Most of my in-game friends have been made through the auction section. I send requests to others this way because of three reasons. 1: At least I know they're on my server. 2: I know that they are around my level, 3: They are actually playing the game. I would NEVER send a request just to arrange friendlies (because I don't want to play friendlies). I think just assuming players do this is just being synical. Over the seasons I have built up a large number of friends this way, and now it has all fallen into place and I am in a league with every team one of my friends and NO unwanted friendlies.