'The optics were poor' - Springboks coach discusses Eben Etzebeth dismissal
The veteran lock has won back-to-back global titles for his nation
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Springboks leader Rassie Erasmus admitted "it didn't appear favorable" following veteran forward Eben Etzebeth was sent off for making contact with an opponent's eye in the match with Wales
South Africa's national team completed a flawless end-of-year tour through overwhelming play during the match netting multiple scores during a 73-nil victory
Yet almost the final act of the annual campaign was Etzebeth, who crossed the last try receiving a red card by referee Luc Ramos
The experienced player was shown a red card due to contact the facial region of the Welsh player Alex Mann via digital contact in a 79th-minute scuffle
"I'm uncertain what I can say that avoids controversy. It didn't look good making it a proper sending-off," stated the manager
"The manner it occurred and what prompted it, if he was instigated, it's unclear, yet it's absolutely not how we preferred to conclude the match. I believe it appeared favorable"
The experienced player, who increased his Springboks record through receiving cap number 141 during the match, looks certain to be given a lengthy ban
His domestic franchise begin their European competition against the French side on Sunday, 7 December before a home game facing the London side including domestic clashes over the festive period
South Africa's disciplined power
The world champions overpowered Wales throughout the contest that became unbalanced from the beginning
Steve Tandy's reign has commenced following substantial reverses to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina alongside a late triumph versus the Asian side
The Welsh team has suffered multiple defeats in recent games however the manager sought to offer some comfort
"I believe the squad has been progressing and improving, this demonstrated a controlled performance," he said
"The Welsh team are not players that just roll over yield to pressure, they compete throughout. This was one of the really clinical performances featuring our squad exhibiting maximum commitment"
"Wales have an excellent manager and will come back. We recognize it can change and in 1998 we overcame them (comprehensively) then were defeated in 1999"
The national team finish the year top of world rugby following victories in consecutive southern hemisphere crowns
South Africa's team have demonstrated their impressive resources and prowess but the coach referenced when they were ranked sixth
"We were in that situation with fans destroying merchandise, but the Welsh people are here," he said
"The encouragement continues with the squad showing spirit. Achieve early successes, build momentum and circumstances will improve
"I recognize that situations transformed from our previous struggles, culminating in the 2019 championship. Potential remains unlimited"
Related topics
- Wales national team
- The governing body
- Rugby Union
