Ed Joyce hits 78 as Ireland beat Scotland in Twenty20

Ed Joyce was Ireland's match-winner with 78 runs from 58 deliveries

Ed Joyce's 78 off 58 balls proved the platform for Ireland as they beat Scotland by 17 runs in the ICC World Twenty20 qualifying tournament.

Ireland have now won four in a row in Dubai since their opening defeat by Namibia, while Scotland's clash with Italy on Monday now looks decisive.

Joyce hit six fours and three sixes while Gary Wilson scored 26 and Alex Cusack chipped in with 22.

Kyle Coetzer smashed four sixes in his 62 for Scotland.

Trent Johnston got into Scotland's batsmen early, sending back Richie Berrington and Preston Mommsen in his first two overs.

But Coetzer started scoring freely in the middle order to bring his side into contention, before being caught and bowled by Irish all-rounder Kevin O'Brien had him caught and bowled.

O'Brien finished with three wickets as Ireland closed out the win with Scotland 142 for seven at the close.

Majid Haq was Scotland's top bowler, returning two for 18 in four overs.

A downside from the win for Ireland was a hamstring injury suffered in the game by John Mooney which will run him out of the remainder of the tournament.

The Irish will apply on Monday to the event's technical committee to be allowed to draft in a replacement for Mooney.

Ireland's ICC World Twenty20 qualification Pool B fixtures

Tuesday 13 March - Ireland lost to Namibia by four runs

Wednesday 14 March - Ireland beat Kenya by 10 wickets

Thursday 15 March - Ireland beat Italy by two wickets

Friday 16 March - Ireland beat USA by 64 runs

Sunday 18 March - Ireland beat Scotland by 17 runs

Monday 19 March - Ireland v Uganda

Tuesday 20 March - Ireland v Oman