The National Rugby League (NRL) has defended posting an image on Facebook of two female players kissing after a match.
Maroons player Karina Brown can be seen sharing an intimate moment with her partner, and Blues opponent, Ness Foliaki, after their women's State of Origin match on Friday night.
The image has received more than 19,000 "likes" as of Saturday night, and has had more than 3000 comments from the public. While some people applauded the NRL for sharing the couple's touching moment, others criticised the organisation for "sexualising" women's league.
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"Already sexualising the women's league, one step forward three steps back," one Facebook user commented, clocking up more than 1000 "likes".
But the NRL snapped back, saying, "If we can post an [image] of Cooper Cronk and his wife Tara kissing, then we can share a photo of Karina Brown and Ness Foliaki sharing a moment too."
The NRL's comment had received more than 9000 "likes".
Another Facebook user slammed the NRL for posting the image on social media where young girls might be "put off" playing after seeing it.
"There would be public outrage if two blokes kissed exactly like that after an Origin. Keep that crap to the dressing shed or at home," Facebook user Matt Faint wrote.
"We don't care if you are partners, girlfriends, lovers etc good luck to you, do what ever [sic] you want, no discrimination or judgement here just keep it off the field and let your football do the talking.
"Bad move NRL, there may be young girls coming through put off by this."
Once again, the NRL defended posting the image, telling Mr Faint, "Hey Matt, welcome to 2018... can't wait for you to join us!"
The NRL's comment had racked up 15,000 "likes", while Mr Faint's received more than 4000.
Both Brown and Foliaki are also national teammates for the Australian Jillaroos league team.
Newshub.
