Quote Originally Posted by Daevyll
I've had succes with the following:

- Take unit out of phalanx formation
- walk/run up to within striking range of the enemy unit
- resume phalanx formation

This has the effect of instantly engaging the unit in battle, usually with quite good results.
It is most effective when used against a unit that is already engaged and thus cant really move out of the way/countercharge, but it can also work in a 'straight' engagement though the timing has to be spot-on.
This is the same tactic the AI seems to use when I fight him and he has phalanx units. So I guess there is certainly some merit for it. I haven't checked it myself, but this may yet be the best way I reckon.