'The optics were poor' - Springboks coach on Eben Etzebeth dismissal

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Springboks leader the national team coach admitted "the visual impression was poor" in the wake of legendary lock the towering player was dismissed for an eye gouge versus the Welsh team

South Africa's national team completed an autumn clean sweep with a dominant performance during the match registering multiple scores resulting in a 73-0 win

However virtually the concluding moment of the Test season involved the lock forward, who crossed for the final score being dismissed from the official Luc Ramos

The experienced player was shown a dismissal due to contact the eye area of opponent Alex Mann using his thumb during late-game altercation

"It's difficult to say how to respond that avoids controversy. It didn't look good and it was a justified red card," commented the coach

"The way it unfolded and the reasons behind it, whether there was provocation, I cannot confirm, but it's definitely not the way we had hoped to finish the contest. In my view it appeared favorable"

The experienced player, who increased his Springboks record through receiving cap number 141 during the match, looks certain to receive a prolonged period out

His Sharks team start their Champions Cup campaign in France early December before a home game versus the English club and South African derbies over the festive period

The world champions overwhelmed their opponents throughout the contest that was one-sided from the off

Steve Tandy's reign has started following substantial reverses to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina and a last-gasp win facing the Brave Blossoms

Wales have lost 21 of their last 23 Test matches yet Erasmus tried to provide encouragement

"I believe our team has been developing and advancing, this demonstrated a disciplined display," he stated

"The Welsh are not players that give up accept defeat, they fight until the end. This demonstrated an exceptionally precise display featuring our squad exhibiting maximum commitment"

"The team includes a great coach and will come back. We recognize situations can transform as demonstrated in 1998 we defeated them (comprehensively) and then lost in 1999"

The Springboks end the calendar ranked first globally following victories in successive tournament wins

The world champions have showcased their formidable depth and prowess however the manager recalled when they were ranked sixth

"Our team faced comparable conditions and supporters expressing anger, but the Welsh people are here," he noted

"There is the support with the squad showing spirit. Secure initial victories, create a streak and things will change

"I'm aware that situations transformed from 2016, when we were nowhere, to 2019 when we won the World Cup. All outcomes are achievable"

Associated subjects

• Rugby in Wales
• National organization
• The sport