According to Prit Buttar, Provided that the Russians did not concentrate all their forces against East Prussia - and therefore sent substantial numbers of troops against the Austro-Hungarian Empire - Eighth Army should be able to hold out without conceding too much ground until victory over France was assured.

Originally, Prittwitz had intended to hold the line of the Angerapp and allow Rennenkampf to suffer heavy casualties while trying to force the position.

The Russians enjoyed considerable numerical superiority but were hampered by significant deficiencies in their services of supply and field communications.

The Russians in this area were well aware of German intentions due to François' attack, and had spent the time preparing for the assault by moving up their heavy artillery.

The Germans were unable to advance, and support Mackensen, while both sides suffered heavy casualties.

The German 3rd Reserve Division, commanded by Curt von Morgen, arrived too late on the scene to intervene.

In the meantime, Samsonov was delayed in his advance because of the lack of good railways and roads, and Rennenkampf was slow to pursue the withdrawal because of his losses and limited supplies.

[5]: 134–141 [9]Prittwitz's panic affected Moltke, who feared that Berlin itself could now be threatened by the advancing Russians.

On 21 August, Moltke decided to replace Prittwitz and his chief of staff Georg von Waldersee.