022 Metaurus River what-if - Punic Wars

The battle of Metaurus River was one of the most important ( if not the most important battle) fought in the 2nd Punic wars. After his defeat at Baecula, Hasdrubal Barca had crossed the Alps in the spring of 207 and had penetrated into Northern Italy to bring much needed siege equipment and reinforcements to aid his brother Hannibal. Looking for a possible meeting with his brother Hasdrubal dispatched a letter but the messenger was caught, and now Rome was aware of his intentions. The Roman Consuls Marcus Livius Salinator and Caius Claudius Nero secretly joined forces and planned a surprise attack near the river Metaurus. Aware that he is facing both consuls Hasdrubal turns and gives battle. * Spoiler ...... ( This is the what-if version of the battle that presumes the 20,000 odd Gauls never left Hasrubal's army )