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

Springboks action image

Eben Etzebeth has secured two World Cups representing the Springboks

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South Africa leader Rassie Erasmus acknowledged "the visual impression was poor" after experienced second-row the towering player was dismissed due to eye contact against Wales

South Africa's national team completed a flawless end-of-year tour with a dominant performance at the Welsh capital netting multiple scores during a 73-0 win

However almost the final act of the annual campaign featured the veteran player, who crossed for the final score getting sent off through the decision of the presiding official

The veteran forward was shown a red card for making contact the eye area of opponent the back-row forward via digital contact in a 79th-minute scuffle

"I'm uncertain what to comment without causing debate. The visual was unfavorable therefore it became a proper sending-off," stated the manager

"The manner it occurred and the reasons behind it, whether there was provocation, I cannot confirm, yet it's absolutely not the manner that we would have liked to finish the contest. I don't think the visual impression was positive"

The second-row forward, who expanded his national team milestone when winning a 141st cap in Wales, seems destined to be given an extended suspension

His domestic franchise start their European competition in France this coming weekend before a home game versus the English club plus local rivalries during the holidays

The champions' measured intensity

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

The current management's period has begun with three heavy autumn defeats against top-tier nations and a last-gasp win against Japan

The national side has experienced 21 of their last 23 Test matches but the coach attempted to give reassurance

"I believe that we have been building and improving, this was a controlled performance," he stated

"The Welsh team are not guys that give up and take the shots, they battle continuously. This was an exceptionally precise display and us putting our soul out on the game"

"The team includes a great coach and will rebound. We understand fortunes can reverse like the 1998 example we defeated them (96-13) subsequently fell in 1999"

The Springboks finish the year top of world rugby following victories in consecutive southern hemisphere crowns

The Springboks have displayed their formidable depth and prowess yet Erasmus pointed to when they were ranked sixth

"We experienced similar circumstances with fans destroying merchandise, yet Welsh supporters remain," he commented

"The backing exists and the team demonstrates determination. Get one or two wins, get on a roll and results will transform

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

Related topics

  • Welsh Rugby
  • The governing body
  • International rugby
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