Coaching Insider: Round 22

Wests Tigers coach Michael Maguire is expecting his side to come out firing against North Queensland on Saturday night after a positive week at training.

Coming off the back of a win against the Bulldogs last Sunday afternoon, Maguire said his players are in a good mindset as they look for back-to-back victories to keep their season alive.

“These boys are in good shape,” Maguire said ahead of the Round 22 clash.

“We’ve had a really good week. We’re coming off a win and we know where we are at in the season and what this game stands for.

“The prep this week has been strong and now we’ve got to get out there and perform.”

Still in touch with the top eight with four matches remaining, Maguire understands his side has the opportunity to do something special to finish the season.

“The boys well and truly know they’re alive with the opportunities ahead,” he said.

“We need to focus on North Queensland — that’s the number one thing we need to accomplish.

“The boys are aware with where we stand. We need to continue to get back-to-back wins … we need to make that a habit.

As Wests Tigers aim to finish 2021 on a positive note, Maguire said his players have an opportunity to show their character.

“We get to see the character through these periods. Nothing is easy in life but if you want something that bad, you can go and get it,” the coach said.

“What happens right now is what counts. We have an opportunity to perform against the Cowboys and if we perform well, then we can look at the next opportunity ahead.”

Maguire also said there is a chance James Roberts could return on Saturday night after the centre missed a handful of weeks while he was isolating due to COVID-19 protocols.

“He’ll be part of the squad. He’s come back in really good shape,” Maguire said.

“He spent quite a bit of time on a bike in lockdown. He’s come back and he’s looking really good at the moment. I’m looking forward to seeing him perform.”