Joyce leads Ireland to victory over South Africa

IRELAND beat South Africa by seven wickets to claim a fully deserved consolation win in the fourth and final ODI at The Hills.

Former skipper Isobel Joyce smashed 12 boundaries in an undefeated 62 as Ireland romped to victory with almost 14 overs to spare.

Joyce shared an unbroken fourth wicket stand of 78 with teenager Gaby Lewis (27*), after the experienced Clare Shillington (28) had given the Irish a positive start in their run chase.

Earlier, three wickets apiece for wily leg-spinner Ciara Metcalfe (3-27) and vice-captain Kim Garth (3-27) saw South Africa dismissed for 143 in blustery conditions.

Andrie Steyn top scored for the Proteas with 43, while Chloe Tryon (30) and Laura Wolvaardt (20) were also among the runs.

The Irish attack never relinquished their grip on proceedings, with Lucy O'Reilly, Louise McCarthy and Gaby Lewis also among the wickets.