ARDA CUP Football 2012

[Nogrod]

The men of Númenor consider themselves a rare if not unique people – and they are right in a sense. They share the original capacities of the first men; endurance, strength, stamina, character and size, but unlike their ancestors, they are also refined, literate, sophisticated, proud and well, just cool. And they know that the mankind has fallen after the fall of Númenor: after the Second Age the world has been waning and so has the race of men producing ever lesser and lesser men. The exceptional majesty king Elessar showed in the third age in comparison to other men of his age made the old kings and queens of Númenor shake their heads and sigh after the glory of their times totally lost in this world. To Númenorians Elessar’s character looks as commanding as a wannabe teenage-knight’s stature who had to pray the stars to enter the Númenorean cavalry’s lowest ranks in their time.

That of course is their opinion. An opinion of a proud people, but not without a string of truth in it.

Númenor was the powerhouse of football during the first Arda Cups 08-09, getting into the bronze match on -08 and winning the title on -09 with a dream team rarely seen. After that is has been less graceful for the Númenorians, even if most nations and teams would be proud of the record of getting into the quarterfinals on two years in a row. But to Númenorians that has not been good enough. The Númenorians care for the win, and only for the win.

There was an interesting article in the Armenelos Post last week, where the editors noted that the only win in the Arca Cup to a Númenorean team (team Armenelos) came on a year when Elros was not himself in the team (-09). And in the fourth place winning side from -08 Elros was a goalkeeper – since replaced by much sharper Tar-Atanamir who has been consistently one of the best goalies in all tournaments after that. So how about it was time to show the door to the otherwise highly esteemed king and let the sporting success prevail once more?

This understandably caused a huge stir on the island of divided loyalties. Even if the strong ties of blood and pride bring the númenorians together, the issue of loyalties and the shared history of the tears shed takes them apart from each other at the same time. And the suggestion of sacking Elros wasn’t going to go down well with the “elf-friends” – while it was strongly applauded in the ranks of the “King’s Men”.

Soon it became obvious that the row was getting out of the hand as street-fights and open brawls in other public places were reported in ever shortening intervals. It was then that the great press conference was held at Armenelos yesterday.

And AKM was there, naturally.



The Númenorian investment group, Meneltarma Capital was represented by it’s co-chairs Ar-Pharazôn and Tar Atanamir. Elros was there as well as was the great Tar Minastir.


Ar-Pharazôn: On behalf of Meneltarma Capital I bid you welcome to this short press conference. We wish to assure you all Númenoreans, that there is no ill will or strife between our best players or uncertainty with our financial interests. But because of financial limitations we have made some decisions that may not please all of you, but which were forced on us.

Tar Atanamir: Yes. But we’re still building back the legendary team Armenelos for this year, more or less in the shape it was on 08-09. Sure we’re not allowing Sauron to step into the soil of this island anymore and king Elros has begged to be relieved…

Elros: That’s true. I have some plans of my own. And I assure you the article on Armenelos Post had nothing to do with it… And I’m actually staying as a minority shareholder of the Menetarma Capital. So I will support the decisions it makes and will stand behind the Númenorian excellence in football.

Tar Minastir: You know my credentials my fellow countrymen. I’m not going to play for team Armenelos this year either, and I know it is a big disappointement to many. But you can cheer for me and my good friends; the old war-horse Tar Ciryatan, Tar Meneldur the astronomer and his foresighted son Tar Aldarion on another team we have a nice holding as an investment group as well.

Ar-Pharazôn: Yes indeed. With the decision of the Meneltarma Capital we have decided to divide the talent of our island funding a few players to join a team of seafarers in the making under the captaincy of none else than Ulmo himself. So all the money by you small investors will be channelled to the greater glory of Númenor, just in two different ways, with team Armenelos and the Sea-team, whatever their name will be in the end.

Tar Atanamir: I am proud to say that even with these traito… erm… trades to Ulmo’s team, team Armenelos will refuse to go down to any team in this year’s cup.

Ar-Pharazôn: But we also wish you all to support both teams with Númenorean talent in them. We’re all of the same family. Aren’t we Elros?

Elros: For the honour of Númenor!

Everyone (suddenly standing): For the honour of Númenor!

Romenna Herald: Tar Minastir is undoubtedly one of our shiniest players, and he is taking that much of grace with him to Ulmo, and even Elros is not playing for us? Do we have any Good players left in our team of the island?

Ar-Pharazôn: Those reneg… eh… renaissance talents sure are a loss, but Tar Telperiën will lead our defence once again and the Lord of the West, Ar Adunakhôr, will help score the goals.

Tar Atanamir: And you forget the brilliance of Tar Ancalimon, Tar Calmacil and Ar Gimilzôr who formed the backbone of our midfield on 08-09. They’re back in those positions to make us run the game once more – like we used to.

The AKM: But who will feed you Mr. Pharazôn and your mate Adunakhôr? Sauron was the organizer and the passing machine on the legendary -09 team, and Elros did that job last year with Westernesse team. Who will fill that gap? Surely your team is great: an Arda-class goalkeeper, solid defence, holding midfield and great strikers, but you need someone to organise the game and feed you guys in the front to score, don’t you? Who’s taking that?

Ar-Pharazôn: A Númenorian will always rise to the occasion. Don’t you outlanders worry about that.



The AKM will leave its educated readers the drawing of conclusions from that press-meeting as it doesn’t want to endanger it’s good relations with the Númenorian hegemony. But whatever the inner rifts between the islanders, they have the talent and the capital to run far in the tournament this year as well. That is one thing there will be no doubt about.

