French raid in the Ohio valley

Today we played a game of Sharp Practice set in North America during the time of the French & Indian wars. The game was based on the “Sweep the Table” scenario from the main rulebook, where in this case the French raiding party attempted to burn the crops and/or buildings of the local farmers. The British were however, doing their level best to prevent this.

On hearing a loud crashing noise coming from the nearby woods the local militia, under the command of Sergeant Sam Sung, deployed at the edge of the village, overlooking the woods.

The local farmers, commanded by Mr Chris P. Bacon, moved into the graveyard adjacent to the church. The men hoped that standing on graves wasn't going to be a portent of doom.

Out of the woods crashed two groups of French Marine Infantry, under the command of Capitaine Alex Craiment, intent on doing a bit of arson.

Supported on their left flank, by two groups of Milice Canadiene woodsmen, commanded by Sergeant Lepeugotnogo.

The Marines fired a volley into the graveyard completely wiping out the farmers. First blood to the French.

 
The second unit of militia, commanded by Lieutenant Myres deployed out of sight of the French, hoping to be able to move into the graveyard.

A group of Huron deployed at the far end of the table looking to raid the British encampment,

Whilst the New Jersey regiment was heading the wrong way,

And taking some long range rifle fire.

The marines advanced into the crops, shooting up the militia who were very reluctant to engage with them, drawing double ones in succession for movement. This was likely a result of there being some fresh corpses scattered around.

The woodsmen advanced, torches in hand, towards the fields.

The militia finally got into a firing position, pouring lead into the poor marines. Unfortunately, the Capitaine was hit and knocked out. This was looking bad.

At this point the Rangers turned up, forcing the marines to pull back and killing the poor Alex Craiment. With the French morale at zero they were forced to withdraw after only setting one field on fire. It was a very bad day.