Don't under or over-estimate their skills. Clearing your mind of all distractions is important. There should be only three people that are significant during your bout. The first, of course, is your opponent. The second person to consider is the director.
Directors often have preferences for styles and techniques.
Always show respect to the director. They really do appreciate it. Finally, the third and most important person in a bout is you. You are in charge of your attacks, parries, and successes. If a directing decision goes against you, don't dwell upon it.