Finished
AP170 Never On Time as the defending Brits against Rich Domovic’s attacking Germans. VCs are: Germans need more VPs than Brits with 12 wooden (1VP ea.) + 2 stone buildings available (3VP ea.). Plus, each side is awarded 1VP for each AFV eliminated/immob./recalled. Six turns with a great mix of assets for both sides.
Early
I set up the Brits out of the line of fire. Later, we both agreed the Brits could be in a woeful spot if the first turn went poorly by setting up in the line of fire. The Germans advanced forward and 3 x PzIVs pressed the British left flank. One malfed its MA (later repaired). We traded a couple squads in the first few turns, with the Brit’s right flank holding firm – benefiting from the bocage. However, the Germans had managed to capture the two stone buildings on the rail line and one PzIV nestled behind them. As midgame approached, British turn 2 reinforcements had started to arrive in the village with the turn 3 group close behind. These reinforcements meant business with, in total, 5 x tanks, 8 x squads, hardware and notably a 10-2.
Mid-game
The Germans repositioned their other two tanks to the village. This opened up the opportunity for three Shermans to position and pound the two railway buildings – out of LOS to the PzIV. The Brits reinforcements were positioning for a counterattack on these stone buildings while the tanks built up acquisition. The panzers got more aggressive to make something happen in the village, but the Brits were extrememy fortunate to KO one with a PIAT and, with Shermans, the other two. Funny though, all three crews survived. One would re-crew its tank only to be flamed by the Firefly.
In the end, the right half of the village was getting a bit wobbly for the Brits as we traded losses. Meanwhile, the Shermans and reinforcement infantry firepower wore down the stone building occupants. I was able to win one back and the other was reduced to a pinned 8-1 (with a broken 9-1, 2x348 soon to be eliminated for FTR). At that point, the Brits had ample bodies for CC against the remaining railway building. Plus, most of the attackers were on the other side of the village and I could position units in the advance phase to block them from gaining enough buildings to swing the VP count. As it stood, I would hold ~12 VP. In light of the situation, the Germans received the order to abandon the assault.
Final Positions
We both though it a very fun scenario where both sides get to attack. Strong OBs for both sides and an inherent tenseness of having to work the clock to get units to the fight as quickly as possible. A good points-driven VC means you always have to be situationally aware of where you stand at any given moment. We both highly recommend this scenario. Thanks to Rich for yet another great and challenging game!