By Sean Duncan

DOWNERS GROVE – If it’s true that pitching and defense wins championships, then Downers Grove South is in good shape.

The No. 5-ranked Mustangs were nearly untouchable on the mound and flawless in the field, which added up to an impressive 5-0 nonconference victory over No. 39 Benet Academy in both teams’ season-opener.

“That’s our game – we play good defense and our pitchers throw strikes,” said Downers Grove South coach Darren Orel. “I was really impressed with our pitching.”

Starter Jake Rone (1-0) and Nick Burdi combined to throw a three-hitter with 10 strikeouts and no walks. Benet didn’t reach second base after the first inning and went hitless for the final three innings.

Rone, a senior right-hander who’s committed to Parkland College, allowed three hits and struck out five in four innings to earn the win. Then Burdi came in to dash any hopes of a Benet comeback. The 6-foot-5 right-hander, who’s the No. 1-ranked junior in the state, was lights out in his three innings of work. Behind a 90-92 mph fastball, Burdi struck out five, allowed no hits and hit one batter. The Louisville recruit’s fastball sat at 92 mph in his first inning.

“I felt strong out there,” said Burdi. “I thought my fastball had pretty good control. … Our defense is solid this year. It’s a big plus knowing you can throw strikes and they’ll make the play behind you.”

Downers Grove South mounted a 3-0 after the second inning and never looked back. Kyle Engel went 2-for-4 with a run and an RBI. Matt Wivinis added a triple and a run, and Nick Tenerelli had a double, RBI and a run scored. In all, Downers South only tallied six hits against three Benet pitchers.

Benet threatened in the first inning, putting runners on first and third after sophomore Sam Santa Maria’s single, but Rone got out of the jam with a strikeout.

“They’re good,” said Benet coach Jeff Bonebrake. “It’s a credit to their pitching. Those were two good arms that they threw."