New coach’s first game ends in controversy as Phoenix slump continues

New coach’s first game ends in controversy as Phoenix slump continues

Chris Greenacre’s first game marred by VAR call as Phoenix fall to Sydney.

Greenacre's Phoenix downed by Sydney FC

The Phoenix have been beaten 1-0 by Sydney FC in Wellington after the referee overturned his decision to award the Nix a first half penalty following intervention from the VAR.

VAR controversy haunts Phoenix in Greenacre's return

Wellington Phoenix fell to a 0-1 defeat against Sydney FC at Hnry Stadium in Chris Greenacre’s first match back in charge, with a contentious VAR decision proving costly. The referee overturned a first-half penalty after reviewing footage that suggested Phoenix forward Nagasawa had not been fouled, and Sydney capitalised by scoring early in the second half through Alexandar Popovic. Despite a spirited second-half fightback from Wellington, Sydne…