The lead Japanese units heading for Isurava walked into an ambush by the hidden Aussie units (per the scenario set up rules), these two Aussie stacks eliminated a couple of Japanese platoons but no leaders, with the effect of stalling the Japanese advance down the trail.

The Japanese regrouped & with the aid of the 2 81mm mortars began overrunning the dug-in Aussie units one by one with the advance rolling thru the objective village. This combat bled the Japanese forces, although they did not lose any platoons or leaders, many of the Japanese units were reduced in step, disrupted and a few demoralized due to the heavy fighting.

With 7 turns remaining the scenario looked like it was going to be a rout with a Japanese major victory but the Aussies counter attacked with fresh troops from C Company, elements of the 53rd Infantry & any remnants of the 39th Infantry that could still fight. They got help with some really good die rolls on the DF & Assault tables, sometimes it is better to be lucky than good.

They inflicted several step losses on the already exhausted Japanese & managed to KIA two leaders. The Aussies were even able to assault Isurava, which would remain contested at the end of the scenario, thus denying the victory points to the Japanese and a chance for a major victory.

We played this scenario using Optional Rule #1: Leader Guides. We got tired of rolling for disorientation in previous scenarios.