Mark Bentley has been outstanding for Aldershot since his comeback from injury. Even during a run of three consecutive Ryman League defeats, the midfielder stood out as the side's outstanding player.
Which is why it puzzles, and angers, manager George Borg that Bentley has been the subject of some verbal stick from a few supporters.
Bentley scored the goal that ended Aldershot's barren run on Saturday, yet was still the target of some stinging comments.
Borg says the criticism, albeit from a tiny minority of the home crowd, affect his gifted midfielder and he could go the same way as other players whose confidence was destroyed by mouthy fans – players such as Simon Stapleton, Gary Smart and Leon Gutzmore.
"Part-timers are not professionals – they have jobs and pressure, and they don't need this, people getting on their back," said Borg. "Most of the fans are great and I just wish more of them would stand up and tell these people where they get off."
Bentley, 22, has yet to take up a new contract and his future is likely to be decided at the end of the season.
On Saturday, Aldershot gave an encouragingly solid performance to beat Slough. Matt Crossley, relishing his new role as skipper, was back to his commanding best in central defence and Stuart Searle was a more than able replacement for injured goalkeeper Andy Pape.
After just four minutes, Bentley shot home first-time from a Crossley centre and Aldershot should have added to their tally, with Gary Abbott lacking his normal sure touch in front of goal.
Slough were more in the game after half-time, with striker Paul Coombs striving to score against the club he once served as a professional.
Aldershot showed plenty of grit in the mud and driving rain and worked hard for a welcome three points.
"We're still averaging two points a game," said Borg. "If we can keep that up until the last five games of the season, we could still mount a challenge."
Two crucial away games now lie ahead for Aldershot. They visit Croydon on Saturday and travel to Enfield on Tuesday.
Aldershot: Searle, Coll, Chewins, Crossley, Kirby, Kuhl, Graham, Bentley, Abbott, Payne (Andrews 78 mins), Gell. Subs (not used) Adedeji, Ullathorne.
Attendance: 1,762.