[Boromir88]

THE TWO TOWERS NETWORK
Boromir the 88th

Free Agency Fury is underway!

With the announcement all previous contracts were banished to the void, by Eru, owners and investors scrambled to sign players once free agency opened. TTN is covering many teams in our regional sphere including: The Mordor teams (Barad-dur and Mordor), the Gondor teams (Minas Tirith and Gondor), the teams of weirdos (Tol in Gaurhoth and The Downer), and two others Anfauglith (associated with Sauron's Tol-in-Gaurhoth Realty) and Shire-Bree United (which has ties to Gondor's Union of Honest Workers).

RUMOR CENTRAL - for the latest rumors and news buzzing around our team coverage, read below. We stress, these are rumors, for actual confirmed signings see our "Free Agent Signings" section.

Anfauglith: It's is Melkor's Evil House group which owns the majority of team Anfauglith. However, Sauron from his TIG base has also invested a small amount into the team. This leaves us wondering how will the former Master-Servant pair, now co-owners work out? Sauron is known to have deep pockets, but at least with Anfauglith, appears to be holding back from over-spending. If Evil House takes a financial hit, will Sauron swoop in to buy up more shares of team Anfauglith? That has many wondering.

Barad-dur: And Mordorians are wondering just what Sauron is doing with his home-base teams. Not much word has gotten out of the Black Land after the press conference and the Gate was shut. There was news The Mouth was quickly signed, but it appears so far, at least in the land of Mordor, Sauron is keeping isolated. Reaching out only to the talent within Mordor, and not making a big splash by bringing in outside talent. There is of course plenty of time left, and there are rumors, but no confirmation yet on which team (Barad-dur, Mordor, TIG, or Anfauglith) Sauron will be suiting up for this year.

Mordor: Barad-dur is exclusively owned by Sauron, but Sauron also still has majority ownership over the other Mordor team. However, to the management of team, most speculate has been left to the Nazgul, since Minas Morgul investors (The Black Sorcery Guild) also hold significant ownership of the team. Plus, buying in with smaller investments is the North Umbar Trading Company and Harad Inc. Sauron still figures to be the final "yes man" in team Mordor's decisions, especially since we expect the Black Sorcery Guild to virtually go along with Sauron on all decisions.

Gondor: Gondor is an interesting situation, since most Arda Cup teams are owned by large corporations or firms, however Gondor has sprung up as one of the few publicly owned teams. With the citizenry and subjects all over the realm pooling finances to buy into team Gondor. We do not know how this strategy will fair, when compared to the wealthier clubs, but under the old rules this sort of situation could never have happened. With the Gondorian subjects being disappointed in Gondor's tournament performances, we expect a resurgance of pride and duty for Gondor, as they try to bring back the best talent from this vast, and great, realm of Men.

Minas Tirith: Unlike Gondor, Minas Tirith is owned exclusively by the Guild of Stewards. It is not unusual to see Ecthelion II, Denethor II, and Faramir in the same area, but Minas Tirithians were further emboldened with a Boromir II sighting. Will the family of Stewards be brought together under the same banner again?

Shire-Bree United: This is perhaps the most diversely invested team in all of Arda. It appears everyone who has ever been enamoured by the way the hobbits play on the pitch has bought into SB-United. We expect this diverse field of investors from: Bree, The Shire, Hobbiton, Gondor, The Barrow-Downs, Norbury, Aragorn, and Bombadil to reflect the diversity of the players they sign too. In fact, SB-United perhaps had the biggest splash of all our teams so far when Aragorn announced almost immediately he has signed to play on the team. Respected Hobbit, Samwise Gamgee welcomed the signing saying: "We wanted to have an early impact and let our fans know we are serious about building a championship team. Last year, our War of the Ring alliance fell flat, to put it kindly. A player of Aragorn's ability, isn't only quality on the field, but off as well. He is one of the greatest ambassadors to the game, and we hope will attract other big-name free agents to Shire-Bree United."

Tol-in-Gaurhoth: This is an interesting team as well, since The Barrow-Downs group owns the majority of TIG. It is a strange group, that we at TTN don't know much about, other then it's an internet-based group, run by wights, werewolves, penguin-lovers, quality beef-enthusiasts and other odd beings. They apparently get together to discuss literary tastes, and other random topics. Whatever/whomever they are, historically the TIG team has always been a strong competitor. Bouncing back last year, after a few down years, to make it all the way to the finals only to lose to Doriath. Team mainstays like phantomwolf and Nogwolf pledge that 2nd is not nearly good enough. And in the most peculiar move, Sauron has also lent his financial support to the team. Many are now wondering if Sauron himself will return to his '08 team and be the key they need to finally make TIG an Arda Cup winning champion. How much interest does Sauron have in the fortunes of TIG? No one seems to know, and only time has the answer.

The Downer: Perhaps even stranger than TIG, is the team that appeared last year The Downer. The Downer's style of play confused many Arda teams last year. It's primarily owned by Newspaper mogul Hookbill (however, The Barrow-Downs Community is also invested). We are still not sure what to expect, other than The Downer will likely have a dirt cheap payroll, because officials feel Hookbill is perhaps fudging his financial records, or honestly just making up numbers for his fledgling newspaper. The Barrow-downs brings in some financial stability, however it's clear their primary interests are in Tol-in-Gaurhoth.

