Corey Domachowski insists Cardiff must hit the ground running in the first of two back-to-back URC derbies against Scarlets on Saturday (KO 7.35pm, Parc y Scarlets).
With the Blue and Blacks heading to Llanelli on Saturday evening, the loosehead prop is one of eight changes made to the starting line-up from last week’s thrilling win over Glasgow Warriors.
Next week will see the reverse fixture held at Cardiff Arms Park, and Domachowski has emphasised the importance of the double-header in the context of Cardiff’s season.
The academy product said: “We’re really excited for the upcoming weeks, and they will be defining to our season so we’re looking forward to it.
“We needed the win last week, it had been a tough couple of weeks but the win gives us momentum moving forward. We can take that into another tough game in Llanelli this weekend.
“Scarlets like to chuck the ball around and play an expansive game of rugby, similarly to us. But the physical edge in a derby is something you always need to win the battle.
“We’re looking forward to it and whoever plays to the best game-plan will probably come out on top.
“We’ve trained well this week so we can have confidence heading into the game.
“It’s a massive game, especially with the return fixture at home next week. Hopefully we’ll get a massive crowd at the Arms Park.
“But first of all we need to get down there, put out a performance and hopefully get the ‘W’. That should tee it up for a big home derby in Cardiff next weekend.”
The loosehead prop has impressed this season with his set piece and his contributions in open play.
However, he remains focused on trying to improve his game at Cardiff on a daily basis and is determined to reach his potential.
The former Wales under-20 international added: “Every game is a chance to improve and to implement your game. The physical edge of the game is something that suits me.
“That’s a part of my game that I want to take to the opposition, and as a front row and a pack we want to keep taking steps forward and make teams fear us.
“Like I’ve said in the past, international selection is something that takes care of itself. It’s obviously a dream to win international honours but I just need to stay present and focus on Cardiff.
“You look to play to your best here first of all and that’s when international coaches will take a look at you. But if not, you’ve just got to keep going and keep grinding away.
“We’ve got a pretty young squad here with a lot of talent and it comes to a time where we show what we’re made of. That’s when it will become tough for the coaches to make decisions.
“A massive task for myself is to make sure I’m on top form in the set piece. As a prop, that’s your bread and butter.
“I’m happy with the way it’s going but I still think there are steps to take as I haven’t reached my limit yet.”