2013 Combat Games 8th Dan 1st Round Tagawa (USA) vs Furukawa (JPN)

The second match in the Men's Invitational competition was contested by Y. Tagawa representing the USA and K. Furukawa of Japan. Hailing from the northernmost island of Hokkaido is also known for his aggressive, dynamic style of fencing. Tagawa sought to take the match to him from the outset, trying to force Furukawa back with his energetic advances. A number of times, both simultaneously attempted to strike men, but all strikes veered off to the side and were not sufficient to score. Finally, after being on the receiving end of Tagawa's attacks for much of the match, Furukawa unleashed one of his trademark tsuki techniques (thrust to the throat). It was unsuccessful, but unsettled Tagawa enough to give Furukawa an opportunity to strike kote (wrist). The point was given, and time expired seconds after the restart giving Furukawa a hard fought victory.