To beat a 4-4-2 you want a narrow formation, but you said you don't have a AMC so you wont be able to run the 4-4-2 ND.

Instead, I would suggest a 4-3(N)-3, so three MC's and 3 ST's if you have them.

--ST--ST --ST--
-----------------
--MC -MC- MC--
-----------------
-DL-DC-DC-DR-
-------GK-------

Mentality: Normal
Passing: Long, Through the Middle
Marking: Zonal (or your preferred choice)
Tackling: Normal (or your preferred choice)
Pressing: Own half
Counter-Attacks: On
Offside Trap: Off