Golgotha's Ancients - Gladiators

Herewith, gladiator miniatures, rules suggestions and a playtest of Blood and Sands by Frank Sultana. 

See: https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?action=post;topic=51608.855;last_msg=1731453

See an introduction to the rules here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7WP9KJc9wK8&ab_channel=FSultana

The various gladiator rules I have considered include: 

Components made ready for Blood on the Sands. Used 1p coins for the markers. Hex board enlarged from the original to A3 size which matches my hex bases perfectly. 

Some of my 1/72 miniatures, these are old Atlantic miniatures. 

Here is a nice vignette in 1/72 by Italeri miniatures. 

Another Atlantic miniature - this one is a conversion to be made standing, the original pose has him relaxing on a bed. Think he makes a good Caesar or local noble to watch the games - all for the enjoyment of the plebs.  

This chap in the foreground is some old metal miniature who I gave a shield and spear, he has a face mask and looks rather imposing. 

The very first game of  Blood on the Sands went well, did have to look up rules a few times but the game was very quick and brutal - which I liked, the dice mechanic is engaging and keeps things interesting. The Thraex, unfortunately, won with a special attack on the torso of the Secutor, puncturing his lung and causing him to collapse and bleed to death drowning in his own blood much to the love and cheers of the crowd. 

Next battle will see a Murmillo go up against the same Thraex. Let us hope he does better. 

In conclusion, Blood on the Sands does the job and compares very favourably to the rules shown in the table above. If you are looking for a set of Gladiator rules these might just be the right one for you.