Republic of Ireland midfielder Keith Andrews is warning Cyprus they will face a backlash as the sides renew their World Cup battle tomorrow.

The Group Eight qualifier in Nicosia will be Ireland's first chance to bounce back from last month's 3-0 humbling by Australia.

While that game was a friendly, Giovanni Trapattoni fielded a strong side and a rare defeat during his reign was not the ideal World Cup preparation.

Andrews, who was used only as a substitute against the Socceroos, said: "We are all hopeful that the Australia result was a wake-up call The good thing is that it wasn't a qualifying game, so we didn't drop any points."

Ireland are a point behind leaders Italy having played a game more, and five and eight points respectively better off than Bulgaria in third and fourth-placed Cyprus, who both have a game in hand.

However, victory in Nicosia would not only avenge their shock 5-2 European Championship qualifier defeat there three years ago, but also put them within touching distance of a play-off place at least.