There is a great way to improve them. Lets be honest. Physx at M&B are total crap and when hoplite or fallen cav guy have to fight 1h spammer he cant do almost anything. You may kick, but untill you kick he can move 3 metres sidewalk untill 1 sec(realistic animation physxs ftw).
Whats the solution? Shield smash. You could counter enemy at exact time when his weapon hits the shield(something familiar to weapon hits weapon system). That would help distract enemy and give you enough time to do recounter or move little backwards.
