Half centuries from skipper Phillipe Le Roux and John McNally helped Ireland Under 19's to a 27-run win on the opening day of their Celtic Cup clash with Scotland in Aberdeen.

Railway Union's Le Roux top scored with 63 (7 fours, 1 six) as he shared stands of 78 for the third wicket with Gavin Roulston and 60 for the fourth with Scott Macbeth - both of whom made 44.

Clontarf left-hander John McNally took advantage of the platform set by the top order as he thumped a rapid unbeaten half century from just 29 balls as Pete Johnston's side finished on 291 for 7.

Olly Riley (2-38) struck with the first ball of the chase, but any notion Ireland had of a quick win were soon dispelled by a second wicket partnership of 126 between Owen Goold (73) and Ali Price (47) - both of whom benefitted from dropped opportunities.

Three wickets for Scott Macbeth and two for CIYMS spinner Carson McCullough ensured Ireland started with a 27-run win, despite a hard hit 78 in just 64 deliveries from Uzair Ahmad, who again took advantage of a dropped chance early on - something for Ireland to work on as the teams continue their series on Tuesday morning at Mannofield.