Danny Wilson is hoping for a bumper crowd in what could be his emotional farewell to Cardiff Arms Park.
The Cardiff Blues head coach will leave the region at the end of the season to join Wasps but there is still plenty to play for in his current role.
Wales’ Capital Region are fighting on two fronts – chasing a play-off place and European Champions Cup qualification in the PRO14 and have a Challenge Cup quarter-final on the horizon.
As it stands Saturday’s vital Guinness PRO14 clash against Ulster (3.15pm) will be his last match in charge at the iconic ground but Wilson has other ideas and hopes to triumph in next week’s quarter-final against Edinburgh to secure a home semi-final.
When asked about an emotional farewell at the Arms Park, Wilson quipped: “I hope not. Not if we win in Edinburgh for a home semi-final!”
But he is under no illusions over the importance of Saturday’s PRO14 showdown with Ulster and the role a passionate home crowd can play.
“We have a very passionate crowd, a very knowledgeable crowd and one that we as a group are desperate to win in front of and play well for.
“At times they make the difference, there’s no doubt about that. When it’s packed at the Arms Park there’s no better atmosphere, especially for a coach and as a home team – it’s fantastic.
“My fondest memories have to be derbies at the Arms Park when the atmosphere is fantastic and it’s got to be the Blues and Welsh Rugby’s objective to fill this ground more often.
“We’ve had a pretty good home record over the three years generally and I know a huge part of that is because the boys love playing in front of the home crowd.
“Hopefully the crowd can make a difference again if we get a packed house and people realise how important a game this is for us and the future qualification opportunities.”
You can buy tickets for Cardiff Blues v Ulster today by clicking here or calling 029 20 302030!