MANAGER John Snape vowed to investigate the altercation between captain Nathan Hayward and a fan after Worcester City’s 1-1 draw with Rugby Town.

Hayward made three gestures with his hand towards the Main Stand eight minutes from time and then had to be restrained by team-mates and backroom staff from heading towards the supporter during a volatile outburst as he left the pitch at full-time.

Snape explained he had already reached the dressing room when the incident took place and that Hayward had been shepherded away by the time he heard the commotion. He also said he had not seen Hayward’s gestures during the match.

The City boss was keen to stress support for his players, particularly his recently-appointed skipper, but declared he would take seriously any wrongdoing.

“I had reached the dressing room by the time it had happened. I heard a ruckus and came out but did not see anything,” said Snape in a post-match interview.

“At the moment it is hearsay but I will investigate. If Nathan has been out of order then I will have the appropriate conversation with him in due course.

“I will back my players 100 per cent, they gave their all in the game. Yes, there was frustration from the crowd but neither player nor fan should be taking it out on each other.

“We should be working together and we need to learn from our mistakes on and off the pitch.”

While there was criticism from the stands, nothing abusive was seen or heard and there were no such complaints made or forwarded to City’s safety officer and football secretary Kevin Preece.

Asked whether the criticism had been justified, Snape replied: “The fans are here, have paid their money and have voices.

"I want them to be positive but if there is criticism due it is over the fact we have dropped points again at home.

“If we look at our league position, it is the draws that have killed us not the defeats. I don’t think there is any lack of effort or commitment, maybe just a little bit of magic that could have won it for us.

“I thought Nathan Hayward was outstanding again. His engine and work rate has been fantastic, he is highly strung and wants to win for the club.

“We can talk about technicians and patterns but you have to have that desire and passion to play for this club. Nathan certainly has that in abundance and aside from that, he is a very good player.

“He has had a super season and been a big player for us. I hope this little altercation can get sorted out and we can move on ready for Bromsgrove (City’s next match, Tuesday, 7.45).”

Hayward declined to comment.