HARTLEPOOL UNITED lost to Dover, ended with nine men and their manager sent to the stand.

But the game will be remembered for an first-half incident in which it is understood racist abuse was hurled in the direction of the visiting players.

After Pools fell behind to a 38th minute penalty, the Dover players celebrated in front of the Town End.

Players then reacted to a second of the home crowd who responded to their actions after the goal.

The Pools players also got involved, with midfielder Gus Mafuta trying forcibly to point out one individual.
The game was held up for almost eight minutes as the players from both sides got together. Pools chief executive Mark Maguire entered the pitch.

As the second half restarted, the club made a statement over the PA system condemning racism.

Referee Joseph Johnson was at the centre of things in a performance which was inept.

In the second half, one supporter left the Neale Cooper Stand terrace to get onto the pitch to try and get at the Liverpool-based official before he was turned away by players of both sides.

Pools trailed to a penalty smashed home by Effiong.

Pools had the strongest penalty shout rejected when Toure was felled in the area, Ryan Donaldson sent off for his protests as Craig Hignett was also sent to the stands.

Pools hit the post and had three shots hacked off the line in quick  succession.

The Whites pinched a second on the break late on as Rigg bundled in and sub Nicky Featherstone was red carded for saying something to  the hapless official.