'The optics were poor' - Erasmus on Eben Etzebeth sending off

Springboks action image

Eben Etzebeth has claimed two World Cups for his nation

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South Africa leader Rassie Erasmus conceded "the visual impression was poor" in the wake of experienced second-row the towering player was dismissed for making contact with an opponent's eye in the match with Wales

The Springboks secured a flawless end-of-year tour with a dominant performance during the match to score eleven touchdowns in a comprehensive shutout

Nevertheless nearly the last action of the Test season was Etzebeth, who crossed the concluding points getting sent off by referee the match referee

The veteran forward was shown a sending-off due to contact the facial region of the Welsh player Alex Mann using his thumb in a 79th-minute scuffle

"I'm uncertain what I can say without causing debate. The visual was unfavorable therefore it became a legitimate dismissal," commented the coach

"How it happened and the reasons behind it, and if he was provoked, I cannot confirm, yet it's absolutely not the way we preferred to end the game. I don't think it appeared favorable"

The second-row forward, who expanded his national team milestone by earning his 141st appearance during the match, seems destined to receive a prolonged period out

His domestic franchise begin their continental tournament in France on Sunday, 7 December before a home game versus the English club including domestic clashes during the holidays

Springboks' controlled aggression

The top-ranked team overpowered Wales throughout the contest that became unbalanced from the beginning

Steve Tandy's reign has started with multiple significant losses to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina and a last-gasp win versus the Asian side

Wales have lost multiple defeats in recent games but the coach attempted to provide encouragement

"I believe that we have been building and improving, this demonstrated a measured showing," he said

"Wales are not guys that just roll over yield to pressure, they fight until the end. This represented one of the really clinical performances and us putting our soul out on the game"

"The team includes a quality leader and will rebound. We know situations can transform as demonstrated in 1998 we defeated them (96-13) and then lost in 1999"

The national team end the calendar ranked first globally after winning back-to-back Rugby Championship titles

The Springboks have showcased their impressive resources and capability but the coach referenced their former position

"We were in that situation and supporters expressing anger, but the Welsh people are here," he said

"The backing exists and the players have the fight. Secure initial victories, build momentum and things will change

"I know that situations transformed from 2016, when we were nowhere, achieving global success. All outcomes are achievable"

Related topics

  • Welsh Rugby
  • The governing body
  • International rugby
Tamara Farrell
Tamara Farrell

A tech enthusiast and writer with a passion for exploring how innovation shapes our future.