You usually play against humans though, so you might have more experience than someone who only battles the computer.
Dark Avenger's method should work for you. As long as enemies are neutral to you it's also possible to make them ally you by tributing them a lot of gold (like 1000 or so), however, I doubt it will be worth it, better spend the gold on cavalry or archers.
While sausages are tasty, you might cut your finger with that pencil over there.