What Mensah makes of his maiden goal in Major League Soccer

Ghana international Jonathan Mensah is excited to have registered his first goal in Major League Soccer.

The centre-back headed home the winner as Columbus Crew picked a 2-1 victory over FC Dallas on Saturday.

"It’s always great to get a goal [and] this is my first MLS goal," Mensah told his club's official website.

"We needed it because they were pushing us, we were leading 1-0, and so the second goal was very crucial for us. 

"The guy that was marking me was very tight - I took him in and then went outside so it was a great ball from [Federico Higuain] and I was there at the right moment and I got it right.

"Either way, it is a game winner or any goal is always important for the team. 

"Obviously this one was the game-winner, much more important for the team because the team’s momentum is very good now we just got to keep working and keep them going."

Mensah's recent good outings for Crew provide a huge relief considering how his early days went far from expected.

Having joined as a Designated Player via a Discovery Signing from Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala in January, the defender's first few games were marked with disappointing displays, injuries and suspensions.

"Getting to know every bit of the league - referees, other teams - it helps and credit goes to the guys they have gotten me through it all and it’s been great so far," said, the 27-year-old.

"All of the guys were happy for me, that’s why they all came to celebrate with me."

The former Evian TG man has made 21 appearances involving 20 starts so far this season.