It is not always clear why an engine quits that way. Too rich, and it may just cut out, but it also does this when too lean, or the fuel is stale (previous post) or the plug is contaminated, or the plug is the wrong heat grade or heat retention.
The fact that the engine would hardly start, points into the direction of too lean or contaminated glow element. It should sputter and pick up if you have additional glow power applied.
Use the pinch method to determine mixture. Pinch the fuel line. If the engine dies without picking up speed first, you are too lean.