[ gamora probably could be helpful, but instead, she's content to watch and let quill set the mats out on his own. ]

You wouldn't be flat on your ass if you could counter more quickly. The point is for you to get faster. Forcing yourself to avoid falling will do that.

[ if he has to end up flat on his back to make that happen, then that's what it'll be. ]

This is not something as simple as a fighting tactic I can teach you step-by-step. This must be honed through practice and repetition.