Prince Rupert commanded the left wing, Sir Marmaduke Langdale the right, Lord Ashley the main body.

Fairfax commanded the center of the Roundheads, with General Skippon under him.
Cromwell commanded the right and Ireton the left.

Rupert had hurried on with his horse in advance, and coming upon the Roundheads, at once engaged them.

So sudden was the attack that neither party had formed its lines for battle, and the artillery was in the rear.

Between the armies lay a wide level known as Broadmoor.