Coaching Insider: Round 3

Wests Tigers Coach Michael Maguire says he's excited to see his team back in action after a two-month hiatus when they take on the Cronulla Sharks at Bankwest Stadium on Saturday.

Having watched rugby league officially mark its return with Thursday night's clash between the Broncos and Eels, Maguire said he was looking forward to seeing his side on the field once again and putting in to practice their training habits.

"It was an enjoyable game last night," Maguire told reporters ahead of Saturday's game.

"I'm looking forward to seeing how the games pan out throughout the weekend.

"I thought it was high-quality due to the speed of the game.

"We've all been locked away but the players have done their own programs in the background, and I thought last night was a great example of the fitness. Both teams only made two changes in the first half... but it was a great example last night of the work the players have done to adjust to the speed of the game.

"It was a real positive for our game last night and I'm looking forward to tonight.

"We've all been excited for the footy to be back."

For Maguire, the club debut of new recruit Harry Grant and first-grade debut of local junior Alex Seyfarth added to the anticipation of Saturday night.

"He came to Wests Tigers to play, and this break has definitely helped us," he said.

"Having time to build those combinations and connections through that time has really helped Harry and us. We get a better understanding of his game and him the same, and I'm looking forward to seeing him utilise that as well.

"Alex's debut is definitely well deserved," Maguire added.

"I kept my eye on him all of last year and, full credit to him, because he works at his game better than anyone I've seen to this point. He is continually doing extras in the background and it's definitely well deserved, and that's the reasons why I've picked him to have a run tomorrow night. It's the character of what he's about and the characters I'm taking this team forward with.

"It's five local juniors playing for us now and that's something I love building. To see the locals be involved from the grassroots coming through is something I'm a big believer in and I'm looking forward to seeing more and more as we move forward."