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 control of a strategic position on top of a hill.  They then divided their forces into two groups: one led by their kings, Bagsecg and Halfdan, the other under their earls.