A furious football fan stormed the pitch of Port Vale's clash against Portsmouth to chase referee Craig Hicks.
Portsmouth claimed all three points in the League One fixture thanks to a 88th minute penalty scored by Colby Bishop. The decision of the spot-kick by Hicks seemingly drew the wrath of the Port Vale fan who managed to enter the pitch moments after the penalty as he charged full speed towards Hicks who hastily made his way off the pitch.
As the referee made his way towards the dugout, he was protected by members of staff while Port Vale boss Andy Crosby and coach David Dunn managed to restrain the furious fan who had his eyes set on the referee.
READ MORE:Premier League Darts preview - on sale now ahead of Luke Littler's debut
READ MORE: Reading fans told get off pitch or risk points deduction before game abandoned
Sky Sports is bringing you 500 live football games to watch, as well access to Cricket, Golf, F1, Boxing, NFL, NBA and more across eight dedicated channels. Sky Sports is the only way to watch all the action this year.
£22 a month
SkyThe League One club released a statement on the shocking event during Saturday's (January 27) clash which read: "Port Vale Football Club condemn the actions of the individual who entered the field of play during today’s match against Portsmouth.
"We will work with the relevant authorities to ensure the matter and the individual is dealt with a zero tolerance approach. We remind all supporters that entering the field of play is a criminal offence."
Fans on social media were utterly bemused at what they were watching with one X (formerly known as Twitter) writing: "This was the funniest thing I’ve seen in ages, all we need is the Benny hill theme tune" while another added: "Imagine trying to attack the referee for making the correct decision."
A third user made fun of the players and their lack of help towards the referee as they commented: "Love the way the players rushed to help".
Join the Daily Star's WhatsApp for the sexiest headlines, showbiz gossip and lots more
The Daily Star is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join us!
Through the app, we'll send you the sassiest showbiz stories, some naught headline and a seismic smattering of aliens...along with the latest breaking news of course.
To join our community, all you have to do to join is click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in!
No one will be able to see who has sign up and no one can send messages except for the Daily Star team. We also treat our community members to competitions, special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Not all fans saw the funny side to the serious incident with another user adding: "Disgraceful that this has been able to happen and that whoever they are felt that it was acceptable".
While the incident certainly marred the game, the remaining few minutes were able to be played as Portsmouth retained top spot in League One while Port Vale 18th as they continue to flirt with the relegation zone.
