Just comes to show how different each campaign can be. I decided to groom my generals stars this campaign, as the last one I was stuck with 1 and 2 star generals. Best way? Rebellions. So I "allowed " Munster to rebel. After that successful attempt, I was beset with rebellions in practically all provinces.

Finally there was a huge battle of 2500+ rebels and 1000 of my men-again in Munster. Great for learning your mens skills fast.

Kerns are indispensible, as you say, to pepper the enemy. Gallows can be as terrifying as Huscarles (in their way). The Horsemen proved themselves admirably gaining most valour in the battle.