 Units of the Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada, supporting the South Saskatchewan Regiment of the 2nd Division, were able to secure a position in St. André-sur-Orne in the early hours of 20 July but were soon pinned down by German infantry and tanks.A simultaneous direct attack up the slopes of Verrières Ridge by the South Sakatchewans fell apart as heavy rain prevented air support and turned the ground to muck, making it difficult for tanks to maneuver.Counterattacks by two Panzer divisions forced the South Saskatchewans back past their start line and crashed into their supporting battalion, the Essex Scottish, who lost over 300 men as they struggled to hold back the 1th SS Panzer Division.