A POLICE horse who was "punched in the nose" was "uninjured" and remained on duty despite her ordeal.

Police Horse Luna, from Thames Valley Police, was "punched in the nose" by a football fan during a clash between Saints and Pompey supporters on Tuesday, but police have now released a photo of her confirming that she was unharmed.

A video on social media appears to show a man punching a horse in the face and trying to out run it after the match at Fratton Park, which Southampton won 4-0.

The man is pursued by the mounted officer and is detained after he runs into other police on the street.

In a Tweet, Thames Valley Police said: "Following an incident during Portsmouth's match with Southampton on Tuesday, [Hampshire Police] have confirmed PH Luna was uninjured and remained on duty for the rest of the evening."

An RSPCA spokesperson said: "We're concerned to hear about this, and understand the police are looking into this further.

"We would appeal to those who take part in such events to treat these animals with care and respect and to remember that their actions can have serious effects on the animals’ welfare."

On Tuesday, Hampshire Police launched heir largest-ever football-related operation in the county, however, fans were still involved in heated exchanges.

Police officers enforced a wall to keep fans apart but this did not prevent scenes of disorder, with coins, bottles and smoke grenades in the colours of both teams thrown, as well as pockets of abuse and violence.

Police say five people have been arrested in relation to last night's match.