TOP: Mendoza

FC Goa coach Zico had clearly not forgotten the hat-trick havoc Stiven Menoza had wreaked upon them back in October. That's probably why he adopted an aggressive strategy to stop the Colombian: with fouls. Mendoza was brought down countless times during the first half, but he still managed to breach the Goa defensive line with his speed once or twice; a sign of what was to come. In the second half the whole thing came to a head. Early on Mendoza managed to invade the Goa box and Lucio's challenge was harsh enough for him to force contact and win a penalty. Pelissari took it, missed but scored on the rebound. Later, Mendoza made yet another run leaving defenders behind and Kattimani had no option but to foul him. Mendoza took the penalty but missed. It appeared that the night was over for Mendoza and his golden boot-winning ISL journey was coming to a close on a sad note. And then towards the very end came that one minute that turned everything upside down. Chennai were trailing 2-1 and a high ball came into the Goa box. Kattimani leapt for it but messed up because of pressure from Mendoza. The ball took a touch from him and went in. Own goal. 2-2. Then, the moment the match resumed, Chennai won the ball and Mendoza rushed ahead, beating the Goa defence, past the keeper, and scored the winning goal. Mendoza made sure Chennaiyin FC ended their campaign on a winning note.