Prague saved !

We have finally concluded the Seven Years War game begun on New Year's Eve. Frederick was once again trying to capture Prague. The Austrians had managed to change position to thwart his flank march so once again the blue-coats had to advance into a storm of shot and musketry.

The lack of reconnaisance meant that initial attack became ensnared in marshy ground and suffered heavy casualties. The grenadiers on the right flank began to push back the Austrian light troops who opposed them, but were unable to bring them to combat. Casualties mounted as the Croats took advantage of the cover and sniped away at the advancing lines, always hovering just outside charge range.

The main Prussian attack against the Austrian left seemed to be progressing well, a foothold was gained on the ridge, the first line of defence had been broken and the Guard were poised to press the advantage. It was at this point Prussian musketry, traditionally their strength, lost its potency. The Austrian battalions more than matched them shot for shot and once the artillery joined in the advance was stopped. There was no choice but for the Prussians to retreat.

Over on the left a typically inconclusive cavalry duel had resulted in stalemate, though that was only due to some Herculean efforts by the Prussian Garde du Corps. In a particularly fraught episode Frederick instructed his reserve to "disperse those enemy skirmishers advancing towards us". They were in fact his own light troops, whose identity was no doubt mistaken due to the smoke of battle. Small comfort to the troops involved, but I think the true story will remain hidden in the war archives for years to come. At least Frederick hadn't fled the field as he had at Mollwitz.

Visited the Vapnartak show at York last weekend. This is one of my favourite shows, with plenty of trade present and an always stimulating choice of games from local groups. The "Pentland Rising" game particularly caught my eye. The Bring and Buy seemed to be doing good business judging by the scrum around it.