As i can see from the Politus post ( not being there at the moment ) seemed to me that the Outcasts camped the Tau 44 Jumphole in order to attack the CR. CR units were scattered in the Tau 23 and Tau 44 systems and they moved to regroup to the Tau 44. But as you camping the Hole to Tau 44 , there was a small problem getting in.
If you want a fair fight you should let the Colonials regroup as we do with the Outcasts.
However , engage part is not when the both sides fire at each other ?
As i can see , the Colonials didn't fired , didn't respond in anyway to your group shots, they regrouped and then came out to respond.
However if i am wrong , please correct me meanwhile i will see what the Colonial says said about this .
Thank you .