Accra Hearts of Oak recorded their first win of the season via a 2-0 victory over Bechem United.

New signing Ransford Mensah and striker Hamza Issa provided the goals in a convincing performance.

Hearts coach Aboubakar Ouattara kept faith with the same lineup from Sunday's loss to Heart of Lions.

It was a surprise decision considering Hearts had lost consecutive matches. However, Ouattara's faith paid off as the Phobians played with more intensity and verve right from kick-off.

Ten minutes into the match, Hearts winger Saani Mohammed tested the agility of Aziz Haruna with a stinging shot.

The Bechem United goalkeeper produced a fine save to deny Hearts the opener.

Sensing danger, Bechem United coach Kwaku Danso reacted by dropping Isaac Nyarko and Emmanuel Owusu deeper. That proved effective as the pair denied Hussein Mohammed and Saani Mohammed any breathing space.

Hearts redirected the course of their attacks focusing on the wide areas. The change served its purpose but the Phobians fluffed all decent opportunities.

On the cusp of half-time, Hearts went close to scoring but Asamoah Boateng's free header flew harmlessly into the sky.

That was that for the first half as both teams retired for recess with a whimper.

The status quo remained the same in the second half, with Hearts probing and Bechem United sitting deep.

Seven minutes into the second half, Hearts' persistence paid off when left-back Ransford Mensah scored from a free kick.

Hearts were awarded a free kick after Nketsiah Christianson handled the ball on the edge of the area. Having sent a few crosses into the stands, there was little belief among the Hearts faithful when he stepped up for this one.

Yet, with the Phobian world watching, the new signing expertly dispatched it to give Hearts the lead.

Ouattara's men grew in confidence and took firm control of the game, with some impressive ball retention.

The Phobians doubled their lead when Hamza Issa's looping header found the back of the net in the 75th minute. It was the perfect finish to substitute Stephen Appiah's excellent work.

Late in the game, Humphrey Tetteh could have added a third after being put through by Hamza Issa. However, the teenager misfired with the goal at his mercy.

Originally a left back, the Auroras graduate will take some encouragement from

Hearts will travel to Nations FC on the next match day, while Bechem United host Dreams FC.