Queen of the South brought a very vocal and boisterous away support to Almondvale and this seemed to inspire Ian McCall's men, who closed down the space in midfield superbly and frustrated Livingston for most of the match.
The Dumfries side narrowly managed to avoid the drop last season and will hope for a more comfortable points cushion this time round.
The first goalmouth action of note didn't arrive until the 43rd minute.
Jim Lauchlan caught the heels of Scott Mitchell and referee Steve Conroy duly awarded a free-kick. Lee Makel stepped up to try his luck from 18 yards and could only watch in disbelief as his effort cannoned back off the upright.
Livi finally managed to make the breakthrough in the 73rd minute thanks to the industry of Dave MacKay.
The left-back fed Jason Thomson before racing into the box to get on the end of Thomson's cross to loop his header over Barry John Corr.
Three minutes later the home side's lead was doubled thanks to a crashing left-foot shot from Paul Shields which flew in to the top corner of the net.
Queen of the South struggled to get back into the game but their resilience will make them a match for any team in what will be a very tight and competitive league campaign.
Duke's verdict - A disappointing result by Queens after a heartening performance. The game could have gone either way until Livingston scored out of the blue. Their second goal was a gift thanks to the unfortunate Henderson who otherwise had a solid game.
Duke's man of the match for Queens - Scott MacKenzie who looked very sharp midfield.
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