Just as they did a decade ago, the Bulldogs spoiled the party in Townsville, downing the North Queensland Cowboys 32-18 at Dairy Farmers Stadium.

On March 11, 1995 the Bulldogs introduced the Cowboys to the National Rugby League the hard way with a 32-16 win at the then Stockland Stadium.

In tonight's tenth anniversary rematch, the Bulldogs showed their class, turning a 16-12 halftime deficit into a five tries to three victory.

The Cowboys had just a solitary penalty to show for their efforts in the second half, as Bulldogs big men Mark O'Meley, Willie Mason and Steven Price consistently found metres up the middle against a tiring opposition.

Mason in particular had a profound influence on the match, the controversial backrower seemingly revelling in being routinely booed by the 20,000 strong crowd every time he touched the ball.

The NSW State Of Origin forward made several damaging runs, and at one point swatted away an attempted tackle by Cowboys utility Aaron Payne like he was swatting flies.

The home side's cause was further damaged when in the 64th minute halfback Chris Sheppard left the field with knee and ankle trouble just after Bulldogs winger Jamaal Lolesi had jinked and darted his way past five defenders for the visitors fifth and final try and a decisive 28-18 lead.

El Masri put the game beyond doubt with two late penalties to stop the Cowboys winning streak at three matches.

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