After losing to Orana Spurs in round 15, the sky blues compounded that result on Saturday with a 2-0 defeat to Parkes Cobras, the side failing to capitalise on what was a solid start.

Now, Waratahs are scrambling to make improvements ahead of a season-defining round 17 showdown with Dubbo Bulls at home.

"Our attitude needs a change and it needs a change quickly," Scimone said.

"It's disappointing and frustrating as a player and a coach. We started off well, and we had some chances go begging.

"But, it all went downhill from there."

The mentor wasn't prepared to put the result entirely on his side's shoulders, admitting that Cobras were certainly up for the task.

"Full credit to them, they played well," he said.

"Sides come into every game knowing we're on top and they get that extra wind in their sails.

"We were very complacent against them. I keep reminding the boys that we haven't won anything yet."

While back-to-back losses are concerning, Scimone knows the bad feeling can be largely erased with a win over Bulls, something that won't happen without a solid week on the training pitch.

"Hopefully the rain stays away and we can get out and have a good session this week," he said.

"We're going into that match wanting nothing less than three points. If we don't win against Bulls, we're down to third place and then we've got fourth breathing down our necks."

Prior to the Parkes match, much was made of Ollie Bayly's debut as the 19-year-old was filling in for injured keeper Adam Brakenridge.

Despite letting in a couple of goals, Scimone was stoked at his performance.

"Ollie was good," he said.

"The first goal was a defensive error and the second one wasn't his fault either.

"He made a really good save when we were 1-0 down, and then kept us in the game.

"He was nervous, but hopefully he takes some confidence from that game and gets rid of the nerves."

Tahs will now prepare for a home game against Bulls.

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