Even though this was vastly different from simulations Akira had enough sense to be on guard even in the very beginning of the match. And because of that he managed to avoid Lucia's preemptive strike. He was quick to move to the side. He didn't want to waste time. So the young rookie charged forward. Using the controls was a bit harder than he had anticipated, but he felt he was getting the hang of it. He hoped he was at least. As he moved forward the left arm of the gundam reached upwards. Soon one of the "Excalibur" Anti-ship swords was in the hand and it was coming back down. Akira slashed from the upper left downward with the sword making sure to remain far enough away so that the blade would not make contact with Lucia's Mobile suit. 

(Hope this is okay Jake.)