Uses of LF

[Bugle999]

Just finished a game of 25mm Later Seleucid v Setorius Ancient Spanish - a decisive but close run victory for the Spanish - great game although a little long at 6 hours!!
During the game both sets of Spanish 6 LF broke their Skirmishing opponents and as a result had free reign to move around the flanks and rear of the Seleucid line. Having got to this point it appeared there was no benefit for having the LF there and they could have no further impact on the game because:
1) They could not charge opponents (even in the flank/rear) - Page 60
2) They could not cause a -1 modifier for 'threatened flank' - Page 136
3) They could not fire into any melees as all troops were involved in fighting (I assume a 4th rank of Pikes cannot be fired at...?)
The only possible move that would help existing combats was to move into overlap at the end of the line - however the situation was as below:-

........Co....Co....
Cv....Cv
Cv....Cv

Co are Companions facing down..
Cv are Spanish Cav facing up..
Both are overlapping each other on one flank.
The LF was behind the Right Flank of the Co (to the left of the page). They were unable to move into FULL front edge contact with the Co's Right Flank (i.e. at a 90 degree angle), but could hit the Co wereby their front edge would hit the Rear Right edge of the Co. On reading the definition of overlap on P.75 it appeared this move was illegal and therefore this option was unavailable as well...?

Is this right...?
What can the LF be used for in open terrain behind the enemies line (other than sacking the baggage..?)
Appreciate any advice thoughts - thanks.

[pbrandon]

Well, for one thing, they can fire at the 4th rank of pike, albeit on a -POA if the enemy BG is in close combat.

Paul

[WhiteKnight]

Overall, I reckon those LF did ok if they disposed of two opposing BGs. Taking out the baggage is an excellent option for attrition points, too. They can attack broken BGs and make sure they can't come back or be bolstered so easily. Having them available to move into combat as overlaps can be good so long as tougher enemy stuff isn't nearby to mix it with them!
One lesson I HAVE picked up from early FOG games is realise the limitations of LF and cherish their successes, 'cos they may be cheap in points but losing a BG of them is the same attrition value as any other BG.

Martin

[Onomarchos]

What can the LF be used for in open terrain behind the enemies line (other than sacking the baggage..?)
Appreciate any advice thoughts - thanks.

They can be used to take on broken BGs so the enemy can't return to combat.

[rich0101]

you can also use them to get directly behind a BG and when the enemy BG breaks it can't run so is destroyed, so no chance to rally at all. simply removed from the battlefield.