Cleburne's advance rolled north in pursuit of Bradley's brigade, which fled north of McCutcheon Creek to establish new lines at the southern edge of town. Reacting promptly to Bradley's retreat, Lane's brigade began to reposition to the south. The pursuit was suddenly halted by massive volleys from artillery and the veteran 103rd Ohio Infantry positioned across the Columbia-Franklin Pike. Cleburne's veterans pulled up short and sought cover under an intense and deadly accurate barrage from the well-positioned Union artillery. By nearly 5:00 p.m., with sunlight fading into sunset, Cleburne had encountered unexpectedly heavy opposition, halted his advance, and called for support and instructions.