Narrow Play - Verse 59
Cover backhand, trap in close range
Translation
This technique describes controlling an opponent after covering their backhand (riversa) strike. From this covered position, you have enclosed or trapped them in a narrow play where they cannot defend themselves from subsequent strikes. The cover transitions directly into close-quarters offence, denying the opponent space to counter or protect themselves.
Fiore's Words
From the cover of the backhand, I have you trapped: In narrow play and strikes, no defence can be mapped.
Combat Context
Defensive counter-technique against an opponent's backhand strike. After successfully covering their attack, you close the distance and establish dominance in narrow play where they cannot effectively defend or counter-attack.
Training Notes
- ✦ Practice the transition from parrying a riversa strike into immediate entry to close quarters
- ✦ Focus on maintaining contact and control after the initial cover to prevent the opponent from recovering distance
- ✦ The 'enclosure' likely involves pinning the opponent's sword arm or controlling their weapon while entering
- ✦ Once in narrow play, be prepared to strike from the bound position or execute grappling techniques
This is card FL59 from the Fiore dei Liberi Sword In Two Hands deck.
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[23b-b] Per la coverta dela riverssa mano aqui t'o aserato De zogho streto e de feride non sera guardato
From the cover of the backhand have I enclosed you here: You will not be defended from the narrow play nor from strikes.