Nelson, Feb 19 (IANS): United Arab Emirates (UAE) captain Mohammad Tauqir took positives from their four-wicket loss to Zimbabwe in a Group B World Cup encounter here Thursday saying they played well and expected the result to go in their favour.

Zimbabwe at a stage were tottering at 167 for five in the 33rd over chasing the UAE's formidable 285 for seven.

But all-rounder Sean Williams and Craig Ervine (42) notched up a useful 83-run partnership and secured Zimbabwe's victory. Williams remained not out on 76 and finished the innings off with the help of captain Elton Chigumbura (unbeaten 14).

"We played some good cricket but we were expecting a different result. I think this wicket, we saw the last game also, even 300 was not enough. We know our limitations," said Tauqir at the post match presentation ceremony.

"They batted well, had some good partnerships. Both the left-handers played well, and they won the game."

The veteran, 43, also credited his bowlers for their performance and added breaking the Williams-Ervine partnership in the 43rd over could have won them the game.

"I think overall the bowlers bowled well. One crucial partnership, I think it saw them through the game. If one of them got out it would have been a different result.

It was a good learning experience, and I think we would like to put up a positive performance in the upcoming games."

UAE play Ireland in their next game Feb 25 at Brisbane.