I think you have very valid points there Gazesby, as does Thiu. I do think the false retreats played a role in weaking the line, but also I do not think we want to underestimate the Norman archers. It was after all an arrow that killed Harold, and we can be pretty certain many of the Saxon host were killed as well that way. In addition to not having a large enough force, and what he had was exhausted from the march, I think Harold also needed a good number of archers himself. Had he had archers in sufficent force, I think it would have altered the battle completely. The hill and the protection of the shiled wall would have offered his archers advantages the Norman archers did not have. Indeed, had Harold had archers and concentrated them on the Norman horsemen, I feel William would have lost the battle!