'It didn't look good' - Springboks coach on Etzebeth red card
Eben Etzebeth has secured two World Cups for his nation
- Published44 minutes ago
- Numerous reactions
South Africa leader Rassie Erasmus conceded "the visual impression was poor" after veteran forward the towering player was dismissed for making contact with an opponent's eye against Wales
South Africa's national team achieved a perfect autumn series through overwhelming play during the match netting eleven touchdowns in a 73-nil victory
However nearly the last action of the annual campaign featured the veteran player, who crossed the last try being dismissed from the official the match referee
The 34-year-old was shown a sending-off for making contact with the left eye of the Welsh player Alex Mann with his thumb in a 79th-minute scuffle
"I don't know what to comment that avoids controversy. It didn't look good therefore it became a proper sending-off," stated the manager
"The manner it occurred and why it happened, and if he was provoked, I cannot confirm, however it's certainly not how we had hoped to finish the contest. I don't think it appeared favorable"
The experienced player, who increased his cap achievement through receiving his 141st appearance in Cardiff, looks certain to receive a prolonged period out
His club side start their Champions Cup campaign in France on Sunday, 7 December before a home game versus the English club plus local rivalries during the holidays
South Africa's disciplined power
The reigning titleholders overpowered Wales during the match that was one-sided from the start
The new coach's tenure has commenced with multiple significant losses to South Africa, New Zealand and Argentina alongside a late triumph facing the Brave Blossoms
The national side has experienced 21 of their last 23 Test matches however the manager sought to offer some comfort
"I feel our team has been developing and advancing, this was a controlled performance," he said
"Wales are not players that give up accept defeat, they battle continuously. This was an exceptionally precise display with our team displaying our soul out on the game"
"The Welsh possess a great coach and shall return. We recognize situations can transform and in 1998 we overcame them (96-13) subsequently fell the following year"
The national team finish the year as the number one side after winning consecutive southern hemisphere crowns
South Africa's team have showcased their impressive resources and capability but the coach referenced their previous lower ranking
"We experienced similar circumstances with fans destroying merchandise, yet Welsh supporters remain," he commented
"There is the support and the players have the fight. Get one or two wins, build momentum and things will change
"I recognize that things changed starting from a low base in 2016, to 2019 when we won the World Cup. Potential remains unlimited"
Connected themes
- Rugby in Wales
- National organization
- Rugby Union