Ireland have lost their final Super Eights match of the ICC World Cup qualifiers in South Africa against Kenya by six wickets.
The African country needed to win the match in Pretoria to ensure qualification for the 2011 World Cup.
Northamptonshire wicketkeeper Niall O'Brien helped the Irish recover from a position of 38 for three, after winning the toss, with 59 while John Mooney's 34, from 27 balls, was the cornerstone of a late dash for runs.
However, set a modest 209-run victory target, Kenya were taken home by former Warwickshire all-rounder Collins Obuya, who hit an unbeaten 66, and Thomas Odoyo, who finished 50 not out.
The Kenyans were wobbling at 96 for four with 23 overs left but two of their experienced players guided the chase without further loss.
Obuya's 73-ball effort included nine fours while Odoyo hit four fours in a stand of 113 in 21 overs.
Ireland face Canada in Sunday's final after suffering only their second defeat in a dozen matches at the tournament.
© Press Association