Teen footballer scores stunning goal after horrific trolling

Scottish women's football players celebrate scoring a goal during a recent match (Illustrative image) (Photo by Callum Landells/Getty Images) Getty Images

Sixteen-year-old Skye Stout delivered the perfect response to online trolls with a stunning free-kick goal just days after suffering horrific abuse. The teenage midfielder found the net in the 37th minute during Kilmarnock Women's 6-2 victory over St Johnstone at Winton Park in Ardrossan on Sunday.

The goal marked Stout's first in senior football and came after Kilmarnock had been forced to delete social media posts announcing her signing. The Ayrshire club made the decision within hours of Thursday's announcement after she received abhorrent comments about her skin condition.

Football community shows support

The trolling incident sparked an overwhelming wave of support from across the football world. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher wrote: "Good luck Skye."

Ex-England cricketer Kevin Pietersen added: "BE THE BEST, Skye! Go get it!!!" Exeter City Women's official account posted: "Sending our support to Skye, good luck for the new season and an exciting first year in senior football."

Former Scottish First Minister Hamza Yusef condemned the trolls as "sad" and "pathetic". He posted: "Skye Stout has just signed for Kilmarnock. At 16 she has already achieved more than her trolls ever will. Imagine being a grown man abusing a 16-year-old? What a sad, pathetic, unhappy life these trolls have."

Impressive debut performance

Stout's contribution went beyond her free-kick strike from the edge of the box. She also set up team-mate Cara Gray for Kilmarnock's third goal in the thrilling Scottish Women's Premier League 2 encounter.

The teenager played 62 minutes before being substituted to warm applause from supporters. Her performance demonstrated how sporting excellence can silence critics and inspire positive change.

Grassroots organisation highlights issue

Team Grassroots, the football organisation that first brought the trolling incident to public attention, had called for support after the abuse escalated. They explained how a grassroots player signing her first professional contract should have been a moment to cherish.

The incident has sparked broader conversations about online abuse targeting young athletes, particularly in women's football. Stout's triumphant response shows how talent and determination can overcome negativity and hatred.

Sources used: "Daily Mail", "Manchester Evening News" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.