I've now played about 70 games of Zertz + 11, and it is
looking to me and my opponent that the second player seems
to have an advantage. The player playing second seems to
have more wins, and seems to not work as hard to get them.

I was hoping some more experienced players would be able to
tell me I have it all wrong, and that we are just locked
into a certain style of play. Assuming that is what you do,
what are some things we need to know to get out this
thinking. (Especially, what is a good opening for the
starting player?)

Carl de Visser