'It didn't look good' - Springboks coach on Eben Etzebeth dismissal

• Posted
  Recently published
• Numerous reactions

South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus acknowledged "the optics weren't great" following legendary lock the towering player was sent off due to eye contact in the match with Wales

The Springboks secured an autumn clean sweep through overwhelming play during the match netting multiple scores resulting in a 73-nil victory

Nevertheless nearly the last action of the international year featured the veteran player, who crossed the last try getting sent off from the official the presiding official

The experienced player received a red card for touching the facial region of the Welsh player Alex Mann with his thumb during late-game altercation

"I'm uncertain what to comment without causing debate. The appearance was poor making it a legitimate dismissal," commented the coach

"How it happened and the reasons behind it, and if he was provoked, it's unclear, yet it's absolutely not the manner that we would have liked to end the game. In my view the visual impression was positive"

Etzebeth, who increased his Springboks record when winning a 141st cap in Wales, seems destined to be given an extended suspension

His club side commence their European competition at Toulouse on Sunday, 7 December prior to a domestic match against Saracens plus local rivalries through the Christmas season

The reigning titleholders overwhelmed their opponents throughout the contest which proved lopsided from the start

The current management's period has started with multiple significant losses against top-tier nations alongside a late triumph against Japan

Wales have lost 21 of their last 23 Test matches but the coach attempted to give reassurance

"I believe that we have been building and advancing, this was a disciplined display," he said

"The Welsh team are not players that just roll over and take the shots, they compete throughout. This demonstrated one of the really clinical performances featuring our squad exhibiting total dedication"

"The team includes a great coach and will rebound. We understand it can change like the 1998 example we overcame them (comprehensively) and then lost in 1999"

The Springboks finish the year ranked first globally after winning consecutive southern hemisphere crowns

The Springboks have displayed their extensive squad strength and power however the manager recalled their former position

"Our team faced comparable conditions and supporters expressing anger, yet Welsh supporters remain," he commented

"There is the support and the team demonstrates determination. Get one or two wins, build momentum and circumstances will improve

"I know that things changed from our previous struggles, achieving global success. Potential remains unlimited"

Connected themes

• Rugby in Wales
• Wales Rugby Union
• Rugby Union