Chesterfield fan appears to attack Ebbsfleet keeper with FA investigating pitch invasion and alleged racial abuse after late equaliser in six-goal thriller

  • FA have launched an investigation after Nathan Ashmore was targeted by fans
  • Chesterfield supporters ran onto the pitch to taunt Ashmore after late goal
  • Chesterfield's chief executive said there had been an allegation of racial abuse 

The FA is investigating after dozens of fans stormed a pitch – and kicked the opposition's goalkeeper.

Chesterfield FC fans invaded the pitch moments after the 3-3 draw with Ebbsfleet United and attacked the visitor's goalie Nathan Ashmore.

The National League match on Sunday saw tensions hit boiling point after the Kent team scored an equaliser in the fifth minutes of extra time – when a fan lobbed a bottle at the keeper.

Ebbsfleet goalkeeper Nathan Ashmore was reportedly attacked after conceding a late goal

Ebbsfleet goalkeeper Nathan Ashmore was reportedly attacked after conceding a late goal

A Chesterfield fan confronts Ashmore after the Ebbsfleet goalkeeper conceded to make it 3-3

A Chesterfield fan confronts Ashmore after the Ebbsfleet goalkeeper conceded to make it 3-3

Dozens of supporters stormed the pitch and stood over the keeper, who was laying prone on the ground.


This prompted an angry reaction from his team-mates at the Proact Stadium in Chesterfield, Derbyshire.

Objects had already been thrown at Ashmore after some angry exchanges with home supporters behind his goal

Commentator Steve Tervet described the 'disgraceful scenes' – as one fan appeared to kick the goalie while he was down.

At least one supporter was reportedly detained after the clash – with police and the FA launching an investigation.

Chesterfield's chief executive said there had been an allegation of racial abuse and physical contact during the pitch invasion.

In a statement, Chesterfield FC said: 'Incidents which occurred towards the end of today's game against Ebbsfleet United are not acceptable to Chesterfield Football Club and the club condemns the conduct of a minority of supporters.

'The club will fully co-operate with Derbyshire Police and the FA investigation which is now underway.

'The implications for the club are very serious and an appeal is made to supporters to not engage in matters of pitch encroachment at any time.

'There have also been a number of serious allegations relating to racial abuse and physical contact involving opposition players.

'The club intends to deal with these matters strongly and as and when individuals are identified, banning orders will be issued.

'We would urge anyone with information about the incidents to contact the club - all communication will be dealt with on a confidential basis.' 

Stewards try to stop fans from mocking the Ebbsfleet man during the National League clash

Stewards try to stop fans from mocking the Ebbsfleet man during the National League clash

Chesterfield's chief executive said there had been an allegation of racial abuse

Chesterfield's chief executive said there had been an allegation of racial abuse

 

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