Although Van's kicks were landing relatively harmlessly on Teisel's legs, he was spooked enough by the prospect of getting kneed again that he instinctively flinched back. He'd had Van solidly pinned before, but the shift would be enough to let the man wriggle free if he were quick.

Sensing that he was losing his advantage, Teisel hit harder, trying to force his way past Van's frantic blocking to get at the man's face again.