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Kilmarnock opened their Scottish Championship campaign with a deserved victory over local rivals Ayr United.

In the first league meeting of the sides in 28 years, Killie dominated with Innes Cameron and the outstanding Chris Burke threatening.

Liam Polworth fired Tommy Wright's side ahead in the second half following a forceful run by Blair Alston.

And Cameron netted from the spot after Jack Baird was harshly penalised for handball.

Replays suggested the ball had hit the defender's chest following a shot by Alston.

David Hopkin's visitors struggled to gain territory in attacking areas, though the manager felt his team should have had a penalty in the first half for a challenge on Tomi Adeloye.

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Kilmarnock manager Tommy Wright: "I thought we were relentless from the first whistle. It was a really good performance and a thoroughly deserved win. All we've done is get three points and get a good start.

"I know what Chris Burke can give me. He's a tremendous professional and I was so pleased when he re-signed."

Ayr United manager David Hopkin: "Players gave me everything. I thought the referee got two of the biggest decisions wrong.

"It was a stonewall penalty for us in the first half. [At Kilmarnock's penalty] it hits Jack's chest. You can hear with the thud it hits his chest."