Coaching Insider: Round 21

Wests Tigers Coach Ivan Cleary says he's expecting a much more energetic game this Friday night as his side take on the Newcastle Knights at McDonald Jones Stadium.

Following a "flat" showing last week in a disappointing 16-4 loss to the Bulldogs, Cleary said his side's determination to bounce back from that result combined with the energy that comes with taking on the Knights at home should see a much more upbeat performance from the ninth-placed Wests Tigers.

"We had a hiccup last week," Cleary admitted ahead of his side's crucial clash against Newcastle.

"But the results of the weekend gave us a chance. Now we get to play on Friday night early in the week and make a statement and that's what we're looking forward to doing.

"Ever since I've been around, going up to Newcastle is a real challenge and something to look forward to.

"It's a great place to play and there's plenty of energy in that stadium.

"Energy is something we lacked a little bit last week so I think everyone is looking forward to it."

While not too concerned by his side's sluggish showing in Round 20, Cleary conceded that previous wins over the high-flying Dragons and Rabbitohs may have contributed to last week's disappointing defeat.

"I think the way we've played against some of the top teams has really taken it out of us," he said.

"Probably more than I anticipated.

"It's the nature of the season and a bit of a pattern for us this season after playing the top teams.

"But the training has been really good and sharp and I expect us to be much better this week."

See what Ivan Cleary had to say in full about this week's game in the video above!