### Sydney Derby: No Handball Decision
During the Sydney Derby, a key moment sparked discussion when referee Pantazopoulos decided against awarding a handball.
> "If the VAR doesn't think it should be reviewed by the referee, then there's no stoppage."
This statement reflects the current VAR protocol: unless the Video Assistant Referee identifies a clear and obvious error, the main referee’s call on the field stands.
### Interpretation of VAR Rules
In this instance, the officials determined that the handball did not meet the threshold for intervention. As a result, play continued without further review, upholding the on-field decision.
### Match Impact
While fans debated consistency in officiating, the decision underscored how VAR aims to balance fairness with uninterrupted play flow.
> "No review means the referee’s original call stays—maintaining match rhythm unless undeniable evidence proves otherwise."
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**Author’s summary:** The Sydney Derby showcased how VAR prioritizes clear errors, leaving Pantazopoulos’s no-handball call uncontested to preserve game flow.
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Reddit · r/Aleague — 2025-11-29