Just rechecked the victory condition rules and things aren't so bleak for the Allies after all. Crete counts as an airfield for coastal shipping modifiers but not for airfields when comparing to the victory level required. So the actual tally is about even.
Having played a fair amount of games on the conflict in North Africa in WW2, I find myself falling back on SPI's 'Panzerarmee Afrika' for its design, playability, and general accuracy. Perhaps this game will do something more. I do not have a copy yet, but I am tempted. Thank you for the video. And very good to see you again.
It works okay with the map in the box. I couldn't find a deluxe map here in the UK so got my own vinyl map done via Vistaprint. It's a single piece and about 2/3 the price. Prefer it actually.