the athenian wings quickly routed the inferior persian levies (conscripted troops) on the flanks, before turning inwards to surround the persian centre, which had been more successful against the thin greek centre. the battle ended when the persian centre then broke in panic towards their ships, pursued by the greeks. some, unaware of the local terrain, ran towards the swamps where unknown numbers drowned.p71 the athenians pursued the persians back to their ships, and managed to capture seven ships, though most were able to launch.