It was a resounding defeat for the Irish forces. This was due in large part to the reluctance of the Spanish troops to leave the protection of the walled city of Kinsale and join the battle until it was over. O'Neill retreated back to Tyrone with his battered troops.
It marked a significant setback for the Irish forces. The primary reason for this defeat was the Spanish troops' unwillingness to leave Kinsale and join the battle. As a result, O'Neill withdrew his troops back to Tyrone.