Darlington are appealing for witnesses after one of their players was allegedly spat at after today’s game at Lancaster City and are holding an investigation into the incident.

As the players returned to the changing rooms after the 0-0 draw in Lancashire, it is understood Curtis Edwards was involved in an unsavoury moment when he was verbally abused as well as spat at, which led to an angry confrontation between players and supporters.

Manager Martin Gray identified a supporter who he believed to have been involved in the incident and confronted him during a heated exchange on the pitch, a moment witnessed by the small number of supporters that remained inside the Giant Axe.

Supporters who witnessed the flashpoint involving 19-year-old Edwards are urged to contract Quakers.

A statement released by Quakers this evening read: “The club has launched an urgent investigation into an unacceptable and regrettable incident at the end of today’s 0-0 draw at Lancaster City.

“A Darlington player was allegedly verbally abused and spat at, in front of others, by a so-called Darlington fan as the players left the playing field at the end of the game.

“Witnesses have come forward to give accounts of the incidents, and if the person or persons are properly identified, then they face a ban from the club.

“Notwithstanding the results of any investigation into today’s incident, the club strongly condemns such, or any similar, actions and will seek the strongest possible punishment for any offender.

“The club has striven to build a friendly family atmosphere at matches and amongst its supporters through a variety of initiatives, and regrets that its reputation may have been tarnished.

“If you witnessed the incident, or are able to provide the club with any help in its investigations, then please contact Dave Mills on dave@dfc1883.co.uk.”

Teenage midfielder Edwards was playing only his tenth game for Darlington having signed last month.