Albania 3 Russia 1
The Republic of Ireland's Group Ten opponents Russia have slumped to a 3-1 defeat to Albania in Tirana having looked to destined to get a point at the venue Brian Kerr's men visit on Wednesday.
Dimtry Loskov seemed to have secured a point in the 77th minute after Altin Rraklli had given Albania the lead on the half hour mark.
Ireland's next hosts however appear to be made of sterner stuff and with goals from Altin Lala (80) and Igli Tare (83) they secured the win that sends them into third position ahead of Kerr's side.
The result does not only serve as a timely reminder to Kerr and his side that Albania are not to be underestimated but also means that the door has been left ajar for them after their stuttering start to their qualifying campaign.