OT2016, Round 4, Game2
Talavera 28 July 1809
FrenchricusRex (French) 7 banners
asyncritus (British) 3 banners
The two armies quickly formed opposing lines of battle with the Portina Brook between them. The French skirmishers, supported by artillery, opened up on the British center. A protracted ranged duel commenced, with each side trading blows, but not yet doing much of anything committal.
The French light cavalry under Merlin then moved on the British left, with devastating results for the allied cavalry. But Merlin was forced to pull back, having taking losses in the initial push. This retreat was only temporary however. As the general carnage of the ranged duel in the center continued, Merlin was waiting for the right opportunity to strike the weakening British interior lines.
The French light cavalry saw it's moment, and made a suicidal charge into the midst of the allied rear. This move was initially thwarted by the successful ambushed of "first strikers." Wellesley clearly knew what was coming...
Merlin, himself now leading a badly bloodied cavalry unit, saw his chance to grab some low-hanging fruit and charged back into the fray at the depleted British formations. After inflicting further damage, Merlin's own unit was routed, and he was obliged to attempt an escape through the British lines. Having accomplished this, Merlin then joined the fresh infantry assault which was forming to cross the Portina Brook and attack the allied center. The British Guard Grenadiers stepped up and prevented the French assault from meeting it's full potential, but the weight of French guns proved to be too much for MacKenzie's command on the heights, and the game was finished with a French victory.
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Tim was a most gracious player, who called out my mistakes, and was clearly committed to the efficacy of the game and general fair play. He did all of this in spite of very rotten luck with the dice. He played a good game, but it seemed time and time again, the dice let him down. It was a pleasure playing with him, and I look forward to the next time we meet on the field!