FREE AGENT SIGNINGS - These are the up-to-date confirmed signings since free agency opened up last week. Obviously some teams have either been more active, or just more successful signing on players than others. Next to the player is also the salary (dollar amount in millions)

Anfauglith:

Barad-dur: The Mouth (9)

Mordor: Gorbag (3), Shagrat (4)

Gondor:

Minas Tirith: Ecthelion II (8), Denethor II (8), Faramir (8)

Shire-Bree United: Strider (11)

Tol-in-Gaurhoth:

The Downer: Hookbill (5), Alien (1)

Stay tuned in the coming weeks for exclusive features on Melkor-Sauron and Anfauglith, Tol-in-Gaurhoth and The Downer teams, plus much more news from our regional teams.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

The Weekly Wrap
by Elenrod Finrodion

It's still months away before the biggest stage in all of football, the 2012 Arda Cup, opens, and so the eyes of most of the footballing world is on the Elvish Premier League, the biggest national league in all of Arda (and covered exclusively by TENT).

Eldar United, the most storied franchise of that league, whose dynastic reign, though challenged, has lasted for most of the decade, whose roster has been filled with the who's who of Elvish football, is in danger of not finishing on top of the standings for the first time since Fëanor Financial, Ltd, acquired the team almost ten years ago.

And it is only fitting that the one who rose up to seize the pole position was the only team to have defeated them this season.

Eldamar, the team owned by Fingolfin Funds, had fought out a 1-1 draw with Eldar United on the second match day of the current season, and then, in the second-to-the-last match day just yesterday, got away with a 2-1 victory over Fëanor's squad.

And what a game it was. The scorer's table got busy after only three minutes of playing time, when Eldamar striker Penlod stole an errant pass by Elf U defender Caranthir and sprinted away before sending the ball past fellow Gondolindrim Rog and into the net.

Afterwards an enraged Fëanor took it upon himself to score the equaliser. This turned out to be a bad decision, as he was shadowed by Fingolfin himself. Furthermore, he seemed to have forgotten that he had top-class scorers Aredhel and Míriel on his team. The Eldamar captain challenged his older half-brother without fouling him, forcing him into taking a lot of off-target shots. And those shots that did manage to find their mark were snuffed with ease by the Eldamar goalkeeper Finarfin.

Just before the half Fingolfin stole the ball from a now-apoplectic Fëanor and booted it deep into the Elf U half, where a rushing Gwindor managed to take the pass barely onside before sending a rocket from the top of the box.

After the halftime break, a noticeably calmer Fëanor entered the pitch, listening intently to his mother before taking his position on the pitch. Their captain's change in attitude manifested in Eldar United's performance, playing a smoother attacking game that featured dangerous crosses into the box, dazzling solo runs, and accurate missiles from outside the penalty area. It was nothing short of miraculous that Eldamar's defence managed to deny them time and again, even managing to mount their own counterattacks that also came close at times. But their denial wouldn't last forever--almost twenty minutes into the half an Eöl corner kick resulted in an Aredhel header that caught the Eldamar defence looking the wrong way.

But that would turn out to be the final score line of the match. Fingolfin's squad challenged possession of the ball more, blunting the Elf U attack and producing chances of their own. Eventually, the final whistle sounded, and Eldamar players were hugging each other on the pitch before carrying their captain Fingolfin off on their shoulders.

Eldamar now has a two-point advantage over Eldar United in the standings, with a game against relegation-bound Avari on the last match day. Only a troll would be foolish enough to bet against Eldamar winning the Premier League title, even if Eldar United wins over their last opponent Greenwood Archers.

Fëanor, predictably, didn't show up for the postgame interview, but his teammate Eöl was there to represent the team. Fingolfin was there as well to represent Eldamar.

Ard-Galen Herald: That was an impressive performance on the pitch, Fingolfin, limiting Fëanor to only three shots on target and no goals. How do you feel about what you've done?

Fingolfin: You all know how much I look up to my half-brother. He's always been consistently a player of the highest level, both in the league and in the Arda Cup. Having to defend him was a task scarcely less arduous than fighting Morgoth, but I'm glad that I was up to it.

Hísilómë Bulletin: It's all but sure now that you've secured your first Elvish title. So let's discuss your plans for the upcoming Arda Cup.

Fingolfin: When I missed the finals for the first time last year, after winning it all with Gondolin in '10, I was very disappointed with myself. You could say that we were in a tough group, and fought a tough first round opponent. But that's no excuse for a quality team. They're supposed to win, no matter the odds against them.

Hísilómë Bulletin: Is it true that, despite being approached by your children and kinsmen and mortal allies, you turned them all down? Do you have any plans to form a team this year?

Fingolfin: I gave it much thought, but I decided that this time around, I'll leave the leadership role to someone else, so I can give it my all on the pitch.

Hísilómë Bulletin: But you're Fingolfin. Almost everyone else looks up to you. Who could lead someone as respected as you? Are you planning to join a Valarin team, then?

Fingolfin: I am not yet at liberty to discuss which side I have signed with for the Arda Cup.

Despite much prodding Fingolfin refused to answer questions regarding his Arda Cup affiliation. So the focus was shifted to Eöl.

Nan Elmoth Times: How do you feel about your first Premier League loss in three years?

Eöl: We gave it our all, but we still lost. It happens. Being second always gives people the drive to try and overthrow the champions, so us on top should always be ready to defend our title.

Nan Elmoth Times: How did you feel about Fëanor's play during the first half.

