McKenzie bemoans travel schedule

Waratahs coach Ewen McKenzie has slammed the timing of his team's final-round clash against the Reds as they attempt to secure a Super 14 semi-final berth.

The Waratahs will arrive back in Australia on Monday afternoon following a marathon journey from Cape Town where they drew 13-13 against the Stormers on Saturday.

They'll then have only a couple of days to readjust before another plane ride to Brisbane on Friday morning for a crucial match-up against Queensland.

"It's a bit of a tough draw," McKenzie said.

"We'll struggle to get even a training session in before the Reds game. So the match will be about attitude for us."

The Waratahs have their fate in their own hands after slipping to third on the table following the draw at a rain-soaked Newlands.

"I suppose we are experienced when it comes to these conditions," McKenzie said after the match.

"I thought we controlled possession far better in the second half, but the problem was we created pressure and didn't get enough reward for it. I'm pleased we got back in the game and I'm sure we'll take that momentum into the next game against the Reds."

The Waratahs are among a group of six teams vying for three semi-final spots with the Crusaders already having sealed the minor premiership.

McKenzie said his team was keen to wrap up a semi berth with victory over the Reds, who are coming off a heartbreaking 21-27 loss to the Crusaders having led 21-8 in the second half.

"We're not getting bogged down in the mathematics," McKenzie said.

"We've been like that all year. We've just got to pay attention to the detail and execute on the night."

The Waratahs are likely to give former league international Timana Tahu a place in the starting line-up after recovering from a hamstring injury.