I don’t even play standard, but I’ve seen it and this is amazing news

maybe mtggoldfish on yt with their brewer’s kitchen and against the odds playlists

Honestly just consider proxying the cards; after having spent a bit too much on colored paper I’m realizing that buying actual cards is nothing more than cosmetic (if you only play with friends). That way you can try out ALL the cards you feel like trying, without wasting money.

You can either print the full card with this site (https://mtgprint.net/) or an ever more ink-saving version with this one (https://playtestproxies.com/).

Of course always keep in mind the power level of the decks used in your group and ask them if they’re okay with it.

Regarding your OP, it sounds like your pod is playing at a level higher than precon; when we play precons only we see maybe two single-target removals and maaaybe one boardwipe, which is normal since stock precons have very little removal. Ask them to bring precons next time