Wilson is hoping lessons have been learned from their first derby defeat of the season to arch rivals the Ospreys where a scratchy performance saw the Scarlets second best in most facets of the game.
“There’s plenty in this game for supporters, players and coaches alike,” he said. “Of course I have an understanding of how the Dragons are likely to approach this game and vice-versa they will know how I’ll be preparing the Scarlets boys.
“But it’s a derby and while there’s a lots of preparations, it often comes down to who wants it the most and who shows the most hunger and passion. At our last derby against the Ospreys we didn’t do have that and they brought real ferocity and deserved the result. What we saw last weekend from our pack was that they were far more physical and hungry in the breakdown and in attack and defense and our scrum was much improved.
“We will need a big chunk of attitude on Friday night, we’ve been working hard this week on our game and know we have to really turn up and perform as there will be some real threats across the field from the Dragons who will be confident after their win against Edinburgh.
“It’s a home game and our passionate and loyal support deserve us to deliver this time – the players were hurting after the Ospreys so I know they’ll want to make amends on Friday night.”
Scarlets have won their last eight fixtures against the Men from Gwent in the tournament since Dragons won 15-13 at Rodney Parade on New Year’s Day 2008.
With one game before their European opener in Clermont next weekend, the West Wales side are expecting an intense and physical contest.
South African second row signing Joe Snyman gets his first start for the Scarlets where he will pack down alongside Sione Timani.
Morgan Stoddart returns to the bench after 13 months out following a severe leg break at Twickenham in the run-up to the World Cup last year.
Dragons back row Nic Cudd is set to make his debut for the Men of Gwent against his former teammates as they travel west this weekend.
Back row Dan Lydiate has undergone successful surgery to his ankle following the injury sustained in last Friday’s game against Edinburgh. He is due to be released from hospital later this week and will return home to recuperate.
The loss of Lydiate has been compounded by the news that fellow back row Hywel Stoddart is expected to miss the rest of the season after suffering a catastrophic knee injury whilst playing for Newport in the Principality Premiership on Saturday.
