POLICE have launched an investigation into the violence that erupted after Swindon Town's play-off semi-final defeat to Port Vale.

The sides met with a place at Wembley at stake, and after Vale won the penalty shootout 6-5 to advance to the final against Mansfield Town, home fans flooded the pitch.

Some were caught on camera making a beeline for the Swindon players and appeared to assault them. 

Staffordshire Police confirmed in a statement that it was working with the two clubs to investigate the altercation.

"Police attended Hamil Road, Burslem, where a Swindon Town player was reportedly assaulted following a pitch incursion after the conclusion of the game," the force said.

"Officers are working in partnership with both football clubs to identify those responsible."

Superintendent Gemma Ward, head of force operations, said: “Staffordshire Police and Port Vale are committed to ensuring that events at Vale Park are safe and enjoyable for everyone in attendance.

“Anyone seeking to ruin this will be firmly dealt with – such actions have no place in our local community. A thorough investigation is now underway.”

Harry McKirdy, Mandela Egbo and Jake O'Brien all posted about the frightening event on social media.

O'Brien called the offending Vale fans disgusting, Egbo shared a picture of an injury to his head, and McKirdy called for the EFL to do more to discourage this behaviour. 

In his post-match interview, Swindon head coach Ben Garner confirmed that everyone was 'just about' okay after the incident and furthered calls for action.

He said: "It needs to be looked at and dealt with quickly. I know (Sheffield United striker) Billy Sharp was headbutted the other night – it’s madness, just absolute madness. I think something needs to be done before something serious happens."

A spokesman for Port Vale FC confirmed that the club will not tolerate such irresponsible behaviour and remains committed to taking the strongest possible action against anyone found guilty of being involved in criminal activities – including barring individuals from future games.

Anyone who witnessed the assault or who may have relevant photographs and video footage is asked to contact Staffordshire Police on Facebook, Twitter, or call 101, quoting incident number 213 of May 16.