Dear Conan,
When you are confronted with an attack, it really doesn't matter which stance you are using. What matters is which technique you will apply. Faced with more than one person in a circle, the neutral stance would allow you to adjust and respond more timely no matter which side attacks you first.
The fighting stance has two meanings:
1. It is a set-up. You bait your opponent to attack you at a certain target without him being aware of it.
2. When you fight with an opponent whose skill you are familiar with, you should adjust your stance accordingly to cover the area you are most likely to be attacked. For example, when you fight a boxer, you should expect jabs. Therefore, you put your guard up instead of trying to block after the jab. Another example is: When you fight with someone with a fast lead sidekick, put up a low Bon Sau to cover the midsection of your body in anticipation of that particular kick.

SiFu Leung

SiFu Leung