064.Belchite1_18Jun09 - WDS Wellington's Peninsular War

Belchite 18 June 1809 - Three days after the Spanish defeat at Maria, Blake made the unwise decision to risk another battle, despite the loss of most of his guns and the demoralization of his army, some 3,000 of whom had deserted after the defeat. However, he had now joined forces with Areizaga's division and the defensive position at Belchite was stronger than at Maria. Rather than attack the Spanish centre, Suchet sent Musnier's division against the Spanish left flank and Habert's brigade to turn the right flank.