Coaching Insider: Round 13

Wests Tigers Coach Michael Maguire says despite a strong week of training and honest conversations following last week's defeat, their success will ultimately come down to their performance tomorrow night when they take on the Newcastle Knights in Round 13.

Sitting outside the top eight with just one win from their last five matches, Maguire was quick to point out his side's improvements in attitude and resilience in that time, but also emphasised that the bottom line came down to improving results.

Saturday's game against the Newcastle Knights — who conversely sit narrowly inside the top eight — is a crucial two points up for grabs in that regard.

"Over the last month, I've definitely seen a lot of change in how we are as a group," Maguire said of his side's performances.

"Ultimately, we're judged on the 80 minutes and this is a really important game for us.

We're judged on the 80 minutes.

Michael Maguire

"The boys have been progressing and working really hard at the things we've been talking about so I'm seeing that progression in a big way. 

"But it's about getting results.

"They're all important games and we've got to have a real good performance tomorrow," he added. "We've had a good chat through the week — a real honest chat — and we're looking forward to the game.

"The response will show in the 80 minutes tomorrow but the way the group has been progressing is good. They've been working really hard and this week is no different.

"We've got a big focus to make sure we're getting a performance out we know we're capable of producing, and that's what's required. We're getting to the business end of the season and they're all important games now."

Recalled playmaker Luke Brooks will don the number six jersey for the first time in his career as he plays outside milestone man Benji Marshall, who will play his 250th game for the club alongside fellow veteran Chris Lawrence.

Maguire said he was looking forward to seeing what the talented local junior could produce, and hinted that his role would change slightly due to the positional switch.

"You'll be able to see a little difference in his role," Maguire said.

"Just being wider of the ruck and that sort of thing. But we all know what Brooksy is capable of and that's what I've asked him to come back in and do.

"The connections between the spine this week have been strong."