Eöl: He's a very passionate player, with all the pros and cons that go with it. But you can see the results. He's led us to the top of the standings for eight straight years, and he's won an Arda Cup, as well as all those scoring titles. I'd rather have him passionate about the game than not care about it at all. But I won't deny that at times he makes me feel uncomfortable, but he always presses us to be the best we can. Our stay on the top was all because he was there to push us.

Nan Elmoth Times: So you're happy playing with him?

Eöl: Yes.

Nan Elmoth Times: So you're not against playing with him in the Arda Cup?

Eöl: Yes. In fact, I am happy to reveal that I have signed with his team for fifteen million dollars.

Fingolfin: *casts a sideward glance at Eöl before muttering* How come I got one million less?

Beleriand Inquirer: What was it, Fingolfin?

Fingolfin: Nothing.

Morgoth has also been sighted in the arena during the match, but attempts to interview him have been turned away by his troll bodyguards.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

From the Elvish Premier League we now turn to another high-profile tournament, the inter-division Deathless Champions League, featuring the top teams from the Elvish Premiere Leagu, the Úvanima Serie A, and the Ainu Liga.

The highlight of this game day was, surprisingly, the fact that Taniquetil's home game against Tol Sirion was played in Avallónë Arena, Tol Eressëa, and not in the Valmar Grand Stadium.

It seems that the ban of football matches in the Blessed Realm was not limited only to the Arda Cup.

Our correspondents managed to interview Tol Sirion midfielder Thuringwethil before the match.

'If even Mordor and Angband, supposedly strongholds of evil, manage to be safer places for football fans than the so-called Blessed Realm, then the ban is well and truly deserved,' she said.

The ban had its effects on potential investors. According to an official from the Vanyar financial group Calaquendi, Inc, who spoke under condition of anonymity: 'Even we, the strongest supporters of the Valar, are leery of investing in their teams. Ticket sales remain one of the best sources of revenue for teams, and the lack of that due to the ban will leave our investments at the mercy of the team's performance on the pitch, something that our more prudent board members aren't willing to entertain.'

Calaquendi, Inc, however, has invested in the Tirion team, according to our source.

'Tirion's more likely to advance past the group stage, since they're less prone to match-up mishaps and strategic breakdowns than the Valarin teams. Besides, there's an ongoing petition in the AFA to allow Eldamar Stadium to host games, since there have been no untoward incidents against fans of teams hosted by Tirion.'

The match, meanwhile, ended in a one-all draw, with Tol Sirion co-captain Finrod (through an assist from his co-captain Sauron) and Taniquetil forward Eönwë each scoring in the second half. A second game, this time in the Prime Minas Tirith Arena, will be played next week.

Sauron didn't stay for the post-game interview, but Finrod and Taniquetil captain Manwë stayed behind to answer questions.

'I am coming back to Nargothrond for this year's Arda Cup,' said Finrod simply before the questions could be asked. 'And so is my brother Orodreth.'

However, questions about his reticence to offer Túrin a contract, despite rumours that abounded in the months after the previous Arda Cup that Finduilas would try her best to recruit the champion and multiple Golden Boot-winning forward to the Caves of Narog, were met with a 'No comment.'

Questions were now directed at Manwë, mainly about--yes, you've guessed it--the ban of games from Valinor.

'Eru's will be done on Eä' was all that the media was able to pry from him after multiple variations of the same question.

Questions about whether he would form a team this year, and who would be in it was answered with: 'Yes, Eru has revealed to me that a team will be formed under the Valimar banner. And among those from the Uttermost West shall be those who had been to the uttermost East.' He refused to elaborate further.

[the phantom]

MESPN News
The Phantom

GONDOLIN- There's no doubt that the hidden realm in the Encircling Mountains loves their football, and so it's no surprise that they have moved quickly thus far in the preseason.

Team Gondolin is entirely owned by Hidden Rock Public. Some outsiders are surprised that Turgon doesn't have any private stake in the squad, but Gondolin fanatics were expecting as much. There has been some amount of strife between Turgon and fans when it comes to football matters in recent years, as Aredhel and Maeglin have found more success both in Gondolin and elsewhere, leading the people to place greater trust in their leadership.

Turgon put a brave face on things, and diplomatically stated that he wished his nephew the best, and that his impending signing with Inter Beleriand was entirely by choice, but most suspect that Maeglin didn't think he could have sufficient command with Turgon looking over his shoulder.

Aredhel, meanwhile, has stayed completely out of it, and is rumored to have signed with one of the squads from the Blessed Realm. The same thing is being reported of Turgon's wife, Elenwe, and his daughter, Idril.

Maeglin, meanwhile, wasted no time in helping to pull in a huge signing for Gondolin- Gothmog, lord of Balrogs.

Most expected to hear that Ecthelion had signed as well, as he and Gothmog have seemed inseparable in recent years, but in fact Ecthelion is working on finalizing a contract with AC Beleriand.

Gothmog: "We really enjoy playing together, but things just didn't work out this year. AC Bel didn't think they could afford to bring me on along with Ecthelion- not at a salary I'm worth, anyway. And then Maeglin offered me more than Morgoth was willing to give me, and Ecthelion encouraged me to take it. Maeglin and I worked well together on team Angfauglith last year, so it's not as if I'll be a fish out of water."

Others confirmed to have signed with Gondolin include Rog, Duilin, and Egalmoth.

[the phantom]

MESPN News
The Phantom

ISENGARD- After doing a joint effort with the Misty Mountains last season, Saruman is back in the cozy confines of Isengard, and is well on his way to completing his squad.

Team Isengard is owned by Orthanc Inc., but really it's just Saruman. He allows various underlings to have a teensy slice, but he calls every shot unopposed.

