are u serious with that statement about the hastatii? I mean, I've conquered all my lands thanks to them!! they hold on like if there were no return! speciallly when they are put in guard mod, not even GOD moves them!
I have recieved calvary charges, multiple superior in-the-role enemies (as getasae or whatever) and they are superb in what I used them for: tiring the enemy, then I let the others make the dirty job and slaughter those smelly gauls!