The English Football Association have charged Fulham for the crowd disturbances which took place following the 1-0 victory over Chelsea at Craven Cottage in March.

Fulham have been accused of failing to "ensure that all persons purporting to be its supporters or followers conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from violent and/or provocative behaviour".

They have also been charged with failing to ensure "that no spectators were permitted to encroach onto the pitch area".

The club have until September 5th to respond.

Fulham's first victory over their west London rivals for 27 years prompted some jubilant supporters to overwhelm stewards and carry their celebrations onto the pitch.

Their actions infuriated smarting Chelsea fans who responded by also forcing their way past stewards, leading to several scuffles which petered out when police restored order.

Fulham boss Chris Coleman and FA chief executive Brian Barwick condemned the ugly scenes and the club launched an official investigation into the incident.

Fulham will be hit with a substantial fine if the FA uphold the charges.  PA