Battle of Thielt (1128)

The Battle of Thielt (1128), also known as the Battle of Axpoel, was fought on June 21, 1128, between the forces of William Clito on one side and the forces of Thierry of Alsace. The battle resulted in victory for William Clito and defeat for Thierry of Alsace.

Background
Prior to the battle, Thierry besieged the fortress of Fulk, a vassal of William Clito. William carefully scouted the terrain in the area and Thierry's army.

Battle
William's Tactical Deployment

William's reconnaissance led him to arrange his forces into three divisions of equal strength, but he placed one division behind a hill in reserve. This force was completely hidden from Thierry.

Course of Events

William's first two divisions and all of Thierry's cavalry rode at each other and engaged in close combat. After some fierce fighting, William ordered a retreat with Thierry's cavalry in hot pursuit. However, once they crested the hill, William's reserve cavalry surprised Thierry's forces. William also gathered his knights, reformed, and charged again. Thus, Thierry's pursuit was quickly turned into a rout of his own forces.