His first signing, which came as an absolute shock to many Misty Mts. fans, was Caradhras. The peak-spirit that kept balls out of Misty's goal last season with blinding snow and gusts of wind was expected to be back with the range. But Saruman, who was prominent in bringing Caradhras onto the pitch in the first place, convinced Big C to allow himself to be transported to Isengard.

And so the pinnacle of Caradhras now sits on the practice field just outside Isengard's rocky ring, waiting to hurl his fury at any that would dare attempt to pass him by.

Saruman also used his hypnotizing voice to win over Quickbeam and Treebeard. "He reminded us of what a fine time we had doing the whole Watch-Wood thing, and how we had once been friends, and I just couldn't find it in me to be upset," said Treebeard.

Saruman has also recruited a few of the usual suspects to bolster his roster, such as Mauhur and Ugluk.

[Nogrod]

Breaking News - Breaking Rumours - Breaking News

The rumours around the Evil House financials have flown wild the last days when it was revealed that Melkor was going to out two teams into the competition – and what more – that he was going to have a marked influence of at least one team in Beleriand. It was a well known fact that Melkor had had an aggressive financial campaign offering his plenty to many teams around, and that there had been, understandably, a general reluctance to “take the bait” by the regional investment groups. But that someone had taken it in and allowed him a foothold at the team was something unheard of.

The truth sometimes is stranger than fiction, but sometimes it’s also less so. Which one is this, the reader must decide him/herself.

According to Carcaroth, The Evil House’s spokeswolf, Morgoth has more cash he can spend and loves football. And as the salary-cap denies him the chance to build a team of his liking he has been willing to venture farther spending some capital to gain experience in sports management just for curiosity’s sake.

The main points one could draw in from that rather peculiar press conference where Carcaroth almost ate a few elven and human journalists (“a bad old habit of mine”, was Carcaroth’s excuse to his behaviour) can be summed into the following points.


* There will be a team of Angband totally owned by the Evil House. The core of the players signed as now are (the salaries in millions in brackets):

Leader of defence: Morgoth (20)
Second Assistant defender: Balrog #1 (15)
Goalkeeper: Carcaroth (12)
Forward: Tevildo (12)

The Evil House is looking forwards to at least one more top-quality player for the team Angband, most specifically to the attack. With high salaries for the top-players the rest of the team will most probably be consisting mainly of orcish and/or human servants/allies to Morgoth as they come cheap enough to fit the cap on salaries but are still able to fill their places for the real players to flourish and succeed.


* The Evil House will have a majority ownership in a team pulled up in rememberance of the Battle of the Sudden Flame. The team will probably go by name of "Anfauglith" or "Dagor Bragollach", and will have the financial support of Morgoth to the following players:

Ungoliant (18) at the goal.
Three Balrogs (13 each) to defend the goal.
(making up some 60% of the main budget for the team)

Also it was revealed that Sauron’s part in that team would be financing Thuringwethil’s salary of (12) as the Striker of the team.

Carcaroth was not confirming or denying the rumours that Hador Lórindol himself and his sons; Galdor (the father of Húrin and Huor) and Gundor would play for the team as well. So it remains to be confirmed.


* The Evil House will have a minority share in one Beleriand team. Not a big stake, but a deal made in “mutual interests” of the different parties involved. Morgoth’s part of the bargain is one Balrog to lead the defence – and “a lot more in value than his say in the team is”, like Carcaroth put it. It seems that in return the early houses of Men have invested their money and talent to the Sudden Flame –team.

Now the insistent rumours have it that the Oath & Blood Alliance would have a considerable part in that team’s finances, not to speak of some High Noldorians that might play in that team as well. To this Carcaroth was not willing to answer but suggested the questions should be pointed to the sons of Fëanor themselves.

The latest rumour has it, that Fingon would be involved as a player and individual investor – and that he would have talked his cousin and great friend Maedhros with him once again (well, Maedhros ows him anyway - and they seem to enjoy playing with each other). And with that alliance also the Oath & Blood Alliance would have gotten involved...

Anyway, if that rumour is true, the forwards of the team look formidable and with one Balrog in defence the team would only need a decent goalie to challenge the other teams in earnest. The wildest scenarios put Turgon on the goal (knowing his awkward situation with the team Gondolin, that doesn't actually sound so implausible). But as was said, that is still more or less speculation.

[Nilpaurion Felagund]

The Weekly Wrap
by Elenrod Finrodion

The 2012 Arda Cup groups and complete rosters are set to be announced within the week, and the last league matches have all been played, giving way to the grandest football tournament of them all. But before the events gets swallowed up in the wake of the Arda Cup we present a report of what has transpired this week in the footballing Eä.

Fëanor trumps Manwë, defends title

Eldar United star striker Fëanor scored on either side of the halftime, leading his team to a 2-1 victory over Taniquetil.

Taniquetil, who got a tense 1-0 away win against Tol Sirion in the semifinals, began with an air of control over the final match in the Song of Stone Stadium, and they were rewarded in the twenty-seventh minute when a Varda through ball found Eönwë, who fired a sizzling low shot that Rog dove after too late. The Herald of Manwë scored his ninth goal in as many Champions League matches, and was now tied with Fëanor for most goals scored in the tourney. But the Elf U captain soon retook the lead in that race, scoring the equaliser six minutes before the half with an impressive jinking run before chipping the ball over Súlimo's shoulder and into the net. He struck again twelve minutes after the break, this time nudging in the rebound after Eöl's header off a corner kick struck the left post. Neither side seriously threatened to score afterwards, and after the whistle was blown Eldar United celebrated their back-to-back titles, their third in five years.

