A number 1 spot in the Colonial Cup points standing and a chance to host a semifinal spot at home is up for grabs in this afternoon's Colonial Cup last round match between the Highlanders and the Stallions.

The coaching staff for both sides has included many young faces in their starting lineup, a move that is expected to speed up the phase of today's encounter.

National 15's Rugby Coach Ilivasi Tabua believes the Sharks have improved in every game they played this season, with two crucial wins against the Crusaders and the Stallions.

Tabua said while both the Highlanders and the Sharks want to win this afternoon, the outcome will be determined by who controls the ball well.