Meanwhile
“The last moments of one kingdom and the birth of another.”
Here, there is talk in the texts of unexpected English elite resistance and several rallies. This shows that even though the numbers of English still defending may be reduced, they have great power and the ability to rally.
It is a defence of attrition—brutal and bloody. The Normans press hard but are denied their victory, the English resist, but ultimately and inevitably, they are forced to retreat.
Eventually, they have retreated back to a point on the ridge where the land widens, the drop to the north ends, and good solid land appears, the English do not have the resources to defend this widening land, and for the first time all day, the Norman cavalry can circle the left flank of the English.
As soon as they do, they envelop the remaining English and go in search of Harold, whois killed by Norman knights and his standard destroyed.
And here we are right back at the abbey.