TADCASTER Albion manager Paul Marshall was “sick to the stomach” after his side’s Wembley dream turned into a violent nightmare in the space of half an hour.

The Brewers lost 1-0 to Highworth Town in their FA Vase quarter-final replay, after which a mass brawl, involving both sets of supporters, players and officials, broke out and marred the biggest occasion in the club’s history.

An FA inquiry into the invasion is likely to follow with Albion declaring their intention to bring those responsible to justice.

On the final whistle, Highworth supporters launched a pitch invasion, only for one of their fans to allegedly provoke the home support.

A melee ensued in which punches were thrown, and kicks issued by both sets of fans.

Highworth claim that their goalkeeper and chairman were hit, while Tadcaster had received an apology for the earlier actions of a Highworth fan who had allegedly thrown coins on to the pitch and pushed a home fan in the bar.

Said Marshall: “I’m disappointed to lose the game but even more upset about what’s gone on after.

“I was one of the first over there as I’d wanted a quiet word with the referee. There were punches thrown, which was very unsavoury and not what we want to see at non-league football.

“I’m really, really upset. I feel sick to the pit of my stomach about what’s happened. There needs to be a full inquiry into it.”

This was supposed to be a triumphant occasion for Tadcaster, who smashed their attendance record with a crowd of 1,307.

The Brewers missed their big chance when striker Calum Ward was hauled down in the area by Jonathan Aitkenhead and referee Martin Coy awarded a penalty on the stroke of half-time. Ward saw his effort saved by Gary Stevens.

The Worthians, who now progress to face North Shields in the semi-final, struck their winner after 73 minutes with a Callum Parsons’ stunning effort sealing a 1-0 victory.

Tadcaster chairman Matthew Gore said: “We didn’t anticipate over 1,400 fans, we were only hoping to get 1,000. The stewarding was up to scratch, whether there was enough stewarding is a different question. “

Gore’s remarks were followed by an official statement from the club, which read: “We are devastated with the scenes at the end of (the) game. We will continue to work closely with the police, Highworth Town and the FA. We are determined to bring those responsible to account.

“As a club we apologise to everyone who witnessed and were on the receiving end of totally unacceptable behaviour.

“We do however wish to thank the majority of the 1,307 crowd who behaved impeccably.

“There will be a further statement released following a meeting of club directors and further liaison with the authorities.

“We wish Highworth Town and everyone involved with their great club continued success for the remainder of the season.”