Soccer: Muscat accuses Pires of spitting

Kevin Muscat has accused Arsenal's Robert Pires of spitting in his face during Australia's 1-1 draw with France.

The Wolves defender also defended his crude tackle on France's Christophe Dugarry, saying there was no malice in the tackle and blamed the momentum of his challenge on the slippery conditions.

The only "deeply regrettable incident" Muscat referred to in a statement was Pires allegedly spitting in his face during the first half.

"This isn't the first time he has done this in a match against Australia," Muscat said. "I wouldn't let it happen to me on the street, let alone during a match.

"This is by no means an excuse, however it was the catalyst for some incidents during the match."

Australian coach Frank Farina initially said he did not see the incident, even though it took place metres away from him and led to a brawl, which spilled into his Melbourne Cricket Ground coaching box.

But after viewing television footage Farina defended Muscat, saying Dugarry wasn't hurt in the actual tackle.

"It's the momentum when they fall together and he twists his knee," said Farina. "What has really irked him (Muscat) and a few of the other players is Pires spitting.

"Maybe he (Pires) should look in the mirror himself and seriously look, if it is true what happened, at his actions. He should understand he has a responsibility as a champion of the world.

"If these allegations are true, it's not a great message to be sending out to the millions of young French kids and Australian kids throughout the game."