Merseyside Police say the use of pepper spray towards Leeds fans at Everton on Saturday was "proportionate and necessary" during an incident where a man was arrested for assaulting an officer.
Videos of fans being sprayed by officers emerged on social media following Everton's 3-0 Premier League win at Goodison Park.
The footage shows police attempting to hold back fans as scuffles break out, with several supporters rubbing their eyes as the spray takes effect.
Police say the incident occurred after bottles were thrown at officers and two were punched in the face as they attempted to detain a man, who was reported to have assaulted a steward.