The Chinese thought that the British had abandoned the fort, and they foolishly rushed in, leading to being ambushed."It's A Trap!" Admiral Ackbar, Star Wars 25th May 1983 during the raid on the Death Star
Language Exchange Failed
Instead of training with modern guns, the Chinese chose to train with polearms, thus leading to them losing the war. You know what they say, poke your enemies, don't shoot them.
It's In The Spirit!
Instead of using proper troops to assault the ship, the Chinese put firecrackers on monkeys, threw them on the ship, and hoped it would be set on fire. the British sailed merrily away, without a single monkey fire cracking. The only thing set on fire was the Chinese ego and their attempt on destroying the ships.
Because some Chinese Soldiers didn't speak the same language, the Chinese Soldiers assumed they were British Spies and poked them with a stick, which is apparently still better than a gun.
Instead of training for the assault, the Chinese organized fun poetry competitions and victory speeches instead of training. But hey, at least their spirits are high when they get obliterated by the British!