C-NS was getting tested by a Rome Free Academy side ready to cast aside years of struggle and try to reclaim some of its long-lost gridiron glory.
A high-scoring first half saw the Northstars twice reach the end zone, only to have RFA answer with three touchdowns and move out in front, 20-14, before the break.
C-NS controlled the third quarter, scoring twice to go in front 27-20, but it could not hold on. RFA tied it and, with five minutes left, grabbed the lead for good when a short screen pass by Evan Delutis to Vey Baez turned into the game's biggest play, Baez catching several blocks and going 64 yards for the go-ahead TD.
The Northstars are back at Bragman Stadium next Friday to face Fayetteville-Manlius for Homecoming.
