Aberdeen 2-1 Kilmarnock

Jonny Hayes scored the first-ever goal in the Scottish Premiership as Aberdeen proved too strong for Kilmarnock at Pittodrie.

Hayes fired home from close range after goalkeeper Craig Samson parried Calvin Zola's effort.

The Dons dominated after the break and Willo Flood headed the second on his competitive debut.

Kilmarnock briefly sparked into life with Kris Boyd reducing the deficit but the Dons held on.

Aberdeen, looking to extend a five-game unbeaten run from last season, had been told by manager Derek McInnes that only hard graft would see them re-claim their 'big club' status.

And their early endeavour was illustrated by the energetic Flood in midfield and the movement of new signing Zola up front.

Willo Flood was rewarded with a goal on his competitive debut for the Dons

With Kilmarnock failing to carry a goal threat, the Dons made in-roads towards Samson's goal and they were rewarded when Hayes forced the ball home after Zola's effort was parried.

The hosts eased off the pedal somewhat after taking the lead and McGinn, who scored 21 goals for the Dons last season, fluffed a decent chance to double their lead.

Flood extended their advantage with a glancing header after a darting run to meet McGinn's cross to all but secure victory.

But Kilmarnock at last displayed some attacking menace when substitute Boyd fired home via a post from 17 yards.

Aberdeen substitute Josh Magennis spurned a great chance to re-establish their two-goal advantage. Forced wide by Samson and his subsequent effort was cleared by Jeroen Tesselaar.

Mark Reynolds and Ryan Jack then found themselves in the grip of a terrible defensive mix-up, enabling Boyd to nip in to fire a shot a whisker wide of goal.

Despite their profligacy, the Dons saw out the match to claim maximum points.