The Ospreys, led by Alun Wyn Jones, travel to Scoutstoun to take on the Scottish side who are five points and a place above them.
Currently in fourth place, the Ospreys know wins from their remaining two games would give them a realistic chance of retaining their league crown. But with a tough run – a trip to Leinster follows tomorrow’s game, it will be anything but easy as the season reaches its climax.
“We know exactly what is needed from us if we want to stay in the play-off places,” said Tandy.
“There are two tough games left, away to Glasgow and Leinster and yes that’s a tough run-in. But that’s what we’re about as Ospreys. If we are going to successfully defend our title then we’ve got to front up like proper champions, starting this Friday night in Scotland.
“We don’t want to stumble over the line relying on others to slip up. If we are going into the play-offs, we want to do it on merit while building some real momentum for the knock-out games.”
Tandy’s confidence follows a five match unbeaten run, their latest victory a 28-3 win over Treviso at the Liberty Stadium. Failure to score four tries and secure a bonus point over the Italians may prove costly but for now, the Ospreys are in the box seat.
They are though, level on points with the Scarlets and know they can’t afford to slip up with the west Wales region breathing down their neck.
The Scarlets were convincing winners over Glasgow at Parc y Scarlets last Friday, and following that defeat, Gregor Townsend’s men will be looking for a response.
Home advantage will certainly help with Glasgow’s last home win, a 51-24 demolition of Munster, one of the stand-out results this season.
“There are great sides in the mix for the play-offs including last season’s European finalists and a Glasgow team that is really building something,” said Tandy.
“To make the PRO12 play-offs will be an achievement for anyone, particularly when having to overcome the disadvantage of starting with three straight defeats which left us playing catch-up ever since.”
For the trip to Scotland, Kahn Fotuali’i returns to start after his late withdrawal against Treviso. Duncan Jones comes in for Ryan Bevington at loosehead while Ashley Beck is also out. Jonathan Spratt partners Tom Isaacs in the centre.
“We are going into these last two matches with a real chance of progressing,” Tandy added.
“This group has the attitude, spirit and desire to finish the job off. If we apply ourselves diligently and have the right attention to detail, then who knows what we can achieve?”
Scotland international John Barclay will make his 150th appearance for Glasgow tomorrow night.
“It’s a huge game for the club, even more so after our defeat to the Scarlets last week,” said Townsend.
“We expect a reaction from our players tomorrow night.”
