I've been having great success in the lower leagues using two ball winning midfielders in my central midfield, one support, one defend.
Make sure they have the right attributes. High tackling and bravery are absolute musts, but guys with decent physicals (speed/acceleration/strength) is a huge bonus. Work rate and stamina are important too.
They will constantly be winning the ball in the center of the pitch leaving your opponents in compromising situations. Lower leagues are less skill and more about which team is more physical. Load up on brutes, play aggressive defense and you'll win.
For your attacking players, focus on composure. Collect the highest composure guys you can find, there's not many elite at that level so if you have them, you have the edge.