Italian Wars - the final battles

This week is the final round of games before a season ending grand battle, which we will play over Christmas. The scenario for was Unexpected Attack - the defender finds themselves surrounded in their camp with their generals starting off table as the attack was, well, unexpected! 

Game 1 -  Fiorento / Roccamurata vs San Barzano

The San Barzano forces deployed with a field square in each corner and a cavalry reserve in the centre. The attackers chose to focus their energies on the front of the camp with attacks at each corner.  

San Barzano defenders

The initial attacks were quite deliberate as they sought to weaken the defenders with artillery fire whilst moving a charge position. First into action were the Roccamurata infantry, who assault the eastern corner and pushed back the San Barzano troops.    

 

Defenders stand ready

Roccamurata shot

Slightly slower into action were the Fiorento Hussars, who eventually attacked and broke into the camp before being thrown back. After 5 turns there was 1 point in it. A further round of combat saw the defenders losing more units and the attackers winning by 6.     

 

The decisive attack

Game 2 - Taverno vs Montegrifone

This game had some additional jeopardy as the winner would place second and so be one of the commanders for the campaign finale. The defenders massed their infantry in the front of the camp, with horse holding the rest.     

Taverno infantry ready to attack 

Montegrifone defenders

The attackers surged forward, looking to exploit the absence if the defenders generals, and met with initial success as they broke into the camp. Some strong counter attacks pushed them back with the results in the balance.  

Eventually the Montegrifone army was able to eject the Taverno forces from their camp and claim the win. 

Defenders break out of the camp

Campaign Results

This final game left Roccamurata (8.5),  Montegrifone (8) and Taverno (7) in the top 3 spots. Fiorento (5) were just clear of the pack who were mostly on (3) to (3.5) points. So the final battle will be Red vs Blue.