This has been debated in depth on here before.

I think I disagreed at the time, but the consensus was that taking an earlier flight does not rule you out from Dubai Connect going by the Ts and Cs.

It might be different in practice however, and there is also the Minimum Fare criteria now which could kick in but is not published.

As above, try calling them. If you are turned down, ask for the reason and let us know.