 Desmond, Baltinglass and John of Desmond made an effort to link up with the expeditionary force but English forces under Ormonde and Grey blocked them and prompt naval action by Richard Bingham blockaded the Papal force's ships into the bay at Smerwick.San Giuseppe had no choice but to fortify his men in the fort at Dún an Óir.In October 1580, Grey de Wilton with up to 4000 troops arrived at Smerwick and laid siege to the garrison.