 At Stockach , the French concentrated their forces into shorter lines , creating intense fighting conditions ; initially , Charles 's line was more extended , but he quickly pulled additional troops from his reserves to strengthen his front . When a small French force commanded by Dominique Vandamme nearly flanked the Austrian Army , Charles 's personal intervention was crucial for the Austrians , buying time for reinforcements to arrive . General Jourdan , while trying to rally his men , was nearly trampled to death . Ultimately , the French were driven back upon the Rhine River . 
