There is 55 runs partnership between Craig Young and Josh Little and this is highest 10th wicket partnership for Ireland. England gave a target of 335 runs and Ireland have done well to conclude there innings by scoring 286 runs. Interestingly Ireland have lost 8 wickets for 188 runs and last two wickets scored 98 runs. Overall its a satisfactory performance from Ireland side.
It is not satisfactory as long as they can't win matches against other full member nations. Today's match was close, but still they lost to England at the end. When was the last time they won an ODI against a strong team? And remember that they were playing against a second string England squad. If they can't win against a second string squad, then what is the justification for retaining their test status? Why can't Ireland made to compete against other stronger associate nations such as Scotland, Netherlands, Nepal and Namibia?