Yu Nabae matches up with Eiichiro and realizes they really are two players that are virtually the same. He realizes that what Eiichiro lacks is experience with the fundamentals, as he has never played anyone like himself.
Eiichiro runs to watch Natsu's match when he learns she is in danger of losing. Afterwards they return to STC where he meets Ryuhei Aoi, a man who will become his new coach.
Eiichiro and Natsu go out on their first date. He learns how important it is for your ego and your subconscious to match up evenly. Coach Ryuhei decides the only way Eiichiro can meet his goals is to go to Florida during the winter break.