LOAN signing Jordan Preston got off the mark with a double as United put Stenny to the sword at Somerset Park last night.

The result took them into joint top spot, behind leaders Forfar Athletic on goal difference.

Preston pounced on a defensive error to slot home after three minutes, but Stenny drew level 14 minutes later when Euan Murray headed in Alan Cook's cross.

Craig Moore converted Nicky Devlin's pass to put Ayr ahead in 26 minutes and nine minutes later Jamie Barclay increased Ayr's lead with an own goal.

Preston's netted again in 47 minutes and Ross Caldwell's strike in 86 minutes made it five.

Liam McCroary's headed home a consolation goal two minutes from time.