On descending, it was found that the Scottish bowmen were already in the valley.

These they speedily drove up the hill, and then sent their arrows thick and fast among the Scottish men-at-arms.
Douglas had, like the Earl of Dunbar, perceived at what disadvantage the party who took the offensive would have to fight; and had determined to stand on the defensive, especially as, if he moved forward, the English could detach bodies of horsemen to work round the hill, and fall upon his immense train of waggons.
For a time, he refused to accede to the earnest entreaties of his knights to advance.

But as man after man fell under the English arrows, their impatience increased; until one of his best knights, Sir John Swinton, rode a few paces out of the ranks, and in a loud voice said: "My brave comrades, what fascinates you today, that you stand like deer and fawns in a park to be shot; instead of showing your ancient valour, and meeting your foes hand to hand?
Let those who will descend with me and, in the name of God, we will break that host and conquer; or if not, we will at least die with honour, like soldiers." A mighty shout followed his words, and the whole Scottish host dashed down the hill.

The English archers fell back a little, still shooting as they did so; but halted a short way up the hill, and shot so hotly and strongly that they pierced helmet and armour with their arrows.
Nothing could withstand these missiles, shot by the finest and strongest bowmen in the world.

The Scots rolled over in heaps.