As he neared them the front line of the Saxons dropped on one knee, and as the Danes with their shields dashed against the spears and strove to cut through them, the kneeling men were able with their pikes to thrust at the unguarded portions of the bodies below their shields, and many fell grievously wounded.

After trying for some time in vain, Haffa, finding that individual effort did not suffice to break through the Saxon spears, formed his men up in line four deep, and advanced in a solid body so as to overwhelm them.
The Saxons now rose to their feet.

The spears, instead of being pointed outwards, were inclined towards the front, and the wedge advanced against the Danes.

The Saxon war cry rose loud as they neared the Danish line, and then, still maintaining their close formation, they charged upon it.

The assault was irresistible.