Blaine Scully is expecting Munster to present a typically tough challenge on Saturday, as Cardiff Blues welcome the Irish province to the Welsh capital for a crucial Guinness PRO14 Conference A clash.
The USA captain has returned from international duty following a perfect start to the Americas Rugby Championship, where the Eagles picked up wins against Argentina XV and Canada.
Scully, who captained his side in the reverse fixture at Thomond Park earlier in the season, hopes a special Cardiff Arms Park atmosphere will drive the team to victory, as the Blues continue their push for European qualification.
“They’re one of the best teams in the Championship, and one of the best teams in Europe,” said Scully.
“We know what we’re going to get with Munster. They’re a quality team who will put you under a lot of pressure defensively.
“They’re very aggressive and tactically one of the best teams in the PRO14.
“It will definitely be a challenge for us and is one we’ll be up to, for sure.
“It will be fantastic game to go to, and we hope everyone will make it out to support, because Cardiff Arms Park is a very specially place when it’s pumping.
“It’s a really exciting block for us with a lot of opportunities and I think we’re up for the challenge.
“Everyone in the building believes we can have a really positive push and the mindset is to improve ourselves every single day and go out to give everything on the weekend.”
Scully captained defending champions, USA, in both ARC games with the clash against fierce rivals, Canada, being played at his hometown of Sacramento.
The Cardiff Blues wing will be absent for the remaining fixtures against Chile, Brazil and Uruguay, but he was pleased with his side’s attitude and determination in the opening two games.
The wing said: “It was a really positive start to the Americas Rugby Championship for us, as we picked up two key wins against quality opposition.
“It was the first time we were able to beat Argentina, and we took a lot out of that game, and learnt a lot.
“One of the fundamental things we find was how tough and resilient we are, which is a credit to the team. Our ability to dig in when it mattered the most probably made the difference for us.
“Any time you get to represent your country it’s an honour. But to be able to do it in your hometown in front of family, friends and the people you care about the most was extra special.
"It’s about the balance and also understanding the it’s fundamentally a business trip.
“I’ve been really fortunate to be able to do that and fortunately the team came out with positive performances.”