Ireland staff member alleges spitting after Israel Nations League draw

An allegation of spitting involving a Republic of Ireland staff member followed Sunday's 1-1 Nations League draw with Israel in Backa Topola, Serbia. The Irish Times reported that Damien Doyle, Ireland's head of athletic performance, alleged an Israeli player spat at him as the teams left the pitch at half-time. The allegation remains unconfirmed in the reporting.

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Israel's football association offered no comment when asked about the claim, according to The Irish Times. Its press officer said he had not seen anything and therefore could not comment. Israel coach Ran Ben-Shimon also said he had not witnessed the incident because he was already in the dressing room at the interval.

On the pitch, Troy Parrott's penalty gave Ireland a half-time lead before Israel captain Dor Peretz equalised two minutes after the restart. Israel struck the post twice in the second half. Ben-Shimon told reporters he believed his team had deserved to win, while acknowledging that Ireland's set pieces had caused problems.

BBC Sport reported that Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson confirmed an accusation had been made but said he had not seen the alleged incident. Speaking to Off The Ball, he suggested it would probably be reviewed. His comments did not establish that a disciplinary investigation had begun or that any finding had been reached against a player.

Hallgrimsson also said he felt Israel had tried to intimidate Ireland from the opening stages, praising his players for controlling their emotions during a tense contest. Ben-Shimon, asked whether his team had targeted midfielder Jayson Molumby, denied that there was anything personal involved. BBC Sport reported that the Israel coach also denied instructing players to injure opponents.

The match was held without spectators, with both meetings between the teams taking place at neutral venues. BBC Sport said the fixtures had prompted calls for Ireland to withdraw because of the Israel-Gaza war. The Football Association of Ireland nevertheless fulfilled both games. Irish players bowed their heads during Israel's national anthem, and the teams did not complete the usual pre-match formalities.