Mumbai/Pune, Oct 3 Former champions Dempo Sports Club of Goa started their I-League campaign with a thumping 3-1 win over Mumbai Football Club while East Bengal were held goal-less by newly promoted Pune Football Club.

At the Cooperage in Mumbai, Dempo took the lead in the 22nd minute through Brazilian playmaker Roberto D'Silva, who shot from close range, and three minutes later India striker Sunil Chettri doubled the lead.

Seven minutes into the second half, Climax Lawrence completed the tally after he shot home a rebound.

Dempo looked relaxed after taking a 3-0 lead allowing Mumbai FC to pull one back in the 78th minute through Peter Siddiqui.

At the packed Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune, the home team did well to earn their first points in the I-League. East Bengal's poor run continued and the return of India captain Bhaichung Bhutia failed to raise the spirit of the Kolkata giants.

Pune FC dominated the game with their attacking approach while East Bengal played out a defensive game to return home with one point. (IANS)