both sides claimed victory. the "new york herald" published banner headlines announcing the alleged victory, as several new york regiments had taken part. the union men claimed they had won because they inflicted serious damage on the css neuse, and because the forces resisting the united states were unable to halt the army's advance. however, the confederates claim they won, since they inflicted heavier casualties on the attackers than they suffered, prevented the united states from crossing the river, and had kept the gunboat from being totally destroyed.