During the early hours of the 20th, the Soviets started crossing the River Don in force. The two initial assaults were repulsed, but at approximately 0700, the Soviets crossed again with overwhelming numbers.

Despite the inspired defense put up in the center by Lt. Col. Spighi, the thin line held by the battalion gradually fell apart. This was hastened by a Soviet attack on the Italian right flank, which was supposedly guarded by German troops of the 79th Infantry Division. At 0830, the last defenders of the village of Simovsky started retreating towards Italian lines. Out of the original 700 men only 80 made it back.