After the defeat, the Junta censured Azopardo and barred him from command, although it later withdrew that judgement. He also narrowly escaped execution while in Spanish hands before returning to the revolutionary side. The operation had depended on surprise despite an inexperienced fleet, weak ships, and a stronger opponent. Once surprise was gone, withdrawal would have been the safer order. The failure also belonged to the planners and political leaders who had assigned the mission.
Notable Point · 42:03-43:00
Azopardo and responsibility for defeat
Blaming Azopardo alone overlooks an expedition that depended on surprise and began with severe material disadvantages.