Milawa begins the defence of its 2019 Ovens and King premiership with a mouth-watering clash against Bright on Saturday.

The Demons have managed to retain the bulk of the squad which took it to premiership glory two years ago, with the exception of veteran Scott Pell (retirement) and centre half-back Alex Dunstan (relocated).

But it comes with added expectation.

"Having won a premiership and having maintained the list, there's pressure," coach Rick Petts said.

"We know we're the ones being hunted now, but we've got to focus more on what we can do and how we can improve as a squad to continue to grow and get better with the list we've got."

On-baller Carl Groth, who played in the club's 2013 premiership, has returned and Petts is confident the Demons have prepared well.

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"We were hanging out for this day because we got to a pre-season and it got pulled from under us," he said.

"There's no rest games for us, we're straight into it with a grand final rematch.

"We're keen for it, we want to have a big hit-out straight up to see where we're at and how we're travelling."

The Mountain Men have signed former Essendon forward Gary Moorcroft, who shapes as a key matchup.

"From all accounts, even though he's a bit older (44), he's still a dangerous player and knows where the goals are," Petts said.

"It's a tricky one because he's quite aerial, but he's still a small fellow.

"We'll put Bryce Mortimer on him, who is one of our good lockdown defenders that can play small or medium size. We think that's a good matchup and Bryce will be up for the challenge."

Goorambat hosts Tarrawingee, North Wangaratta takes on Mohyu, King Valley squares off with Benalla All Blacks, Whorouly welcomes Bonnie Doon, while Greta has the bye.

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