Phil
The difference with the Airbus A319/20/21 etc, is that making the approach with the A/thrust engaged means that the T/Lvrs are in the 'Climb' detent, whereas the thrust being produced is at the approach level.
When the voice says retard for the flare, the first 75% of the movement of the T/Lvrs has no effect, as the thrust is below the lever angle. By the time you get them back to the stop/idle position it is where you want them, ie just before/at touchdown. In effect, at about 20ft you can smoothly and quickly close the T/Lvrs and all will be well.
I agree, trying this in a B737/747 will usually result in an 'arrival' due in addition to the power off/pitch down tendency of the older Boeings, which of course the Airbus doesn't have.
Regards