SARACENS have signalled the intent by naming a near full-strength team for the Powergen Cup Pool B opener against Cardiff tomorrow (Saturday) Only Alex Sanderson, the flanker who has only recently returned from a career-threatening back and neck injury, has been rested for the trip to the Arms Park, while Cobus Visagie and Ben Johnston are expected to be back in contention for the second Pool game at home to London Irish next Sunday.

"We are taking it seriously," said head coach Mike Ford. "We are professionals and want to win every game. They have put out their strongest side and will view this competition bigger than the Celtic League. If we don't match that ambition and enthusiasm then we are going to suffer another loss.

"We have to start trying to build some momentum and the only way you do that is by winning. Whether it's ugly or not, we need a win as soon as possible so it's our biggest game of the season."

Cardiff warmed up for this weekend's game with a 28-23 Celtic League victory against Glasgow on Saturday and have been buoyed by the arrival this week of Xavier Rush, the former All Black number eight.

"I expect a very ferocious performance from them," added Ford. "This is a competition they desperately want to do well in and they will be buzzing after Xavier Rush joined them this week. If we don't match that passion it could be a very long day at the office. But we are trying to install the mentality that it doesn't matter whether you are playing at home or away, and the players desperately want to go out and prove a few points."

Despite haemorrhaging 40 points against Sale on Sunday, Ford insists Saracens will continue to play with the same attacking ambition, but acknowledges the need to tighten up the basics of their game.

"We don't want to have scored 13 tries and then go back to kicking everything," he said. "All we are going to do is be tough on set-piece and tough on defence. We may have just relaxed subconsciously in those areas."