Paul Stirling was in top form against the USA on Tuesday

Paul Stirling smashed 114 runs from 102 balls against the USA as Ireland secured their first victory at the U19 World Cup in New Zealand.

The Americans batted first and were dismissed for 217 after 48.1 overs with Craig Young and Lee Nelson each taking three wickets.

Ireland were reduced to 109-4 before Stirling guided his team to a five-wicket win with 6.1 overs to spare.

The Irish lost their first two games against South Africa and Australia.

The USA were in a strong position at 167-3 before collapsing to a modest total.

Nelson was the star bowler with figures of 3-3 from just 1.1 overs.

Middlesex batsman Stirling and Graham McDonnell (35 n.o.) put on a 104 run partnership in 16 overs.

Stirling's match-winning knock included 23 runs in an over with a massive six bringing up his century.

Ireland will face Zimbabwe in the first round of the Plate competition later this week.

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