Update on the Spatha and Gladius fighting techniques!

[M. Demetrius]

in wristflick motion you can in the next moment cut into the neck or exposed face of your opponent.

Yep. And since you're already crouched, you can continue to press his sword hand back with the shield as you stand. The whole right side of the body is exposed that way.

Down slash, backhand to neck/shoulder, thrust to midsection or thigh. And you never had to take a step forward out of ranks.

It's worked for me in simulated combat with needled felt sword. Of course it's not the only thing I do, but it is so quick that almost any left side attack is vulnerable to it.