Carrick Rangers have called on the NI Football League to take "positive action" after claiming players were subjected to "vile personal and sectarian" abuse during Saturday's game against Linfield.
The Blues claimed a 2-0 win at Taylor's Avenue with two goals from Kirk Millar.
Carrick issued a statement on Saturday evening condemning the alleged abuse.
The club said: "Carrick Rangers FC totally condemn the vile personal and sectarian abuse directed at players during today's match.
"We would call on all clubs and the NI Football League to take positive action to begin to stamp out what has become an endemic problem in our local game."
Carrick added: "It is totally unacceptable for supporters to bring a megaphone to a football match with the sole aim of directing abuse at players.
"Whilst we in no way condone the action of players who react to this provocation, this must be seen as a direct result of receiving diabolical abuse throughout the 90 minutes.
"We, more than many clubs this season, are acutely aware of the pressures that our young players face and the impact that this type of abuse can have on their mental health.
"We would call on all clubs to do what they can to try and reverse this very unpleasant trend."
Linfield issued a response later on Saturday evening, voicing the club's "surprise and disappointment" at Carrick's statement.
The Blues said: "Linfield FC notes with surprise and disappointment a statement released by Carrick Rangers FC after today’s game in Carrickfergus.
"This club is unaware of the evidence of any sectarian abuse being directed by any of our supporters but in the wake of these serious and unproven allegations and the unacceptable behaviour of certain Carrick players during and at the end of today’s game, the club will initiate an internal investigation upon receipt of the Match reports from both the referee and the match delegate.
"Linfield Football Club is totally opposed to sectarianism and all forms of discriminatory behaviour and abuse."
