firecat

Hello, all... I'm a complete newbie, not only to Combat Mission but to squad level wargaming in general, so bear with me... I've been pulling my hair out over the Masstricht Tough Tanker over at Combat HQ. I've attempted to follow Fion Kelly's tactical advice and divide my forces and attack on either flank, but I find I get chewed to pieces by the German armor and anti-tank guns everytime. I can't get a clear shot at anything without exposing my own tanks and having them shot out from under me before I can even get a shot of my own off. Does anyone have any advice to offer a greenhorn on how to beat the AI on this scenario? Also, is it just me, or do American tanks really suck compared to German? I find I can plink away all day at Panzers getting various harmless richochets, but as soon as the Huns get a good shot off at me... bye, bye, Mr. Sherman. And of what use are the infrantry engineering platoons? Can they do anything cool? Looks like a great game, soon as I learn to play the damn thing... Jimmy