mk1glx

Hi I'm new to the forum... I have a 97 2.0 GLX and I'm having problems engaging 1st and reverse, when the engine is running it is sometimes a struggle to get into gear but when the engine is off it is smooth to get into gear. Also whilst im here... when im doing approx 70 on the dual carriage way it runs fine but as soon as i ease off the accelerator the engine noise is sometimes quite loud any clues? are they related?

I had a rattle that sounded like it came from the dash but it ended up being the trim around the seat belt clasp.