LISLE, Ill. - The Benedictine University football team opened the season with a 31-7 defeat at the hands of Central College.

Central, out of the Iowa Conference, scored on the first drive of the game. Following an early second quarter interception from Jarrett Lecas, Benedictine was able to tie the score for the only time. Quarterback Ryan Keener took off for a 17-yard touchdown run with 13:30 to play in the first half. Central grabbed the lead for good late in the first half on an interception returned for a score. The Dutch led 17-7 at the half.

Benedictine outgained Central in the contest, reeling up 299 yards of offense. Time of possession was near equal in the contest. Benedictine could not overcome miscues, turning the ball over four times including three in Central territory. Benedictine moved the ball on a 20-play drive spanning over 10 minutes but resulted in only a blocked field goal.

Keener completed passes to five individuals, finishing 14-26 with 148 yards. Keener added 41 yards rushing with Artie Monaco totaling 55. Monaco rolled up 181 yards of total offense in the contest. Dylan Rose led the defense with 11 tackles while Lecas added 10.

Benedictine (0-1) travels to Carroll on September 13 for a 1:00 p.m. non-conference contest.