I would recommend, instead of trying to start a game, that instead you wait for one to start and join it. It is less responsibility and just generally easier that way. Games start all the time, usually takes a few days to get them together, but once going they (usually) run (more or less) smoothly.
Or you could go to the IRC channel #dominions on irc.gamesurge.net and wait for a "blitz" game to start, that happens fairly regularly as well. Those are usually games with just a couple of players that are completed in one or two sessions.
Occasionally, newbie-friendly games are created, that might be the best for you so you don't get crushed by experienced players. One just started a couple days ago, unfortunately you missed it.
[ July 13, 2004, 20:50: Message edited by: Sheap ]