The Battle of Saint-Clement Part 3

Finally we reached a conclusion to the game as night drew in and forced the Prussians to call off their attacks and for the French to fall back to a new defensive position. Not as many photos this time as both armies seemed to move very little as they delivered heavy blows to each other. The French III Corps was under a heavy artillery barrage from Bavarian and Wurtemburg artillery for most of the night, Soaking up some heavy casualties, but still able to deal with any enemy infantry that got too close. However by the end of the night their right flank had been turned. The loss of Clerambault's cavalry division proved costly.

Over on the left flank, XII Corps was getting the upper hand against the Prussian VI Corps. The 11th Division suffered badly. In their eager advance from last week, without support of the artillery, they came in range of the deadly Chassepot at close range. The deadly fire saw the division smashed. 3 of the 4 brigades were well under half strength. Only the eventual arrival of the 12th Division and the artillery that they managed to hang on. The Prussians eventually grouping their artillery, dealing with some pesky french cavalry before turning on the infantry as the game drew to a close.

In the centre, the Bavarian 1st division and french 3rd division of III Corps had a gruelling struggle in the woods with neither side gaining the upper hand. The french in this sector were free from the Prussian artillery and used the Chassepot to its fullest potential

French cavalry swept away by Bavarian and Wurtemburg horse.

Prussian VI Corps driving into the french

French Marines pour in deadly fire, hammering the Prussian 11th Division

Prussians struggling to advance under a hail of fire 

The fight for the woods in the centre

XII Corps artillery catch the Prussians trying to leave the woods

The timely arrival of part of the 1st division of XII Corps

Prussian 12th division finally bring up the guns

After dealing with Wurtemburgers, the french right prepares to receive the Bavarians

The struggle for the woods continues

Prussian artillery turn their sights on the french cavalry

Prussian 11th division slowly being driven back

Relieved frenchmen see off their Prussian counterparts

So the game drew to a close. It was a closely fought affair with both sides having chances to win it. Even after 3 club nights fighting the battle the players never lost their enthusiasm which was pleasing. Thoughts are already turning to a follow up game. The French will be reinforced with the 1st Division, XII corps. I think this one will be a set piece battle.