For four successive days the Athenian fleet deployed from its base at Aegospoyami to offer battle to the Spartans. The Spartans did not take up the challenge and each evening the Athenians returned to anchorage. Most of their crews then dispersed to forage.Their pattern of behaviour was carefully noted by the Spartan leader Lysander. On the fifth day he had his fleet follow, carrying troops ready for action ashore. The Athenians were caught dispersed and unprepared. Lysander won an overwhelming victory which lead directly to the fall of Athens in the following year.