Joyce 50 gives England a chance

Ed Joyce's maiden international half-century provided the backbone for England's chase of 319 for victory over New Zealand at the WACA.

Irishman Joyce became only the third England player in the Commonwealth Bank Series to date to pass 50 as he steered the score to 123 for two at the halfway stage.

Moments earlier, the left-hander was afforded a let-off when - on 58 - he was caught in the deep by Jacob Oram, after sweeping a no-ball from Jeetan Patel.

Middlesex batsman Joyce - promoted to open to take the heat off the out-of-form Andrew Strauss - played positively on a pitch which has reaped plenty of runs this week.

Opening partner Mal Loye, who got off the mark with his trademark sweep for six off fast bowler Shane Bond, fell in just the fifth over.

Just as in previous matches of the triangular tournament, the 34-year-old edged a drive outside off-stump - this time to be well held by Stephen Fleming at first slip, off James Franklin.

Joyce and Ian Bell shared 72 runs for the second wicket, a partnership which was halted when - seconds after lofting Patel for a straight six - the latter picked out midwicket.

England rode their luck somewhat as the ball constantly plugged in no-man's land, while both Bell and Andrew Strauss were dropped early in their innings.

Earlier, Oram's savage hitting left England struggling to haul themselves off the bottom of the triangular tournament table.

All-rounder Oram cracked an unbeaten 54, off only 33 deliveries, as New Zealand posted 318 for seven at the WACA - comfortably their highest score against England in one-day internationals.