Granderson homer in 10th sinks Red Sox

BOSTON (Reuters) - New York newcomer Curtis Granderson hit a game winning home run in the 10th inning to spoil the debut of pitcher John Lackey and lead the Yankees to a 3-1 victory over the Boston Red Sox Wednesday.

Granderson's blast to right field, his second homer of the season, broke a 1-1 tie in the 10th, before Mark Teixeira's RBI ground-out sealed the decider in the Yankees three-game opening series with arch rivals Boston.

"What better way to start off with a new team?" Granderson told reporters. "Of all the teams, to play Boston in the first series and come out with the victory is great. All I want to do is just be another small piece of the puzzle."

Lackey tossed six innings and allowed just three hits but took a no-decision in his first start since signing a lucrative contract to play for Boston in the offseason.

The former Los Angeles Angels pitcher left the game with a 1-0 lead but Nick Swisher tied the contest with an RBI single in the seventh inning, before Teixeira followed up Granderson in the 10th.

Mariano Rivera came on in the bottom of the 10th to close out his second save of the season.

Chan Ho Park recorded the win after pitching three scoreless innings in relief of starter Andy Pettitte who lasted six innings for just one run, a third-inning RBI single from David Ortiz.

Boston closer Jonathan Papelbon struggled in the 10th, walking two batters in addition to giving up Granderson's homer.

Granderson, known for his all-around contributions as a center fielder, pounded 30 home runs last season with the Detroit Tigers and is expected to produce big things in New York.

"(New) guys, everyone wants to talk about expectations," said Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter, who finished with a hit.

"You don't want them to try to do anything they haven't done. Those guys are going to help us through the course of the year."

(Reporting by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by Ian Ransom)