Combat of Sahagun (December 21, 1808)

This cavalry clash was fought between the French Debelle's brigade, acting as Soult’s cavalry screen and the advance-guard of Moore's army commanded by Lord Paget. The French brigade (500-700 men) was formed by the 1st Provisional Chasseurs (mainly Hanoverians absorbed into French service) and the 8th Dragoons. The British force was composed by the 10th and 15th Light Dragoons (Hussars) and amounted to around 1,200 men.
The British cavalry reached Sahagun at dawn on 21 December without being discovered. Paget split his force, sending the 10th Hussars (with the General Slade) straight down the main road into the village, while himself at the head of the 15th Hussars go around the village to block the French escape routes.
On the far side of the village, Paget found the two French cavalry regiments formed up in a vineyard, with the Chasseurs in the first rank. Although outnumbered by two to one, Paget chose to attack. The first British charge was blocked by a ditch, and Paget was forced to move along this ditch to find a place where his cavalry could cross over. This move forced the French to change their front to face the new threat.

The British cavalry charged before the French change of formation was complete. The 15th Hussars crashed into the 1st Provisional Chasseurs and forced them back into the 8th Dragoons. Both French units broke and fled eastwards with the British in pursuit. The British captured 170 prisoners, including two lieutenant-colonels. The French lost 20 dead, the British 14. The 10th Hussars came up during the pursuit, however, they were initially mistaken for French cavalry. This caused the 15th Hussars to break off their pursuit to re-form, ending the action.
A number of survivors of the clash escaped to warn Soult that the British were approaching. This cavalry combat marked the final phase of the Moore's advance into the interior of Spain, before they began their retreat to Galicia and the ultimate evacuation.

More information
Military History Encyclopedia on the Web
Battle of Sahagun (Wikipedia)
The Portsmouth Napoleonic Society