Right, few things to help.

learn your tricks!!!!!
flip flap, rainbowflick and plenty more of effectiv others, me personally know every trick on the game, fake rabana, rabana while juggling etc...

when defending, position your player and just hold circle to get someone to stop the cross, and if he dosnt hopefully you will be in position .

1 on 1's...
if your behind the penalty spot, it has to be put in the top corner to score, but infront of it, tap circle with r1 in the bottom corner and your well away.