Trifecta Averted, but at what cost?

Ric was off to a reasonable start as Rebel Leader, on his way to the much sought after trifecta.  But the initial cost was high.  The Hutts had managed 6 resource planets in the initial setup, but were not able to hold on to 7 when the Empire struck back at the end of turn 1. 

In turn 2 Ric swiped 2 faction cards from Kent, but still the Storm Troopers pushed the Force Meter far to the dark side.  The Hutts clambered into the bonus points and began assembling their fleet. 

Eventually, the Death Star nuked Sluis Van and then the Imperial forces were able to lock down the Wild Space with a starbase on Elom.  Twice the Hutts climbed up to 8 resource planets, only to be repulsed.  In a rare turn of events, the green hoard captured and held the Outer Rim while the Storm Troops were distracted by the rebellious forces.  Gradually the Rebels took more and more casualties.  Faction card straights didn't turn up as often as they did for the Hutts (twice) and the Sith Lord (three times). 

Despite a strong Hutt fleet, their final assault faltered at Derilyn and again at Nar Shaddar.  The Rebels made a valiant last ditch counter-attack, but it was not enough.  A final Imperial faction card straight, extra troops added to the first invasion, and Wild Space bonuses were enough to give them the victory, Kent's first in about 6 weeks.