Zhang Hongfan reportedly withheld cannon fire because he wanted the Song's chains to remain intact and prevent an escape. He prepared a major assault on March 18, then divided his forces into four parts on March 19. Three groups faced the Song's eastern, northern, and southern sides, while he held the fourth group a little farther away under his own command. Repeated attacks on the northern flank preceded festive music intended to suggest that the Yuan were holding a banquet. At noon, Zhang Hongfan attacked with extra soldiers concealed beneath fabric, making the approaching boats appear less heavily manned. These measures were intended to lower the defenders' guard and disguise the strength of the assault.
Chapter · 1:11:17-1:13:14
The Yuan attack plan and attempted deception at Yamen
The Yuan divided their forces into four groups and used music and concealed soldiers in an attempt to disguise the main assault.