I understand where you are coming from Dipstick. I have been searching for that better gameplay as well. Some nights its just not there. For a while I was staying at about 3k off the deck flying into certain death just for the excitement, only to have a mustang try to cherry me, so I turn into him, roll onto his 6 in enough time to watch him fly away and not look back.
Seems like for most folks, if you show the tiniest hint that you won't be an easy pick they are out of the area like a fat kid at a dodgeball game.
If you get any ideas Dipstick, I'd be happy to listen to them. Flying with you guys on the Furball Underground events was fun, with summer approaching I haven't had that time free, but if you want to wing up some night let me know. Or even go to the DA.
