Without several first choice players, Otumoetai FC Women's team went down 8-0 to championship leaders Rotorua United at Fergusson Park on Sunday.
Otumoetai player-coach, former Football Fern, Anna Fullerton said her side was hampered by injuries and the non-availability of players who were representing their colleges at national secondary school tournaments.
"Life has got in the way a bit this week ... that's not an excuse, but all we've said today is go out and have fun, which unfortunately is hard to do when you are on the back foot."
Fullerton said there was plenty of effort from the Otumoetai side.
"The girls ran and ran and ran - but within 20 minutes everyone was buggered. So it's about playing smart football in those times and that's got to be coached.
"Hopefully by next season that's all in there and we can put a good strong team back in the same league again, which would be awesome."