The win snapped a three-game losing streak against a group of talented opponents as Ruttler's club improved to 2-5 overall and 2-2 in the conference. The visiting Vikings, meanwhile, fell to 5-1 overall and 4-1 in the conference.
Two key elements to the win began with a solid start followed by an increase in intensity. Civatte got things started in the right direction by scoring the game game's first goal for a 1-0 lead. The Runners kept up the pressure, even when the talented Vikes tied it at 1-1.
"It was a unified effort -- after a good start we didn't let up," said Ruttler. "We've been struggling a bit with our starts -- plus the intensity wasn't there. This was a nice turn of events for us."
Civatte also showed plenty of hustle in the second half, working her way downfield and into the open to snap the 1-1 tie with the game winning goal.
"This game was a big confidence booster for me and my teammates," said Civatte. "We've grown so much as team since our first practice in August. I can hardly wait to see how we'll do over the next month!"
Just about everyone in the lineup made contributions, especially Gebhart and midfielder Carly Malia.
Gebhart, a former Delsea Regional standout, has been nursing an ankle injury the past month, but appears to be on the mend with a superb effort Thursday.
"Ally was really struggling during our recent Maryland trip -- but she's pretty tough," said Ruttler. "She's pretty much back on track and is communicating well with our backs."
Malia (Gloucester County Christian School), meanwhile, has proven to be a versatile and valuable member of the defensive unit.
"Carly is coming on nicely," said Ruttler. "She's super coachable. She's everywhere on the field -- from outside back to outside mid -- she crosses lanes and makes good decisions on defense. She causes opponents to make mistakes and she completes her assisgnments."
The Roadrunners will try and keep the momentum going Thursday night when they square off against RCSJ Cumberland at Rowan University. That game will be followed with a tough home match against Montgomery Rockville (Maryland) on Saturday.
