MOSSMAN Port Douglas will get an immediate chance to show its early season premiership credentials and gain some timely redemption when it tackles reigning premiers Seahawks in Yarrabah to open its CDRL A-Grade campaign.

Mossman were heavily tipped to feature in last year’s decider but were swept aside by a Yarrabah side that enjoyed a remarkable run from fifth to eventually win the premiership against Innisfail 20-16 in extra-time.

That run included a 46-30 win over the Sharks in the major semi-final at Barlow Park in late September.

“We’re happy with our draw, the guys have put in a strong preseason, and we’re very much looking forward to round one against Yarrabah, particularly after our loss to them in that semi-final,” Sharks president Jason Fasano told Newsport.

“Our guys are keen for a bit of redemption. We want to kick off our season the right way and we hope that means an early win against the Seahawks.

“We’re well aware though premierships aren’t won in round one, it’s a long season so we’re keen to take it week by week.”

In round two the Sharks will again be on the road for a clash against the Storm in Edmonton.

The Sharks open their account at home with matches in Mossman in rounds three and four against Atherton and last year’s favourites, Cairns Brothers.

In round five the Sharks face a tough road trip to Innisfail who’ll be hell bent on going one better this season after their heartbreaking loss to the Seahawks in 2021’s big dance.

“Cairns Brothers and Innisfail are always very hard to beat so they’ll prove very tough assignments leading into our bye in round six,” Mr Fasano said.