Origin hero Matt Bowen to test in-form Redcliffe Dolphins fullback Jack Ahearn in Intrust Super Cup clash

MATT Bowen has thrilled crowds on his return to the Intrust Super Cup but could meet his match at Dolphin Oval on Sunday.

Matt Bowen in action for Townsville Blackhawks against Easts Tigers. Picture: Darren England.

A mouth-watering fullback battle between wily ex-NRL star Matt Bowen and Redcliffe Dolphins in-form star Jack Ahearn will set Dolphin Oval alight on Sunday afternoon.

Bowen has displayed all the speed and skill at his disposal in two Intrust Super Cup games with the Townsville Blackhawks but Ahearn has been just as impressive, making the custodian role his own with two man-of-the-match awards since replacing Redcliffe crowd favourite Luke Capewell.

Ahearn said his teammates were buzzing about taking the field against Bowen and even talking post-game selfies — but they could be red-faced if they don’t measure up across the board over the 80 minutes as coach Adam Mogg expects.

“We want to do a job on them especially since we went down by two points in Round 1. We’re a much better side now,” Ahearn said.

Redcliffe Dolphins fullback Jack Ahearn is in red-hot form.

“Townsville has been the team to beat over the past two seasons. They’re strong right across the board, it’s not just one player we have to worry about.

“(Bowen) is a champion of the game and everyone in Queensland loves him don’t they.”

But Ahearn will have an even more important battle on his mind — showing up Blackhawks tryscoring machine Jonathon Reuben, who has been throwing barbs his way in the lead-up.

“We grew up playing under-18s and under-20s together at Canberra and we’re really close friends. Hopefully I can score a try over the top of him,” he said.

The match at Dolphin Oval kicks off on Sunday at 2pm.