I like machaka, but I've never found their bless units worthwhile; which is a pity, as they are cool.
I'd rather go w/ a more conventional army - the hoplites are pretty solid troops, albeit w/ map move 1 - and aim towards magma spam, following flaming arrows.
or you can try black sorc thugs: earth power, invuln, iron will, fire shield, hold, attack. the spider form only has two misc slots, i believe.