The Irish province return to action for the first time since the tragic loss of their young centre, who died in a farming accident alongside his father Noel and brother Graeme earlier this month, on Friday.
A minute’s silence will be held and black armbands worn by players at Cardiff Arms Park but the Blues reckon they can honour the centre with top-quality rugby.
“I experienced similar with Ray Gravell’s death at the Scarlets,” said Director of rugby Phil Davies.
“He wasn’t an actual player but he was such a massive part of the Scarlets. We spoke about putting on a fitting tribute on the pitch.
“We need to do the same on Friday and make sure we perform because Ulster will be coming at us with a lot of emotion.
“I just hope it’s a fantastic game of rugby. Hopefully Nevin will be looking down and quite proud of what’s on the field.”
Andy Kyriacou, who spent three seasons playing alongside Spence at Ulster, is set to start for the Blues against his former club.
The hooker admits it has been difficult to come to terms with the tragedy but he insists it is nothing compared to what his former teammates have been going through.
“It was an utter shock to start with and it’s taken a good few days to come to the realisation of what happened,” said Kyriacou.
“But it’s been a bit different being out of Northern Ireland – I’ve been on my own and I’ve thrown myself into rugby and family life.
“I’ve not been affected by it on a day-to-day basis like the poor lads at Ulster.
“It’s been really tough speaking to the guys and hearing how upset they are. They’ve gone back to work and a big hole left by Nevin has been more than apparent.
“Nevin was such a tough player, he punched way above his weight every time he took to the field. He was a model professional as a young lad of just 22-years-old.
“The greatest respect we can show to him is by playing 100 per cent and putting on a good game. Ulster will come flying out of the blocks because they will want to do the same.
“The minute’s silence was hard enough last week against Benetton Treviso, but to stand next to the guys on Friday will be very emotional.”
