In the ensuing melee, 12 Japanese aircraft were shot down by supporting AirSols fighters and naval gunfire, while Cony was hit aft twice, resulting in the death of eight of her crew and the wounding of 10 others. The destroyer was taken under tow and taken back to Tulagi for repairs.
In a chaotic battle, twelve Japanese planes were destroyed by AirSols fighters and naval fire, while the destroyer Cony sustained two hits aft, leading to the loss of eight crew members and wounding ten others.  The ship was then towed back to Tulagi for repairs.