An investigation has been launched after an allegation that Ebbsfleet keeper Nathan Ashmore was kicked by a supporter during their National League game at Chesterfield on Saturday.

A controversial ending saw the hosts come from 3-0 down to grab a 3-3 draw against the Fleet – who missed a 99th-minute penalty to grab a dramatic victory.

But the headlines came when several Chesterfield fans went onto the pitch after the home side scored their third goal deep into stoppage time.

KM sports reporter Steve Tervet tweeted: “Chesterfield score, fans run on and one kicks Ashmore. Absolutely disgraceful.”

Within hours of the game finishing, Chesterfield confirmed that an FA investigation is under way.

A Chesterfield club statement 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.”

Ebbsfleet keeper Ashmore spoke out last month about how abuse from the terraces made him consider walking off the pitch during a game.

In November, Boreham Wood apologised to Ashmore after supporters called him a 'nonce' at a National League game.

That came just days after an Eastleigh fan was banned from his own club and fined by magistrates for racially abusing Ashmore.

It is not the first time this season that Chesterfield fans have been on the pitch during a home game. Several supporters came onto the pitch during their 4-0 defeat to Solihull Moors on Boxing Day.