Two familiar faces and a new one win league honours

Taniquetil and FC Angband 472 successfully defended their Ainu Liga and Úvanima Serie A titles, respectively, with a comfortable margin, while upstarts Eldamar won the Elvish Premier League crown after trouncing Avari 4-0, with runner-up and previous holders Eldar United settling for a 1-1 draw with Greenwood Archers.

Arda Cup roster rumours

• The biggest story of this section has to be Glaurung's announcement that he has re-signed with Nargothrond for sixteen million. The dragon has now spent three of the last four years playing for the Noldorin stronghold.
  
  During the press conference after the final match day of the Úvanima Serie A (where Glaurung played for Angband, and Nargothrond captain Finrod for Tol Sirion):
  
  Glaurung: Last year [playing for Nargothrond] was a rough one, that's for sure. But we weren't playing up to our full potential then. Finrod can turn this team around, and then you'll see what we can really do.
  
  Finrod: Glaurung has hurt us before, that's true, when he led Angband to victory over us in the Nirnaeth Cup, but he made up for it by staying with this team during a tough time. He was the lone bright spot of the team last year, and now he'll be a great asset as we make our way back to the knockout stage--and possibly even beyond.
  
  Also, Finrod confirmed that Mîm has resigned with his team, despite rumours that Aulë been in contact with the Petty Dwarf for his Dwarves United squad.
  
  
• Three Valar and a Maia were confirmed to be in Valimar: Vána, Estë, Vairë, and Ilmarë were all signed for ten million each, according to team captain Manwë during the press conference after the Ainu Liga's last match day. Also, he addressed questions about how the Ban has scattered the Valar across teams:
  
  Manwë: We are all brothers and sisters, created by the One, but that is no reason for us to be together always. We were each given our domains to govern, and so long as all we do follow the vision we have seen when the world was first sung, then all is as the One wills it.

[Boromir88]

THE TWO TOWERS NETWORK
Boromir the 88th

Weekend In Review

We don't have much to report in terms of rumors, since this is expected to be the last week before teams release their final rosters and begin getting ready for the friendlies. Most teams are complete, and now it's just a matter of crossing the t's and dotting the i's. As free agency closes though, there usually is a late flurry of last-minute signings.

Anfauglith: With Hador House and Old Beor house expected to finance the mid-field, which would support lone-striker Thuringwethil. On late notice they were able to snatch the brothers, Galdor and Gundor at 5 million each. From the House of Beor, comes the wife of Huor, Rian, signed for 2 million.

Barad-dur: The big news out of Barad-dur today came also with news of the Black Numenoreans of old, Herumor and Fuinur, were signed, at 4 million each.

Mordor: The Black Sorceror's Guild was finally able to drag the treacherous spider, Shelob, out of her dark, dank lair to play FW. The she-spider had a sub-par performance at that position in last year's tournament, but somehow her asking price was quite high. Shelob will make 9 milion, and is the highest paid player on Mordor.

Gondor: Gondor got into the free agency game late when they announced Anarion's signing at 11 million, making him the highest paid on the Gondor squad. It appears he will command mid-field with the stout support of Romendacil and Falastur.

Minas Tirith: Minas Tirith could not reel in Boromir II to their cause, but they will have the services of Boromir I this year. And, you guessed it, paid as much as everyone else, 8 million. In fact, it appears an agreed upon amount for every Minas Tirith player. They will all play for the Tower of the Guard at precisely 8 million. A rather peculiar strategy. At least, we can't help but see it as some type of strategy?

Shire-Bree United: One of the teams to get in a good late-push for players. Last week we reported rumors that Shire-Bree was hoping to wrestle some of the Nazgul out of Mordor, and this week we can confirm they did just that. Joining Aragorn, Bombadil, and the Barrow-wight as the FWs and attacking MFs will be Khamul, so that should make a powerful quartet of attackers indeed. Solidifying the defense Nazgul #6 will report with Khamul to Shire-Bree tomorrow. That is not all, the Noldorin elf Gildor will join the defense, signing for 7 million.

Tol-in-Gaurhoth: The news of Sauron playing for Barad-dur may have shaken TIG some since they have been the slowest in putting together their squad. Although, they haven't had any problems finding players to try out. Some of the familiar faces (sally, Shasta, Nerwen, and Wilwa) were seen, as well as unfamiliar ones (Legate, Esty, Lottie, Lommy, Greenie, and Pomegranate). But with the news that there would only be room for one more werewolf, most who came seemed confused, as if they only knew how to play soccer in wolf-form.

The Downer: Nothing new to add since last week, as we are still unsure how much actual practicing the team accomplished since filling their roster last week.

A Look ahead.

Groups and Rosters should be released by the Arda Cup within the next couple days. And then let the media battles and analysis commence! TTN looks forward to it's continued rivalry with AKM, Ardacup.com, and perhaps some newer upstart usurpers. For quality and depth, follow TTN as we have an all-new power ranking formula that will surely identify the creme-de-la-creme from the mediocre, and the posers.

[the phantom]

MESPN News
The Phantom

We have just received word that the Cup Committee received and approved the final team contract late last night, and is now in a closed session to discuss tournament groupings.

We expect that teams and fans will know where they are headed by late this afternoon or early in the evening. MESPN will release the full list of groups and rosters as soon as we possibly can.

