As far i noticed , this game need to be played in blocks. Because of roster system.
I was playing last strat as independent trader, fighting as merc for every sides. I made small fortune in trade between free trade zones. And still it was pointless when i realized it.
I've got 1800 troops fully equiped with milanese sets/other heavy stuff, best weapons, heavy horses and still i probably would not able defend by most of clans.
Simply because i would have much worse roster on the battle and lose flags.
So i joined clan who is in my opinion one of the best at strat (GO), hoping (after Kalmar declaration) that there will be bloody war with result is unknown.
Thing is, i enemies of UIF seems to do it wrong way. If i would have one big enemy i would not hope that he will "split on two pieces" before eating me at diner. Rather i would try to gather all possible forces/allys. They are strong becouse they don't split.
Problems of anti-uif seems to be lack of loyality. Why the hell sword brothers are attacking ODE ?. Without roster support both clans are doomed. Only at Jelbegi last night roster was really good and chalenging, and defenders manage to hold the village.
You won't win battle against carefully selected roster with random party + 10 clan mates.
But well
its still a lot of nice battles already