Few technical questions

Hey I have two questions that I'been thinking for some time now:

1- When going MMA as mayans against an obvious scout civ like franks, isn't it worth it to send a spear with them? I usually do some damage but get cleanead up by the scouts later on. Or maybe doing a fourth MAA is better?

2- What to do when facing aztecs as mayans? I read that plumes is the way to go but reaching there isn't easy. I tried MAA + arhcers into crossbows and had a pretty good lead upon reaching castle age but then got rekt by the eagles. Should I make eagles myself to buy time for a castle?

Thanks!