The Ilansky crossroads were a part of a non descript side road that was at best only going to be used as a spare supply line. Unfortunately both the Russians and the Germans wanted it.  A small troop of tanks from either side was sent, unbeknowns to each other, to secure the village.

The surrounding countryside consisted of slightly wooded, rolling farmland, which at this time of the year was suffering from the first falls of snow.

The protagnosists consisted of Boris and Igor in their T34/76 tanks.

Both veterans who had worked there way up from T26’s to command these masterpieces of Russian engineering, they were proud of their achievements and were prepared to make the invaders pay dearly for the ravages done to the “motherland”.

On the other side Klink and Schultz were already sick of the protracted invasion of Russia which they were told would end in weeks but was already into its second year.

With all of the best equipment beingshipped to Normandy in preparation for the invasion of England their brand new “Panther” tanks had only recently been swapped for Panzer IV’s. Nevertheless they were experienced, and had fought alongside each other since the invasion of France. Both were confident of dealing with whatever came up against them.

With dawn approaching both sides were looking forward to a quiet day guarding the crossroads until their engineers arrived to fortify what remained of the village.

Igor (David S) moved quickly into an excellent firing position where he commanded the crossroads, allowing Boris (Andrew W) to advance under his protection. Boris had other ideas and just sat waiting for the “ideal” shot to present itself.

Klink (David “special” K) advanced into Igor’s cross hairs but after several turns of being shot at only had minor damage to his tank.

Schultz (David K) advanced over the crossroads trying to out-flank Igor

Instead of outflanking Igor, Schultz sped straight past “Hell Driving” (card from the “Tanker” deck allowing additional movement) to obtain a flank shot at Boris’ T34. The cover of the trees did not prevent the tank brewing up as the side armour proved no match for the 75mm gun of the Panzer IV. Alas that “ideal” shot Boris was waiting for would never arrive.

Meanwhile Klink had moved through the crossroads leaving Igor and his T34 with enemy to front and rear. Obviously the mentioning of Siberia proved just the medicine to improve the T34’s shooting and with six hits from seven dice (Klink was still unbuttoned) the turret was completely blown off Klink’s tank.

The demise of Klink

Schultz and Igor continued to exchange blows.  With both tanks significantly damaged they withdrew, to await reinforcements, with main guns still aimed at the crossroads.

The time waiting was spent painting a “kill ring” on their tanks, which allows them to draw an additional tanker card at the start of their next engagement.

“What a Tanker”  is a really good set of rules for mid week gaming. The mechanisms are easy to learn but include many tactical nuances that can tax the experienced gamer.

We eagerly await the next thrilling installment in Igor’s and Schultz’s careers.