Thank you Hollins, but I am now deeply ensconced, (a great word in it's own right) in about 4 games per day versus Forum members SDQ and Yorkie.
I think that all concerned are well aware of those tricks and many others besides.
Thus far I can report that I only win about 1 in 5 games versus SDQ, who is a formidable opponent, but fun to play against.
I have won only 1 game ever against Yorkie, who crushes me almost every time.
However, I am learning quickly, and never lose hope of re-dressing the balance.
The tide is turning in my favour!