How can I effectively play Soul Calibur II and effectively play as Xianghua?

[shun]

I just recently borrowed Soul Calibur II from my classmate, and is even great fun with this game. So far, I have finished 3 characters (but with continues, which is something I'd rather not be doing when playing fighting games): Raphael, Mitsurugi, and Xianghua.

There are Raphael and Mitsurugi FAQS in GameFAQS, and they were pretty decent (though Raph's is badly written). But when it comes to Xianghua, there's not a strategy FAQ for her. The Xianghua FAQ offered in GameFAQS (am I sounding redundant?) is pretty lame, and everything written in it is what everybody playing Xianghua already knows. Heck, there's not even a player strategy, game basics, combos and stuff.

Based on how I play Soul Calibur II: I kinda make things flow slowly. I don't strike until I find that it necessary, to prevent from having my attacks countered. Similarly, I counter opponents whose attack patterns I have anticipated. This keeps me at an advantage most of the time. I like how SCII isn't all about comboing and juggling, at least from how I play. So far, I play Xianghua the best, but I never win in the destined battle without continuing. I think Xianghua's biggest weakness is her lack of strength.

The reasons why I lose? I don't know how to strike enemies or prevent their attacks when I'm lying on the ground. Another reason is that I kind of lose my patience sometimes and that I seem to be unable to anticipate attacks from fast characters, especially Maxi.

What is the general, effective strategy of Soul Calibur II fighting? And what's the best way to use Xianghua?