That reminds me of a very old strategy... The Macedon V phalanx. Anyone remember that?
I would just give some basic tips:
1) Always try and hit the enemy from the side and rear, as well as the front.
2) Don't be a wimp - take some risks.
3) No-body ever got rich through diplomacy.
4) Possession of strategic positions is 9/10 of the law.
5) Hills rape anything below them.
6) Don't leave your flanks exposed.
7) Keep your general in the battle, with his men for moral affect. If he dies, he dies like a Roman.
8) Skirmish is pointless in ONLINE and CUSTOM and HISTORICAL battles. Only use it in campaign, when you want to limit losses to as little as possible. Otherwise, send them in when they're out of ammo, or about to be attacked. Cretan archers are especially good with swords, actually...
9) Phalanxes don't have very good turning ability.
10) A hoplite not in phalanx is a hoplite not worth having.
11) Elephants do not ensure victory/defeat. They are easily countered.
12) The only way to simulate online battles and to get good, is to play on VH mode.
My motto:
"Live hard. Work hard. Train hard. Win easy."
St Jimmy
Angel face and a taste for suicidal