I know you're right, but simply I cannot keep under control altitude, lateral shift and throttle in the same time yet. If I concentrate myself in keeping the correct attitude (expecially on the vertical line) I loose control on the throttle very often and disconnect from the basket. I have the same difficulties if I try to train in close formation with another aircraft (the worst moment is when it starts turning: I loose the distance ever time).
Therefore I'm trying to become proficient in throttle control: when I'm able to control it as a second nature, I'll stop using AP and concentrate on stick movements. I don't know if it'll work, but please feel free to give me any hint you think it's useful. (and btw, I don't fly online, simply because I have to pause the simulator very often due to family/childrens).