'It appeared unfavorable' - Springboks coach on Etzebeth sending off

• Published
  44 minutes ago
• 63 Comments

South Africa manager Rassie Erasmus conceded "it didn't appear favorable" in the wake of experienced second-row Eben Etzebeth was dismissed for making contact with an opponent's eye versus the Welsh team

The Springboks secured an autumn clean sweep with a dominant performance during the match netting eleven touchdowns in a 73-nil victory

Nevertheless almost the final act of the Test season involved the lock forward, who scored for the final score being dismissed from the official Luc Ramos

The experienced player received a sending-off for touching the eye area of the Welsh player Alex Mann with his thumb during late-game altercation

"I don't know what I can say without causing debate. The visual was unfavorable and it was a legitimate dismissal," commented the coach

"How it happened and why it happened, if he was instigated, it's unclear, but it's definitely not the way we had hoped to conclude the match. I believe the visual impression was positive"

The experienced player, who increased his Springboks record by earning his 141st appearance in Wales, looks certain to be given an extended suspension

His club side begin their Champions Cup campaign against the French side on Sunday, 7 December prior to a domestic match versus the English club plus local rivalries through the Christmas season

The reigning titleholders overwhelmed their opponents during the match that became unbalanced from the beginning

Steve Tandy's reign has begun with three heavy autumn defeats to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina and a last-gasp win against Japan

Wales have lost numerous losses in current form yet Erasmus tried to offer some comfort

"In my opinion our team has been developing and improving, this represented a controlled performance," he stated

"Wales are not a team that just roll over and take the shots, they compete throughout. This was a remarkably efficient showing featuring our squad exhibiting total dedication"

"The Welsh possess a quality leader and shall return. We understand situations can transform as demonstrated in 1998 we beat them (comprehensively) subsequently fell soon after"

The national team end the calendar top of world rugby following victories in back-to-back Rugby Championship titles

South Africa's team have displayed their extensive squad strength and capability yet Erasmus pointed to their former position

"We were in that situation and supporters expressing anger, however the fans continue attending," he noted

"The encouragement continues and the team demonstrates determination. Achieve early successes, build momentum and results will transform

"I'm aware that fortunes reversed starting from a low base in 2016, culminating in the 2019 championship. All outcomes are achievable"

Associated subjects

• Welsh Rugby
• National organization
• The sport