The game featured a first-inning confrontation between Giants lefthander Barry Zito and Milwaukee first baseman Prince Fielder.

With two outs and a runner at first base, Zito’s first pitch hit Fielder squarely in the back, an apparent retaliatory gesture for Fielder’s antics during a walkoff home run against the Giants Sept. 6 in Milwaukee.

Zito wouldn’t admit plunking Fielder on purpose, but the intent was evident. There had been rumblings in recent days that a payback would occur.

“My fastball was running in and it just got away from me,’’ Zito said.

While plate umpire Ted Barrett walked about halfway between the plate and the mound, Fielder walked to first base, tossed the ball lightly in Zito’s direction and clapped his hands.

Fielder claimed he wasn’t expecting to be hit and didn’t like it, but apparently was willing to let it slide - this time, at least.

“If that’s what they gotta do, let them hit me once, if it makes them feel better,’’ he said.