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We decided to end our previous and start new game and main reason to do so was new patch. Encircled forces were much more superior to my, but thanks to abandoning summer offensive, adopting tactics of mixed defence (line + strong-points) and limited withdrawals I kept my army strong, and greatly limited number of successful Soviet attacks.

We both agreed, that I lost this game, but under new rules it would take ages (I guess 50+ turns, or maybe even more) for Soviet army to be able to push me out of my forts without +1 rule. So only option left was starting once again. Rules are the same - full FOW and random weather (I pray for more luck and no bugs this time )

Turn 1

Classic opening - Lvov Gambit.

T1 south

T2 north

T2 centre

T2 south

I decided to avoid assaulting strong Soviet defences north of Bug. Without infantry chance of creating decent pocket (with good logistic supply) is minimal - time and petrol are crucial, so maybe next turn.

T3 north

I am waiting for infantry and petrol to arrive.

T3 centre


I am pushing a bit, but maintaining high level of supply has priority.

T3 south


Situation in the south is a bit self-perpetuating. Encircled's defences are very good, so I can't create proper pocket without infantry support, so to not waste precious time I bypass Soviet defences, so infantry lags behind, so I lack proper infantry support next turn.

T4 north

Infantry is almost there so I hope to be able to restart my advance next turn.

T4 centre


Patiently waiting for my footmen.

T4 south


River is close, so I guess I will have to start fighting soon.

T4 casualties


No pockets = problem.

T5 north


Encircled's defences are looking stronger with every passing turn, so arrival of infantry didn't have as big impact as I hoped.

1 build-up

T5 cente

Very good situation in the centre. River crossed in two places. South bridgehead is rather symbolic but northern is very promising. Infantry and tanks are eager and ready for action.\

1 build-up (near Smolensk)

T5 south

My boys and their gear are across the river. Panzers have plenty of petrol and are in good condition, only but big problem is lack of infantry. So far I was able to bypass Encircled's defences, now I will have to punch hole through them, and tanks are not right tool for that.

T5 casualties


No pockets so far. My plan was to destroy industry or force my opponent to defend it what would have given me decent chance to destroy his troops, but it looks like plan is not valid any more. Encircled is withdrawing only ARM, so I capture only piles of useless HI.

Looks like you have the makings for a nice pocket around Kiev? When AGC and AGS Pz Grps meeting up in a few turns. Could be on the scale of the historical Kiev pocket. Nice work so far. Pockets will be much hard after T1 since most Soviet players don't stick around too long.

jzardos

Looks like you have the makings for a nice pocket around Kiev?

Encircled is not generous opponent and will not give me presents like that. Or maybe if I as him politely ... with few AFVs [;)]


I have been told once when I was moaning how unlucky I am (game vs Mehring), that I am not achieving anything because I am not realistic and too ambitious in my plans. Mega pocket isn't in my plans, it would be nice bonus but it won't happen in that game.

T6 north


Thanks to recent HQ build-up I managed to cross Luga river, so I anticipate real fighting will begin next turn.