“Take the river crossing” - Austrians hold on against Franco- Bavarian forces in GDA2

Defensive positions around the Chateau 

Another play test of GDA2 at the club a week ago between Peters excellent French force and my Austrians.  

Peter would be on the attack attempting to capture the Village and its supplies as well as the bridge and the crossing across the river it provided.

French infantry and light cavalry brigade

Austrian veteran hussars 

French 2nd brigade

Austrian defensive position

3rd French brigade

The village occupied by elements of the Austrian 1st Brigade

A view from the French side with the bridge and desired river crossing in full view

These lads moved a bit yo avoid long range Bavarian artillery fire

Skirmishers advance as far as they can early

French Light cavalry

Large Austrian battalions in line - considerable massed musketry

These lads started the battle a little unsure of where to be and what to do.

A strong position to build a defence upon

The French prepare yo assault ghe village/town

Beautiful looking Bavarians from the brush of Peter D. He is a star!

Great game so far however I can see the Franco- Bavarians starting yo get on top.

These lads are also “Battle Cavalry” so are reasonably potent.

These Bavarians were hesitant for the early part of the battle

The French plan involves attacking through the light woods to help against artillery
barrages and then launch against the central town

This cavalry faltered early, however a “Command” order had them
automatically “Obey” orders and then almost turn battle by themselves.

Peter put the table together - he has a lovely eye for detail

Austrian skirmishers put up a steady stream of fire  

This Austrian foot battery may just be in a bit of strife

The first French assault goes in

The French face a strong defensive line 

As well as on the high ground

A nice view of the action on the Austrian left flank

French cavalry move to engage the Austrian Hussars on the right of the field.

Tremendous fighting was going on across the field of battle with the French attacking across the flanks and an Austrian counter-attack in the centre catching the French General slightly on the hop.

The Austrian battery has dispersed and the brigade has faltered. The way to the bridge
could open up if they are forced to retire. They held on!

The first French assault on the town has been repulsed

Action on the right looks to be heating up quickly

The Austrian counter-attack hits a hurdle

The centre cops a nice artillery barrage and a “double six” causes consternation 

The Austrian Reserve Brigade takes up position 

The French take the town after some fierce and bloody hand to hand

Sabres drawn the cavalry hit each other with ferocity

With the Austrian Hussars proving victorious

Despite the great and skilful blade work  of the Hussars the Bavarians are fresh and keen

At this stage Peter and I felt the Austrians would be able to hold the bridge for a while longer whilst reinforcements made their way to the conflict. Another magnificent game of Napoleonics with GDA2. Well done Mr Brown.