Dusk Urchins

[Versus]

Dusk Urchins (http://sales.starcitygames.com//carddisplay.php?product=49644)

I tried SCG and there were zero ruling queries posted so I figured it was cool to ask here.

Just curious as to exactly when the -1/-1 counter is applied? Is it immediate upon anouncing your attack step?

In otherwords will an unanswered Urchins swing for a total of nine (4+3+2) before dying or only five (3+2)?

Thanks.

[Nihil Credo]

Only five. The counter-placing ability triggers when you declare attackers / blockers, and it will go on the stack and resolve respectively during the Declare Attackers / Declare Blockers step, both of which come before the Combat Damage step.

[Versus]

Cool, thanks. Was kinda hoping it was 9, but I had a feeling it was 5. Just wanted to be sure.