The Savoia cavalry regiment was ordered to make a reconnaissance in force, departing from the far right of the Italian-held positions. The task was to observe the flank of the Italian effort to repulse Soviets back to the Don River. The regiment moved into territory formally controlled by Germans, and for half a day did not report any encounter. At dusk, Col. Alessandro Conte Bettoni, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, gave the order to halt and make camp just below a few dominating hills. All security precautions were taken, including the positioning of HMG platoons and unlimbered anti-tank guns, end even cutting the high grass to create a clear field of fire. At dawn, a patrol bumped into the Soviets, who during the night had occupied the hills and dug in with the intention of ambushing the advancing Italians. A firefight broke out immediately, with the Italians finding themselves outnumbered. Bettoni, ever the model of the Italian cavalry officer, calmly finished his breakfast, put on his white gloves, then ordered his men to mount and charge.

The Voloire battery provided artillery support and dismounted HMG platoons advanced with the cavalry. The first cavalry squadron made a diversion, then moved right and disappeared into a gully. Soon after the squadron smashed into the left flank of the enemy, charging in the old style with swords drawn (and hand grenades thrown). The squadron rode back and forth, spreading panic among the enemy, but their ranks soon thinned. At this point the second squadron joined the charge, but made a frontal assault and suffered more casualties. Nevertheless, the Soviets broke under the second charge and fled.

Savoia had defeated a complete Siberian rifle regiment, fully equipped with mortars and anti-tank guns. But this was only a tactical victory, relieving pressure on the strongpoint of Thceboratesky for one day. The next day, the Italian right flank collapsed for the second time, and the Italian position had to be moved backward again.