Play-By-Play: Mumbai City v NorthEast United-- Forlan's penalty enough to ensure an auspicious homecoming

A PENALTY GOAL BY Diego Forlan was enough for Mumbai City to emerge winner in their first home game of the season. NorthEast United, after winning the last two games, fell short for the first time.

The match began with both sides producing chances but NEUFC seemed to be controlling the pace of the match, trying to slow it down from time to time. Having played 2 matches in the last 6 days, they were the more fatigued squad, and looked to conserve their breath. The first half was 0-0. The best chance went to Katsumi Yusa who was set up brilliantly by Alfaro for a close range finish but misfired.

Early in the second half Reagan Singh brought down Pronay Halder inside the box. The referee pointed towards the penalty spot. Diego Forlan took the kick and though Subrata Paul got a hand on the ball, could not stop it from going in. Mumbai got the lead, and as the minutes wore on, made defensive changes to preserve the lead.

The conclusion of the game came amidst high-tempo action with the Highlanders getting back to back corners but failing to score.

With this win Mumbai City are at the top of the table with 6 points from 2 matches. NorthEast United have slipped to the second spot with 6 points from 3 games.

Here's how the whole game unfolded, narrated through TFG's blow-by-blow update of the action as it happened...