Countermeasures?

Both Davis and Myria seemed to be deep in contemplation, while the others appeared downtrodden. Even though Myria said something like waiting for the right opportunity to strike back, they had the cognition to see and think for themselves.

Just how were they supposed to strike at their weaknesses at the right moment? Especially when getting attacked by life-threatening attacks that could potentially end their lives?

Perhaps, the imitations were holding back from totally killing the challengers because of the rules. Wouldn't it be worse from the sixth time and above if that was the case?