The Vikings arrived first at the battle ground and deployed along the top of the ridge, giving them the advantage. They divided their forces into two contingents, one under their kings, Bagsecg and Halfdan, the other under their earls.
The Vikings were the first to arrive at the battlefield and took advantageous position on top of the hill.  They split their troops into two groups: one commanded by their kings, Bagsecg and Halfdan, the other led by their earls.