[the phantom]

(numbers indicate salary in millions)

Anduin (80)
GK Amroth (5)
DF Frumgar (2)
DF Borondir (2)
DF Celeborn (12)
DF Fram (12)
MF Amdir (4)
MF Lenwe (2)
MF Leod (7)
MF Haldir (10)
MF Boromir II (12)
FW Grimbeorn (12)

Angband (101)
GK Carcharoth (12)
DF Ulwarth (5)
DF Balrog #1 (15)
DF Uldor (5)
DF Morgoth (20)
MF Lorgan (2)
MF Ulfast (5)
MF Gelmir (2)
MF Ulfang (8)
FW Telvildo (12)
FW Ancalagon (15)

Angfauglith (93)
GK Ungoliant (18)
DF Balrog #2 (13)
DF Borlach (3)
DF Balrog #3 (13)
DF Balrog #4 (13)
MF Gorgol (4)
MF Haldir (5)
MF Rian (2)
MF Galdor (5)
MF Gundor (5)
FW Thuringwethil (12)

Armenelos (108)
GK Tar Atanamir (13)
DF Ar Zimrathan (9)
DF Tar Palantir (7)
DF Tar Telperien (10)
MF Ar Gimilzor (9)
MF Tar Telemmaite (7)
MF Tar Calmacil (7)
MF Tar Ancalimon (9)
MF Tar Miriel (7)
FW Ar Adunakhor (15)
FW Ar Pharazon (15)

Arnor (71)
GK Arvedui (10)
DF Earendur (4)
DF Araval (4)
DF Valandur (6)
DF Elendil (10)
MF Elendur (4)
MF Malvegil (4)
MF Argeleb (5)
MF Arantar (6)
FW Araphor (8)
FW Isildur (10)

Barad-Dur (66)
GK Mumakil (1)
DF Fellbeast #2 (2)
DF Fuinur (4)
DF Gothmog II (6)
DF Mouth (9)
MF Sangahyando (3)
MF Herumor (4)
MF Angamaite (3)
MF Beruthiel (6)
FW Castamir (7)
FW Sauron (21)

AC Beleriand (96)
GK Marach (9)
DF Rochallor (2)
DF Imlach (3)
DF Ecthelion (10)
DF Fingolfin (14)
MF Denethor (2)
MF Ulrad (4)
MF Bregolas (3)
MF Beren (12)
FW Eol (15)
FW Feanor (22)

Inter Beleriand (70)
GK Turgon (11)
DF Haldad (1)
DF Gorlim (1)
DF Brandir (1)
DF Balrog #5 (14)
MF Forweg (2)
MF Baragund (3)
MF Hunthor (2)
MF Haleth (7)
FW Fingon (14)
FW Maedhros (14)

Doriath (84)
GK Dior (8)
DF Galathil (3)
DF Nimloth (2)
DF Saeros (3)
DF Melian (15)
MF Galadhon (2)
MF Daeron (7)
MF Nellas (4)
MF Luthien (14)
MF Beleg (14)
FW Mablung (12)

Dwarves United (89)
GK Bombur (2)
DF Azaghal (7)
DF Durin (8)
DF Aule (15)
DF Celebrimbor (20)
MF Gamil Zirak (5)
MF Thror (3)
MF Telchar (5)
MF Gimli (6)
MF Thorin (5)
FW Legolas (13)

Erebor (103)
GK Beorn (10)
DF Meneldor (7)
DF Landroval (7)
DF Girion (8)
DF Gwaihir (10)
MF Dain (5)
MF Bolg (9)
MF Bard (8)
FW Nazgul #7 (8)
FW Thranduil (13)
FW Smaug (18)

Eriador (99)
GK Elrond (20)
DF Asfaloth (3)
DF Araphant (5)
DF Malbeth (8)
DF Gil-galad (13)
MF Valandil (6)
MF Arahael (5)
MF Arassuil (5)
MF Arveleg (8)
FW Glorfindel (13)
FW Witch King (13)

Gondolin (83)
GK Rog (10)
DF Pengolodh (2)
DF Aranwe (2)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Egalmoth (7)
MF Salgant (5)
MF Meleth (2)
MF Elemmakil (3)
MF Duilin (7)
FW Gothmog (20)
FW Maeglin (20)

Gondor (84)
GK Hyarmendacil (10)
DF Imrahil (5)
DF Earnil I (6)
DF Eldarion (5)
MF Calimehtar (6)
MF Ciryandil (6)
MF Turambar (8)
MF Falastur (9)
MF Romendacil (8)
MF Anarion (11)
FW Eldacar (10)

Hithlum (86)
GK Aradan (5)
DF Arroch (1)
DF Grithnir (3)
DF Gethron (3)
MF Androg (3)
MF Sador (2)
MF Morwen (6)
MF Nienor (6)
FW Hurin (18)
FW Hador (15)
FW Turin (24)

Imladris (88)
GK Elros (15)
DF Aranarth (4)
DF Galdor (5)
DF Erestor (10)
DF Varda (15)
MF Lindir (2)
MF Gilraen (2)
MF Figwit (4)
MF Arwen (11)
FW Elladan (10)
FW Elrohir (10)

Isengard (74)
GK Ugluk (6)
DF Caradhras (10)
DF Mauhur (4)
DF Treebeard (10)
MF Lurtz (4)
MF Freca (3)
MF Lugdush (4)
MF Wulf (3)
MF Wormtongue (5)
FW Saruman (15)
FW Quickbeam (10)

