Both sided deployed in a similar manner, legions in centre flanked by auxilia and a strong cavalry wing on one flank. The East are on the right of the photo, recognisable by their cataphract cavalry and artillery.
The East advanced its right centre and cavalry wing against the Roman left flank.
The Roman left soon found itself engulfed by cataphracts support by light horse.
To counter the threat, led by the Roman sub-general, Roman reserve cavalry attempted to stem the tide.
To counter the threat to its left flank, Rome attacked the Eastern left in an attempt to stabilise the battle. Unfortunately, the Roman left collapsed forcing the West to flee the field.
A second battle
Exchanging deployment zones, both armies tightened their formations and prepared for a second clash of arms.
The West, employing a similar tactic hoped to overwhelm the East’s left flank while advancing infantry supported the effort. Meanwhile, a similar cavalry action was taking place on Rome’s left.
The initial cavalry battle on the East’s left, exhausted, no longer presented a threat. Rome’s hope of a victory was further diminished as Eastern cavalry crushed its left and prepared to do the same to Rome’s centre. Another victory for the East.
