The shield wall at the top of the hill protected the Anglo-Saxon army against arrows and the Norman cavalry. While it remained disciplined, it was very difficult to break.
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It involved setting troops out in several close-set, parallel lines. The men at the front overlapped their shields and stuck their spears through the gaps.
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The shield wall formed a strong defensive position, effective against archers and difficult even for cavalry to break.
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It relied on discipline of the troops to hold the line.
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It was an effective tactic that had been used by Harald Hardrada at the Battle of Gate Fulford.