A gripping FA Cup third-round contest between Millwall and West Ham United ended in a 2-2 draw on Saturday, but the result was quickly overshadowed by a spitting allegation directed at Hammers forward Taty Castellanos.

Castellanos, 27, stands accused of spitting at Millwall goalkeeper Filip Marschall during the 65th minute, when the Lions were leading 2-0. TV cameras captured Marschall appearing to show referee Paul Tierney a mark on his shirt that he claimed was spit. After the final whistle, Millwall lodged a formal complaint with the match officials.

Managers kept in the dark

Both managers said they had not witnessed the incident. Millwall boss Alex Neil told reporters: "I haven't asked Filip about it, but it's like anything else. I'm sure there'll be footage of it — or not if it didn't happen. I'd be extremely surprised if Filip's made an accusation and nothing's happened. I'm sure the authorities will deal with it."

Neil added that he had simply noticed Marschall walking out with the ball before the fourth official informed him of the spitting accusation.

West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo was equally cautious. "I'm aware of the allegation. I didn't see the images, I didn't speak with Taty," Nuno said. "I cannot go much further on that. I'm going to look at the images. I cannot answer."

If the allegation is proven, Castellanos could face a six-match ban — the standard punishment for spitting offences.

Hammers show character to claw back

The controversy threatens to overshadow what was a remarkable second-half turnaround from West Ham, who were two goals down before rallying to earn a point. The Hammers also finished the match with 10 men.

Speaking to BBC Radio London, Nuno reflected on the performance: "It was a tough, tough game. We didn't start very well — it was a very intense atmosphere and we didn't deal with the physicality. The second half we improved in our game. Our passing was better. The players showed up — I'm happy for that but I'm disappointed we didn't stick to the plan."

Nuno described the final result as a positive one given how the game unfolded, while noting that the fans were left satisfied despite not getting the win they wanted.

International break a welcome reprieve

With a three-week international break now under way, Nuno believes the timing is ideal for West Ham to address their defensive shortcomings, which were exposed by both of Millwall's goals.

"We are learning about this division, but we can't waste much time," the Portuguese manager said. "We are being punished with the physicality. Just look at the goals we are conceding from throw-ins — it's worrying. This international break will be very useful for us."