Coaching Insider: Round 7
Wests Tigers Head Coach Michael Maguire says his side have shown tremendous attitude throughout the week as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 51-6 defeat to the Parramatta Eels in their annual Easter Monday clash last week.
With just five days to turnaround their form ahead of Saturday’s clash with the Gold Coast Titans, Maguire said the senior players in the squad in particular have been key throughout the week as they quickly try to put the heavy defeat behind them.
“It definitely wasn’t something that we planned for, but the way the boys have responded during the week has been really positive,” Maguire said.
“I’ve got a group that’s got a fair bit of experience and we know we’ll need to call on that during the season.
“We’re still learning how we are as a group along the way too so it’s how we respond that’s the key, and our boys are really keen to get out there and show that.
“We’ve got different standards from where we’ve been in the past and we’re driving hard at that. We weren’t able to reach them last weekend so it’s about doing it now.
Mbye puts Bankwest horror show down to attitude
“That one definitely hurt,” Maguire added.
“It’s about moving forward in this competition and focusing on the next job.”
Having originally named the same 21-man squad for this week’s game following a late finish to the round on Monday night, Maguire hinted at some changes for the team with Luke Garner ruled out while Robbie Farah is expected to play after his head knock last week.
Benji Marshall travelled with the team to Tamworth but is expected to remain sidelined for one more week, with the Life Member travelling as part of some community activities.
“Benji’s not playing,” Maguire emphasised.
“He’s going to be up there doing a lot of community stuff. We know he’s such a big part of this club so it’s important to be out there in Tamworth representing Wests Tigers.
“We’re looking forward to a big crowd out there getting behind us on the night.
“Robbie is fine [to play]. He actually passed his concussion tests on the day but there’s parameters around the concussion and I’m glad we followed those but he’s going well.
“Luke isn’t here and he’s one that won’t be playing.”
Wests Tigers will provide an updated 19-man squad for Saturday’s clash against the Gold Coast Titans at 5:30pm on Friday, before confirming a final team list one hour prior to kickoff tomorrow (4:30pm, Saturday).
