The Bf 109E-4 pilots were at a big disadvantage in this one. The 109E-4 is substantially slower than the Spit V. It is even slower than the Hurri IIC above 22.5k, where we did have lots of fighting. Of course, the Spit, F4F, and Hurri all handily outturn it. So, flying the Bf 109E-4, you could often be in a situation where better-turning aircraft could also easily catch you -- a tough spot indeed.
Still, I'd be happy to fly a Bf 109E-4 if we get to rerun Malta with sides switched. I like that scenarios have a mix of aircraft, not all of them equal in performance.
I salute the pilots of the 109E-4, as theirs was one of the toughest jobs.