This was a decisive battle which effectively ended Irish resistance to the Anglo Normans. The Irish forces were led by Feidhlimidh O Conchubhair (Phelim O'Connor) faced the Anglo-Norman army of Richard de Burgh and Metler de Bermingham at Athenry.

Around 8,000 men were killed. The walls of the town, begun in 1310, are said to have built partly from the booty plundered after the battle.