Good numbers turned up for the pre season friendlies with Celtic and Parma but the stadium will be near full today to see if Cardiff can build on the fine win at West Ham last week.
“I want to make a big impression.” said Mackay.
“It was great to get the Celtic and Parma games at the stadium and it was a good opening at Upton Park, where teams will find it hard this year.
“But we want to get in our own stadium in front of our own fans.
“I know there’s a passionate support for this team and I know it to my cost historically.
“But our support will back us and I want to make sure our team match that passion
“Fans can expect to see a hard-working, organised and competitive team.
“The application and hard work will always be there. Fans won’t accept a lack of effort
“This is a big derby game and there’s a bit of spice and it’s good to be involved in games like that.
“The derby atmosphere will make Sunday intense and there’s always that little bit of extra atmosphere.
“As a player, they’re fantastic to be involved in as there’s that added bit of excitement.”