Linfield Ladies defender Louise McFrederick has hit out at online trolls following the club's 9-0 defeat to Glentoran.
The Blues were outclassed by a classy Glens team at Midgley Park on Friday night.
Kerry Beattie scored four including a penalty, with Lauren Wade (2), Kelly Bailie, Rachel Rogan and Caragh Hamilton also on target.
The result sent Glentoran top of the Danske Bank Women's Premiership, while Linfield remain fifth and 32 points adrift of their Big Two rivals.
It has been a difficult season for the Blues, but McFrederick feels some of the online criticism is unfair on Linfield's young squad.
She said on Twitter: "Nothing more disappointing than losing a derby especially by this score line.
"Credit to Glentoran Women they have some team and in my opinion play the best football in the league.
"But I’ve already read some comments about tonight.
"Please remember our average age is 18 and these girls are still learning and developing. There's nothing more down heartening than reading harsh comments.
"Tough season but we will work hard and be back stronger than ever in 2022."
