Coaching Insider: Round 5

Wests Tigers Coach Michael Maguire says his side are well prepared for Saturday's clash against the Canberra Raiders after taking on board several key lessons from last week's defeat.

Maguire was critical of his side's consistency in going down to the Gold Coast Titans, and made five team changes for this week's clash against the competition favourites in a bid to find an improved performance this week.

The Premiership-winning Coach spoke to reporters after the team's final training run on Friday, and enthused his excitement and focus for the weekend's game.

“The players and I have spoken about our expectations and what we’re building here at the club," Maguire said. "I spoke about the inconsistencies... [but] we've moved passed that and to make sure we're improving for our next game.

"We’re facing a quality team and we’re ready to get back into footy again.”

After squandering a double-digit lead on two occasions before eventually going down 28-23 to the Titans, Maguire said it was a simple message for his side as they looked to bounce back in the winners' circle.

“Play for 80 minutes,” Maguire enthused.

“Play the best they can and do their job. Do all those little things they’re continually talking about — that’s what it all about.

“It’s about building the culture and how we want to play and perform," Maguire said. "I have real belief we should be a lot better than where are and that is the reasons why I make the changes I did. 

“At the end of the day it’s about getting results and our desire to take the club to the top. The only way you do that is by playing for the 80 minutes and that’s the expectation of the team this weekend."