with most phantasy points:
Tar Telperion of Numenor

Midfielder with most phantasy points:
Durin’s Bane of Thangorodrim

Forward with most phantasy points:
Nerdanel of Tirion


And the group predictions:

A.
1. Aman
2. Vinyamar

B.
1. Barrow-Downs
2. Barad Dûr

C.
1. Mithrim
2. Norbury

D.
1. Eithel Sirion
2. Rohan

E.
1. Utumno
2. Numenor

F.
1. Thangorodrim
2. Valimar

G.
1. Gondolin
2. Gondor

H.
1. Tirion
2. Havens

[Boromir88]

Yay there's a Lari! And she's got a very family oriented team.

Originally Posted by the phantom

If you have trouble understanding it, I'd be happy to give a more detailed explanation (unless someone else beats me to it).

I didn't realize it was April 1st at all yesterday, but my thought was...Really? He's Rick roll'd the thread?

[the phantom]

Sally, Hakon, Eonwe, McCaber, Glirdan, and Mira- we still need your entries. If anyone knows these folks, tell them to get a move on. If they're running short on time now but still wish to compete, offer them some help getting started. The most important thing to hand in now is predictions (most goals, group winners, so on), as those cannot be done once the tournament begins. The team, on the other hand- you can redraft your entire team after the first round of group play, so just toss some players, any players, onto your roster for now if that's all you have time for.

[Eönwë]

Eönwë's Egregious Aggregate
-GK- Dior (Gelion)
-DF- Amrod(Tirion)
-DF- Snowmane(Pelennor)
-DF- Drauglin (Thangorodrim)
-DF-Galdor (Eithel Sirion)
**MF- Elros (Numenor)
*MF- Cirdan (Havens)
-MF- Tar Aldarion (Havens)
*FW- Tom Bombadil (Breeland)
-FW- Eldacar (Gondor)
-FW- Hurin




10 POINT QUESTIONS

Who will score the most goals in the tournament? Sauron

Who will have the most assists in the tournament? Bombadil

Which team will win the tournament? Eithel Sirion

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Huan

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Glaurung

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Elros

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Sauron

GROUP PREDICTIONS

GROUP A
1- Vinyamar
2- Aman

GROUP B
1- Barad-Dur
2- Barrow-Downs

GROUP C
1- Mithrim
2- Pelennor

GROUP D
1- Eithel Sirion
2- Gelion

GROUP E
1- Numenor
2- Utumno

GROUP F
1- Thangorodrim
2- Valimar

GROUP G
1- Gondolin
2- Wold

GROUP H
1- Tirion
2- Havens

[McCaber]

Dang, it's been a while. How've all you guys been doing?

Time to once again reform The Next-to-Last Alliance

*GK: Tar Atanamir (Numenor)
-DF: Balrog #3 (Utumno)
-DF: Nazgul #5 (Barad-Dur)
-DF: Grishnakh (Gorgoroth)
*DF: Turgon (Aman)
-MF: Tevildo (Thangorodrim)
-MF: The Phantom (Barrow-Downs)
*MF: Eol (Gondolin)
-FW: Tuor (Vinaymar)
-FW: Ancalagon (Thangorodrim)
*FW: Maedhros (Eithel Sirion) (C)

Most goals: Feanor (Tirion)
Most assists: Ancalagon (Thangorodrim)
Champions: Eithol Sirion

Best keeper: Shelob (Gorgoroth)
Best defender: Angrod (Eithel Sirion)
Best midfielder: Elros (Numenor)
Best forward: Feanor (Tirion)

Group A: Aman (W), Vinyamar (Runner-up)
Group B: Barrow-Downs (W), Gorgoroth (Runner-up)
Group C: Mithrim (W), Pelennor (Runner-up)
Group D: Eithel Sirion (W), Gelion (Runner-up)
Group E: Numenor (W), Utumno (Runner-up)
Group F: Thangorodrim (W), Valimar (Runner-up)
Group G: Gondolin (W), Doriath (Runner-up)
Group H: Tirion (W), Havens (Runner-up)

[satansaloser2005]

Team: Sally Ho!

GK: Huan (the wonder mutt)
DF: Sam
DF: Grishnakh
DF: Luthien
DF: Firefoot
MF: Denethor
MF: Glorfindel
MF: Phantom
FW: Smaug
FW: Wilwa
FW: Bombadil
WB*: Fatty

*Water Boy. Or Waddle Boy. Whatever, really.








INDIVIDUAL PREDICTIONS

Most goals: Turin.
Most assists: Melkor.
Winning team: Barad-Dur

Goal keeper with most phantasy points: Huan.
Defender with most phantasy points: Shadowfax.
Midfielder with most phantasy points: Finrod.
Forward with most phantasy points: Sauron.



GROUP PREDICTIONS
(Formula=Group: Winner, runner-up)

A: Vinyamar, Beleriand
B: Barad-Dur, The Barrow-Downs
C: Mithrim, Pelennor
D: Rohan, Gelion
E: Numenor, Utumno
F: Valimar, LoriVen
G: Gondolin, Gondor
H: Minas Anor, Tirion

[Glirdan]

TEAM: Magnum (For all you Bostonmooters )

DF
Mira
Shadowfax
Thror
Luthien

MF
Fea
Glorfindel
Gandalf

FW
Sauron
Bombadil C
Beren

GK
Eomer

10 POINT QUESTIONS

Who will score the most goals in the tournament?

Bombadil

Who will have the most assists in the tournament?

Wilwa

Which team will win the tournament?

Rivendell

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?

Eomer

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?

Mira

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?

the phantom

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament?

Bombadil

GROUP PREDICTIONS

Predict the winner and runner up from each of the eight groups. Predicting the winner is worth 3 points. The runner up is worth 1. If you select the correct two teams but have their positions reversed, you will be awarded 2 points. So that's a possible thirty-two points right there. Don't skip this!

Group A

Winner - Belerian
Runner Up - Ithilien

Group B

Winner - Barrow-Downs
Runner Up - Barad-Dur

Group C

Winner - Pelennor
Runner Up - Nargothrond

Group D

Winner - Rohan
Runner Up - Dale

Group E

Winner - Rivendell
Runner Up - Numenor

Group F

Winner - Lorien
Runner Up - Valimar

Group G

Winner - Doriath
Runner Up - Gondor

Group H

Winner - Dol Guldur
Runner Up - Minas Anor

[Lariren Shadow]

Who will score the most goals in the tournament? Manwe

Who will have the most assists in the tournament? Eowyn

Which team will win the tournament? Ithilien

5 POINT QUESTIONS

Which goalkeeper will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Huan

Which defender will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Asfaloth

Which midfielder will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Sally

Which forward will score the most total phantasy points in the tournament? Sauron

GROUP PREDICTIONS

GROUP A
Ithilien
Vinyamar

GROUP B
Barrow-Downs
Gorgoroth

GROUP C
Pelennor
Norbury

GROUP D
Rohan
Dale

GROUP E
Misty Mountains
Numenor


GROUP F
Lorien
Thangorodrim

GROUP G
Gondor
Gondolin

GROUP H
Minas Anor
Dol Guldur

[wilwarin538]

Originally Posted by Glirdan

TEAM: Magnum

It's times like these that I'm very pleased to be your best friend. This is brilliant.