Try to scare the ISG some times, while you full repair your 17 pounder in a short time
I'll just focus on this part and that is an honest, sincere question-HOW?
How am I supposed to scare ISG? I don't have reliable long range arty unit to counter barrage it, I don't have infantry capable of actual assaults, I don't have light armor capable of assaults if my build includes emplacements, I have less squads on field, I don't have early/mid game reliable off-maps on doctrines, sniper isn't an option for attacking as I need screening troops and tommies don't provide that, I'll need REs to constantly repair, retreat and reinforce due to ISG barraging.
I'm speaking from my own experience, so it isn't theorycraft.
I am able to deal with ISG and entrenched OKW only when I have croc or AVRE on field.
I'm all ears to improve myself how to actually deal with ISG.