Brian Kerr's side are well in the running for the Euro 2004 finals

The Republic of Ireland's senior friendly international game against Australia will be played on Tuesday 19 August at Lansdowne Road.

The game was originally scheduled for the following day but has been brought forward because it would have clashed with a Metallica concert at nearby Ballsbridge.

Irish manager Brian Kerr plans to use the match in Dublin as preparation for the final two games of the 2004 Euro qualifiers against Russia and Switzerland.

Group 10 is closely contested with Switzerland, Russia, Albania, Ireland and Georgia separated by just four points.

Australia will be stern opposition for the Irish having beaten Scotland and England in recent years.

They have plenty of talent with players like Mark Viduka, Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton in their side.