Mohun Bagan AC, East Bengal FC match each other with 3-1 wins in I-League

New Delhi: Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan and East Bengal got off to winning starts in their respective first games of the new I-League season.

Defending champions Bagan were in superlative form on Satuday against new boys Aizawl FC, securing a 3-1 win at the Barasat Stadium.

New recruit Cornell Glen was star of the show for the Mariners, scoring a brace. The likes of Balwant Singh, who scored a goal, and Katsumi Yusa put on impressive performances for the home team.

Their arch rivals, East Bengal, showcased a similar display at the Fatorda Stadium on Sunday against local side Sporting Clube de Goa.

Though East Bengal started slowly, they came into their own in the second half.

The visitors, like Bagan, won a by 3-1 scoreline as well. I-league's all-time leading scorer Ranti Martins bagged a double, while India international Bikash Jairu scored one in Bengal side's win.

While Mohun Bagan along with Bengaluru FC are considered favorites to win this year's I-League, East Bengal could to spring up a surprise.

The first Kolkata derby of the season is scheduled to take place on January 23.