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

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South Africa leader Rassie Erasmus conceded "the optics weren't great" after experienced second-row Eben Etzebeth received a red card for an eye gouge versus the Welsh team

South Africa's national team secured an autumn clean sweep through overwhelming play in Cardiff netting 11 tries resulting in a 73-nil victory

However almost the final act of the Test season featured the veteran player, who crossed the concluding points getting sent off by referee the presiding official

The 34-year-old was given a sending-off for making contact the facial region of opponent Alex Mann using his thumb during late-game altercation

"I don't know what I can say that won't be controversial. It didn't look good making it a proper sending-off," stated the manager

"The manner it occurred and why it happened, and if he was provoked, I cannot confirm, however it's certainly not how we preferred to end the game. I believe the visual impression was positive"

The experienced player, who increased his national team milestone by earning cap number 141 in Cardiff, appears likely to be given an extended suspension

His Sharks team begin their European competition at Toulouse on Sunday, 7 December prior to a domestic match facing the London side plus local rivalries through the Christmas season

The top-ranked team overwhelmed their opponents during the match that was one-sided from the off

The new coach's tenure has started following substantial reverses against top-tier nations and a last-gasp win versus the Asian side

Wales have lost multiple defeats in recent games however the manager sought to offer some comfort

"I believe our team has been developing and building up, this was a disciplined display," he commented

"The Welsh are not a team that just roll over and take the shots, they fight until the end. This was an exceptionally precise display with our team displaying maximum commitment"

"Wales have a great coach and will rebound. We understand it can change and in 1998 we overcame them (96-13) then were defeated soon after"

South Africa conclude the season top of world rugby having secured successive tournament wins

The world champions have displayed their impressive resources and capability but the coach referenced their former position

"We were in that situation and people were burning jerseys, however the fans continue attending," he said

"There is the support and the players have the fight. Achieve early successes, build momentum and things will change

"I recognize that situations transformed from our previous struggles, achieving global success. Anything is possible"

Associated subjects

• Welsh Rugby
• National organization
• International rugby