'The optics were poor' - Springboks coach on Etzebeth sending off

• Released
  44 minutes ago
• 63 Comments

South Africa leader the national team coach conceded "the visual impression was poor" in the wake of experienced second-row the towering player was sent off due to eye contact against Wales

South Africa's national team achieved an autumn clean sweep by going on the rampage at the Welsh capital netting 11 tries resulting in a 73-nil victory

Nevertheless virtually the concluding moment of the Test season featured the veteran player, who scored the last try getting sent off through the decision of the match referee

The veteran forward was given a sending-off for making contact the facial region of the Welsh player the back-row forward via digital contact in a match-ending incident

"I'm uncertain what to comment that won't be controversial. The appearance was poor and it was a justified red card," commented the coach

"The manner it occurred and the reasons behind it, and if he was provoked, it's unclear, however it's certainly not the way that we would have liked to end the game. In my view the visual impression was positive"

The second-row forward, who expanded his national team milestone through receiving his 141st appearance during the match, appears likely to receive an extended suspension

His Sharks team commence their Champions Cup campaign at Toulouse on Sunday, 7 December followed by a home fixture facing the London side plus local rivalries through the Christmas season

The world champions overwhelmed their opponents in a fixture which proved lopsided from the beginning

Steve Tandy's reign has begun with multiple significant losses against top-tier nations plus a narrow victory against Japan

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

"I believe that we have been building and advancing, this demonstrated a controlled performance," he said

"The Welsh team are not players that give up yield to pressure, they battle continuously. This demonstrated one of the really clinical performances and us putting total dedication"

"The Welsh possess a great coach and will rebound. We recognize it can change as demonstrated in 1998 we beat them (comprehensively) and then lost soon after"

The national team conclude the season as the number one side following victories in successive tournament wins

South Africa's team have showcased their impressive resources and prowess yet Erasmus pointed to their former position

"We experienced similar circumstances and supporters expressing anger, however the fans continue attending," he said

"The encouragement continues with the squad showing spirit. Secure initial victories, build momentum and circumstances will improve

"I recognize that situations transformed from our previous struggles, culminating in the 2019 championship. Potential remains unlimited"

Connected themes

• Wales national team
• Wales Rugby Union
• International rugby