But a countryman of the name of Hay, with his two sons, happened to be ploughing in a neighbouring field, over which a number of the Scottish fugitives were running. The farmer and his sons, being men of daring minds and great personal strength, and influenced by a warm love of their native land—the father seized the yoke and the sons whatever implements came readiest to their hands, and placed themselves in a narrow path through which many of the fugitives were running, and endeavoured by reproaches and threats to stop them. When this failed, they struck down those nearest, exclaiming that they would be Danes to the runaways. Thus the more timid were stopped, while the braver men, who had been carried away by the disorderly crowd of their followers, joined with them, and shouted that assistance was at hand. Then the whole body of the men turned upon the enemy, and pressed the foremost of the Danes back upon their companions in a confused mass. At this moment the Scottish camp followers raised a shout, as if a fresh army was approaching, which greatly animated the Scots and raised their spirits to the highest pitch of enthusiasm; and they pressed upon the Danes with the utmost fury, and in a short time utterly routed them. This is that victory which was won near the village of Luncarty, "which was celebrated with the greatest rejoicing during many days, and the fame of which will extend to the latest posterity."

After the battle, Hay was the object of universal applause. Many noblemen attested that wherever he and his sons attacked, there the Scottish ranks were restored, and those of the enemy overthrown. Hay, when introduced to the King, spoke modestly of his service; and when offered robes for himself and his sons, to render their entrance into Perth more glorious, he declined the honour, and only shook off the dust from the garments which he wore every day, and retained the yoke which he used in the battle. Thus he entered the city, preceded by an advance guard and followed by a numerous train appointed by the King. The attention of all who had assembled to see this unusual spectacle was turned upon him, and only he appeared to carry the triumph of the day. The first question mooted was as to what honours and rewards should be given to Hay and his sons. "An estate was bestowed upon them, one of the most fertile in Scotland, which his posterity—now increased to many families —enjoy even to this day."