When your opponent looks down, you pick up his Phantom and swallow it.

I would not recommend this technique unless you practiced first at home.... it does have pointy wings.

Has anyone had any luck countering the Phantom as Imperials without using another Phantom?

I like running Imperials, but it seems you only have a few options for countering Phantoms:

• Vader in an Advanced - but then you're stuck with a 2 attack ship
• Maarek w/ VI - Might as well use Vader
• Mauler Mithel w/ VI - would probably need an Engine Upgrade to make this work
• Howlrunner w/ VI - Kinda seems like a waste
• Soontir Fel - Always an excellent ship, but weaker against the Falcon which is becoming prevalent again.
• Rexler w/ VI - Can definitely do the job, though costs a lot of points.
• Rymer w/ VI + Flechette? - Maybe?
• Kath or Fett w/ VI - Can definitely do the job, though I don't like losing Expert Handling

Is there hope without waiting for the Decimator?

The best counter to a Phantom is to fly well/better than he does.

Use a swarm to limit its movement options and denied its action. Fire on it at range 1 from its flanks.

I don't even bother with them anymore.

I just call 1-800-ghostbusters.

Ask for Ray, tell them 7 thunders sent ya

Ray... is he a God?

YES!

I defeated a decked out whisper with two firesprays, but just barely, and only because I had perfect attack rolls thanks to multiple upgrades, and his defense rolls were below average.