The police horse was hit before the game and mounted officers had to go on to the pitch after the match when fans spilled on to the playing surface, Avon and Somerset Police said.

Superintendent Kevin Instance said some of those who flooded on to the pitch were intent on carrying out “acts of significant violence”.

Supt Kevin Instance said 3 officers were injured during disorder at #Bristol Rovers game - more arrests expected http://t.co/cVCiAy16q2

— Avon and Somerset Police (@ASPolice) May 3, 2014

He said: “There were small pockets of disorder before the match and a police horse was punched during one of these incidents.

“At the end of the game, feelings were running high because of the disappointing result and unfortunately a number of fans went on to the pitch.

“Some of these people were intent on engaging in acts of significant violence.”

He said the injured police officers were not badly hurt but he expected more people to join the six arrested for public order offences and assault as the police investigation continues.

Mr Instance went on: "We simply will not tolerate any form of anti-social behaviour or violence and we are committed to bringing offenders to justice using CCTV evidence, as well as other intelligence and information gathered during the policing operation.

“Successful convictions are likely to lead to football banning orders, which will prevent those convicted from being able to attend games or follow the national side abroad.

“Those who are intent on causing trouble, no matter what the circumstances are, should remember they are not anonymous and they will face serious consequences for their actions.”

In October, Newcastle United fan Barry Rogerson, 45, was jailed for 12 months after punching a police horse.

Rogerson, of Bedlington, Northumberland, was convicted of violent disorder for attacking the animal after the Toon lost lost 3-0 at home to arch local rivals Sunderland in April last year.

He was also banned from attending any football matches in the UK for six years.