The key RNG here is whether Batcher marks CX (he usually does) and where int eh turn order that happens. If Batcher marks someone else or if your Stormtrooper gets a turn right after Batcher to clear the Mark, then you are going to do much better.
The secondary RNG is whether Crosshairs uses his special to call an ally or to reduce Shaken. If he reduces Shaken he's going to get to his ult much quicker, and you can get hosed pretty easily (if CX isn't dead already from Marked).
I had great mods and r9s and getting through t1 was, indeed, full of trouble. It's definitely possible, but mods are not the key factor.