 Over the next three days these forces would slowly reduce the PAVN's perimeter.On 18 February the 1/8th Cavalry was attacked by elements of the 803rd Regiment northeast of Huế, this second clash apparently convinced the PAVN command that the Regiment could not reach the Citadel.By 20 February the 1/5 Marines advance had stalled and after conferring with his commanders Thompson decided to launch a night attack against three PAVN strongpoints that were blocking further movement with the entire battalion attacking at daybreak.