Albion and Palace fans were being kept apart by police at the top of Gloucester Road, in Brighton, on Saturday afternoon as the away supporters were given a police escort to the railway station.
Sussex Police have now confirmed that an officer was injured when a pyrotechnic was thrown during those scenes before the Premier League match.
A spokeswoman for the force said: “One officer sustained an injury outside Brighton Station before kick-off, believed to have been caused by a pyrotechnic thrown as a missile.
“The officer did not require hospital treatment and is now recovering.”
Violence was also seen on the concourse outside Falmer station. Police battled to stop fans fighting but punches were thrown. Police restrained one person on the ground, while one man punched another man in the head, causing him to fall.
“There was a small minority of fans who displayed disruptive and disorderly behaviour,” said the spokeswoman.
“On the day, officers made seven arrests, for offences which included assault, assault on an emergency worker, affray, and offences contrary to the public order act including two which were aggravated by homophobia.
“Officers responded as necessary and any individuals caught committing offences will be dealt with robustly.
READ MORE: What Micah Richards said about Brighton on Match Of The Day
“Sussex Police works with partners including Southern Rail, British Transport Police, the Premier League and Brighton and Hove Albion to manage the safe arrival and departure of supporters from the Amex Stadium,” said the spokeswoman.
“We’d like to thank the vast majority of fans who behaved responsibly before, during and after the game.
“Working with partners including the club and emergency services colleagues, our aim is to ensure the day is as safe and enjoyable as possible for everyone attending.”
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