Despite the cold win and rain the teams produced a sizzling match to keep the locals warm. It took United only 2 minutes to find the net as David Gormley headed home a Bryan Prunty cross after only two miniutes.
The crowd of 1,357 had only another 20 minutes to wait for Bryan Prunty himself to breach the Blues net. 2-0 after 25 minutes and United should have been cruisng. However, Derek Ferguson's side pulled one back from the spot through a Gregory Tade penalty after Scott Walker had fouled Craig Frizzel in 37 minutes.
Brian Reid must had a few words to say at half time because it took only 2 minutes of second half play for Willie Easton restore Ayr's two goal advantage.
But Stranraer substitute Alex White poked the ball home on 76 minutes to ensure a nervy finish.
The win keeps Ayr chasing the leading teams of Raith Rovers and Brechin, but there is only three points in it.
With the festive season approaching Ayr will be hoping to have nullified that gap by the new year.