Oboe, I think there are numerous factors that cause it to be rolled so quickly and easily.
First and obviously, when the discrepancy between how many players are on one country is that great, then defense is futile. For example lets say 4 of the Knights were AFK and 1 of the Rook/Bish didn’t want to get ganged/vulched, then it’s 10 v 1. I was blurry eyed, but awake enough to read some of the text buffer and Knights were working together to roll the map, lead by Wootang.
Another factor I see that contributes is (as you asked about) the bases are quite a bit closer together being a small map. That’s the confounding part, majority of players say they want small maps and shorter transit times to find a fight, but then they roll the map
I only know of one player on Knights who doesn’t like the map because there are not any CVs. He’s an everyday player and will fly bombers/GV (not his norm) to help roll the map.
Good luck on your ETO map!
There are several other factors I’m sure, so I’ll think about it more and reply.