The race for a GUINNESS PRO12 top-half finish is set to go down to the wire and Hadleigh Parkes believes Scarlets can fulfil their side of the bargain against Cardiff Blues – the first of two must-win games.

Eight internationals are packed into the side – led by skipper Ken Owens – as Scarlets bid for a chance to return to top-flight European rugby next season.

Last time out in Llanelli, Scarlets’ proud home record took a hit after falling to defeat against Edinburgh – but they’ve not lost back-to-back games in front of their own fans since December 2009.

But though Scarlets got back to winning ways at the Millennium Stadium on Judgement Day, centre Parkes says only the best will do against the Blues.

"What we have got to worry about is our game," said Parkes. "You look back at the Dragons game on Judgement Day and there were a few mistakes in that first half.

"If we can cut those out, keep the ball in hand, make the Blues defend, hopefully we can score some good tries, like we have shown we can do.

"In these last two games there is quite a bit of pressure on in terms of the top six and with Edinburgh right behind us. But if we can cut those mistakes out hopefully we should be fine."

The Blues also have a well-stocked starting XV, with the return of Scarlets old boys Matthew Rees and Gavin Evans two of five changes.

Thomas Davies and Jarrad Hoeata will pack down with Rees in the scrum while Evans joins Garyn Smith in a fresh centre pairing, and the return of Alex Cuthbert after a finger operation is sure to add more pace and power among the backs.

The Blues have picked up just 11 points on the road this season – and few places are as intimidating as Parc y Scarlets – but they did take Scarlets’ scalp in their home fixture back in Round 10.

And Blues attack coach Paul John has challenged his side to round out the GUINNESS PRO12 season with two victories and carry new hope into next year’s campaign.

“As rugby players we must have pride in our performance and when we put the jersey on give it everything we have got,” said John. “We will do that this weekend.

"We are looking for two wins to finish the season. That will not hide the fact we are disappointed with the way the season has gone, but we have got to show some pride and also the flair we showed in the Ospreys game when we caused them problems.

"There will be some big individual battles out there, with the Rugby World Cup coming up, and players who need to show what they are capable of if they want to be part of the international set-up.

“That gives the game extra spice; a Rugby World Cup doesn't come around very often.”

At Parc y Scarlets, 4pm Live on S4C
Referee: John Lacey (WRU, 45th competition game)
Assistant Referees: Ben Whitehouse, Wayne Davies (both WRU)
Citing Commissioner: Gwyn Bowden (WRU)
TMO: Tim Hayes (WRU)