Controversy descended on Portsmouth and Sunderland's League One play-off semi-final on Thursday night.

The game was finely poised after Sunderland won the first fixture 1-0 thanks to a goal from Chris Maguire, leaving Portsmouth with all the work to do at Fratton Park.

However, with the game descending into a goal-less draw and Sunderland eventually winning the game, the second leg became overshadowed by a shocking exchange.

During a shoulder-to-shoulder exchange between Luke O'Nien and Tom Naylor, the former ended up falling into the stands and amongst a group of animated Portsmouth fans.

Unsurprisingly, O'Nien was pummelled with insults and verbal abuse but one supporter took things way too far by getting physical with the opposition player.

Portsmouth vs Sunderland controversy

One 'fan' has gone viral for all the wrong reasons by appearing to kick out at the Sunderland man who, to his credit, didn't rise to the episode and maintained his professionalism.

It didn't end there as the supporter then became embroiled in a verbal exchange with Lee Cattermole and was clearly incensed on the Sky Sports coverage.

According to the Sunderland Echo, the fan was eventually ejected from the stadium and will likely face punishment for his disgraceful behaviour on the evening.

Check out the full incident down below: 

Passionate social media reaction

Unsurprisingly, there was an angry reaction across social media and numerous figures associated with Sunderland condemned the actions of the supporter.

Ex-Sunderland player @SleevesElliott penned: "A couple of fine specimens trying to get a couple of sly digs in on O’Nien."

Meanwhile, user @daveboneherron commented: "Absolutely disgusting. Camera caught them in the act and I hope @officialpompey and @EFL do something about it."

Then @JadeReid90 posted: "Vile behaviour! It’s the minority like those that tarnish the rest the fans! Haway Sunderland!"

However, if there's any footballing justice, it's that Sunderland won the game and booked themselves a ticket to Wembley.

It wasn't the most exciting game in the world and it will be remembered for its general feistiness, but it gives Sunderland the chance to return to Championship football.

As for Portsmouth, their climb up the Football League ladder has been halted and it seems as though they'll be one supporter light during their matches next season.

After his disgraceful behaviour against O'Nein, however, that's hardly a bad thing.

How do you think the fan should be punished? Have your say in the comments section below.