'It appeared unfavorable' - Springboks coach discusses Etzebeth dismissal

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Springboks leader Rassie Erasmus acknowledged "the optics weren't great" in the wake of veteran forward Eben Etzebeth was dismissed due to eye contact against Wales

South Africa's national team completed a flawless end-of-year tour through overwhelming play at the Welsh capital to score 11 tries resulting in a 73-0 win

However nearly the last action of the Test season involved the lock forward, who crossed the concluding points being dismissed from the official the presiding official

The veteran forward received a red card for touching with the left eye of Wales flanker the back-row forward with his thumb in a 79th-minute scuffle

"I'm uncertain what I can say without causing debate. The appearance was poor and it was a justified red card," stated the manager

"The manner it occurred and what prompted it, if he was instigated, it's unclear, but it's definitely not how that we would have liked to finish the contest. In my view it appeared favorable"

The experienced player, who extended his national team milestone by earning his 141st appearance in Cardiff, looks certain to face a lengthy ban

His Sharks team begin their European competition against the French side this coming weekend before a home game facing the London side plus local rivalries over the festive period

The reigning titleholders overpowered Wales during the match that became unbalanced from the off

Steve Tandy's reign has begun with three heavy autumn defeats versus leading rugby powers alongside a late triumph against Japan

The national side has experienced multiple defeats in recent games but the coach attempted to provide encouragement

"I believe our team has been developing and improving, this represented a measured showing," he stated

"The Welsh are not players who surrender easily and take the shots, they battle continuously. This represented an exceptionally precise display featuring our squad exhibiting maximum commitment"

"The team includes a great coach and shall return. We understand it can change and in 1998 we defeated them (comprehensively) subsequently fell soon after"

The Springboks finish the year ranked first globally following victories in successive tournament wins

South Africa's team have displayed their impressive resources and capability but the coach referenced their former position

"Our team faced comparable conditions with fans destroying merchandise, however the fans continue attending," he commented

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

"I recognize that situations transformed starting from a low base in 2016, to 2019 when we won the World Cup. Potential remains unlimited"

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• Wales national team
• Wales Rugby Union
• Rugby Union