Mahindra United win

An elated Mensah also expressed his feelings saying: 8220;It8217;s a nice way to start. I am feeling great8221;. Earlier, Dempo stunned the defending champions by taking the lead in the third minute itself with Jerry Zirsanga scoring off a cross from veteran defender Samir Naik. Stung by that reverse, the big boys of Mumbai hit back soon when Mensah snatched the equaliser in the tenth minute off a header from defender NP Pradeep. The two teams were locked at 1-1 at the breather.

The local outfit looked much more relaxed in the second half and though they got more chances, they failed to convert them. The Ghanaian combination of Yusif Yakubu and Mensah on the front line seemed to be working wonders for Mahindra as the pair looked like they were playing together in their home country, getting goals for their club, Great Olympian. The duo rekindled their magic in the 81st minute when Mensah sent a pass to Yakubu, who did not disappoint and helped Mahindra craft a fine 2-1 victory.

It was a special occasion for the jeepmen as it was for the first time in NFL that they have started with a win. And with Mensah also striking the opening goal, it was enough a reason for partying. The striker was well rewarded for following the instructions of his coach to play his free-flowing game without any restrictions.