My favorite bit of counsel from Sun Tzu’s Art of War, is about strategic positioning.
Section IV: Tactical Dispositions
1. Sun Tzu said: The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy.
2. To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
3. Thus the good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.
4. Hence the saying: One may know how to conquer without being able to do it.
Why do I like this? I think its a good overall strategy. You set yourself up defensively. Then, simply wait for the enemy to slip up. That is when you attack.
By focusing your energy on defense first, you can stay in the game longer, as you await the enemies false step.