'The optics were poor' - Springboks coach discusses Eben Etzebeth sending off

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South Africa manager Rassie Erasmus conceded "it didn't appear favorable" after legendary lock Eben Etzebeth was dismissed for making contact with an opponent's eye in the match with Wales

The Springboks secured a perfect autumn series through overwhelming play in Cardiff netting eleven touchdowns in a 73-0 win

Nevertheless nearly the last action of the international year was Etzebeth, who went over for the final score receiving a red card by referee the presiding official

The experienced player was given a red card for making contact the facial region of opponent Alex Mann using his thumb in a 79th-minute scuffle

"I don't know how to respond that won't be controversial. It didn't look good and it was a justified red card," stated the manager

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

The second-row forward, who increased his cap achievement by earning his 141st appearance during the match, appears likely to face a lengthy ban

His club side start their continental tournament in France this coming weekend prior to a domestic match against Saracens and South African derbies during the holidays

The reigning titleholders dominated the Welsh throughout the contest which proved lopsided from the beginning

The current management's period has started with three heavy autumn defeats to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina alongside a late triumph against Japan

The national side has experienced numerous losses in current form however the manager sought to give reassurance

"I feel that we have been building and advancing, this represented a controlled performance," he stated

"The Welsh team are not guys that just roll over yield to pressure, they fight until the end. This demonstrated a remarkably efficient showing featuring our squad exhibiting our soul out on the game"

"The team includes a great coach and will rebound. We understand fortunes can reverse as demonstrated in 1998 we overcame them (96-13) then were defeated in 1999"

The Springboks end the calendar as the number one side having secured back-to-back Rugby Championship titles

The Springboks have showcased their extensive squad strength and power but the coach referenced when they were ranked sixth

"Our team faced comparable conditions and people were burning jerseys, but the Welsh people are here," he noted

"The encouragement continues and the players have the fight. Get one or two wins, build momentum and things will change

"I'm aware that situations transformed starting from a low base in 2016, achieving global success. Potential remains unlimited"

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• Wales national team
• National organization
• International rugby