I seem to remember that you couldn't counterstrike people you couldn't reach (for example when you are using fists and facing an opponent behind a horse)...
However,
Code:
[HP:100%] [ME: 78%] [PE: 94%]
> back well-
A well-groomed male dwarf counters your attack!
A well-groomed male dwarf's counterstrike DISEMBOWELS you!
That really did HURT!
You are coughing up BLOOD!
Your second backstab hits a well-groomed male dwarf.
A dark-skinned male human says to you 'Good day, na'am.'
[HP: 32%] [ME: 78%] [PE: 94%]
>
A large, black horse slams into a well-groomed male dwarf and sends him sprawling!
A large, black horse's bash knocks the wind out of a well-groomed male dwarf.
A large, black horse crushes a well-groomed male dwarf's right finger, bruising him slightly.
A large, black horse crushes a well-groomed male dwarf's right toe, bruising it slightly.
A well-groomed male dwarf misses a large, black horse.
A well-groomed male dwarf punches at a large, black horse's left foot, causing a minor wound.
A well-groomed male dwarf punches at a large, black horse's left leg, causing a sore wound.
[HP: 32%] [ME: 78%] [PE: 94%]
If this is a boost to people using fists, jolly good. If not, it seems a little weird.