How did feigned retreats help William I win the Battle of Hastings?

At the Battle of Hastings, William I utilized feigned retreats to overcome the disciplined English "shield wall" formation, which had initially repelled his archers and cavalry.12

By twice pretending to flee in confusion, William successfully lured segments of the English infantry out of their strong defensive positions on the ridge to pursue the seemingly retreating Norman forces. Once the English soldiers had broken their ranks, William rallied his cavalry to turn and slaughter the exposed foot soldiers. These maneuvers effectively depleted and exhausted the English defense, eventually allowing the Normans to overwhelm the remaining troops and secure victory.12