The initial British landing caught Osman Digna off guard. Early in the battle he had a difficult time coordinating the response of his forces. Using the auto-generation rules for when, where and how many Mahdist units appeared, not many showed up early in the game. And when they did appear they were scattered and unable to concentrate.
However, as the game has progressed, Osman was able to rally more of his followers to confront the British relief force. Now it’s the turn of General Graham to be caught wrong footed.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/21667793@N06/shares/57ztNj The British battalion deployed to cover the right of the advance was caught by a ferocious charge of Beja foot. The battalion’s volleys we’re unable to stop the charge and spear and sword crossed bayonet point. Osman’s men inflicted heavy casualties on the British, capturing a gun and forcing the British back.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/21667793@N06/shares/J8ddZ7 Fortunately for Gen. Graham, a unit of Bluejackets were close at hand, wheeling to the right and delivering a withering fusillade at the victorious Dervish infantry. The volley wasn’t enough to drive away the Beja but it so weakened them that their pursuit of the British infantry, who had rallied, ended in their destruction.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/21667793@N06/shares/G8nrXu Seeing the relief force assailed from nearly all sides, the Egyptian garrison decided to sally out of the town to meet their rescuers.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/21667793@N06/shares/6074Xp But wouldn’t you know it...that wily Osman’s die rolls improved and three more Mahdist units appear. All within reach of the garrison.
https://www.flickr.com/gp/21667793@N06/0102k2