My best advice would be to rent out the Earth Summoner with the "Thorns" ability early on when everybody is using melee attackers. I think the name of that card is Mylor Crowling. Also, grab the Wood Nymph for healing and magic abilities. Then just roll with the free cards you're provided with and accept the occasional loss you may endure when you face someone with great magic cards.
Awesome. I will look into that. Thanks!