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An ugly brawl broke out at a football stadium as tempers flared during a penalty shootout.
Footage sent to KentOnline and shared widely on social media shows a fight between fans during a tense semi-final between Whitstable Town and Fisher FC at the Belmont Ground last night.
The match, attended by 762 people, ended in heartbreak for the Oystermen, who were eliminated from promotion contention after a nail-biting loss on penalties during the Southern Counties East League Premier Division play-off.
But, off the pitch, a ruckus among spectators was caught on camera.
The video captures the exact moment the atmosphere in the home end turned sour, with pushing, shoving, and then fists flying between groups behind the goal.
One man can be seen lunging forward with a punch, as a scuffle erupts in the terrace area near the perimeter fence.
Another is knocked to the floor and repeatedly hit as stewards rush to intervene.
One man, who was wearing a white hat, also appears to attempt to headbutt another spectator.
Police confirmed they have been made aware of the incident.
The clash, which appears to involve at least half a dozen people, quickly spirals into a shameful spectacle, with shouting and chaos overshadowing the tense climax to the game.
The trouble flared moments after Whitstable converted a penalty that looked to keep their hopes alive in the shootout.
But jubilation was short-lived as visiting goalkeeper Isaac Ogunseri emerged the hero for Fisher, pulling off the decisive save to win the shootout 4-3 after a 1-1 draw in normal time.
- Read our full match report here.
Following the fight, a police spokesman urged anyone with information to come forward.
The spokesman said: “Police have been made aware of a disturbance at Whitstable Town Football Club shortly before 9.50pm.
“Anyone with information who has yet to speak to officers should call 01843 222289 quoting reference 29-1422.”
Whitstable Town FC have since put out a statement regarding the incident and have condemned the actions of the small selection of fans.
A spokesperson said: “Our stewards and staff acted swiftly to manage the situation and restore order.
“We can confirm that Kent Police have contacted the club regarding the incident, and we will cooperate fully to assist them with their enquiries.
“It is deeply disappointing that, in what has otherwise been a fantastic season for the club, the actions of a minority overshadowed the final game.
“We would like to take this opportunity to remind all supporters that they are expected to conduct themselves respectfully and responsibly, in accordance with the standards expected at football grounds, both at home and away.
“Thank you for your continued support.”