How do you defeat Waka in Okami

Waka will occasionally either try a combo or charge attack with his sword, Pillow Talk, but most frequently fires little red daggers(?) as projectiles. Don't let Waka get close enough to use Pillow Talk. Always keep your distance, so that Waka is continuously throwing his daggers. The trick to winning this battle easily is Power Slashing his daggers back at him. He'll fall down, stunned for a few moments, giving you free reign to beat him madly. This strategy pretty much makes Waka a cakewalk. One more thing: Try to keep both yourself and Waka on the central island. It's hard to maneuver in the water.