Can we assume that since you're not sure which side of the patch to put down, you are removing the clear cellophane-like material from the patch before applying it to the dried glue? I use the same elcheapo kits from eBay and never had a problem with the same hole leaking twice. And don't put any glue on the patch, just the tire? I used Shoe Goo once when my tube of patch glue had dried out and had similar success.
Good luck