There are easier ways than some of those above.
Instead of moving to the back row, how about a Big Guard? Then, you'll be protected against his attacks, you're attacks will take the same and you can attack more frequently. If you haven't already got Big Guard, it is an Enemy Skill gained from the Beachplug enemies on the beaches along the East coast of the Corel continent.

Other E-Skills, such as Aqualung and Beta can also prove rather handy if I remember correctly. And use the Added Effect Materia combined with Choco-Mog in somebodies weapon. This trick should keep you in good stead for much of disc one and two.

Glad ta be of service