Minas Tirith (88)
GK Denethor II (8)
DF Telumehtar (8)
DF Ostoher (8)
DF Ecthelion II (8)
DF Cirion (8)
MF Earnil II (8)
MF Tarandor (8)
MF Earnur (8)
MF Mardil (8)
MF Faramir (8)
FW Boromir I (8)

Misty Mts (67)
GK Great Goblin (6)
DF Watcher (3)
DF Chief Wolf (3)
DF Bert (5)
DF Tom (5)
MF Orophin (5)
MF William (5)
MF Rumil (5)
MF Narvi (6)
MF Azog (8)
FW Durin’s Bane (16)

Mordor (58)
GK Silent Watcher (1)
DF Fellbeast #1 (1)
DF Nazgul #1 (7)
DF Grishnakh (5)
DF Nazgul #2 (7)
MF Gorbag (3)
MF Nazgul #3 (7)
MF Shagrat (4)
MF Nazgul #4 (7)
MF Nazgul #5 (7)
FW Shelob (9)

Nargothrond (95)
GK Beor (8)
DF Guillen (6)
DF Arminas (5)
DF Mim (3)
DF Baran (4)
MF Orodreth (10)
MF Barahir (8)
MF Finduilas (10)
FW Gwindor (11)
FW Finrod (14)
FW Glaurung (16)

Rohan (94)
GK Theoden (7)
DF Snowmane (3)
DF Shadowfax (5)
DF Radagast (11)
DF Felarof (5)
MF King Dead (10)
MF Aldor (7)
MF Eomer (10)
MF Gandalf (14)
FW Eorl (14)
FW Helm (8)

Shire-Bree United (72)
GK Halbarad (5)
DF Golfimbul (5)
DF Butterbur (2)
DF Nazgul #6 (10)
DF Gildor (7)
MF Ferny (2)
MF Bandobras (4)
MF Barrow-Wight (10)
MF Khamul (11)
FW Bombadil (5)
FW Strider (11)

The Havens (84)
GK Cirdan (10)
DF Annael (5)
DF Elwing (6)
DF Lindo (3)
DF Olwe (10)
MF Earwen (3)
MF Angrod (10)
MF Andreth (2)
MF Aegnor (10)
FW Earendil (15)
FW Tuor (10)

The Sea (108)
GK Voronwe (8)
DF Osse (10)
DF Uinen (10)
DF Salmar (10)
DF Ulmo (18)
MF Tar Cirytan (8)
MF Eriol (5)
MF Tar Meneldur (8)
MF Veantur (8)
MF Tar Aldarion (8)
FW Tar Minastir (15)

Tirion (83)
GK Finarfin (8)
DF Irime (3)
DF Elenwe (4)
DF Thorondor (14)
MF Anaire (3)
MF Mahtan (8)
MF Findis (3)
MF Ingwe (10)
FW Aredhel (10)
FW Finwe (10)
FW Eonwe (10)

Valimar (117)
GK Manwe (15)
DF Vana (10)
DF Amrod (10)
DF Amras (10)
DF Namo (14)
MF Este (10)
MF Celebrian (8)
MF Vaire (10)
MF Alatar (10)
MF Pallando (10)
FW Ilmare (10)

FC Valinor (113)
GK Huan (18)
DF Nahar (4)
DF Indis (8)
DF Penlod (8)
DF Maglor (12)
MF Irmo (10)
MF Idril (10)
MF Argon (6)
MF Yavanna (10)
FW Celegorm (13)
FW Curufin (14)

Real Valinor (104)
GK Tulkas (10)
DF Nienna (10)
DF Rumil (3)
DF Caranthir (10)
DF Tilion (12)
MF Elemmire (3)
MF Nessa (10)
MF Enerdhil (4)
FW Nerdanel (14)
FW Miriel (14)
FW Arien (14)

Wilderland (85)
GK Great Warg (5)
DF Finglas (3)
DF Oropher (5)
DF Skinbark (3)
DF Beechbone (3)
MF Fimbrethil (3)
MF Galion (3)
MF Elwe (15)
MF Galadriel (15)
FW Orome (15)
FW Scatha (15)

The Downer (37)
GK Bubble Buddha (3)
DF Morsul (4)
DF Evil Mayo (1)
DF Burnt Bert (2)
DF BWHimself (6)
MF Peter Hampton (4)
MF John Fillis (2)
MF Lalwende MP (3)
MF Hookbill (5)
FW Saucepan Man (6)
FW Alien (1)

Tol In Gaurhoth (68)
GK ShastaWolf (10)
DF GaladriWight (3)
DF GwathWight (3)
DF BoroWight (5)
DF NilpWolf (10)
MF LegateWight (3)
MF AganWight (4)
MF SallyWight (5)
MF PhantomWolf (10)
FW NerWight (5)
FW NogWolf (10)

[the phantom]

GROUP A at Michel Delving
Angband
Shire-Bree United
The Downer
Tol-In-Gaurhoth

GROUP B at Weathertop
Arnor
Inter Beleriand
Eriador
Gondolin

GROUP C at Moria
Anduin
Dwarves United
Erebor
Wilderland

GROUP D at Armenelos
Armenelos
Tirion
FC Valinor
Real Valinor

GROUP E at Grey Havens
Hithlum
The Havens
The Sea
Valimar

GROUP F at Isengard
Imladris
Isengard
Misty Mts
Rohan

GROUP G at Nargothrond
Angfauglith
AC Beleriand
Doriath
Nargothrond

GROUP H at Minas Morgul
Barad-Dur
Gondor
Minas Tirith
Mordor