In a lot of the 4v4 and 5v5 games, the neutrals really dictate the early power.  I've been playing TEC and try to get ahold of a number of neutrals as best I can, however, because the vasari scouts can grab these, and there are so many scouts roaming around, I cant hold onto the neutrals.  Leaving a colony ship in the grav well isnt an option, because it seems that the general tactic is for vasari players to put 3 scouts in each neutral well, to hold onto the mines.

I've had some success putting 3 light frigates into each grav well to hold onto the mines, but is this the only option for TEC?  any tips on holding the neutrals?

Thanks!

RM