Conversely, most former Royalists had been released after swearing not to bear arms against Parliament, and thus did not participate, one exception being Sir Nicholas Kemeys, who held Chepstow Castle for the king.

[5] Horton initially moved on Carmarthen, but then had to put down an uprising in Brecon, before occupying Cardiff and quartering his troops in and around St Fagans, west of the town.

Although Horton's 3,000 men were outnumbered, up to half of Laugharne's force were poorly trained and equipped, proving to be little match for experienced veterans.

The cavalry and dragoons were split between the left wing led by John Okey, and the right under Nathaniel Barton, with two small mixed units or "Forlorn hopes" directly in front.

Shortly before 8:00 am, Laugharne sent 500 infantry across the stream to attack Horton's centre, hoping to take the Parliamentarians by surprise inside the village.

Laugharne retreated with what was left of his army to join Poyer at Pembroke, while Horton besieged Rice Powell in Tenby Castle.