United handed competitive debuts in the Tangerine to Craig Sibbald, Steven Fletcher, Mark Birighitti as well as Glenn Middleton off the bench but Ash Taylor’s late equaliser saved a point for the home side at Rugby Park.
Dylan Levitt gave the visitors a half-time advantage, smashing the opener past Sam Walker two minutes from the break, but they couldn’t add to it before falling to ten men.
Ian Harkes was red-carded by Willie Collum for two bookable offences – the first a silly caution for knocking the ball away from the goalkeeper in the act of punting a clearance forward.
He’ll be suspended for the forthcoming domestic match but first on the Arabs’ agenda is AZ Alkmaar and the UEFA Europa Conference.
Here’s how the players shaped up for their European campaign as they opened their cinch Premiership account in Ayrshire.
9. Ian Harkes - 5
Busy, infact too busy as that's what contributed to his red card. Silly first caution cost his side in the end, but until then had provided the energy behind Fletcher. Photo: Rob Casey - SNS Group
10. Tony Watt - 6
Swapped sides with Cudjoe in supporting attack behind Fletcher but found Alebiosu tough to compete with and rarely threatened from his wide berth before being replaced. Photo: Rob Casey - SNS Group
11. Steven Fletcher - 8
A touch of class in attack for United. Led the line as figurehead like an experienced frontman should and had the guile for the opener an strength to tussle with Ash Taylor throughout. Influence will grow as relationship with those around him develops too. Photo: Rob Casey - SNS Group
12. BOSS - Jack Ross
Has recruited well and, with a full complement of players, looked to have a favourable blend on the park after recruitment work in summer. Changes necessary to deny the inevitable onslaught - and almost did. Photo: Ross MacDonald - SNS Group