CRICKET/Under-19 World Cup:A second match, a second defeat - this time by Bangladesh - but now the real business of the Under-19 World Cup can begin for Ireland as the side set out to prove they are the best among equals, starting today against Bermuda.

Skipper Greg Thompson lost the toss again at the Bayuemas Oval in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. England had put Ireland in to bat on Sunday and dismissed them for 109, Bangladesh allowed Thompson's side only 14 more runs but this time Ireland's top order made a strong attack work for their wickets.

The bowling carried more penetration too. Richard Keaveney had a catch dropped behind, Andrew Britton picked up a deserved wicket and a fit-again James Hall had a tidy spell of off-spin that produced the other success as Bangladesh reached their target with eight wickets and 27.3 overs to spare.

Ireland coach Brían O'Rourke said: "Yes, that was much better. We got our heads down and worked hard against a very good Bangladesh side."

There were moments of madness. Ben Ackland was needlessly run-out by a direct hit from the wicketkeeper. Andrew Balbirnie brought a partnership of 30 with James Shannon to an end by getting so far over to sweep he was bowled off-stump behind his legs, and Graham McDonnell shouldered arms to a ball that hit middle.

Thompson guided Ireland past 100 and then launched an enormous six over midwicket as off-spinner Mahmudul Hasan worked his way through the lower order to finish with figures of four for 17.

Bangladesh go through to the Super Series stage, along with England from Group D. Ireland are out of the running for major World Cup honours. Next week will be spent in Johor Bahru contesting the Plate competition.

At Bayuemas Oval: Ireland 123 (43.4 overs) (J Shannon 31, M Hasan 4 for 17); Bangladesh 124 for 2 (22.3 overs) (A Hossain 71no, J hall 1-8). Bangladesh beat Ireland by 8 wickets.