Knock back
Description
It is also known in Cornwall as the ‘Scat ‘n Back’. As your opponent makes his turn and steps across your front to attack your legs with his right leg – transfer your weight to your right foot and stretch out your left leg to sweep his left leg forward. Your hands, in the normal grip position, should, at the same time, pull his shoulders to the rear to drop him on to his back.
This technique is the Westcountry equivalent to ‘ashi-waza’ (foot throws) in Judo.
Instructions
Starting position
Mr White and Mr Black step back to face each other, having just shaken hands. They stand in the front position. This is the starting position before getting the hitch.
The hitch
Mr Black moves his left foot to be on the outside of Mr White’s left, intending to move behind into the Rearside play.
Execute the move
Mr Black moves his right hand up to Mr White’s collar to gain greater control of his upper body. With a jolt backwards, or a slight lift, Mr Black sweeps the back heels of Mr White to take their legs out from under them.
The back
Mr Black controls Mr White at the shoulders to ensure they land with all 4 pins on the ground.
Key points
- The hitch must ensure the opponent stays at a distance, in the Out play.
- A vigorous pull backward is needed to unbalance the opponent and compromise their stance. A firm grip at the shoulders must be ensured.
- The Inside edge of the foot may be struck like a kick, or swept forcefully with a light preliminary contact:
- Control must be maintained to ensure the 4 pins touch the ground.
References
Guy Jaouen and Matthew Bennett Nicols (2007). Celtic Wrestling, The Jacket Styles, Fédération Internationale des Luttes Associées (Switzerland), p119-155.
Kendall, B; Chapman, B; Gregory, H; Cundy, T J; Anderson, A; Hooper, J B. (1990), Art of Cornish Wrestling, Reprinted by the Federation of Old Cornwall Societies, pp. 13.
Armstrong, W (1889). The Badminton Library of Sports and Pastimes – Fencing, Boxing and Wrestling, Spottiswoode and Co (London), p215-223.