Awaiting the Timbercutters in round one on April 4 is last season's runner-up Waaia and there is no doubting the Bombers will be out for blood.
But Mathoura coach Darcy Robinson said his side would be embracing the challenge.
“The game is going to show us where we are at straight away,” Robinson said.
“We want to be playing against the best sides in the competition and this is a great opportunity for us straight away.
“In 2019, I thought we often prepared and played better against the stronger sides, so this season will be about trying to find consistency against every team.”
Mathoura finished eighth last season and bowed out in the first week of finals.
This year's fixture will pit the Timbercutters against reigning premier Strathmerton on two occasions — in round five and then round 18.
While it may look a big test on paper, Robinson is backing his players to spring a surprise.
“There's no doubt Strathmerton will play deep into the finals again,” he said.
“We got close in 2019 and I think that experience will hold us in good stead in those types of games again.”
Mathoura will also face Deniliquin Rovers, Tocumwal and Yarroweyah on twice.
The round 13 trip to Rennie will be a chance for the Timbercutters to avenge last season's elimination final defeat.
The grand final will be held on September 12.
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