14. Abner said to Joab, “Let’s have the young men hold a contest.” Joab agreed.
15. The men got up and were counted as they passed by. Twelve were from the tribe of Benjamin (representing Saul’s son Ishbosheth), and twelve were from David’s officers.
16. Each one grabbed his opponent by the head, stuck his sword into his opponent’s side, and they fell down together. Therefore, that place in Gibeon is called the Field of Enemies.
17. Fierce fighting broke out that day, and David’s men defeated Abner and the men of Israel.
18. Zeruiah’s three sons were there: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. Asahel was as fast on his feet as a wild gazelle.
19. He chased Abner and refused to leave him alone.
20. When Abner looked back, he asked, “Are you Asahel?”“Yes,” Asahel answered.