050. The Rearguard Action at Hof - WDS Campaign Eylau-Friedland

6 February 1806 - Historical - Intended to be played Head to Head - GM Barclay de Tolly was tasked with guarding the retreat of the Russian army as it marched north to Eylau. However, the advance of the French army was such that he felt compelled to perform a desperate defense. Initially the French cavalry was denied a breakthrough due to the terrain and defense of the Russian forces. However, once Legrand's division of Soult's IV Corps arrived the French were able to turn the flank. Murat's cavalry also was able to gain ground and after 6 hours of combat the Russians were in full retreat on Landsberg. Barclay's small rearguard detachment had performed well but had paid the price for their labors. Over 2,000 Russians had become casualties. The French, on the other hand, had been held up at a high cost: Legrand's division lost over 1,200 men. Murat's cavalry likewise suffered prohibitive casualties due to the constricting terrain and stubbornness of the Russian defense. The French army had proved, once again, that they could overcome the Russians but as usual it cost more than it was worth.