A man has been charged by police for invading the pitch during a fiery end to Ebbsfleet United’s win in Hartlepool earlier this month.

The 44-year-old from Hartlepool is set to appear at Teesside Magistrates Court on Friday.

He was arrested at Victoria Park in the game on March 7, one that ended with accusations from two Ebbsfleet players of racism from the home crowd.

Fleet won the game 1-0 and Pools launched an investigation into the allegations and has appealed for any fans with any information to get in touch.

Keeper Jordan Holmes and Jermaine McGlashan both reported alleged racial comments from home supporters.

Home fans hit back on social media, disputing the claims and blasting Fleet’s ‘time-wasting’ tactics, leading boss Kevin Watson to defend his men.

An announcement was made during the match to the crowd regarding racial abuse while both players and Watson spoke to the referee after the game.

“I’ve never experienced anything like that before and it’s not nice if it has happened,” said Watson, speaking post-match.

“There was an alleged comment from behind the goal that Jordan didn’t feel was right. The referee came over and followed the protocol.

“Then Jermaine was on the far side and he said there was a comment while he was waiting to come back on the pitch.

“The referee was very good, he spoke to us after the game. All the officials, including the safety officer, were in his room and he took detailed reports from the players and the FA will now investigate what has happened.”

Fleet’s Ayo Obileye was sent off after the final whistle following a clash with Pool boss Dave Challinor, who was also sent off.

“One of their fans went on the pitch and was going to confront Ayo,” said Watson.

“No supporter should ever enter the field of play – that’s completely not on."