The Rochester Giants suffered an overtime lose in their season opener, as the Superior Stampede kicked a field goal with 41 seconds left in the period to seal up a 34-31 victory in Northern Elite Football League action.

The Giants recorded a stellar 4 interception night on defense and demonstrated their ability to move the ball as they racked up 272 yards of total offense, yet couldn’t finish the job in overtime.

The Giants found themselves in an early 7-3 hole against their West Division rival, but were able to rally to a 17-10 lead by halftime.

Rochester got the lead back in the third quarter at 24-17, as Jimmy Barker scored his second rushing touchdown of the night.

The game continued with each team trading punches until time expired with the score gridlocked at 31-31.

The Giants won the coin toss but couldn’t find the same rhythm they had earlier in the game.

Rochester was given the ball three times in the sudden-death overtime, but failed to capitalize, leaving the door open for Superior’s Ben Blomdahl to boot a 21 yard field goal for the victory.

The Giants were highlighted on offense by Chad Strike with over 100 all purpose yards and a touchdown.  On defense, Jake Lindsay had three interceptions, returning one for a touchdown, and five tackles.

The Stampede’s ground game produced three rushing touchdowns on the day, each by a different player.

The Giants resume action next Saturday as they host the Minnesota Phoenix at 7 p.m.