Ireland managed to beat Thailand by 46 runs to get their first win of the qualifiers but it was too little, too late.

A day late, and a dollar short as the Americans say.

The contest with Thailand certainly had the feel of after the Lord Mayor's Show as with the pressure off Ireland's top-order fired against a pitifully weak Thailand side.

Ed Joyce's side thumped 40 boundaries and a six as they racked up 305 for 4 - their fourth highest total in ODI's.

Skipper Gaby Lewis hit 14 of those as she made 75 in an opening stand of 88 with Sarah Forbes (29).

Amy Hunter top-scored with 76 (10 fours), while the real fireworks came in an unbroken 5th wicket stand of 87 in 62 balls between Laura Delany and Leah Paul.

The Merrion left-hander hasn't enjoyed the best of tournaments but cashed in with a 40-ball unbeaten 67 (10 fours, 1 six).

Thailand's slow reply ensured that the result was never really in doubt despite Ireland's customary generosity in the field.

Coleraine off-spinner Kia McCartney (pictured) made her debut with the 20-year-old taking a wicket with just her second ball, going on to take 2 for 73, unlucky not to pick up at least one or two more.

Louise Little finished the game on a high with a five wicket haul, joining Cara Murray (twice), Susan Bray, Eimear Richardson, Ciara Metcalfe and Aimee Maguire in a select group who have managed that feat.

The sight of Orla Prendergast bowling untroubled for six overs will again lead Irish fans to question why she wasn't called upon in Sunday's crucial do-or-die clash with Bangladesh.

What was the point now with their tournament fate already decided?

This Ireland team certainly has talent but their fragile mental fortitude costs them when the pressure is applied. 

Not an easy problem to remedy, and the soft nature of the Super Series certainly won't solve it.

Tougher cricket required.