Report

This was a scenario game: with the French trying to get a vital convoy through hostile territory, and the Mexicans trying to stop them.

Both sides rushed their cavalry forward to clash near a ruined church. The French CinC ws confident that he could sweep the Mexican ragamuffins off the board, and was thus somewhat surprised when his elite Guides routed off the table!

However, he had also force-marched the Legion Etrangere down the road who, forming line, quickly saw off the victorious Mexican lancers.

This, however, left the Legion Etrangere dangerously exposed: a situation the Mexican commander exploited as he charged them with 5 (yes, five!) different units. Although they withstood two charges in square, the third was too much and, doubtlessly dishonouring their fallen comrades at Camerone, they fled!

A firefight then developed with the 3ieme Bttn of the French routing, but two Mexican battalions going as well.

Unfortunately, the battle had to end there, with nightfall, and both sides retreated. 

Casualties

The French CinC was killed in a spectacular fashion, with his 2inC being lightly wounded.

The French also lost 240 cavalry (the Guides); 340 line infantry; and a few Legionaires.

The Mexicans lost 400 guerillos infantry (mostly to artillery); the 1st Saltillo Battalion was wiped out; and the third took 440 casualties: making a total of 1440 infantry. They also lost the Lancers and 20 line cavalry.

Results

Under the victory conditions set: a win to the Mexicans, with 45 points to the French 20. 

Analysis

We’ll play it again!