With proper support, cavalry can quickly defeat neutral creatures. However, recently, in the 1/8 finals of the World Championship 09, I failed with 3 catapults in my army because, firstly, they had a speed of 2(!), and secondly, they dealt an average of 70 damage. At the same time, 1 cavalier can deal as much damage, if not more.
The fact that the catapults don't reach the enemy immediately doesn't really matter, because they can't do much anyway. But champions can, they're not angels, of course, but they can quite effectively clear out neutral creatures.

Well, I don't know, I once defeated 25 Champions with five catapults. True, there were 5 Vampire Lords. That was enough! The champions didn't even have time to attack. They got stuck in the sand and were finished! And the mage was quite good... :D

The area-of-effect attack has no penalty and no retaliation from other ranged units.

What is the argument about? Catapults are not produced in castles, and it is rare to find them. However, when you get them for free... even vinegar tastes sweet! :D Cyclops are regular units, and they deserve honor and glory, but the rest, while you're looking for them... the need for them will disappear.