Ayr 1-0 St Miirren: Paterson strike seals SPL scalp for Honest Men

United youngster Roddy Paterson struck late in the game to send the Honest Men home happy, while the SPL visitors' day didn't go quite as they'd hoped

St Mirren manager Danny Lennon's plans took a knock as defender David Van Zanten had to be substituted in the opening minutes of the game.

While the visitors got into their stride and played their passing game, Brian Reid's First Division newcomers went about theirs, mopping up the pressure.

Such was St Mirren's day that Gareth Wardlaw - returned to Ayr from the Buddies - scored after 16 minutes, only to see his goal flagged offside.

Forays by the visitors went unrewarded; Nigel Hasselbaink and Steven Thomson were frustrated, while a Michael McGowan shot shook the woodwork.

In the 80th minute, Paterson latched onto a loose ball in the box and blasted it past Craig Samson, sending the guests home with nothing to show for their efforts.